Great West Way Travel Magazine | Issue 06

SUMMER 2022

TRAVEL MAGAZINE | ISSUE 06

GreatWestWay.co.uk

JOURNEY OF DISCOVERY

Where our best kept secrets from the past meet twenty-first-century hospitality. Expect history, adventure, natural beauty and excitement

Escape the Everyday by exploring the Great West Way touring route between London and Bristol this summer with our brand new itineraries from Prehistoric Journeys to Vibrant Cities by Train

G R E AT FOR GROUPS With 21 Ascot Racedays throughout the year, each with exhilarating racing and its own unique character, there is something to suit every occasion and ensure a day to remember.

Book as a group and save when booking 10 tickets or more.

Find out more at ascot.com/groups

WELCOME TO ENGLAND'S GREAT WEST WAY Here comes the British summer we have all been waiting for; an opportunity to travel and explore without the fear of lockdowns, restrictions and disruption to our plans.

Plus, with international travel back on, England is not likely to become as busy as we experienced in some of our over-popular destinations last year, offering the chance to enjoy and admire the very best of England once more.

Step into the extraordinary as you travel through time and stumble across hidden gems while discovering the real England on the Great West Way and escape the everyday.

England’s Great West Way touring route from London to Bristol offers uninterrupted countryside, famous landmarks, awardwinning attractions and is home to some of the country’s finest restaurants, prettiest villages and most vibrant cities.

Whether you are looking for outdoor adventures, spellbinding museums, luxury hotels with spas, unique experiences, or glamping under the stars, this fascinating route is guaranteed to fill you with incredible memories and unforgettable moments. Make up for lost time by planning your Great West Way journey today.

Pictured Above: Bailbrook House Hotel, Bath; The Rose Hungerford.

Escape the Everyday on a unique adventure along the Great West Way in 2022, discovering iconic sites and hidden landscapes.

Jessica Way Editor-in-Chief, Great West Way Travel Magazine

Jessicax

Download our Great West Way map to discover the hundreds of places to visit, things to do, sites to see and places to stay along the route: : GreatWestWay.co.uk/explore/maps

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CONTENTS SUMMER 2022 | Edition 06

DISCOVER OUR WAY

YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE

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MY GREAT WEST WAY Susie Brew, coordinator from the Pewsey Vale Tourism Partnership talks about the Vale of Pewsey, her love of countryside, her three Cocker Spaniels, Wilton Windmill and Crofton Beam Engines.

THE WAY FORWARD From the re-opening of the UK’s oldest public outdoor swimming pool and secret vaults hidden below Bristol’s Clifton Suspension Bridge to new hotels, attractions and more success on the Great west Way. ARTISAN SECRETS AND GREAT WEST WAY MEMENTOS We discover some of the unique artisan trades and skills which are still being masterfully taught on the Great West Way. Why not visit them for yourself and experience their trades and secrets first-hand?

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SPORTING TOURS ON THE GREAT WEST WAY From the largest tennis museum in the world to smalltown rugby clubs and big city football stadiums we hope you will stop for a tour at one of our favourite clubs.

AGRITOURISM ON THE GREAT WEST WAY Pumpkin picking to alpaca walking, freshly laid eggs to milking the cows, it’s time to clean the mud from your wellies and experience the very best of countryside living on the Great West Way. AS SEEN ON SCREEN: BRIDGERTON With the recent release of Netflix’s Bridgerton Season Two, it's time to celebrate the series on a Bridgerton-inspired tour of the Great West Way, visiting some of the glamorous locations seen on screen, including Hampton Court Palace and No.1 Royal Crescent.

SUMMER ON THE WAY

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10 GREAT REASONS TO VISIT THE GREAT WEST WAY THIS SUMMER Take a swim in a rooftop pool in Bath, celebrate the Wiltshire Wildlife Trust's 60th birthday, enjoy a Biscuit Fuelled Break in Reading and join in the fun of the four-day Bank Holiday marking the Queen’s 70-year reign.

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BEST DAYS OUT FOR FAMILIES For unforgettable family fun why not bring the kids on a Great West Way adventure? There's splishsplashy water parks, wonderfully wild safari parks, magnificent interactive museums and much more.

PUBLISHED BY

Contista Media Ltd Mitchell House, Brook Avenue, Warsash, Southampton, Hampshire, SO31 9HP contistamedia.co.uk Brought to you by the Great West Way GreatWestWay.co.uk/digitaltravelmagazine

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THE MYSTERY OF STONEHENGE We speak to Neil Wilkin, The British Museum Stonehenge Exhibition Curator about the much-loved British monument and the new Prehistoric Journey of the Great West Way.

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PICTURESQUE VILLAGES TO STOP OFF AT ALONG THE ROUTE BY BOAT OR TRAIN Visit these pretty villages by foot, train or water, leaving the car behind while discovering plenty of other fascinating destinations and attractions along the way.

REGULAR FEATURES

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ISSN: 2632-3540

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Image copyright credits: Throughout © GreatWestWay.co.uk / Page 15 Aston pottery © Nicola Stocken / Gardenpix Ltd / Page 23 © Ascot Images Megan Ridgwell / Page 25 AELTC © Chris Raphael / Pages 34-41 © Liam Daniel/Netflix /Cr. Colin Hutton/Netflix /Ben Blackall and 2022 Focus Features LLC / Page 34 Syon House ©VisitBritain and Britain on View / Page 48 Glenfinnan Railway Viaduct in Scotland with the Jacobite steam train against sunset over lake; Shutterstock ID 422272210 / Page 54 Brunel's SS Great Britain © Smith Milton / Page 75 Bristol Pride 2016 © paulbox / British Tourist Authority

ARTS, EVENTS AND CULTURAL CALENDAR As well as its natural scenery, cultural scene and lovely locals, the Great West Way is known for its many festivals and events.

WAYS TO TRAVEL THE GREAT WEST WAY The route has been designed to be travelled in a variety of different ways: by road, by rail, on water via the Kennet and Avon Canal and River Thames, by bike or on foot.

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GOURMET GUIDE TO FOOD & DRINK There are many ways to enjoy food and drink on the Great West Way from fine dining and cookery schools to vineyard tours and quaint tea rooms and cafés.

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WHERE TO STAY ALONG THE GREAT WEST WAY Stay overnight on the Great West Way, whether on a romantic weekend away or a week-long adventure.

Follow us on Twitter @theGreatWestWay Facebook @GreatWestWay Instagram.com/GreatWestWay

Contista Media Ltd cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts and photographs. While every care is taken prices and details are subject to change and Contista Media Ltd take no responsibility for omissions or errors. We reserve the right to publish and edit any letters. All rights reserved.

Take your time on the Kennet & Avon Canal

MY GREAT WEST WAY

The Vale of Pewsey runs from just east of Devizes through to the county border with West Berkshire, covering around 25 miles from east to west, with more than 100 pretty villages and hamlets along the way. We speak to Susie Brew, coordinator from the Pewsey Vale Tourism Partnership...

What do you love most about the Vale of Pewsey?

The Vale has the Kennet & Avon Canal running through its centre and makes up a large part of the North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty – it is one of England’s best kept secrets! It’s also the home to the Crop Circle Exhibition at Honeystreet which is renowned as a world leader in crop circle information and is absolutely fascinating. If you are visiting in June or July, then you may get to see a real crop circle and the Exhibition Centre will be able to direct you.

Tell us more about what you do on the Great West Way? I think that I have one of the best jobs in the world because I get to promote one of the most beautiful and unspoilt areas in England. You never quite know what each day might bring and so I have also found myself working with ITV, re-chalking a white horse, delivering leaflets, managing our Tourist Information Kiosks (converted phone boxes) and lots more!

What’s a typical day like for you?

There isn’t really a typical day. I work from home, so whatever I might be doing work-wise, I have to make sure that there is an hour or so dedicated to walking our three cocker spaniels.

What do you love most about your job?

Exploring the Vale for new walks and cycle routes and getting to know the area more intimately. The love of countryside has always been with me – I grew up in a small village in Gloucestershire and, although I spent many years in London, the West Country is where I really wanted to come back to.

The Vale of Pewsey is really special – it is very unspoilt, really ‘earthy’. There is so much space, it really is tranquil and the history and heritage around us is fascinating.

What’s your favourite food or drink along the Great West Way? You are spoilt for choice in the Vale of Pewsey – we have so many really fabulous country pubs that do delicious food and local beers and ciders, as well as cafes that offer incredible cakes and locally sourced food. However, if you come to the Vale, you have to go to Marshall’s Bakery in Pewsey and try the lardy cake – absolutely delicious.

If you could choose one must-visit attraction along the Great West Way, what would it be and why?

Actually I’ve picked two! Wilton Windmill and Crofton Beam Engines – these two heritage sites are close to one another and there is a walk on our website that takes you to both of them.

It is amazing that both sites still perform the job they were built to do 200 years ago! The guides at both sites are so interesting as well so the guided tours are a must. Highly recommended with a stop at The Swan Inn for a local pint of beer or cider or a glass of wine.

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THE WAY FORWARD

A look at the highlights and what’s new on the Great West Way

The UK’s oldest public outdoor swimming pool, Bath The Cleveland Pools in the city of Bath is the UK's only surviving Georgian Lido, dating back over 200 years. This unique open-air public swimming pool uses the heat pumps in the adjacent river as its energy for heating the water. Restoration to bring this wonderful heritage site back into use has begun, with the opening planned for the summer this year.

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Artist Residence hotel and restaurant opens in Bristol Located in the creative St Pauls community, just minutes from Bristol's city centre, this Georgian townhouse is an eccentric home from home. Downstairs, you'll find the light and airy Library, a relaxed lounge bar for making yourself at home, and the sprawling Boot Factory complete with ping-pong table, photobooth, buzzing central bar and courtyard garden.

Stay, play, party and discover at the new Moxy Bristol Hotel Part of the Marriott group, the Moxy Hotel is a brand new 214-room funky and affordable boutique hotel, conveniently located in Newfoundland Street, close to the city's fantastic attractions, including Bristol Zoo, The National Arboretum, We The Curious, Bristol Cathedral, The Wave, and the vibrant area of St Pauls to explore on its doorstep.

Royal West of England Academy re-opens in Bristol

Bristol’s oldest art gallery, Royal West of England Academy has been closed for nearly two years as it has undergone a £4.1 million refurbishment. Inside the gallery there are new spaces and worldclass art exhibitions set to return, with the re-opening exhibition ‘Me Myself and I: Artists’.

Faster Britain and Clifton Suspension Bridge: Celebrating the 20th anniversary of an incredible discovery

A win for Bath Insider Tours

One of our Great West Way Tour Guides, Daniel, is jumping for joy following his success at the Bristol Bath and Somerset Tourism Awards winning the Award for 'Experience of the Year'.

Twenty years after contractors at Bristol’s Clifton Suspension Bridge discovered secret vaults hidden below the iconic structure, the public are being offered a new opportunity to explore the underground spaces designed by famous Victorian engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel. Sadly, Brunel died five years before the opening of the bridge and his plans for the crossing were lost. The vaults remained undisturbed for 162 years until their chance discovery in 2002 when

specialist equipment was needed to access the structure and clear tunnel entrances filled with rubble left by the original workforce. To celebrate the twentieth anniversary of this remarkable discovery, a new programme of family-friendly ‘Vaults Visits’ has been launched, running alongside the Visitor Centre’s popular in-depth Hard Hat Tours.

Sponsored by full fibre provider, ITS Technology Group’s ‘Faster Britain’ programme, the visits allow families to access a new platform installed in the largest and most significant of the twelve stone chambers – an impressive echo chamber, 11 metres high, festooned in stalactites.

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The Bath World Heritage Centre Located in the heart of the city centre The Bath World Heritage Centre will have free access for all.

It will be filled with imaginative interpretation that will show people why Bath is so special and inspire them with the information they need to go out and explore the amazing World Heritage City.

Bailey Balloons Bailey Balloons have acquired two new balloons. One is already flying over the South West from Bristol and Bath, the other balloon will be ready for the Bristol Balloon Fiesta in August. There are still spaces to fly at the Bristol Balloon Fiesta 12-15 August 2022. Fly with up to 100 balloons at the mass launches at dawn and dusk over three days (weather permitting).

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Cocktail Making Experiences in Marlborough Cocktail masterclasses are now available within The Kingsbury @ No7 & No8 restaurant available to book either as a standalone event or as part of an overnight stay.

During the cocktail experience guests enjoy hot nibbles from the Bite Me menu and get to take home a 12 piece cocktail set and mixology hard back recipe book.

The Kingsbury @ No7 & No8 is a sumptuous designer Boutique Hotel offering the finest accommodation in Marlborough. Located next door to the hotel is the fun and innovative Bite Me Burger and Get Plucked Restaurants, run in tandem Live Escape Rooms Salisbury by the owners of the hotel. The Just a short detour off the route building at No 7 dates back to the Live Escape Rooms Salisbury brings 17th Century and its three rooms you a five-star escape experience maintain their original features in The Cross Keys Shopping Centre including their fabulous beams. in Salisbury, Wiltshire. Husband No 8 has seven rooms including a and wife Claire and Charlie Pitcher Master Suite with four poster bed. have worked around the clock to The Kingsbury @ No7 & No8 is turn the downstairs of their 14th situated close to the centre of the century building into a pirate historic market town of Marlborough, tavern ready to welcome teams to within close proximity to Avebury play their games and hunts. and Silbury Hill.

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THE CHEQUERS HOTEL

What will you do on your daycation?

Find out more visitnewbury.org.uk

@VisitNewbury

Visit Bristol’s unique

Visit Bristol’s uniqueGARDEN BOTANIC

BOTANIC GARDEN

Open all year (check website for details)

www.bris.ac.uk/botanic-garden

University of Bristol Botanic Garden Stoke Park Road, Bristol BS9 1JG Tel: 0117 428 2041

Crescent Restaurant & Bar

Located in Bath's Margaret's Buildings a beautiful side street between the Royal Crescent and The Circus, the new Crescent Restaurant & Bar, launched by husband-andwife duo Simon and Leanne, offers breakfasts and tapas and cocktails.

Wake The Tiger Amazement Park An alternative to the traditional art gallery, Bristol's Wake The Tiger is a new fantastical, interactive and immersive art experience.

Visitors are transported to the magical realms of an ‘alchemist's dream’, in 27 unique artistic rooms.

The Jane Austen Centre Discover more about Jane Austen’s life in the magnificent city of Bath during Regency times at this new exhibition space in Bath, where actors are on hand to show you how to write with a quill and ink and play traditional regency games.

Pewsey Vale Circular Way

The Pewsey Vale Circular Way is a new long-distance walking, cycling and riding route. The way marked route is a 77 mile walking route or a 72 mile cycling/riding route, with the Vale of Pewsey at its heart.

Dramatic downland, secluded woodland, sweeping valleys and the Kennet & Avon Canal provide a rich variety of landscapes for the walker, rider or cyclist to enjoy.  Click here to download the the

Circular Way leaflet.

Stay in the know Click here to sign up to our monthly e-newsletter

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ARTISAN SECRETS AND GREAT WEST WAY MEMENTOS

This summer lots of our favourite craftspeople from the length of the Great West Way route are throwing open their doors once more and inviting us back to learn more about their artisan trades. With so much creativity your journey just isn’t complete without taking some time to discover them for yourselves.

Words | Samantha Campbell

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he Great West Way is a great place to explore the world of ceramics, book into a workshop to learn alongside other like-minded participants, or simply drop in to meet the fantastic artists at home in their pottery studios. Pottery is a catalyst for so much more – feeling great, slowing down and making time for ourselves doing something that feels really nourishing.

Meet the Makers

Conveniently situated close to Swindon town centre, The Eastcott Studios Pottery studio has everything you need to 'get creative'. Try your hand at ‘pot throwing’ on a potter's wheel, paint-a-pot and learn the techniques of coiling, pinching and slabbing. Fired Thoughts Ceramic Arts Studio’s have two studios, one in Devizes and another in Swindon, offering weekly courses and weekend workshops. You might like to stay at one of the many local hotels, bed and breakfast and campsites nearby and stay for a course (see our accommodation section page 94).

In Wiltshire, Jane Scott Ceramics has moved to lovely new premises in Corsham while over in Bradford on Avon everyone is welcome by the Winsley Pottery Club who meet in the Church Hall for a workshop every Saturday between 10am and 12 noon. Call 01225 722107 to book your place, price is £12 per session to include refreshments.

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A short detour south of the route you will find Enigma Pottery Studio and Gallery in Frome. Launched by Jenny Barton after graduating from Bath Spa University with a degree in Ceramic Design, the pottery studio is situated at the bottom of a picturesque walled garden to the rear of her impressive Grade II listed house and gallery. Book in for a one or two hour pottery making party, or join in the fun of her seasonally inspired pottery workshops like Easter Egg painting, Mothers Day gift making, Summer workshops and Christmas Decoration Making.

Pictured clockwise from left: Hand made pottery at Aston Pottery and Gardens; Jane and Stephen, owners of Aston Pottery and Gardens; Gardens in bloom at Aston Pottery and Gardens

In Bristol, head to The Village Pottery in Markham Farm to pick up a beautiful handmade souvenir or visit Jessica Thorn Ceramics in Centrespace Studio for a one to one workshop on the potter's wheel.

You might enjoy combining your love of gardens and pottery with a visit to Aston Pottery and Gardens.

Owners Jane and Stephen offer guided tours and talks on everything from approaches to design, methods of planting and all important garden maintenance as well as pottery demonstrations. Visit the gift shop and replenish at their award-winning Country Café. →

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Discover Gloucestershire’s best attractions, tours, shops, restaurants, accommodation and venues

discovergloucestershire

visitglosuk

DiscoverGlos

“Tucked away in the Hampshire countryside alongside the peaceful River Test is the oldest silk mill that is still weaving silk in its original building.”

Pictured clockwise from left: The craft of silk weaving at Whitchurch Silk Mill; Traditional heritage Whitchurch Silk; Whitchurch Silk Mill and the River Test.

Heritage Crafts

There are some spectacular reminders of England's industrial heritage to discover along the Great West Way. Some of these historic gems are still in working order – and can even be seen in action.

For an unusual introduction to the area's heritage, explore some of these living pieces of history. Whitchurch Silk Mill, for example, a 200-year-old silk mill still using historic equipment and processes to produce beautiful silks. Tucked away in the Hampshire countryside alongside the peaceful River Test Whitchurch Silk Mill is the oldest silk mill that is still weaving silk in its original building.

Explore the beautiful Georgian water mill with impressive Victorian machinery that is still in use today to spin glorious, colourful silks.

Crofton Beam Engines on the Kennet and Avon Canal were built around the same time as Whitchurch Silk Mill, to pump water to the highest point of the canal. The Beam Engines are in working order and are put in action for visitors to watch during regular weekends every summer. →

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“Our personal styling appointments encourage investment in well-made, quality clothes in versatile styles so that you buy once and buy right.”

Pictured clockwise from left: Made to measure tailoring at Regent Tailoring; Bombay Sapphire Distillery; Gin Cocktail Masterclass; West Berkshire Brewery; Trying on a new suit at Regent Tailoring; Holland & Sherry Fabrics.

Made to Measure You might think London’s Savile Row is where all the most stylish tailors are located, but you can find them along the Great West Way route too. Take for example the Chambers Bespoke Tailors in Wimbledon, a highly regarded bespoke tailoring and alterations boutique situated in the beautiful and very desirable Wimbledon Village.

Located on Salisbury’s New Street you will find Regent Tailoring with an ethos centred on cultivating timeless designs and helping to curate a personal style for every individual.Famous as a tailor, personal stylist, curator of contemporary fashion and a celebrated brand in its own right, Regent has become an institution over the past fifteen years with the Regent shop serving as the company’s beating heart.

With a commitment to using the finest quality cloths, materials and manufacturing methods, Regent’s clothes are all scrupulously designed and of the highest

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Did you know? You can make your own with a Gin Cocktail Masterclass at Bombay Sapphire Gin Distillery

calibre. British Heritage remains at the core as founder, Jason Regent, continuously seeks to innovate, operating at the shop both as an expert tailor (with over 25 years in the business) and personal stylist. “Tailoring is a key element at Regent: we offer both off-the-peg and semi-bespoke suits.

Our personal styling appointments encourage investment in well-made, quality clothes in versatile styles so that you buy once and buy right”.

The Regent shop still acts as the heart of all we do: we promise a unique experience when you step through the door. Our establishment offers everything from perfect gift ideas and gentlemen’s grooming products, as well as three floors of high-quality clothes with styles ranging from the classic to the cutting edge.

Be it an Ebbets Field Cap or a bespoke suit, a Regent bicycle; a pair of Ludwig Reiter trainers or a pair of Albert Thurston braces, you will be sure to discover a selection of unique, hand picked brands you won’t usually find on the high street at Regent’s.

In the beautiful city of Bath shoppers expects a certain quality and exclusivity that you won’t find in many cities, and there is no exception at City Tailors, where they work hard to deliver beyond expectations and offer only the highest quality garments for both men and women.

Thirst Quenching Find out all about making England’s most traditional beverages by taking a tour at Bombay Sapphire Gin Distillery, West Berkshire Brewery or Wadworth Brewery. Based at Laverstoke Mill in rural Hampshire, so ideal to combine with a visit to Whitchurch Silk Mill, (featured on page 17) the Bombay Sapphire Distillery is in a conservation area with over 1000 years of history.

For over 225 years, the Victorian and Georgian buildings set astride the crystal-clear River Test produced bank note paper for the Bank of England and the British Empire. Now, Laverstoke Mill is a state-of-the-art sustainable distillery, which produces every drop of Bombay Sapphire gin.

The distillery showcases the care, skill and artistry behind every drop of Bombay Sapphire, and allows you to discover the flavours of the botanicals which make Bombay Sapphire gin so unique.

West Berkshire Brewery is an independent brewery nestled in the heart of Berkshire with over 23 years of brewing experience. Visit the the Taproom & Kitchen for a burger or →

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“It was in Bristol, in 1847, Joseph Fry worked out how to make a paste from cocoa, sugar and cocoa powder that could be moulded into a bar.”

light bite, and a taste of the craft beer or ale proudly produced in traditional casks.

Discover the history and heritage of Wadworth Brewery, located in the bustling market town of Devizes, Wiltshire, at their Visitor Centre where there is a free self-guided exhibition to include a unique collection of hand painted pub signs, before stopping for a beer at The Harness Room Bar.

Famous Artisan Food The Great West Way is home to many of England’s finest goodies. From Bath's famous Sally Lunn bun first recorded in 1780, and the traditional Maids of Honour cake which can be dated back to Hampton Court Palace and Henry VIII, to the delicious Lardy Cake, originating from Wiltshire. And it's not just cake, believe it or not, even the chocolate bar was invented here. Yes that’s right! It was in Bristol, in 1847, Joseph Fry worked out how to make a paste from cocoa, sugar and cocoa powder that could be moulded into a bar. J S Fry & Sons had their factory in Union Street and produced their most famous chocolate bar,

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Fun Fact: In a year West Berkshire Brewery brew an impressive 2.6 million pints.

Pictured clockwise from left: Wadworth Brewery; Chocolate Icecreams; Buttle Farm, Wiltshire

the Fry’s Chocolate Cream, in 1866 as well as the UK’s first chocolate Easter egg in 1873.

Other foodie ‘claims to fame’ include Cheddar cheese and Wiltshire cure - a traditional English technique for curing bacon and ham. The meat is soaked in brine for several days, making it moist and giving it a succulent texture. The technique was developed in Calne in Wiltshire by the Harris family in the 18th century. Visit Buttle Farm to buy Wiltshire cured ham fresh from the farm.

Discover Wiltshire’s medieval gem Just eight miles from Stonehenge, this architectural masterpiece is home to best preserved BOOK TICKETS Prepare to be amazed... original 1215 Magna Carta, Britain’s tallest spire and the world’s oldest clock.

Explore this historic Cathedral and view the finest original 1215 Magna Carta, Britain’s tallest spire and the world’s oldest mechanical clock

CLICK FOR TICKETS

www.salisburycathedral.org.uk

www.salisburycathedral.org.uk

Holidays on the Kennet & Avon Canal

The Traditional Narrowboat Experience  Accommodation that goes wherever you go e: enquiries@sallynarrowboats.co.uk | t: 01225 864923 | w: sallynarrowboats.co.uk

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SPORTING TOURS ON THE GREAT WEST WAY

Spectator sports are hugely popular in England and throughout the Great West Way. From the largest tennis museum in the world to small-town rugby clubs and big city football stadiums we hope you will stop for a tour at one of these favourite clubs.

Words | Lucy Bond

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orse racing, rowing regattas and polo matches are all high-class occasions where dressing up is part of the fun. Henley Royal Regatta and Royal Ascot are the two most famous, with traditions and etiquette that add to the sense of occasion. But if your trip doesn’t coincide with one of these major events not only are there lots more competitive races, games and matches to keep you on the edge of your seat, you are still able to visit these prestigious world-renowned venues on a behind-the-scenes tour of the players and competitors grounds, stadiums and changing rooms.

Take a visit to England's Home of Rugby Museum

The award-winning World Rugby Museum houses the world’s most prestigious collection of rugby memorabilia and offers memorable tours of the iconic Twickenham Stadium.

During a Stadium Tour you are able to visit some of the most exciting and select areas, including the Royal Box, Players' Tunnel, pitch-side, and inside the England Dressing Room where you will learn about the match-day preparations and routines of international rugby players. →

Experience the life of an Equestrian

There’s a strong horse riding heritage running through the Great West Way, and many tracks where you can watch races and put money on your favourite horses. Ascot is of course the most famous hosting Royal Ascot in June, however did you know you can enjoy a free guided tour from one of their iconic Bowler Hat Stewards? These special tours include a visit to the weighing room and jockeys' changing rooms taking place throughout the Jumps season, before racing begins.

Other racecourses in the region include those at Newbury, Windsor, Bath and a short detour off the route, Salisbury.

And don’t miss Barbury International Horse Trials in July, set against the beautiful backdrop of the Marlborough Downs.

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Take a tour of Wimbledon, the All England Tennis Club

Wimbledon's award-winning behind-the-scenes tours of the grounds are the perfect way to see this world-famous site – the location to one of the four tennis Grand Slam tournaments, considered the most important competitions of the tennis season. One of the world’s most celebrated tennis events, the championships at Wimbledon run for two weeks in July attracting over 500,000 spectators.

Expertly led by a friendly Blue Badge Guide, you’ll learn about how Wimbledon’s distinctive grass is cared for and how the site is improved and developed each year.

You’ll see facilities provided for the press, broadcasters and the world’s best tennis players. Inside the Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum you will experience the history and traditions of ‘the Fortnight’, get up close to the Championships Trophies, feel the fabrics of tennis fashions from the Victorian period, test your skills on the Batak wall and learn about how The Championships has developed since 1877.

Club followed by a 'Crew lunch’ at Leander with Toby Garbett offering his stories, revelations and motivational advice.

Following the experience head to the Henley on Thames River & Rowing Museum located on the banks of the picturesque river and housed in an award-winning building, designed by the acclaimed architect Sir David Chipperfield.

With four permanent galleries dedicated to Rowing, Rivers, the work of British Artist John Piper and the history of Henley on Thames, the Museum is also home to the magical Wind in the Willows exhibition which brings to life the much-loved story with 3D models, lighting and music.

Pop into the café and sit out on the terrace overlooking Mill Meadows, and visit the shop for books and games, fashion, craft and local produce, including fine wines, gins, honey and chocolates. The constantly evolving calendar of temporary art and photography exhibitions and a year-round calendar of nature trails, craft workshops and family days, ensures there is always something new to see and do.

“One of the world’s most celebrated tennis events, the champoinships at Wimbledon runs for two weeks in July attracting over 500,000 spectators.”

With clothing and equipment donated by tennis’ top stars, you’re certain to see something from your favourite player too. The Museum also runs several special exhibitions, including one dedicated to tennis at the Olympic Games, another charting the evolution of the racket from the 1870s to present day, and a showcase of the spectacular tennis posters that have been used to advertise Wimbledon over the years. The Museum's newest temporary exhibition is Centre Court: 100 Years of Change, celebrating the centenary of Centre Court, taking place in 2022.

The exhibition explores the role that Centre Court has played as a witness to a period of considerable social and cultural progress, and the platform that the court, and The Championships, has provided for that change.

Have an unforgettable time on the water

An absolute must for Rowing enthusiasts, the Henley Rowing Association offer a special and unique opportunity to row on the regatta course with Olympian and Twice World Champion, Toby Garbett. The five hour long Gold package includes an outdoor warm up session of rowing specific exercises, a coaching and rowing experience in a quad or octuple on the Regatta course, a tour of the famous Leander

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Enjoy a real tradition at Marylebone Cricket Club Museum with a Lord’s Tour Lord’s is the most famous cricket Ground in the world, steeped in over 200 years of history and tradition. Lord's is not only a must for all cricket lovers, but for anyone looking for the quintessentially English experience. Private Tours can be booked any day of the week, giving you an opportunity to go behind the scenes at the ‘home of cricket’.

An expert guide will lead you through the most iconic parts of the ground including the Grade II listed Victorian Pavilion, the world-famous Long Room, the Players’ Dressing Rooms, the dramatic J.P. Morgan Media Centre, and the MCC Museum, home of the Ashes Urn – cricket’s bestknown artefact. Lord’s has an extraordinary history, dramatic architecture, and an unrivalled collection of cricket-related art and memorabilia.

Tour the stadiums of England's ‘beautiful game’

Football in England is not just a game but a national obsession. Even if you’re not a football fan, it’s hard not to get swept away by the atmosphere at a good match. See what all the fuss is about with a stadium tour. Bristol City, whose home stadium is Ashton Gate, and Bristol Rovers, →

Pictured previous page: Family fun at Ascot Racecourse. Pictured clockwise from above: Rowing on the River Thames, Henley; Marylebone Cricket Club Museum and Lord’s Tour; The All England Club, Wimbledon.

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Wonders await

those who venture off the beaten path

A unique royal connection, rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture and beautiful natural scenery along a 20 mile stretch of the River Thames.

#VisitWindsor www.windsor.gov.uk

Add to this an abundance of places to stay from 5 star resorts to riverside camping, quaint villages, one-of-a-kind shops and a culinary scene headed by

the likes of Heston Blumenthal and you’ll have a reasonable idea of the treats in store for you in and around Windsor. www.windsor.gov.uk

Pictured: World Rugby Museum

at Memorial Stadium, have a historic rivalry. You can visit Ashton Gate during one of their hosted events throughout the year. There's a huge variety from music concerts to include award-winning Elton John and his Farewell Yellow Brick Road: The Final Tour, to The Killers and comedian Russell Brand.

Bristol Rovers offer behind the scenes tours of the Memorial Stadium with professional coaches, including visits to the players dressing room and the chance to wave the flags of the Guard of Honour for under six to under 16 years football teams. While top performing Bristol City Women’s F.C. can be found at Stoke Gifford Stadium, there’s also the Easton Cowboys & Cowgirls where graffiti artist Banksy was once a member (apparently he played in goal).

In London you can go behind the scenes at the London Stadium with a West Ham football legend, take a stadium tour at Chelsea and see their iconic soccer club’s trophies, shirts and memorabilia, and for the most iconic ground of them all, take a tour of Wembley Stadium. New, worldleading technology allows you to get closer to the history of the stadium, with augmented reality as well as exceptional opportunities to visit the dressing rooms, pitch and tunnel, as well as a chance to hold a replica FA cup!

Visit the opulent Farleigh House Estate for a historic tour with Bath Rugby

If there is a capital city of Rugby in England then it is here.

Bath Rugby is one of the oldest Rugby teams in the world they have been going strong for more than 150 years. You can see Bath Rugby play at The Rec by the River Avon with views of Pulteney Bridge and Georgian Terraces – one of English Rugby’s most iconic sights.

Away from matchdays on The Rec, Bath Rugby hang their hat at the opulent Farleigh House Estate. This majestic Georgian mansion is the most spectacular rugby facility we have seen in Europe. The original walled garden is now a half-size 3G set-piece training pitch, the outbuildings house a powerlifter's paradise and the old towers of the mansion now hosts the state-of-the-art nerve centre of English Rugby’s most successful club. You can visit the manor for a coaching experience, tour, lectures on training and many more possibilities besides. With Somerset, Bristol, Gloucestershire, Dorset and Wiltshire all in easy distance of Bath, your touring opposition will be clubs from the core of English Rugby’s most traditional and historic heartland.

Take your travels up a gear

If you like high octane sport, have you ever raced a rally car?

Incongruously located in ‘the prettiest village in England’, Castle Combe Circuit offers petrol heads the possibility to

Did you know? In 1971, Mollie Gerrard became the first woman president of Bath Rugby, and any rugby club.

tackle high speed laps and time trials themselves, as well as experience a white knuckle passenger ride with a pro driver at the wheel. Or you might like to have a go at sailing at Cotswold Water Park or on the River Thames. Channel your inner Chris Hoy and whizz round the tracks on the velodrome at Palmer Park, Reading (adaptable bikes available) or take a tandem ride around Bristol with Bristol Tandem Hire.

Plan your visit and watch a spectator sport as part of your own Great West Way sporting tour

Depending on where you’re visiting along the touring route and when, you might also catch some cycling, hockey, motor racing, marathons, boxing, tennis… even a game of rounders in a local park. This cricket-like game has been popular since Tudor times - not the height of UK sport, perhaps, but entertaining nonetheless. And you don’t have to be a spectator: opportunities abound to jump into that gym kit and get active yourself. And if you want to watch something a little offbeat, you could always visit Chippenham for the Pancake Race on Shrove Tuesday. Or the Woolsack Races, which take place in Tetbury each May to celebrate the town’s wool trade heritage. There are even lawnmower races - held throughout the south of England each summer.

However you choose to engross yourself in sport along the Great West Way we hope you have a memorable experience.

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AGRITOURISM ON THE WAY

From pumpkin picking to alpaca walking, freshly laid eggs to milking the cows, it’s time to clean the mud from your wellies and experience the very best of countryside living.

Words | Susan Wright

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he Great West Way is home to all sorts of interesting, unique and unusual accommodation, but have you ever stayed on a farm? With miles upon miles of lush, green countryside, our route boasts some of the finest examples of rural working farms and farm experiences you can enjoy, many of which offer quirky accommodation too.

Get back to nature and the outdoors with a stay on one of The Great West Way’s farms, featuring friendly cows and sheep as your next-door neighbours, fresh homegrown produce to taste, and tours and experiences to get involved in on your stay. It’s a great option if you’re looking for something different on your Great West Way journey.

and Wi-Fi which you may require as the camp is off-grid.

On the farm, you can also try your hand at the ancient art of sheep herding, take a tour of the local organic vineyard or book one of a number of activities to make your group stay even more memorable.

There is a nearby farm shop, village co-operative and village pub. They are also just five miles from the beautiful city of Bath and two miles from the pretty town of Bradford on Avon. →

The Farm Camp

Home to four large self-catered bell tents (sleeping up to four) The Farm Camp offers a taste of the simple life. This is a place you can unwind and and enjoy an unforgettable glamping experience. Open from late March until early October, they welcome groups looking to enjoy a more natural break away.

The facilities at camp include two hot showers, private compost loos, a grass clearing for games and a communal shelter. Half a mile down the lane guests can also use the indoor heated pool, games room and laundry room should you need some modern luxury. There are also power sockets

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Bozedown Farm

For the ultimate alpaca experience UK Alpaca Breeder, Bozedown Farm is the place to go. Join them on an alpaca walk through the beautiful South Oxfordshire countryside – where the Chiltern Hills meet the River Thames.

You can enjoy leading an alpaca around their alpaca farm as you learn more about these attractive, enigmatic creatures that originate from the High Andes of Peru, but are quite at home in leafy England.

Bozedown Farm is home to Bozedown Alpacas – a family enterprise who have been breeding and selling alpacas since 1989. The truly exceptional Bozedown Pedigrees have been built upon a solid foundation of World Class Bloodstock, carefully selected by the family from Peru, Australia and USA. Bozedown genetics have produced a phenomenal number of Champion Huacayas and Suris ever since 1989 both for Bozedown Alpacas and their clients. With more than 700 Alpacas, including over 100 suris, they are able to offer exciting new bloodlines from a broad genetic base.

Throughout the year they host a number of Alpaca training courses, BAS Judge training courses, and other events too.

Pictured previous page left to right: Camping at The Farm Camp; Enjoying the outdoors at The Farm Camp.

Pictured: Alpacas at Bozedown Farm

Church Farm Country Cottages

Stay on a working sheep farm, situated in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, just two miles from Bradford on Avon. There are seven cottages you can stay in at the awardwinning Church Farm – each with exposed beams and vaulted ceilings and the delightful Old Granary barn conversion just a short walk along the country lane. Longleat and the World Heritage City of Bath are also just a short journey away.

Enjoy walking and cycling from your doorstep then reward yourself afterwards in the luxurious heated indoor pool.

Children will love the Games Room with table tennis, table football, a pool table and Wi-Fi Internet Access.

Pop into Hartley Farm Shop and Café, or the village pub and village shop – and look forward to a welcome cream tea with homemade scones, jam, organic clotted cream and locally produced biscuits with tea and coffee on arrival.

Guests can also get involved with a ‘Farm Workshop’ from bushcraft, weighing lambs to sheep herding and 'Farmcraft' sessions to include farm tours, sheep herding, and even farm olympics!

“In the gardens there are ‘wild’ areas... attracting many bees and butterflies... owls, red kite, buzzards and kestrels...”

Buttle Farm

Located in Compton Bassett Buttle Farm is home to Robert and Sara, who live in the farmhouse, a converted Victorian brick and slate barn which was once winter housing for the dairy cows that used to live there. Across the yard is the Chalk Barn holiday cottage – also a converted barn and probably the oldest building on the site, constructed largely from chalk

blocks – the local building material. In the gardens there are ‘wild’ areas which are never cut, and as such produce a wide variety of so-called weeds and wildflowers, attracting many bees and butterflies as well as providing habitat and corridor for the wildlife that share the farm. This encourages the owls, red kite, buzzards and kestrels that can be regularly seen soaring over the fields.

Buttle Farm is also home to a flock of guinea fowl who roam free range around the barns and into the fields, eating bugs and seeds along the way, as well as delivering fabulously yellow, rich eggs for use in the kitchen. They may not be the smartest birds but they certainly are one of the more entertaining varieties and make a point of greeting visitors to the farm. →

“Mill Farm have recently launched Belle Vue Farm Shire – three unique and luxurious super-chic canvas lodge retreats... each with its own private courtyard and hot tub.”

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Pictured left to right: Four poster bed at Mill Farm Glamping; relaxing at Totteridge Farm; Totteridge Farm Camping Pods

Sheephouse Manor

Mill Farm Glamping Situated in the village of Poulshot just three miles from Devizes, Mill Farm have recently launched Belle Vue Farm Shire – three unique and luxurious super-chic canvas lodge retreats, in a newly planted woodland landscape with wild flower meadows, overlooking the beautiful Wiltshire countryside - each with its own private courtyard and hot tub.

Joe and Izzy Dyke are the third generation of Dykes to tend this very special corner of the British countryside inviting guests to experience the joys of their family-run, organic farm.

You will meet the ducks, dairy cattle and donkeys, and have fun on Farmer Joe's organic farm tour. Walk, ride, paddle, fish – or just soak up the sun and the tranquil scenery. It all adds up to a naturally inspirational experience: a unique break that you will treasure for a lifetime.

There is a small gaggle of organic geese, Wiltshire Horn sheep, donkeys, rabbits and guinea pigs as well as a range of activities available to pre-book during your stay to include: fitness classes, pizza evenings, archery, painting classes, laser shooting and pub taxis via gator or tractor and trailer.

Sheephouse Manor is an ideal base for visiting all attractions along the Great West Way, their five cottages offer comfort and relaxation with everything you need.

Situated in rural Berkshire countryside, close to the scenic River Thames, yet two miles from Maidenhead town and station. Everything along the Great West Way is within 90 minutes by car or train.

The 16th Century Sheephouse Manor was originally a dairy farm, and now the five converted barns sit in two acres of pretty gardens. Four legged friends don't need to stay at home as they are pet friendly, and even have a dedicated dog run, plus a children’s play paddock amongst the chickens.

Totteridge Farm

Totteridge Farm Camping Pods offer a wonderful English countryside experience, for those who want to be close to nature without giving up home comforts.

Step out of your timber lodge into the fresh calm of a rural Wiltshire morning, explore the towns, villages and trails of the Vale of Pewsey, or sit out under the stars around a wood fire with a glass of their farm-grown English wine… with the home comforts of a hot shower, crisp white cotton sheets, and even underfloor-heated in your own luxury pod.

Pod and camping areas offer fantastic views across the Vale of Pewsey, looking across to the majestic backdrop of Martinsell Hill, and the area is perfect for walking and cycling, as well as for trips further afield in Wiltshire and beyond.

Cliffe Farm Dairy Set on the edge of Salisbury Plain, Cliffe Farm Dairy is a converted disused milking parlour set on an organic farm owned by the Holloway family. It is now a wonderfully spacious three-bedroom barn conversion ideally situated to explore the beautiful county of Wiltshire.

As a guest you can enjoy uninterrupted views of the stunning chalk escarpment of Salisbury Plain with just sheep and wildlife as your neighbours. The Holloway family have farmed in the village for over a century and with the opening of their holiday cottage they have been able to offer guests a glimpse of what their rural life is like living on a farm.

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AS SEEN ON SCREEN

BRIDGERTON Netflix’s Bridgerton has stolen our hearts ever since its debut release on Christmas day two years ago. With the recent launch of Season Two it's time to celebrate the series on a Bridgerton-inspired tour of the Great West Way, visiting the glamorous locations seen on screen.

Words | Melanie Abrams

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roduced by Shonda Rhimes, creator of Grey's Anatomy and Scandal, and based on the novels by Julia Quinn, the show has proved a hit with audiences around the world thanks to its modern take on life in Regency England – not to mention its passionate romance scenes.

But did you know several of the scenes were filmed right here on the Great West Way? With the second series out now discover the real-life filming locations and Bridgerton experiences on the Great West Way. Take some time to visit the beautiful historic properties and locations used as backdrops for the show including famous landmarks like Hampton Court Palace to the lesser-known secrets such as the Abbey Deli in Bath (previously called Pickled Greens). Incredible historic houses and charming cities from the whole length of the Great West Way are being used as filmsets to bring the Bridgerton story to life.

If you are beginning your Great West Way journey in London its Regency heritage offers the perfect inspiration. Many of the events in Bridgerton are set in London Mayfair's, within the residences of the best families in England. Take in Regent’s Park and Regent Street or see London through its Bridgerton homes.

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Starting in the west of London, east of the route, is Syon House, the London home of the Dukes of Northumberland with its 200 acre park. Used as Bridgerton’s Buckingham House, the smaller forerunner to Buckingham Palace, it’s where Queen Charlotte dined with her husband, George III, whilst its Print Room doubled for Hastings’ study. →

“Incredible historic houses and charming cities from the whole length of the Great West Way are being used as filmsets to bring the Bridgerton story to life.”

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Located on the river Thames and surrounded by swathes of stunning gardens and parkland, Hampton Court Palace may be best known for its Tudor and Stuart heritage – but in Bridgerton, it stood in for St James’s Palace. Carriages swept into the famous red brick courtyard for Queen Charlotte’s Ball. “We were there for an afternoon,” says Bailey, who plays Anthony.

Palace. With its sweeping staircases and Grand Hall, which mirrors the style of the Palace of Versailles, the building is a favourite filming location for period dramas and has also appeared in Downton Abbey and The King’s Speech.

Hampton Court Palace is one of Britain’s most famous buildings and a must-visit destination on the Great West Way. The former home of King Henry VIII, you can imagine following in the footsteps of its stars with a stroll through the palace’s 60 acres of gardens, including the ornate Privy Garden, which was beloved by the King himself, or exploring the beauty of Richmond Park - home to herds of red and fallow deer since 1637.

If in London you might choose to venture a short distance from the route across Bushy Park into Teddington for Normansfield Theatre in the Langdon Down Centre, where Hastings and Anthony had their boxing match. Located in the heart of Pall Mall and founded in 1832, The Reform Club is another London filming location immortalised in the series. The setting of episode one’s meeting between the Duke of Hastings and Anthony Bridgerton, in reality the private members' club is the haunt of some of Britain’s most forward-thinking political minds, not to mention one of the area’s most striking buildings.

Although Hampton Court Palace was used for exterior shots of Queen Charlotte’s Palace, Lancaster House in Westminster, London, was used for the interior and also acted as a backdrop for scenes filmed inside Buckingham

In Twickenham you can visit the medieval St Mary’s Church where early 18th century English poet, Alexander Pope is buried, used for St George’s church where Daphne and Hastings married. Although not featured in Bridgerton

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nearby is Great West Way’s Strawberry Hill House & Garden – Horace Walpole’s 18th century architectural masterpiece, internationally renowned as Britain’s finest example of Georgian Gothic revival architecture.

Another short detour from the route you can stroll like the Featheringtons in Surrey’s 18th century Painshill Park - the beautifully manicured grounds feature in the hit show. Look out for oft used scenes like the Chinese bridge, rowing lake and winding paths. There is also Wilton House, near Salisbury – the home of the Earls of Pembroke acts as multiple sets for Hastings, his honorary godmother, Lady Danbury (Adjoa Andoh) as well as Queen Charlotte (Golda Rosheuvel).

Most recognisable will be the exterior – which was used for Hastings’ London home and the Double Cube Room for the Queen’s presentation chamber. Whilst the garden hosted Lady Danbury’s party in the last episode of season one.

Head to Bath where much of the filming took place. Founded by the Romans, the Somerset city was a buzzing social hub for the well-to-do in the 1800s and it remains a jewel of Regency architecture to this day. If you’re keen to experience a slice of Bridgerton visit No.1 Royal Crescent, a museum of a Georgian home including a Withdrawing Room and Gentleman’s Retreat. →

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It was used as the exterior of the Featheringtons’ family pad, as “with the Featheringtons, it is all about show,” says Bridgerton production designer, Will Hughes-Jones. Whilst there, pop a few doors down to sample the Royal Crescent Hotel’s champagne afternoon tea or hop on a carriage.

Stop at the city’s impressive Guildhall as its banqueting room with unmissable chandeliers stood in for the Rambury ballroom.

Follow the footsteps of your favourite characters, walking along streets where filming took place. There’s Abbey Green, Bath Street, Beauford Square, as well as Trim Street, where inside number 12 Gunter’s Tea Shop was filmed.

The Holburne Museum in Sydney Pleasure Gardens, another must-visit attraction on the Great West Way, doubles as Lady Danbury's home and the stunning Grade I listed elegant façade is seen in almost all episodes.

Lady Danbury was filmed here stepping down from her carriage while reading Lady Whistledown’s gossip sheet.

Situated in the centre of Bath, Abbey Green’s cobbled streets and quaint boutiques make it a dream filming location for Bridgerton and it’s here that the fictional dress shop, Modiste, is located. Owned by renowned seamstress Madame Genevieve Delacroix, the shop is a hotbed of style and gossip and the setting to several key scenes in the show. If you’re a fan of the show, you can look forward to donning your best outfits for a turn around the square, before a spot of lunch and shopping in true Bridgerton style.

Bath Street features in the very first episode of Bridgerton, when the Duke makes his heart-stopping appearance on horseback. Although it doubles as a Mayfair street in London, this Georgian delight is actually the location of a quintessential Great West Way highlight, the Thermae Bath Spa, an award-winning spa featuring the 18th-century Cross Bath and an open-air rooftop pool. →

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Pictured first page left to right: The long gallery, Syon House; Bridgerton's Golda Rosheuvel as Queen Charlotte Pictured previous page clockwise from left: Bridgerton's Jonathan Bailey as Anthony Bridgerton; Bridgerton's Rupert Young as Lord Jack Featherington, Bessie Carter as Prudence Featherington, Nicola Coughlan as Penelope Featherington, Polly Walker as Lady Portia Featherington, Florence Emilia Hunt as Hyacinth Bridgerton, Ruth Gemmell as Lady Violet Bridgerton, Luke Newton as Colin Bridgerton, Jonathan Bailey as Anthony Bridgerton, and Luke Thompson as Benedict Bridgerton; Strawberry Hill House & Garden Pictured left to right: The Holburne Museum; Jonathan Bailey as Anthony Bridgerton and Simone Ashley as Kate Sharma. Pictured next page left to right: Bridgerton's Jonathan Bailey as Anthony Bridgerton and Simone Ashley as Kate Sharma; Leigh Court, Bristol; Allen Leech and Tuppence Middleton on the set of Downton Abbey: A New Era.

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IMAGES © LIAM DANIEL/NETFLIX / CR. COLIN HUTTON/NETFLIX / BEN BLACKALL / © 2022 FOCUS FEATURES LLC

“Leigh Court was the lavish filming location for three of the season’s most opulent events, from Daphne’s jaw-dropping reveal... to the dramatic scenes at the Crawford Ballroom.”

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Many of the scandalous storylines in Bridgerton revolve around big social events, where high society comes together to celebrate, mediate and fall in love, much to the delight of gossip columnist extraordinaire, Lady Whistledown. The Assembly Rooms tea room and ballroom were the setting for many of these extravagant evening scenes and have also featured in film adaptations of classics including Persuasion, in addition to being home to a highly regarded Fashion Museum.

Situated just outside Bristol, at the very Western end of the Great West Way route, Leigh Court was used for many of Bridgerton's ball scenes. Although it is now a dreamy wedding and private events venue, a visit to Leigh Woods, a tranquil woodland nestled above the Avon Gorge and the iconic Bristol Suspension Bridge, gets you just a stone’s throw away.

Leigh Court was the lavish filming location for three of the season’s most opulent events, from Daphne’s jaw-dropping reveal to Prince Friedrich (Freddie Stroma) to the dramatic scenes at the Crawford Ballroom. Built during Regency times, the suspended double staircase in the Great Hall is where Daphne appeared before dancing with Prince Friedrich. Whether Bridgerton, Featherington or brooding Duke, never are the characters of Bridgerton more extravagant than when attending a ball!

Alternatively, you can plan to experience a slice of 18th century life at Bristol’s Georgian House Museum, a restored period home with formal rooms and kitchens. You can also enjoy a behind-the-scenes interview with Penelope Featherington, played by Irish actress Nicola Coughlan, who reveals the secrets of the show while shooting at Leigh Court.

Many other films, TV shows and period dramas have been filmed along the Great West Way. Fans of Jane Austen may recognise the Temple of Apollo at the National Trust’s Stourhead Gardens (just south of the main Great West Way route) as the place the Darcy proposes to Lizzie in the rain in the film version of Pride and Prejudice. And, Potterheads – get those cloaks and wands at the ready! There are several magical Harry Potter locations, not to mention Paddington Bear, Shaun the Sheep and Wallace & Gromit. Click here to find out more.

You might also enjoy...

Celebrating the new Downton Abbey sequel film, Downton Abbey, A New Era, coming to theatres in 2022

Bowood House & Gardens

A cottage located on the Bowood House Estate was used as a filming location in the Downton Abbey film and can even be seen in the trailer. Bowood House sits within 100 acres of beautifully landscaped parkland, and features a hotel, spa and championship golf course.

Lacock Village

Within the village of Lacock, producers of Downton Abbey created the annual Malton Show at a farmer’s market.

There is lots to see and do including visiting Lacock Abbey and the Fox Talbot Museum.

Highclere Castle

Most of Downton Abbey the TV series and movie were filmed at Highclere Castle, or ‘The Real Downton Abbey’, as it’s known. Highclere Castle is located in North Hampshire on the Great West Way, and is currently home to the eighth Earl and Countess of Carnarvon.

Throughout the year, Highclere Castle holds tours and events open to the public where you can explore the Estate and the various filming locations that have appeared on our screens.

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TEN GREAT REASONS TO VISIT

THE GREAT WEST WAY THIS SUMMER There are plenty of excuses to celebrate this summer, including a special long Bank Holiday weekend, an array of excellent exhibitions and some exciting period dramas coming to our TV screens.

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CATCH THE EVENTS YOU MISSED LAST YEAR

Because of the coronavirus pandemic, many of our favourite annual events had to be cancelled, postponed or curtailed in 2019 and 2021.

But don't worry – they're back in 2022 and there’s an exciting calendar of events planned for the coming year. Why not time your visit to coincide with Royal Ascot or Henley Royal Regatta in June or Reading Festival in August?

Or join a course at Marlborough College Summer School which runs more than 500 different courses in July and August.

There will also be plenty of festive fun-filled events in the run up to Christmas. If you’ve been missing out on seeing live music or theatre performed, now is the time to book your tickets for 2022.

You can catch top-notch performances of all kinds at the Wyvern Theatre in Swindon, Wiltshire Music Centre in pretty Bradford on Avon, the Watermill Theatre near Newbury or Pound Arts Centre in Corsham.

Pictured left to right: Painting, Marlborough College Summer School; Thermae Bath Spa roof top spa.

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ESCAPE THE EVERYDAY

Shake off the mundane and the everyday, and go on an adventure this year! Discover stunning street art as you explore bustling Bristol. Take a swim in a rooftop pool and visit the brand new Mary Shelley's House of Frankenstein museum in Bath. See a historic windmill in action in the North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Watch horses thunder past at Newbury Racecourse.

Take a boat trip along the Thames, spotting famous landmarks and pretty wildlife. Uncover the mysteries of

Wiltshire's dramatic crop circles. Float up, up and away in a hot air balloon, or jump out of a plane with Skydive Netheravon. We all deserve a little bit of luxury, so why not prioritise your wellbeing and treat yourself to a sumptuous spa stay, and enjoy a fine-dining experience at a Michelin star restaurant.

You might even enjoy wine-tasting experience at one of the Great West Way’s thriving vineyards, or a cocktail masterclass at the Bombay Sapphire Distillery.

However you choose to Escape the Everyday let’s make 2022 a thrilling year and make up for lost time with families and friends!

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3

EXPLORE BATH’S NEW WORLD HERITAGE CENTRE

There’s a brand-new World Heritage Centre opening in Bath in spring 2022. The new centre will illuminate Bath's history with fascinating interactive exhibits and displays about Bath’s hot springs, Roman remains and Georgian architecture. A perfect excuse to visit the grand and gentile city of Bath as you travel along the Great West Way.

Pictured left to right: Pulteney Bridge over the River Avon in Bath; Bath’s new World Heritage Centre; Graham from Tours2Order

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CELEBRATE WILTSHIRE WILDLIFE TRUST’S 60TH BIRTHDAY

Wiltshire Wildlife Trust's first nature reserve was Blackmoor Copse, a Site of Special Scientific Interest and one of the most important woods in Wiltshire for butterflies. 60 years after it was first formed, Wiltshire Wildlife Trust now looks after 40 nature reserves in Wiltshire, many of which are easy to access from the Great West Way.

The trust creates living landscapes across Wiltshire by restoring, reconnecting and recreating wildlife habitats across landscapes for wildlife and people.

Stop off at the grasslands and lakes at Lower Moor near Cricklade, the wildlife-rich hay meadows at Blakehill Farm Nature Reserve just down the road or the woodland, ponds and wet grasslands at Jones's Mill in the Vale of Pewsey in 2022 to enjoy nature, improve your wellbeing and help Wiltshire Wildlife Trust celebrate their big birthday year.

GREAT WEST WAY TOURS Tours2Order

Graham is a Blue Badge Tourist Guide based in Royal Berkshire, there to help you discover the Great West Way.  tours2order.com

Bath Insider Tours

Founder of Bath Insider Tours, Daniel is a local guide who was born and grew up in the beautiful City of Bath.  bathinsidertours.co.uk

Britain’s Best Heritage Tours

Founders Ian and daughter Heather together with Sandrine – all registered Blue Badge Guides – offer expert-led tours.  bbhtours.co.uk

Galahad Tours

Private guided tours of the Great West Way from Bath in a luxury vehicle. Sightseeing in style in a luxury Mercedes V Class.  galahadtours.co.uk

Tour and Explore

Anne Bartlett is a specialist Blue Badge Tourist Guide of the Great West Way. tourandexplore.com

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5

DISCOVER THE WORLD OF STONEHENGE

There’s a major new exhibition coming to the British Museum in 2022; The World of Stonehenge - the first of its kind in the UK. Explore the history and mystery of one of England’s most iconic sites, built thousands of years ago on Salisbury Plain, just below where the Great West Way runs today.

At the British Museum between 17 February and 17 July you can see hundreds of ancient objects relating to the stone circle, then learn more about its history at Wiltshire Museum before a short detour to see Stonehenge itself.

Shrouded in layers of speculation and folklore, Stonehenge is perhaps the world’s most awe-inspiring ancient stone circle, and its image is famous around the globe.

The World of Stonehenge exhibition will bring the story of Stonehenge into sharper focus, showing that rather than a shadowy age of mystery, the Britain and Ireland of four millennia ago were places of big ideas, commerce and travel.

Journey back to the time of its construction around 3000–2500 BC, and with the help of objects from across Europe – including stone axes from the North Italian Alps and stunning metalwork from Ireland – the world of Stonehenge will be illuminated like never before.

Pictured left to right: Stonehenge prehistoric monument on Salisbury Plain; Reading – famous for its biscuit manufacturing

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ENJOY A BISCUIT FUELLED BREAK IN READING

In 2022, Reading will be celebrating the 200year anniversary of its biscuit manufacturing history. In 1822 Thomas Huntley opened his first shop in the town and went on to become one of the world's largest biscuit manufacturers with Huntley & Palmers, earning Reading the nickname of ‘Biscuit Town’ in the process. 2022 will see biscuit focused tours, events and offers come to Reading, so make sure you stop off here as you travel along the Great West Way. Visit the special exhibition Biscuit Town: 200 years of Huntley and Palmers in Reading at The Museum of English Rural Life, see the astonishing collection of decorative biscuits tins and ephemera in the Huntley & Palmers Gallery at Reading Museum, and be sure to join a Biscuit Walkabout guided tour of Reading’s biscuit heritage with Terry’s Reading Walkabouts Reading.

Children’s Festival, 14 May – 5 June, will also be taking on the theme of Biscuit Town and you might wish to finish off your biscuit itinerary with Afternoon Tea at the Reading Room and Lounge at the Roseate Reading Hotel, complete with biscuits inspired

by Huntley and Palmer. Available from 9 May 2022. Or have Afternoon Tea afloat on a Thames River Cruise as the banks of the River Thames glide by.

Download the Reading Pocket Map Reading sits at the heart of the Great West Way

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CELEBRATE LITERATURE ON THE GREAT WEST WAY

Literature lovers will have plenty to please them in 2022 on the Great West Way. Thomas Hardy, the author of Tess of the d'Urbervilles, Jude the Obscure and Far from the Madding Crowd, was born in South West England and set many of his novels here. In 2022, four exhibitions dedicated to his life and work will take place on and near to the Great West Way, in Devizes, Wiltshire, Poole and Dorset.

Wiltshire Museum will host "The Ancient Landscape" exploring

how Hardy's writing was influenced by Wiltshire's timeless landscapes.

Plus, the first of JK Rowling’s Harry Potter books was published in 1997. And if you’re a lover of this magical world, you can celebrate its 25th anniversary on a trip along the Great West Way. Take a look at the best places to pretend you're Harry Potter and discover some of the filming locations used to bring Harry’s world to life in the film series, from the ancient Abbey in Wiltshire that doubles as a Hogwart's classroom to the woodland setting for the Quidditch World Cup.

Pictured left to right: The World-Famous Jacobite Express Train also known as the ‘Harry Potter Steam Train'; Platinum Jubilee Afternoon Tea at Cliveden House

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CELEBRATE THE QUEEN’S PLATINUM JUBILEE

Explore the Royal Connections of the Great West Way as her Majesty the Queen becomes the first UK monarch to celebrate a Platinum Jubilee. A fourday Bank Holiday in June will mark the Queen’s 70-year reign, and there will be celebrations and special events throughout the whole of the year. So plan a trip fit for royalty in 2022 with a visit to Windsor Castle – the Queen’s favourite weekend residence - book an overnight stay in a regal suite at one of

our luxury hotel options, or plan a day out at Royal Ascot.

Here on the Great West Way, there will be lots of events taking place throughout the year to mark the occasion, from street parties to special exhibitions.

Click here to see our many events including: The Queen's Platinum Jubilee Celebrations! - Hobbs of Henley Cruise; The Monkton Park Royal Scarecrow Trail 2022, Chippenham; Platinum Jubilee Walk and Jubilee Picnic in the Park, Windsor; and the Beacon Lighting and Fireworks – being held in Windsor during the Platinum Jubilee Bank Holiday weekend.

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TRAVEL GREEN AND BE ACTIVE

As we all become more aware of our impact on the planet, many of us are trying to choose more sustainable ways to travel. Make 2022 the year you go on an eco-friendly trip along the Great West Way. You can traverse the entire route by public transport, leave the car at home and cycle and walk sections. And along the way you will find fine-dining restaurants stocked with sustainable local produce, plastic-free towns, eco-friendly glamping pods, and attractions working towards achieving zero-carbon by planting trees across their land.

If you’re making a New Year’s Resolution to be more active in 2022, a trip along the Great West Way will give you all the opportunities you need. From long walks along the Kennet & Avon Canal to cycle rides in Swinley Forest, or rowing on the River Thames, there is plenty to do to keep you busy and get your heart racing.

For something more unusual, have a go at inland surfing at The Wave, book a tandem bike ride through the centre of Bristol, or try Stand-up Paddleboarding with Original Wild.

Pictured clockwise from left: Cyclists at Windsor Castle; Clifton Suspension Bridge, Bristol; Bowood House & Gardens; Blenheim Palace

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TICK SOMEWHERE BIG OFF YOUR BUCKET LIST

The maritime city of Bristol with its elegant Suspension Bridge. The regal town of Windsor. World Heritage site Blenheim Palace. Fascinating Berkeley Castle and beautiful Bowood House & Gardens. There are plenty of iconic locations to visit along the Great West Way route. Why don’t you make 2022 the year you visit these fascinating and famous locations? Within easy reach of the route you will also find spectacular Salisbury Cathedral and stunning National Trust landscapes at Cheddar Gorge.

THIS WAY FOR A JOURNEY OF DISCOVERY Escape the Everyday on a unique adventure along the Great West Way in 2022, discovering iconic sites and hidden landscapes.

Explore traditionally English market towns where narrow cottage-lined streets hide boutique shops and welcoming pubs. Finish a long countryside ramble with a wellearned slice of cake at a canal-side teashop.

Catch up on some city culture in vibrant Bristol or gorgeous Georgian Bath, both well stocked with fascinating museums, tranquil galleries and historic landmarks. Then hop back on a train or bus and whizz off to your next Great West Way stop!

Download our newly updated Great West Way map to discover the hundreds of places to visit, things to do, sites to see and places to stay along the route between Bristol and London. And book your Great West Way Discoverer pass for an easy, flexible and ecofriendly way to travel by public transport.

Are you ready to start planning your Great West Way adventure? Click here to visit our campaign page.

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BEST DAYS OUT FOR FAMILIES ON THE GREAT WEST WAY

Bringing the kids on a Great West Way adventure? You’ll want some ideas for things to do that will keep everyone happy. Don't worry, there’s plenty of choice along the Great West Way for them too, from splish-splashy water parks to wonderfully wild safari parks, for unforgettable family fun.

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f all the wow-worthy family attractions, there are a few big ones you should be aware of. Not far out of London is Legoland Windsor Resort. The colourful block-built land dreams are made of.

This is probably one all kids everywhere will enjoy. In fact, it may well bring back happy memories for adults, too. You can visit just for the day to explore the amazing attractions, from Miniland – a lego replica of the world – to a Lego reef where you can build your own digital fish. There are some great rides sure to ramp up excitement too, like the Pirate Falls Treasure Quest, the Spinning Spider and the Vikings’ River Splash. You can also stay overnight in one of the resort’s fantastical hotels – check out The Castle with its fairytalethemed rooms.

If you’re looking for things to do with kids in Swindon, the Museum of the Great Western Railway is a must. There’s plenty to enthral children, including a steam train simulator where they can get behind the controls and a 1930s platform, reconstructed to give a sense for the old glamour of train travel. Grown-ups can get to grips with some Great Western Railway history while kids go goggle-eyed over the

locomotives. You might think the figures you see around the museum feel a little too life-like – that’s because they were cast from real Swindon folk, including ex-railway workers. After perusing the gift shop, you’ll find more shopping at the Swindon Designer Outlet next door.

At Longleat, a little south of the Great West Way, you can take your little lions on a wild drive through a safari park. From the madness of the monkey drive-through to the awe-inspiring sight of real-life rhinos in the Big Game Park – it’s sure to be a lasting memory all-round.

Buckle them in to see their faces light up over those enigmatic macaques, who aren’t shy, so make sure you wind up the windows – unless you want an extra cheeky monkey in the backseat.

Elsewhere there’s lions, tigers, a pack of wolves, zebras, ostriches and much more. For those that want to get hands-on with the animals, there are various feeding opportunities – extend a branch off the pier for the giraffe, hand-feed deer from your car window, throw fish to the sea lions from the boat on the lake, hold cups of nectar for rainbow lorikeets. Cute! →

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EDUCATIONAL & ENJOYABLE Who remembers being dragged kicking and screaming round a so-called ‘educational’ attraction as a child? Well, no need for any of that along the Great West Way. In Bath, kids will love meeting the soldiers at The Roman Baths. Or playing Postman Pat at the Bath Postal Museum, or cowboys at the American Museum.

In Bristol, there’s Aerospace Bristol, M Shed, Bristol Aquarium as well as REME Museum and the Atwell-Wilson Motor Museum. Schedule plenty of time for a visit to Brunel’s restored SS Great Britain. Its evocative cabins are filled with the sights, sounds and smells of its first journeys across the seas, from steerage to first class. Brave hearts can also climb the ship’s mast, as sailors once did, and get a grand view over Bristol’s floating harbour and toward the colourful houses of Clifton Wood. Included in the price of the ticket is entry to the new Being Brunel museum, where you enter the genius mind of the Victorian engineer. The gift shop’s pretty great too: who doesn’t need a bath duck dressed as Brunel?

And don’t forget We The Curious, where children are invited to make their own discoveries through hands-on

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science experiments including running on a giant hamster wheel, dressing up like a bee to collect pollen and even having a go at making your own animation, inspired by stopmotion Aardman hits like Morph and Wallace and Gromit.

(Watch out for cool new exhibitions coming soon as the museum is in the midst of an exciting revamp.) There’s also a planetarium where you can all don special 3D specs for a seasonal adventure in the night sky.

Little green fingers will love a day out at The University of Bristol Botanic Garden exploring some 4,500 plant species from over 200 plant families within its five-acre site. This diversity of plants is unique and not found anywhere else in the Bristol area.

A castle always goes down well, too. From the grandeur of Hampton Court Palace, with the maze that featured in ‘Three Men in a Boat’ by Jerome K Jerome, Windsor Castle and Berkeley Castle to the evocative ruins of Old Wardour Castle, young imaginations are sure to be entertained.

Stonehenge and Avebury are also natural choices – both allowing them to get a glimpse of history while roaming free like pint-sized prehistoric warriors.

Pictured previous page: Longleat Pictured clockwise from left: Brunel's SS Great Britain; Avon Valley Adventure and Wildlife Park; University of Bristol Botanic Garden

ACTION AND ADVENTURE Kids won’t believe their eyes when they enter the tropical glasshouses at The Living Rainforest near Newbury – home to over 850 types of rainforest plants and animals including Cinnamon the sloth, primary-coloured toucans and blue poison dart frogs. Wannabe-keepers can even try a Keeper

Experience, where they’ll get behind-the-scenes access to the animals and find out what it takes to care for them dayto-day.

Neatly situated in-between Bath and Bristol Avon Valley Adventure and Wildlife Park is full of farmyard favourites including a zoo, children's playground, mini train and go-karts.

Alternatively, take them for a splash about at Cotswold Water Park, a short detour from the Great West Way. The term ‘water park’ doesn’t convey the magnitude of this place – it’s a complete holiday destination with lots of lovely lakeside accommodation ranging from camping to swish self-catering villas. The park encompasses a whopping 150 lakes – and there’s even a beach, not quite what you’d expect in the Cotswolds countryside! There’s plenty to keep kids and grown-ups busy including archery, fishing, golf, horse riding, kayaking, wakeboarding and bird watching. And when you’re not picnicking on cheese and pickle sandwiches by one of the lakes, there are family-friendly places to eat and drink.

Plus, check out Active England’s Family Adventures for ideas and try a boat trip with Bristol Packet Boat Trips, Jubilee Boat Trips and Barbara McLellan Canal Boat. →

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SOME WILD CARDS Family Raceday at Ascot is packed full of memory making activities for all the family to enjoy from dog agility performers and Ferret Racing to adventurous treasure hunts and pony rides. You might enjoy taking the kids to meet red panda Lady Hilary at Bristol Zoo Gardens, visit Janu the elephant at Noah's Ark Zoo Farm, pet ponies and piggies at Roves Farm Visitor Centre or to take a walk in the tree canopy at Westonbirt Arboretum.

Just north of the Great West Way, Westonbirt is well set up for young naturalists. The nice clear paths and new Treetop Walkway make arboretum adventures easy, whatever the season. Keep an eye out for special events and activities, too. Their Enchanted Christmas never fails to ignite the imaginations of little ones with its twinkly tree lights and magical trails – Mr & Mrs Christmas also like to attend.

Spring and autumn are also natural highlights, with a confetti of golden leaves or pink blossoms bound to put a bounce in your tiny tot’s steps. At WWF wildlife reserves like Blakehill Farm, Lower Moor and Jones’s Mill they can don a pair of baby binos and spot their first birds. And they’ll also be

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captivated by the pretty spectacle at Studley Grange Butterfly World – also home to meerkats, otters and terrapins. Finally, if they just need to run around for a bit, Windsor Great Park has more space than they could ever need.

FAMILY-FRIENDLY STAYS If you’re not camping or glamping at one of the idyllic countryside camps along the Great West Way, there are some excellent hotels well-suited to families. At both Cricklade House and Woolley Grange Hotel, on the edge of the Cotswolds, you’ll be delighted to find mum and dad delights, like spas and bars, alongside lots of child-friendly activities. And for every night you stay at Woolley Grange, you get two hours of complimentary childcare in the Ofsted Registered Woolley Bears Den crèche, allowing parents to have a fun and relaxing time too!

FAMILY-FRIENDLY PLACES TO EAT The Great West Way incorporates lots of amazing family days out along its route with plenty of places to eat and drink with children of all ages.

Pictured clockwise from left: Ascot Racecourse; Bowood House & Gardens; Cobbs Farm Shop & Kitchen

Take the kids for a trip on a narrowboat, and stop at a friendly canal-side café for a bite to eat. Spend the day exploring a castle, meeting animals at the zoo, or watching children’s theatre – then relax in the sunshine in an unpretentious pub garden. Enjoy a lovely family meal at a welcoming restaurant after a tiring day of adventurous activities like cycling, learning to surf or rock climbing.

There are welcoming family-friendly cafés at many of the attractions along the Great West Way – perfect for picking up lunch during a family day out. Aerospace Bristol Café, Westonbirt Restaurant and the Pump Room at The Roman Baths will all happily welcome children. At Bowood House and Gardens, the Stables Restaurant and Treehouse Café are two great options for the whole family, not to mention the ever-popular Ice Cream Kiosk in the middle of the adventure playground! From toddlers to teenagers, keep the whole family happy at the many family-friendly restaurants, pubs, hotels and cafés along the Great West Way. You can expect sunny, welcoming service and tasty food to suit fussy eaters (both adults and children!)

There are even lots of dog-friendly places to eat and drink along the Way to keep the whole family happy. For a fun family day out, head to Longleat Food and Music Festival in the summer, or stop off at welcoming Cobbs Farm Shop & Kitchen, Hungerford for a bite to eat as you travel the route.

At Cobbs you can sit on the garden terrace to enjoy a meal and a drink, with a clear view over the children’s play area - so the whole family will be happy!

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THE MYSTERY OF STONEHENGE The world-famous British Museum is running a major exhibition dedicated to Stonehenge; the most famous ancient stone circle in the world. Shrouded in layers of speculation and folklore, you can now learn all about this special monument’s fascinating history in London before visiting Stonehenge itself on a wonderful prehistoric journey of the Great West Way

“The exhibition has given us the incredible opportunity to put Stonehenge in the context of this era, including the arrival of the first farmers who transformed the British landscape; the first metalworkers who redefined social, economic, and cosmological connections; and the introduction of long-distance trade and exchange networks,” says Neil.

“Stonehenge features throughout the narrative we tell, acting as a familiar thread. We took the opportunity to show that the monument meant very different things at different times and that these meanings were informed by what was happening elsewhere across Europe”.

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tonehenge is a famous and much-loved British monument that has fascinated historians, archaeologists and enthusiasts for centuries. In The British Museum’s special exhibition, The World of Stonehenge, running this summer its story is being told. And, if ever there was an iconic structure that evokes questions of who?, when?, why? and how? Stonehenge is it. This is the first time an exhibition about Stonehenge and its era has ever been staged in London. “That seems remarkable to me given how famous the monument is around the world,” Neil Wilkin, The British Museum Stonehenge Exhibition Curator, tells us.

Over 430 objects have been brought together from across Europe in this once-in-a-lifetime spectacle on the history – and mystery – of the ancient monument. “It was an amazing opportunity to bring so many wonderful objects to London from across Britain, Ireland, and North-West Europe and to display them together and tell such a compelling story”, Neil explains.

And there is quite a history, Stonehenge was built 4,500 years ago around the same time as the Sphinx and the Great Pyramid of Giza in Egypt, one of the most remarkable eras on the islands of Britain and Ireland, which saw huge social and technological revolutions, alongside fundamental changes in people’s relationships with the sky, the land and one another.

At the heart of the exhibition is the sensational loan of a 4,000-year-old Bronze Age timber circle, dubbed Seahenge due to its similarity to Wiltshire’s Stonehenge. It is a hugely significant and extremely rare surviving example of a timber monument that has also been called “Stonehenge of the Sea.” It re-emerged on a remote Norfolk beach in 1998 due to the shifting sands, and it consists of a large, upturned tree stump surrounded by 54 wooden posts. The oak posts, some up to 3m tall, were tightly packed in a 6.6m diameter circle with their bark-covered sides facing outwards. Inside the circle was a mighty oak, its roots upturned towards the heavens like branches. Collectively the circle creates a giant tree. A narrow entranceway was aligned on the rising midsummer sun and it is thought this monument was used for ritual purposes.

“The exhibition could never replace the opportunity to visit Stonehenge itself - or indeed many of the other wonderful sites and museums along the Great West Way, including Salisbury Museum, Wiltshire Museum in Devizes or Avebury henge and standing stones”, says Neil. “It does, however, provide the perfect complementary experience and I really hope visitors to the Way will be able to start or end their journeys at the British Museum exhibition”.

When asked about his favourite part of the exhibition, Neil enthuses, “I love so many of the objects, from the newly discovered Burton Agnes chalk 'drum', buried with three children in a poignant and powerful grave in North Yorkshire around 3000 BC, around the same time as the bluestones were being raised at Stonehenge to the Nebra Sky Disc from Germany, a portable version of Stonehenge and the earliest known depiction of the heavens in the world! I'm particularly fond of Seahenge too - we have been able to bring key elements of this wonderfully preserved timber circle to London (the oaks to build it were felled in the spring or summer of →

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“I love so many of the objects, from the newly discovered Burton Agnes chalk 'drum' ... to the Nebra Sky Disc from Germany.”

Neil Wilkin, Exhibition Curator 2049 BC). It is the next best thing to being able to exhibit Stonehenge itself, especially given the importance of timber monuments during the era of Stonehenge - monuments that so rarely survive due to their perishable material.

The new Prehistoric Journey of the Great West Way takes you on an adventure through the ancient landscapes of the Great West Way, and journeys between two historic cities; the famous English capital, London, and the small city of Salisbury just to the south of the main Great West Way route. Over three busy days, you may only cover a few hundred miles but you will travel through thousands of years of history.

The journey begins at the British Museum World of Stonehenge exhibition, then it’s an hour and a half train journey to the Wiltshire city of Salisbury, to spend a few hours exploring the historic streets; it might not reach back in time quite as far as Stonehenge itself, but there are 800 years of fascinating history to see here.

After a busy day exploring England's past, venture back to the modern day with a meal at one of Salisbury's contemporary restaurants, and a quiet drink at one of the city's many bars or pubs before getting up bright and early for a visit to Stonehenge itself.

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With space for just 30 visitors, a Stone Circle Experience lets you get up close to the world-famous ancient monument, walking amongst the towering, mysterious stones as the day begins. Each visit takes place at dawn and lasts an hour, after which you can explore the museum-quality exhibitions at the Stonehenge Visitor Centre to find out more detail and context about the stone circle's past.

Spend your afternoon back in the city of Salisbury for a visit to Salisbury Museum. Located in the Cathedral Close, the museum is surrounded by the city's historic sights, including the awe-inspiring Salisbury Cathedral. Inside Salisbury Museum you will discover a world-class gallery of archaeology housing one of Europe’s most extensive collections of Stonehenge and prehistoric artefacts, as well as other exhibitions dedicated to the history of the local area.

Spend your evening exploring and experiencing Salisbury’s nightlife; the city has a huge array of restaurants, bars and pubs to enjoy as well as theatres with a busy programme of plays and performances throughout the year.

For those who would like to see more of the ancient landscapes of the Great West Way travel out of Salisbury to the Wiltshire market town of Devizes, taking less than an

Pictured previous page left to right: Stonehenge; Decorated sun-disc from a woman’s belt, found in Langstrup, Denmark. Pictured clockwise from left: Neil Wilkin, British Museum Curator inspects a beaker pot before it goes on display; Bronze twin horse–snake hybrid; Nebra Sky Disc; Seahenge; Rare Saxon coin found in Wiltshire field and bought by the Wiltshire Museum for £21,600 after a fundraising campaign

hour by car. This pretty little town boasts a traditional market square, independent shops aplenty and pleasant walks along the Kennet & Avon Canal.

Here you will also find Wiltshire Museum, a treasure trove of information about the area’s history. The Prehistoric Wiltshire Galleries tell the story of the people who built the mysterious monuments of Stonehenge and Avebury, and features artifacts from the over 4,000 years ago, to complete your understanding of our area's ancient history.

In the afternoon, explore the surrounding countryside to walk through the timeless landscapes you have heard about on your trip. The large stone circle at Avebury - dating back more than 4,000 years and running through the village itself - is a short drive away from Devizes. While you're there, visit West Kennet Long Barrow and Silbury Hill to fully immerse yourself in the ancient landscape, and enjoy a walk with far-reaching views over the Wiltshire countryside. West Kennet Long Barrow is a Neolithic tomb built more than five thousand years ago - step into the dark interior to feel like you have travelled backwards through the millennia. A short walk away, Silbury Hill is a manmade hill created at roughly the same time as the Avebury stone circle, similar in size to some of the ancient Egyptian pyramids, and built for mysterious unknown purposes.

Now that you have thoroughly explored the ancient landscapes and prehistoric past of the Great West Way, it's time to end your journey by returning east to London.

Or you may prefer to explore the rest of the Great West Way route by travelling west to the vibrant cities of Bristol and Bath, which both have a wealth of attractions, activities and history to enjoy. Click here to find out more.

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PICTURESQUE VILLAGES TO STOP AT ALONG THE ROUTE BY BOAT OR TRAIN

Ready to plan a Great West Way adventure by train or on water?

You can visit these pretty villages plus plenty of other fascinating destinations and attractions along the way. Book a Great West Way Discoverer pass for easy and convenient travel, with the option to hop on and off at stops all along the route...

Words | Poppy Ryan

Pictured previous page: The market town of Hungerford near Kintbury Pictured clockwise from left: The Ferry Cookham; Sir Stanley Spencer Gallery; North Wessex Down

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here are many ways to travel the Great West Way between Bristol and London; by bike, boat, car, foot or by public transport using the Great West Way Discoverer pass. If you choose to explore by rail, you can easily hop between vibrant cities like Bath or Bristol, historic towns like Windsor or Newbury, and even small, sleepy villages where you can enjoy a taste of traditional English village life. Here’s a selection of some of our favourites within easy reach by train or by water.

THE COOKHAMS VILLAGES Cookham, Cookham Rise and Cookham Dean are referred to locally as ‘The Cookhams’. Although Kenneth Grahame’s children’s classic, The Wind in the Willows, was mainly a product of the author’s imagination, the sleepy riverside village of Cookham Dean, where he lived as a boy, may well have inspired him. Try the National Trust’s 3-mile Wind in the Willows walk. In fact, these well-heeled Berkshire villages by The Thames have attracted plenty of creative residents over the years, including artist Sir Stanley Spencer and actress Jessica Brown Findlay - Lady Sybil Crawley in Downton Abbey.

Plan your visit to Cookham to see the colourful Swan Upping Ceremony taking place during the third week of July. This is the time when the Royal Swankeeper catches all the new

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cygnets and assigns ownership. You might also enjoy a visit to the Stanley Spencer Gallery where guides offer walking tours around Cookham, the heart of the village and the river path.

Or find your own way with the Gallery’s Walks Booklet.

Getting there: Travel with Great Western Railway to Cookham railway station or take a cruise along the River Thames.

Where to stay: Places to stay in and around Cookham include Bel and the Dragon, Cliveden and the Thames Riviera.

PANGBOURNE The pretty Berkshire village of Pangbourne, near Reading, boasts a selection of independent shops, pubs and cafes, and was once home to Kenneth Grahame, who wrote the beloved children's book The Wind in the Willows. The River Thames runs through the village, offering lovely riverside walks to visitors, as well as the chance for some wildlife-watching.

Pangbourne railway station is on the Great Western main line between London Paddington and Bristol, making this an easy stopping-off point as you travel along the Great West Way. The large town of Reading - with its fascinating museums, bustling shops, and historic connections to the likes of Jane Austen and Oscar Wilde - is also near to Pangbourne and easy to reach by train.

Getting there: Pangbourne is also on the Great Western main line, with the River Thames running through it, so travelling there is easy by both boat or train.

Where to stay: Places to stay in and around Pangbourne include Hilton Reading, The Roseate and Bird in Hand at Knowl Hill.

WOOLHAMPTON A few miles East of the pretty market town of Newbury is the lesser-known Berkshire village of Woolhampton. This small village boasts a couple of country pubs, riverside walks along

the River Kennet, and its own railway station with direct links to nearby Newbury and Reading. Somewhat confusingly, the railway station at Woolhampton is not named after the village itself, but after Midgham - another village two miles down the road!

Getting there: Woolhampton has its own station, Midgham.

It was formerly known as Woolhampton railway station travel with Great Western Railway. Travelling by boat? It is easy to find the canalside from the Kennet & Avon Canal, stop off at The Rowbarge, a truly characterful traditional pub on the canal.

Where to stay: Places to stay in and around Woolhampton include The Rowbarge, Chestnuts B&B and Rowe's Farmhouse.

KINTBURY The quiet Berkshire village of Kintbury is surrounded by the stunning countryside of the North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Kintbury has everything you could want in a village; pubs, a bakery, a shop and a post office. The village also offers direct access to the Kennet & Avon Canal, which can be explored by foot, bike or boat.

Nearby are two bustling, historic market towns - Newbury and Hungerford - which can also be reached by train and are well worth a visit for a spot of shopping or something to eat. →

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Pictured left to right: The village of Ramsbury; Burbage Wharf and Crane in Pewsey Vale

Getting there: Travel to Kintbury train station with Great Western Railway or cruise there along the Kennet & Avon Canal Where to stay: Places to stay in and around Kintbury include Manor Farm Courtyard Cottages, Hampstead Norreys, and Donnington Grove.

EASTBURY This lesser-visited Berkshire village offers an authentic glimpse at rural English life. It is home to weeping willows, thatched houses and duck races. Pop into the local pub, The Eastbury Plough, for one of their ‘Proper English Roasts’. You’ll have your pick of local produce: roast Berkshire venison, the belly of Windsor Estate pork and rib of Marsh Farm beef have all been featured on the menu recently. Eastbury also makes a fine place to stop off if you’re in Lambourn for horse racing.

Getting there: Take the train to Eastbury Plough station or a narrowboat along the River Lambourn.

Where to stay: The Queens Arms at East Garston, Hungerford, an award-winning hotel, pub and restaurant with its own private lodge.

RAMSBURY Historic Ramsbury is just a quick jaunt east of Marlborough.

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The Bell, a 300-year-old coaching inn, has a restaurant that’s as well-regarded as its comfortable rooms. If you enjoy a tipple, take one of the Ramsbury Estate’s guided distillery or brewery tours - they make their own gin, vodka and beer with chalk-filtered water. Try Honey Bee Nectar, a golden pale ale produced in cooperation with North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty - except for the hops, all the beer's ingredients come from within the AONB. When you’ve had your fill of food and drink, explore the village’s rich heritage which goes all the way back to the Saxons. The magnificent mosaics at Littlecote Roman Villa are a must-see - and there is a lovely flat 1-mile walk from Littlecote to the Ramsbury Brewery.

Getting there: Possibly the most difficult of our villages to reach by train or boat, as the nearest station is Hungerford, which takes around 10 minutes (from Hungerford Station) to Ramsbury in a taxi. The River Kennet runs through the village which makes for a beautifully picturesque scene. By boat stop at the nearby Hungerford Canal and from there make your way by bike or foot.

Where to stay: The place to stay in Ramsbury is The Bell, or nearby in Hungerford you could try the Herongate Apartments, conveniently located just minutes' walk from Hungerford High Street.

GREAT BEDWYN Located canalside in the stunning landscapes of the Vale of Pewsey, in the centre of the Great West Way, the Wiltshire village of Great Bedwyn is connected to the rest of the route by road, rail and canal. This pretty village offers lots of lovely hikes, including a walk to 200-year-old Wilton Windmill, with stunning views over the local countryside. Or you could explore the peaceful Kennet and Avon Canal on a narrowboat trip or towpath cycle ride. Of course, nothing completes a traditional English village like a traditional English pub, and in Great Bedwyn you will find an award-winning independent freehouse, The Three Tuns, serving high-quality food and drink.

Getting there: Travel to Bedwyn station with Great Western Railway or cruise there along the Kennet & Avon Canal.

Where to stay: You might have to make it a day trip to Great Bedwyn, or you could combine it with a visit and stay in the nearby village of Ramsbury (see previous entry).

PEWSEY The Historic Wiltshire village of Pewsey is the perfect place to base yourself when exploring the ancient landscape of the Great West Way. The characterful village even has its own chalky White Horse, just a mile or so south. It’s also a lovely launchpad for some great walks and bike rides along the Kennet & Avon Canal or through the surrounding countryside.

Just outside the village is Jones's Mill, a Wiltshire Wildlife Trust nature reserve where you can walk amongst woodlands, fens and wet grasslands, spotting rare plants and beautiful wildflowers.

But don’t be fooled into thinking it’s all sleepy and rural here - the Pewsey Vale is known for its lively music festival and top pubs too. (In summer you can pitch your tent at The Woodbridge Inn.) Getting there: Travel to Pewsey train station with Great Western Railway or take a barge trip along the Kennet & Avon Canal.

Where to stay: Places to stay in and around Pewsey include Troutbeck Guest House and Totteridge Farm Camping Pods STEEPLE ASHTON Steeple Ashton is a quintessential West Country Village, offering visitors an opportunity to marvel at its variety of architectural styles, spanning 700 years, set amidst beautiful Wiltshire countryside. There is also a warm welcome and refreshment to be enjoyed at the Village Shop and at The Longs Arms public house. At the centre of the Village is the green with its lock-up gaol and market cross.

Getting there: Nearest rail stations are at Trowbridge and Westbury Where to stay: Newhouse Farm Bed & Breakfast →

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Pictured clockwise from left: Pretty thatched cottages in the village of Avebury; Castle Combe; The National Trust village of Lacock

AVEBURY Museums, 16th-century manor houses, megalithic stone circles, some villages have it all. As home to the largest stone circle in the world, some of Avebury village lies within the stones. Go on one of the National Trust’s regular guided tours to find out more about all the strange sarsens and burial mounds around you. Make sure you check out Avebury Manor, too, and the Alexander Keiller Museum, which shines a light on the many archaeological finds from the area. Follow up with a cream tea in one of the cafés, and maybe even stay the night in a cosy B&B so you can capture that misty, mysterious morning view on camera.

Getting there: The nearest rail station to Avebury is Pewsey (see previous entry) or cruise there along the Kennet & Avon Canal.

Where to stay: Places to stay in and around Avebury include Buttle Farm, Mill Farm Glamping and The Kingsbury @ No.7 & No.8.

LACOCK You’ll find this National Trust village - a film set for Pride and Prejudice and Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince - just a few miles south of Chippenham. It’s been so beautifully preserved that it feels like a living museum. Its medieval

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streets are lined with charming stone cottages, and there’s a Tithe Barn and traditional bakery too. Stop and peer in the windows at 2 High Street. If you thought the UK’s buzzing coffee culture was something new, think again! Although the old shop window now replicates a local store at the beginning of the 20th-century, it was previously a busy coffee tavern.

Other attractions in the village include Lacock Abbey and the Fox Talbot Museum - the birthplace of photography.

Getting there: By train travel to Melksham or Chippenham

station which are around three miles from Lacock Village. It is also easy to navigate there by bike (you will find bike racks in the village car park adjacent to the Red Lion pub) with a surrounding network of footpaths, including a route beside the Wiltshire & Berkshire Canal.

Where to stay: Places to stay in and around Lacock include Cherry Tree Barn, Guyers House Hotel and Restaurant and Lorne House.

CASTLE COMBE No list of villages along the Great West Way could miss out Castle Combe, often referred to as the prettiest village in England. The quaint limestone cottages that feature in many a travel snap, however, were not built for their aesthetics but to house the weavers who made the village's distinctive red and gold cloth, often used for military uniforms. They lived and worked close to the Bybrook River as the water was needed for ‘fulling’ or cleansing the wool. If you have your own wheels - bike, car or even chauffeur-driven classic car - don’t miss the chance to explore nearby Cotswolds villages such as Badminton, Bibury, Lower Slaughter and Bourton-on-theWater.

Getting there: The nearest station to Castle Combe is Chippenham. The river Bybrook forms the heart of many

communities in North Wiltshire as it carves its way through beautiful countryside and villages all the way from Burton down to Bathford and flows through the heart of Castle Combe.

Where to stay: Places to stay in and around Castle Combe include The Manor House and Golf Club, Best Western Angel Hotel, Guyers House Hotel and Restaurant and Lorne House BATHAMPTON Bathampton is a wonderful place for rest and contemplation, just an 11-minute drive from the high society of Bath. The almighty views from Bathampton Down offer perspective not just on the village but on the city, and the countryside beyond.

With the Kennet & Avon Canal running through it, it’s also a great place to take a boat ride – aboard the Pulteney Princess perhaps - or just enjoy a stroll along the banks. Look out for herons and cormorants, both regular visitors to the waterways here. Fun Fact: Plasticine was invented here in 1897 by local art teacher William Harbutt.

Getting there: Bathampton has its own train station however it has been disused since 1966. Instead, head to Bath’s Manvers Street and jump on a D1 discover bus towards Warminster to reach Bathampton (Hantone Hill) taking just ten minutes. Alternatively, located on the beautiful Kennet →

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Pictured top to bottom: Family go for a walk in Freshford; The Inn at Freshford

& Avon Canal what better a way to travel to Bathampton than along the canal. (Pulteney Princess and Bath & Dundas Canal Co both offer boat trips).

Where to stay: Places to stay in and around Bathampton include The Old Mill Hotel and Bailbrook House. Or head into Bath where there is a superabundance of wonderful accommodation options.

FRESHFORD Picture-perfect and with a train station that will whisk you to either the Georgian city of Bath or the pretty market town of Bradford on Avon in around ten minutes, you might be surprised to discover just how rural the Somerset village of Freshford feels. This countryside idyll offers a breath of fresh air; here you will find narrow streets lined with higgledy-piggledy cottages, as well as fantastic views over the surrounding countryside. There are lovely walks heading out from the village in all directions, including a picturesque stroll through woodland and river meadow to Iford Manor Gardens where you can enjoy a walk through flower-filled terrace gardens followed by tea and cake in the cafe. Or, stop off for a brew at the beautiful 16th Century village inn ideally located on the banks of the River Frome.

Getting there: Travel to Freshford train station with the

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Great Western Railway or by boat along the River Avon. From the station you can join the footpath along the River Avon.

This will take you through Avoncliff Wood to the Avoncliff aqueduct. The significant structure carries the Kennet & Avon Canal and the Bath to Westbury railway line over the River Avon. It was built by John Rennie and chief engineer John Thomas between 1797 and 1801 and is a Grade II listed

TheOldBellHotel oldbell_hotel

Abbeyhousemanor Abbeyhousemanor

This Way for a Journey Through Time The Great West Way weaves through the timeless county of Wiltshire.

The Ancient Briton, Romans, Normans and Saxons have all left their mark.

Now it’s time for you to follow in their footsteps.

It’s Time for Wiltshire www.visitwiltshire.co.uk

building. From its elevated position there are fine views over the river below.

Where to stay: The closest place to stay is Homewood, an eclectic, luxurious and slightly eccentric hotel; think grand Georgian country house and grounds filled with creative artworks and ultra-modern indulgences including a spa and heated outdoor swimming pool.

BLAISE HAMLET For something a bit different, head four miles north of Bristol to see this attractive hamlet - built to provide housing for workers of Blaise Castle Estate in their retirement. The nine comfortable cottages now seem almost ornamental, with their tall chimneys and attractive thatched roofs. They were commissioned in the 19th century by John Scandrett Harford, a Bristol banker and prominent Quaker. See if you can read the sundial on the village green.

Getting there: It's simple to reach Blaise Hamlet by train.

Hop on at Bristol Temple Meads to Sea Mills station taking around 20 minutes. You can also cycle along the National Cycle Network Route 4 via Henbury.

Where to stay: Stay at Best Western Henbury Lodge Hotel or one of the many brilliant nearby accommodation options in Bristol.

TISBURY A little south of the Great West Way you’ll find Tisbury, one of Wiltshire’s prettiest villages. It’s worth the trip for a view onto the Nadder Valley - and both the Cranborne Chase and West Wiltshire Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

It’s fantastic for walkers, but also caters to those who prefer to potter along a well-kept High Street, with its independent boutiques and tea rooms. Other highlights include a 4,000-year-old yew tree and possibly the largest Tithe Barn in existence in England. Oh, and it’s very close to Old Wardour Castle of Robin Hood Prince of Thieves fame.

Getting there: Tisbury railway station is managed by South Western Railway and is on the West of England Main Line.

Where to stay: Places to stay in and around Tisbury include Wingmore, The Benett Arms and the Grosvenor Arms.

Click here to find out more about purchasing the Great West Way Discoverer pass

Did you know?

With Sally Narrowboats you can plan your own journey to see these picturesque villages by boat? Located on the Kennet and Avon Canal in Bradford on Avon, Sally Narrowboats offers Canal Boat Holidays for accommodation that goes wherever you go…  Click here to find out more

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Arts and Events Cultural Calendar As well as its natural scenery, cultural scene and lovely locals, the Great West Way is known for its many festivals and events

JUNE

1-5 JUNE

Kids Rule at Stonehenge

02

In Windsor the Platinum Jubilee weekend begins with the lighting of the Windsor beacon and fireworks

Celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee with historic performers, family fun and hands-on activities

2-5

JUNE

CITY OF BATH

Queens Platinum Jubilee Bank Holiday Weekend

In celebration of the Queen's Platinum Jubilee in the City of Bath there will be a city parade, a service at Bath Abbey and a picnic in Royal Victoria Park

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Royal Ascot presents an all-star cast, unparalleled racing and exquisite fine dining again this summer 74

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11-12 JUNE

Bradford on Avon Food & Drink Festival

Enjoy demonstrations from local and celebrity chefs, markets, live music and a dog show

FROM

01JUNE

The Platinum Jubilee Tea at Bite Me Burger, Marlborough

Enjoy Bite Me burgers, homemade cupcakes, burger cakes, scones with clotted cream and jam, petit fours, macarons, an assortment of chocolates, and caramel popcorn served on a fabulous millennium wheel

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Until 30 June Visit the Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa in Bath to see paintings by Alina Maksimenko in a special solo exhibition

JUNE

DANESFIELD HOUSE HOTEL A Right Royal Tea Party

Replicating Her Majesty's favourite sandwiches and cakes in celebration of the milestone

UNTIL

05

JUNE

WADDESDON

Waddesdon Colourscape

An extraordinary experience of colour and light lands again on the Waddesdon lawns

2-3 June Love Saves the Day will kickstart the Queen’s Jubilee celebrations at Bristol’s Ashton Court while also celebrating its 10 year anniversary GreatWestWay.co.uk

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Against the backdrop

DON’T MISS of a renowned collection experience critically acclaimed Love Life: David Hockney Drawings 1963-1977 exhibitions of historical and 27 May to 18 September 2022 contemporary art, lectures,

2019 HIGHLIGHTS

concerts, workshops and Rodin & Degas: Impressionist Sculpture events or indulge in our 3Garden September 2022 to 2 January 2023 Café.

George Shaw A Corner of a Foreign Field

Édouard Vuillard Against backdrop of a Thethe Poetry of the Everyday renowned collection experience Lauren Child critically exhibitions The acclaimed Art of Illustration of historical and contemporary Rembrandt art, lectures, workshops A Life inconcerts, Print and events or indulge in our Henri Matisse Garden Café Master of Line

Great Pulteney Street, Bath BA2 4DB www.holburne.org Great Pulteney Street, Bath BA2 4DB www.holburne.org

Discover Pewsey Vale One day or multi-day walking & cycling itineraries in the heart of the north wessex downs

 Tours in Bath  Trips from Bath  Stonehenge Tours  Custom Tours  Unique Experiences

eat ~ drink ~ shop ~ stay

www.visitpewseyvale.co.uk tranquil ~ spiritual ~ ancient

PRIVATE TOURS WITH A FRIENDLY AWARD-WINNING LOCAL GUIDE

www.bathinsidertours.co.uk

Arts and Events Cultural Calendar

UNTIL

JULY

17JULY

The World of Stonehenge, The British Museum

Shrouded in layers of speculation and folklore, Stonehenge towers above the Wiltshire countryside, and is perhaps the world's most awe-inspiring ancient stone circle

23

28 June – 3 July Henley Royal Regatta is the most prestigious rowing regatta in the world a highlight of the Great West Way social season

JULY

IFORD MANOR

Ray Gelato's Giants Jazz Festival

The Godfather of Swing, Ray Gelato and his band, promise a fun-filled evening of jazz tunes

10

JULY

LITTLEWICK GREEN

Maidenhead Bikeathon

A popular cycling event (it is not a race!) with three different routes available

25 June – 10 July Bristol Pride will feature a programme of events across the city over two weeks, while Pride Day will take place on 9 July returning to The Downs GreatWestWay.co.uk

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AUGUST

FROM

Arts and Events Cultural Calendar

01

AUGUST BRISTOL

A trail of large Globe sculptures in Bristol

The World Reimagined is a ground-breaking, national art education project aimed at transforming how we understand Transatlantic Slavery

28-29AUGUST

07

The Joust, Berkeley Castle

The Sports Family Fun Race Day at Windsor Racecourse is a great day with live horse racing and entertainment

Knights and their stunning steeds from the Cavalry of Heroes battle it out in a spectacular jousting display

5-6

AUGUST

THEATRE AT THE BOWL, SWINDON

A Midsummer Night's Dream - in the heart of the Town Gardens

The Fairy Kingdom is at War. Oberon and Titania's marital mayhem unleashes chaos on four young lovers with disastrous – and hilarious – consequences

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The Bristol Botanic Garden hosts a variety of events throughout the year including the Bee and Pollination Festival which celebrates all things related to bees and pollination 78

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11-14 AUGUST Bristol International Balloon Fiesta

Bristol’s largest free fiesta returns with over 100 hot air balloons at Ashton Court Estate

UNTIL

SEPTEMBER

04 SEPT

Nature Detectives at Roves Farm, Swindon

Take part in woodland crafts, gather sticks, build a den, follow the activity trail, go on a bug hunt, and join the farmer on a tractor and trailer ride of the farm. Plus, take on the giant slides and climbing ropes in the park

15-18

10 May – 25 September Biscuit Town: 200 years of Huntley & Palmers in Reading exhibition at The Museum of English Rural Life

SEPT

Blenheim Palace International Horse Trials

UNTIL

A world class international equestrian event and day out

12

SEPT

THE HOLBURNE

Love Life: David Hockney’s Drawings

A sumptuous collection of rarely seen drawings by one of our most popular and recognisable artists

7 July – 26 September In celebration of The Queen's Platinum Jubilee, Windsor Castle are hosting a special display commemorating Her Majesty's Coronation GreatWestWay.co.uk

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Ways to travel the Great West Way It’s fun to travel under your own steam. Welcome to a journey through time – an adventure across England by car, rail, boat, foot, bike or a combination of all. Start planning your journey of discovery here...

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BY BIKE AND FOOT

BY BOAT AND ON WATER

Hiring a bike and cycling along the canal, countryside paths and trails, taking a walk through picturesque villages and visiting our three Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty and three UNESCO World Heritage sites by foot is a beautifully scenic experience.

The Kennet & Avon Canal is a wonderful way to travel along part of the Great West Way. This ribbon of beauty and history stretches between Reading and Bristol and is looked after by the Canal & River Trust.

Slow down and enjoy all 87 miles of the Kennet & Avon Canal as part of your Great West Way adventure, using our Kennet & Avon Canal map.

Whether you’re up for a lengthy hike in the Cotswolds, a cycle ride racing down the 13.7km (8.5 miles) steeply twisting Swinley Red trail with its berms, drops and white-knuckle descents, or just fancy a potter around some village antique shops, walking and cycling is a wonderful way to explore.

You can cycle the entire length of the Great West Way via National Cycle Route 4, which links up regional cycle routes such as the Thames Valley Cycle Route and the Kennet & Avon Cycle Route.

The National Trails website gives details of longdistance walking trails along the route: The Cotswold Way, The Ridgeway and the Thames Path.

Go to Sustrans for more (shorter) cycle routes on the National Cycle Network, in and around the touring route. There are also some excellent routes along the Wiltshire Cycleway, including a picturesque 15.3k between Corsham and Bradford on Avon.

Be sure to read the Information Points page to find out where to pick up local maps and walking trails.

Plus, download our Great West Way map before you set off.

Did you know? Bristol was officially Britain’s first cycling city. Join the locals with a ride on a pay-as-you-go YoBike, hire a tandem or go on a Great Bristol Food Tour with Cycle the City.

Hire a boat or hop on a barge tour for the ultimate experience in slow travel. Multiple companies operate along the River Thames and the Kennet & Avon Canal. Visit Thames and The Kennet & Avon Canal Trust are useful places to start.

You can canoe, kayak or book one of the numerous boat trips. Passing through countryside, market towns and picturesque villages, the canal offers an abundance of natural beauty, fascinating wildlife, outstanding canal structures, fabulous vistas and heritage galore. The lazy pop pop pop of the engine while you travel slowly through attractive towns like Hungerford, quaint villages such as Wootton Rivers and architectural masterpieces like Bath.

Of course, the famous Caen Hill Lock Flight in Devizes is a real wow – look up from the bottom of the 16 locks that form the main ‘staircase’ – now that’s one way to get boats to travel uphill.

Take a look at our Marina page for hire boats and boat tours and find details of river transport options in the capital on the Transport for London website.

Did you know? Queen Elizabeth II reopened the Kennet & Avon Canal in 1990 after a passionate band of volunteers gave it an impressive revamp.

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Ways to travel the Great West Way

BY CAR

BY TRAIN

A road trip adventure along the Great West Way allows you to linger as long as you want in each destination, and even venture off on a complete tangent if the mood takes you – take a look at our suggested itineraries to help you make a start.

Making tracks on the Great West Way can point you at endless amounts of history and fun facts to be discovered along its length from London to Bristol. In one go the journey is just 1hr 40min, but by stopping off you can explore the route in your own time turning it into a holiday adventure of a lifetime.

The main road between London and Bristol is the A4 Great West Road, based on an ancient horse track and later, one of King Charles I’s Great Roads, which facilitated the establishment of the British postal service – The Royal Mail.

The A4 cuts a fairly direct path between the two cities, allowing you to travel the distance in less than 2 hours 30 minutes if you wanted to. Of course, if you’re travelling by car, half the pleasure is being able to pull off and explore whenever you like.

Wherever you decide to base yourself along the touring route, there’ll also be charming country lanes and winding rural roads to enjoy. Jump in the car and see where you end up.

You may find the AA’s Route Planner tool useful for planning your road trip. Also, our pages on car hire and travel tips could be of interest - especially if this is your first time driving in the UK. If you want to hire a car for your Great West Way adventure, you’ll find plenty of car hire companies in just the places you’d expect – airports, larger train stations, cities and towns, for example Auto Europe and Practical Car & Van Rental.

Did you know? The first mail coach was introduced between Bristol and London in 1784.

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Relax and journey along the Great West Way using the Great West Way Discoverer pass. It includes unlimited Off-Peak train travel from London Paddington with Great Western Railway along the route to Bristol Temple Meads via Reading and Swindon, or Newbury and Pewsey, with options to branch off towards Salisbury via Westbury (or London Waterloo to Salisbury with South Western Railway). It also includes unlimited travel on listed bus services along the routes. The rail route is marked on the map with a green line. Choose from an East, West or Global one-day or seven-day ticket to enjoy your Great West Way adventure.

You can purchase the Great West Way Discoverer pass online at GWR.com or from your local station.

They come in the form of a standard orange ticket, clearly showing the route you have purchased and whether it is valid for one day or seven. If you are travelling from overseas, international passes (similar to a BritRail pass) can be purchased online at ACPRail.com or via your travel agent, where discounted international rates apply and with no offpeak travel time restrictions.

Did you know? The Great Western Railway runs along the full distance of the Great West Way – from London’s Paddington station to Bristol Temple Meads.

DISCOVER OUR THREE AREAS OF OUTSTANDING NATURAL BEAUTY ON THE ROUTE North Wessex Downs

Marvel at the prehistoric stones of Stonehenge and Avebury, the Wiltshire White Horses and the White Horse at Uffington. Take time to visit Highclere Castle, where Downton Abbey was filmed, and get lost in the mysterious hillforts, neolithic burial mounds and genteel country houses.

The Chilterns

Characterised by neat farmland, ancient woodland and chalk downland.

The Chilterns is a haven for wildlife including red kites. Explore the fabulous trails of The Ridgeway and the Chiltern Way Circular passing sparkling-clear chalk streams.

The Cotswolds

The Cotswolds Way starts in Bath and follows north for 102 miles, to the well-to-do market town of Chipping Campden. Explore Corsham, Castle Combe and Dyrham Park, or just take in the views: gentle hills, sweeping valleys and summer wildflower meadows dotted with warm limestone homes. This is England at its prettiest.

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Gourmet Guide to Food and Drink From the wild creativity of Bristol’s street food scene, to the glamour of London’s high profile restaurants, there’s a tantalising buffet of food and drink experiences along the Great West Way.

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Michelin Starred and Fine Dining

Sit down to a meal of gastronomical delights at one of the award-winning fine-dining establishments along the Great West Way. Sample sumptuous tasting menus created by Michelin-starred chefs, innovative dishes featuring local produce, and traditional English delicacies cooked to perfection.

The Vineyard, Stockcross, Berkshire

Not only is The Vineyard a luxury five-star hotel and spa in a quaint country setting in Berkshire, it also has a 30,000-bottle wine cellar and a fine dining restaurant. Head chef Robby Jenks is at the helm of this 3AA Rosette restaurant. Diners can choose from an à la carte or a tasting menu where they can enjoy dishes such as veal sweetbread ravioli with pumpkin seeds in a pumpkin and brown butter sauce or roast brill, brassicas, caper berries and almond.  Stockcross, Newbury

Bulrush, Bristol

One of the recent additions to the Michelin Guide, Bristol-based restaurant Bulrush is certainly on many a foodie’s ‘must visit’ list. Chef Proprietor George Livesey’s imaginative and well-balanced menu is chock-full of seasonal ingredients which are either organic or have been foraged.  21 Cotham Rd S, Bristol

Pony & Trap, Bristol

Run by brother and sister Josh and Holly Eggleton, this Michelin Star pub, with exceptional views of the stunning Chew Valley, offers an ever-changing menu that focuses on fresh produce which is locally sourced. Diners can choose from a tasting menu or from the dinner and lunch menus where they can enjoy dishes such as wood pigeon and ‘day boat’ fish.  Moorledge Road, Newtown, Chew Magna

Olive Tree Restaurant, Bath

Located in the renowned Queensberry Hotel, Olive Tree is a 3 AA Rosette restaurant in the heart of the beautiful city of Bath. It is a contemporary British restaurant offering informal fine dining under the direction of award-winning head chef, Chris Cleghorn.

This is the only restaurant in the city to be awarded a Michelin Star. Chris’ menu is quintessentially British with Mediterranean influences.  4-7 Russell St, Bath

The Fat Duck, Bray, Berkshire

If you love theatre, Heston Blumenthal’s renowned eatery in Bray offers the perfect destination, serving innovative modern British cuisine in the most spectacular of settings. Heston has previously been described as the ‘Willy Wonka of British gastronomy’ and diners who would like to eat at his three-Michelinstarred wonderland pay £325 up front for a ‘ticket’ providing them with access to the 17-courses on offer that showcase his multi­sensory cuisine.  High St, Bray

The Dining Room, Malmesbury, Wiltshire

Michelin’s European Young Chef of the Year Niall Keating showcases his skills as Executive Chef at this one Michelin star dining room restaurant at Whatley Manor Hotel. Serving seasonal British produce influenced by his world wide travels.  Whatley Manor Hotel and Spa, Easton Grey, Malmesbury, Wiltshire

Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, South Oxfordshire

Described as ‘Oxfordshire heritage meets French flair’, Raymond Blanc’s two Michelin-starred chic restaurant has earned itself a global reputation for fine gastronomy and creative cooking. Diners

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Gourmet Guide to Food and Drink continue to be charmed by both the setting (country-house luxe) and the delicious treats on offer which includes the likes of spiced monkfish, ravioli of pumpkin and smoked trout amongst others.  Church Road, Great Milton, South Oxfordshire

The Miller of Mansfield, Berkshire

Despite its intriguing name, the Miller of Mansfield is situated in the sweet village of Goring-on-Thames.

This 18th-century country pub has been given a contemporary twist and can be defined as ‘Modern European’ which has earned two AA Rosettes and offers refined modern British dishes from the freshest seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients.  High Street, Goring on Thames, Reading

The Harrow at Little Bedwyn, Nr. Marlborough

Owned and run by Sue and Roger Jones, this Michelin Star gem has received worldwide accolades for its food and has also been critically acclaimed for its 900 bin Wine List. Offering three menus, to include an eight course evening gourmet which changes daily to reflect the best seasonal ingredients.  Little Bedwyn, Nr. Marlborough, Wiltshire

The Hand and Flowers, Marlow

The Hand and Flowers is the only pub in the UK with two Michelin stars and with celebrated chef Tom Kerridge at the helm it is easy to see why. The restaurant has a rustic feel which is complemented by the refined British cuisine on offer.  126 West St, Marlow

Cliveden House, Taplow, Berkshire

Chef André Garrett’s innovative dishes, meticulous preparation and elaborate finishes showcase his exquisitely crafted creation. Produce is locally sourced and is highly seasonal – guests can choose

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between an à la carte menu or an eight-course tasting menu.  Cliveden Rd, Taplow, Berkshire

Casamia, Bristol

Casamia is a family run restaurant serving a multicourse tasting menu within an intimate restaurant setting of just nine tables. Chef Peter SanchezIglesias and his team create dishes which are influenced by the individuality, multicultural and creative vibes of their home city of Bristol.  The General, Lower Guinea Street, Bristol

Queens Arms, East Garston, Berkshire

Perfectly placed as a stop-over destination within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This award winning, pub, restaurant and hotel (with its own private lodge) serves seasonal British cuisine.  East Garston, Berkshire

The Waterside Inn, Bray, Berkshire

Bray is the place for foodies to be! The Waterside Inn which is under the leadership of chef patron Alain Roux has held three Michelin stars for over thirty years. Expect the most exquisite Classic French cooking coupled with the most impeccable service.  Ferry Rd, Bray, Berkshire

Red Lion Freehouse, East Chisenbury

Husband and wife team, Guy and Brittany Manning modestly describe themselves as “just a couple of chefs working to create a place with real soul”.

Sourcing from the best possible producers, talent and hard work has earned the duo, and their team, one Michelin star status and a restaurant “where the food has personality, the surroundings are relaxed and the hospitality is warm and sincere”.  East Chisenbury, Pewsey, Wiltshire

THREE MICHELIN-STARRED RESTAURANTS The Great West Way is the only place where you can experience all five of the UK's Three Michelin Starred restaurants.

Restaurant Gordon Ramsay Royal Hospital Road, London

 gordonramsayrestaurants.com/

restaurant-gordon-ramsay

Alain Ducasse at the Dorchester Park Lane, London

 alainducasse-dorchester.com

Sketch - the Lecture Room & Library 9 Conduit Street, London

 sketch.london/the-lecture-room

The Waterside Inn

Ferry Rd, Bray  waterside-inn.co.uk

Heston Blumenthal's Fat Duck High Street, Bray

 thefatduck.co.uk

MICHELIN-STARRED RESTAURANTS

The Dining Room, Whatley Manor Easton Grey, Malmesbury  whatleymanor.com

Red Lion Freehouse

East Chisenbury, Pewsey  redlionfreehouse.com

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Gourmet Guide to Food and Drink Dining Restaurants

You’ll find many of the restaurants along the Great West Way are dining rooms within our Ambassador hotels. You’ll also find several celebrity chefs including Rick Stein, Pierre Koffmann and Marco Pierre White.

Abbey Hotel Kitchen, The Abbey Hotel Bath

Under the helm of Head Chef Marcus Bradley, Abbey Hotel Kitchen is in the perfect central Bath location.

This relaxing and vibrant space offers high energy, attentive service and delicious fresh food and drinks  abbeyhotelbath.co.uk

The Orange Artichoke, Apex Hotel, Bath

Cedar at the Langley

Dining experiences here are inspired by the bountiful English countryside. Savour delicious cuisine in our elevated restaurant overlooking the grounds, featuring sumptuous meals crafted with natural ingredients.  marriott.com

Clayton’s Kitchen

Uncomplicated dishes that explore and showcase the freshest and very best ingredients. Chef Patron, Robert Clayton ensures that every dish is prepared, cooked and presented to perfection.  claytonskitchen.com

Perfectly placed in the heart of Bath, you’ll never be far from the action when you eat at The Orange Artichoke. Allow them to curb your cravings with locally sourced food, drink and delicious delicacies in contemporary, chic surroundings.  apexhotels.co.uk

Cloisters Restaurant, Bailbrook House Hotel

Beau’s Bar and Restaurant at Donnington Grove Hotel & Country Club

Cricklade House & Spa

The Brasserie at Sir Christopher Wren Hotel

The Gainsborough Brasserie

Set amidst beautiful parkland with the River Lambourn winding through the grounds, this Newbury restaurant has large picture windows to make the most of the picturesque river views.  donnington-grove.com With glorious river views and a stunning bar and terrace, The Brasserie offers upscale dining in the heart of Windsor. Large windows let you watch boats and swans glide down the Thames as you enjoy the delicious all day menu and fine wines.  sirchristopherwren.co.uk

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Tucked away in the historic mansion is Cloisters restaurant where the heritage of this country house hotel in Bath really comes into its own, with original archways made from traditional Bath stone. handpickedhotels.co.uk The chefs at Crickdale are passionate about using great local produce and change their menu monthly.

Enjoy a three course meal, a traditional Sunday Roast or Afternoon Tea of finger sandwiches, homemade scones with jam and cream and a selection of cakes.  crickladehotel.co.uk The Restaurant with its Georgian architecture, original artwork and impressive wine wall is open to hotel guests and non-residents. Enjoy contemporary British cuisine inspired by fresh, seasonal ingredients in a stylish and relaxed environment.  thegainsboroughbathspa.co.uk

UNIQUE DINING EXPERIENCES There are many ways to sample the best local cuisine on the Great West Way, from city tours and hands-on cookery classes to nostalgic river cruising.

FOOD & DRINK TOURS

A Taste of England

 atasteofenglandtours.com

Around and about Bath

 alainducasse-dorchester.com

Savouring Bath

 savouringbath.com

COOKERY SCHOOLS

Vaughan’s Kitchen

White Horse Business Centre, Devizes  vaughanskitchen.co.uk RIVER CRUISE DINING

Hobbs of Henley

 hobbsofhenley.com

Bristol Packet Boat Trips  bristolpacket.co.uk

Thames Rivercruise

 thamesrivercruise.co.uk

French Brothers

 frenchbrothers.co.uk

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Gourmet Guide to Food and Drink The Restaurant, No 15 Great Pulteney

Open for a show-stopping supper or lovely lunch while you’re exploring the city of Bath. Seasonal local meat, fresh fruit and veg are sourced from Buxton Butchers and family-run grocers, Lovejoys, and as for bread and baked goodies, there’s nowhere better than beloved Bath institution, Bertinet Bakery.  guesthousehotels.co.uk

The Dower House Restaurant, The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa

Award winning dishes are created with passion and served with pride by award-winning Head Chef Martin Blake and his team.  royalcrescent.co.uk

Guyers House Hotel & Restaurant

Set in a lovely old house with its own kitchen garden and orchard the pretty dining room restaurant offers a menu of finely cooked modern British cuisine.  guyershouse.com

Heyworth Restaurant, Henley Greenland’s Hotel

Here you can enjoy an evening meal prepared by passionate chefs with menus designed using seasonal produce and locally sourced ingredients.  hospitalityuor.co.uk

The Marco Pierre White Restaurant at The Castle Hotel

Savour the flavour of seasonal menus at the Marco Pierre White Restaurant at The Castle Hotel. Dishes include Chicken Milanese and cheesy and creamy Macaroni Cheese perfectly paired with a refreshing Marco Pierre White wine.  mpwrestaurants.co.uk

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The Monkey Island Brasserie at the Monkey Island Estate

The cuisine here is a delectable modern take on British classics, with produce freshly sourced from the gardens and surrounding countryside. Choose to dine in the elegant main dining room or on the terrace with views of the River Thames, where the surroundings are refined yet intimate and informal, and steeped in history.  monkeyislandestate.co.uk

The Moonraker Hotel Brasserie

Like the seasons, menus change as Xavier and his team use fresh local produce to create and showcase some old-fashioned classics, putting the hotel Brasserie firmly on the culinary map. They have a walled garden used as the setting for their smokery which they use to smoke their meat and fish.  moonrakerhotel.com

The Old Bell Hotel, Saints & Sinners

Home to some of the most delicious food in the Cotswolds, the Saints & Sinners restaurant at The Old Bell Hotel serves a menu of dishes made from deliciously fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

The Old Bell Hotel is a Grade I listed hotel, rumoured to be England’s oldest hotel, located next door to Malmesbury Abbey.  oldbellhotel.co.uk

Plum + Spilt Milk, Great Northern Hotel

An award-winning restaurant in the heart of King's Cross, offering a beautiful seasonal modern-British menu, with locally sourced ingredients. In an elegant yet cosy atmosphere, surrounded by the views of King’s Cross and St Pancras.  plumandspiltmilk.com

VINEYARD TOURS Discover crisp, white, award-winning bubbly varieties

Alder Ridge Vineyard

Between Hungerford and Marlborough  alderridge.co.uk

Aldwick Estate Vineyard

Nestled beneath the famous Mendip Hills  aldwickestate.co.uk

Bluestone Vineyards at Cholderton Rare Breeds Farm

10 acre on-site boutique vineyard on the McConnell family farm in Wiltshire  bluestonevineyards.co.uk BREWERY TOURS Enjoy wine tastings, taprooms and tours

Bristol Brewery Tours Mardyke Wharf, Bristol

 bristolbrewerytours.com

Bristol Hoppers

Walking Tours of Bristol's Craft Beer Scene  bristolhoppers.co.uk

The Bath Brew House

14 James Street West, Bath  thebathbrewhouse.com

Wadworth Brewery

Northgate Brewery, Devizes, Wiltshire  wadworth.co.uk

West Berkshire Brewery The Old Dairy, Yattendon  wbbrew.com

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Gourmet Guide to Food and Drink Rick Stein, Marlborough

Rick Stein’s Marlborough restaurant brings a taste of Cornwall to the Great West Way. Located on Marlborough High Street, serving a combination of classic seafood dishes, excellent wines and with plenty of coastal charm.  rickstein.com

The Roseate Hotels, London, Reading and Bath

All three of The Roseate Hotels, Roseate House in London, near Hyde Park, The Roseate in Reading and The Roseate Villa in Bath, located in a quiet corner of the city, offer exceptional dining in their restaurants.  roseatehotels.com

Shelburne Restaurant, Bowood Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort

Pubs and Inns

From traditional thatched village inns to modern gastropubs with spacious beer gardens perfect for families to enjoy the summer sunshine

Red Lion Freehouse

East Chisenbury, Pewsey  redlionfreehouse.com

The Bear Hotel, Devizes

2-3 The Market Pl, Devizes  thebearhoteldevizes.co.uk

The Black Swan in Devizes The Market Place, Devizes  blackswandevizes.co.uk

Laid-back, countryside dining with picture perfect views. The Two AA Rosette Shelburne Restaurant serves delicious food from seasonal menus every day.

From long, lazy lunches to romantic moments over cocktails, you will enjoy a range of mouth-watering dishes prepared with passion and served with flair.  bowood.org

The Bird in Hand, Knowl Hill

The Swan Bradford On Avon

The Crown, Tolldown

Locally sourced produce, beautifully prepared and cooked to perfection.Open for breakfast, lunch, dinner, Sunday carvery, coffee, or a light snack and a glass of wine or pint of local ale.  theswanbradford.co.uk

Woolley Grange Hotel

With so many ingredients plucked from their own kitchen garden, it’s more about wheelbarrow yards than food miles at Woolley Grange. Visit for fine dining or family dining.  woolleygrangehotel.co.uk

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Bath Road, Knowl Hill, Reading  butcombe.com

Crown & Anchor Inn

Ham, Wiltshire  crownandanchorham.co.uk Toll Down Way, Dyrham, Chippenham  butcombe.com

The George Inn, Norton St Philip High Street, Norton St Philip, Bath  butcombe.com

West Berkshire Brewery Taproom and Kitchen The Old Dairy Frilsham Farm, Yattendon  wbbrew.com

BARS AND PUBS SERVING REAL ALES Helen Browning’s Royal Oak Cues Ln, Bishopstone, Swindon  helenbrowningsorganic.co.uk

The Newbury

137 Bartholomew St, Newbury  thenewburypub.co.uk

The Prince Street Social

Crown House, 37-41 Prince St, Bristol  princestreetsocial.com

Queens Arms, East Garston

Newbury Rd, East Garston, Hungerford  queensarmseastgarston.co.uk

The Royal Oak Yattendon

The Square, Yattendon RG18 0UG  royaloakyattendon.co.uk

The Royal Windsor Pub Datchet Rd, Windsor

 theroyalwindsor.co.uk

The Swan Bradford On Avon 1 Church St, Bradford-on-Avon  theswanbradford.co.uk

Three Tuns Freehouse

1 High St, Great Bedwyn, Marlborough  tunsfreehouse.com

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Gourmet Guide to Food and Drink Tea Rooms & Cafés

Whether it’s a quick cuppa with breakfast or a full-blown afternoon tea with dainty sandwiches, indulgent cakes and tasty scones, you'll find plenty of lovely cafes and tea rooms to enjoy along the Great West Way.

Aldermaston Tea Rooms

Traditional Tea Rooms in a lovely setting by the Kennet & Avon Canal. Leaf tea, cream teas, apple pie, canalman's lunch, whippy ice cream and more.  facebook.com/aldermastontearooms

Canal Trust Café

A beautiful tea rooms and licensed cafe situated in Bradford on Avon along the Kennet & Avon Canal. with lovely gardens and delicious food and cakes.  facebook.com/Canal-Trust-Cafe

a chilled glass of prosecco on the terrace, and watch the world go by Wiltshire-style.  honeystreetboats.co.uk

Spring's Café and Restaurant

Located at Thermae Bath Spa, Springs Café and Restaurant combines beautiful Georgian architecture with classic, contemporary style. Throughout the day and evening, spa users can enjoy delicious dishes and interesting drinks from an extensive menu.  thermaebathspa.com/springs-cafe-and-restaurant

The Tutti Pole

A family run restaurant close to the Kennet & Avon Canal in a grade ll listed building, serving quality homemade food and luxury afternoon teas.  thetuttipole.co.uk

Westonbirt, The National Arboretum

Set in a unique grade II listed building by the Kennet & Avon Canal, blending the warmth of Italian culture, with fine and splendid rituals of English Cream Teas.  teashopbythecanal.co.uk

During your visit to Westonbirt The National Arboretum stop off at the restaurant for freshly prepared hot and cold refreshments including soups, sandwiches, savoury snacks, cakes and pastries.  forestryengland.uk/westonbirt/restaurant

The Bridge Tea Rooms

Windsor Castle Undercroft Café

Teashop by the Canal

Housed in a former blacksmith's cottage dating from 1502, this quintessentially English tea room offers the very best in traditionally British afternoon tea. With delicate bone china, the finest leaf teas, and friendly staff in Victorian costumes serving homemade cakes, pastries and sandwiches.  thebridgetearooms.co.uk

The first café for visitors to Windsor Castle has opened in Edward III’s medieval Undercroft, which for centuries served as the Castle’s main wine cellar and is one of the oldest surviving spaces in the 1,000-year-old royal residence.  windsor.gov.uk/food-and-drink

Honeystreet Mill Cafe

Spanish and Mediterranean menus, open kitchen with hot blazing Italian clay oven and bespoke charcoal grill by the grade 2 listed outdoor pool.  lidobristol.com/restaurant-and-tapas-bar

Situated in Pewsey Vale, Honeystreet Mill Cafe offers a range of delicious fresh and local food open for breakfast, lunch or afternoon tea. Treat yourself to

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Lido Spa & Restaurant, Bristol Lido

BEST PLACES FOR AFTERNOON TEA Abbey Hotel, Bath North Parade, Bath

 abbeyhotelbath.co.uk

Cricklade House

Common Hill, Cricklade, Swindon  crickladehotel.co.uk

The Bridge Tea Rooms

Bridge Street, Bradford on Avon  thebridgetearooms.co.uk

No15 Great Pulteney, Bath

15 Great Pulteney Street, Bath  guesthousehotels.co.uk

The Pump Room Restaurant

Searcys at the Pump Room, Stall Street, Bath  thepumproombath.co.uk

The Roseate Hotel, Reading

26 The Forbury, Reading  roseatehotels.com/reading/theroseate

The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa 16 Royal Crescent, Bath  royalcrescent.co.uk

Whatley Manor Hotel & Spa Easton Grey, Malmesbury  whatleymanor.com

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Where to Stay on the Great West Way Staying overnight on the Great West Way makes for a wonderful trip, whether on a romantic weekend away or a week-long adventure BATH Abbey Hotel, Bath

Abbey Hotel is located perfectly central in the city of Bath, making it an ideal place to stay to when exploring the city. Independantly owned, this unique hotel offers an intriguing blend of stylish comfort, vibrant and eccentric contemporary art, and historic character. abbeyhotelbath.co.uk

Dukes Hotel

One of Bath’s most prestigious streets, this beautiful, boutique, guest house stands on Great Pulteney Street. Whether it is the high ceilings, sash windows or hand crafted Sanitan bathroom suites, each room uniquely reflects an era of Georgian elegance and charm.  dukesbath.co.uk

Tucking Mill, Bath Apartments and Cottages

Family owned range of award-winning luxurious properties including three cottages at Tucking Mill with outstanding views, and two apartments just 10 minutes’ walk from Bath city centre.  bathselfcatering.net

YMCA Bath Hostel

YMCA Bath Hostel is a city centre hostel with all the attractions located within walking distance; The Roman Baths, Royal Crescent, Bath Rugby Ground, The Circus and Bath Abbey to name a few.

Affordable, clean accommodation ideal for families, couples, and backpackers on a budget.  ymcabath.org.uk

Bath Apartment Breaks

From Nespresso to Nintendo, The Apartment, Bath is a two-bedroom apartment in central Bath on Widcombe Parade, and the perfect home from home for guests exploring the Great West Way.  apartmentbath.com

Two luxurious self-catering apartments in Bath, each perfect for four guests. One apartment is on the ground floor and has its own sun-trap patio area with outside seating, whilst the other is on the first floor and has two small balconies off the living area.  bathapartmentbreaks.co.uk

The Roseate Villa Bath

Bath Area Self Catering

The Apartment Bath

The Roseate Villa Bath occupies a quiet corner of the city, overlooking the tranquil Henrietta Park.

Encompassing two characterful converted Victorian houses, the Villa offers 21 rooms with exclusive features. The Villa also has a private garden where you can relax and enjoy an indulgent afternoon tea.  roseatehotels.com/bath/theroseatevilla/ 96

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High quality, luxury self-catering holiday cottages and apartments in Bath and the surrounding areas of Somerset, Wiltshire and Gloucestershire. These properties are ideal for exploring the Western part of the Great West Way including Wiltshire, the Cotswolds, Bath and Bristol  bathselfcatering.com

No.15 Great Pulteney

Brooks Guesthouse B&B No.15 Great Pulteney

To be found at the heart of Bath’s fashionable society, No.15 Great Pulteney is an elegant and vivacious townhouse hotel on the very grandest street in Bath. Comprising 40 bedrooms, a cocktail bar, restaurant and boutique spa, No.15 exudes understated sophistication and luxury.  guesthousehotels.co.uk/no-15-bath

Brooks Guesthouse Bath is an award winning four star boutique guesthouse in Bath city centre with 22 uniquely furnished bedrooms with an eclectic mix of antiques, modern pieces and designer wallpapers.  brooksguesthouse.com

Bishopstrow Hotel & Spa

Where dapper country house hotel meets hospitality with imagination, charm and spirit, surrounded by private gardens and set in glorious, rural Wiltshire.

You might also enjoy a visit to sister hotels , The Bird & Homewood  bishopstrowhotel.com

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Abbey Hotel, Bath

The Gainsborough Bath Spa

The Gainsborough Bath Spa occupies two historic buildings with Georgian and Victorian facades in the heart of Bath. Named after the artist Thomas Gainsborough, the luxury hotel is welcoming and elegant. there are 99 berooms and suites with views across the city to surrounding countryside.  thegainsboroughbathspa.co.uk

BRADFORD ON AVON Timbrells Yard

Timbrells Yard is a stylishly revamped riverside inn at the heart of beautiful Bradford-on-Avon. It has award-winning food and 17 super stylish bedrooms.

Grade II listed, it is family and dog-friendly, and has a wonderful terrace on the banks of the River Avon.  timbrellsyard.com

BERKSHIRE Royal Berkshire (Exclusive Collection)

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luxury bedrooms. The grounds are charming, perfect for a wedding location or event, with a private walled garden and a beautiful fountain plaza.  exclusive.co.uk/royal-berkshire

Monkey Island Estate

Set across seven acres, Monkey Island Estate features 27 exquisite guestrooms and three sumptuous suites.

There are six further Private Residences, set across seven acres, two Grade I listed heritage pavilions, beautifully landscaped gardens, luxury Floating Spa and picturesque views of the River Thames.  monkeyislandestate.co.uk

BRISTOL Brooks Guesthouse B&B and Rooftop Retro Rocket Caravans, Bristol

A boutique contemporary guesthouse situated smack bang in the heart of Bristol's old town next to St Nicholas Market and just a short stroll to the vibrant Harbourside.  brooksguesthousebristol.com

The caravans are British built and capturing the glamour of the timeless vintage aluminium design with all the lux of a modern hotel room and beautiful rooftop views of Bristol City Centre.  brooksguesthousebristol.com

Hampton by Hilton Bristol Airport

This is the ultimate hotel in terms of design, comfort and convenience, being on the doorstep of Bristol Airport – the only hotel within walking distance of the terminal. Spend a day exploring Noah's Ark Zoo Farm, Cheddar Caves and Gorge or Cabot Tower.  hilton.com

SOUTH WILTSHIRE Pythouse Kitchen Garden You’ve heard of restaurants with rooms – now we bring you the restaurant with a glamping village.

Six bell tents and a cosy shepherds’ hut sit in an orchard near this lunchtime-only restaurant.

They share showers, a cocktail area, kitchen and dining area. pythousekitchengarden.co.uk

The Bristol Wing part of YMCA

The Bristol Wing is a boutique hostel in Bristol city centre. After an extensive restoration, they opened in 2018 in the Grade II listed old Police Headquarters.

Located only a short walk from some of the best bits of Bristol including Bristol’s harbourside, Bristol Shopping Quarter and the Old City  thebristolwing.co.uk

CASTLE COMBE The Manor House - Exclusive Collection

This 14th century luxury hotel and golf club is perfect for romantic nights away, with Michelin starred dining and a dedicated gin bar. Head into the picturesque village of Castle Combe or play a round at the championship 18-hole golf course. Situated in 365 acres of rich parkland and widely regarded as a real hidden golfing gem in the Cotswolds.  exclusive.co.uk/the-manor-house

CHEDDAR (WITHIN EASY REACH) Cheddar Camping and Caravanning Club Site

From its lofty position near Priddy, the highest village in the Mendip Hills, Cheddar Club Site is surrounded by spectacular landscapes, great for walking, cycling, caving and rock climbing. Less than five miles from the campsite is Cheddar Gorge, one of Britain's most spectacular natural landmarks.

Explore its extraordinary subterranean stalactite show caves, venture inside hidden prehistoric chambers at Gough’s Cave, wander along the clifftops and experience spectacular panoramic views from Jacob’s Ladder and the Lookout Tower.  campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk

CHERTSEY Chertsey Camping and Caravanning Club Site

Perched on the banks of the River Thames, this lovely campsite has a rural feel despite being just 50 minutes from Central London by train. Walkers will enjoy the Thames Path Nature Trail - a longdistance towpath trail that starts in the Cotswolds and meanders through Chertsey towards the heart of London. It’s a peaceful and scenic trail that’s ideal for people of all ages and abilities.  campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk

Mill Farm Glamping

Enjoy the best of the beautiful British countryside from the comfort of a luxurious canvas lodge on this family-run, organic farm. Meet the ducks, dairy cattle and donkeys. Have fun on Farmer Joe's organic farm tour. Walk, ride, paddle, fish – or just soak up the sun and the tranquil scenery. It all adds up to a unique break that you – and your family or friends – will treasure for a lifetime.  millfarmglamping.co.uk

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WILTSHIRE, MALMESBURY Whatley Manor Hotel & Spa

Whatley Manor is a grown-up getaway in the heart of the Cotswolds set in 12 acres of gardens.

Try Grey’s Brasserie for a leisurely lunch, dinner or chilled glass of wine. Or the innovative tasting menu with specially selected wines in The Dining Room. There's also The Green Room where chefs prepare small plates of expertly crafted food in front of you, Aquarias Spa and even a cinema. whatleymanor.com

conveniently located just minutes walk from Hungerford High Street and the beautiful Kennet & Avon Canal. The apartments are situated next door to Herongate Club and all guests over the age of 16 years can enjoy complimentary access to the gym and pool as well as discounts off classes and the fabulous Honesty Cafe.  herongateservicedapartments.com

LONDON Roseate House London

Located near Hyde Park with stunning views over leafy Westbourne Terrace. John Constable, son of the famous landscape artist, once lived there, and Oscar Wilde married at St James’ Church opposite. The hotel comprises of three restored, mid-19th century, Grade II listed townhouses originally built in 1842 which still retain the grace and charm of the original Victorian architecture. Located on a street steeped in history in a haven of tranquillity amidst the hustle and bustle of the capital.  roseatehotels.com

NEWBURY Donnington Grove Hotel & Country Club HENLEY ON THAMES The Greenlands Hotel

Set within the 30-acre Henley Business School estate in the Oxfordshire countryside, this magnificent Grade II Listed Building is steeped in history dating as far back as 1480. There are 100 bedrooms including eight luxury balcony rooms with views across the Chiltern Valley and the grounds leading to the River Thames. There's a fitness centre, tennis courts, giant lawn chess and footpaths leading into the Chiltern Hills. Located less than three miles from the centre of Henley-on-Thames home to the famous annual Henley Royal Regatta, five miles from the riverside Georgian market town of Marlow and a short car journey to Windsor and Oxford.  hospitalityuor.co.uk/accommodation

HUNGERFORD Herongate Apartments

Welcome to Herongate Apartments, a collection of four purpose built self serviced/serviced apartments

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Donnington Grove, a three star country-house hotel in Newbury, is situated in 500 acres of beautiful grounds that include an 18 hole championship golf course, beauty and treatment rooms at Avalon Retreat, Clay Shooting and the New Beau's Bar and Restaurant. It is a fascinating destination with more than a whiff of English decadence. Built in 'Strawberry Hill Gothic' style, this 250 year old, charming building has a unique heritage.  donnington-grove.com

OXFORDSHIRE The Chilterns View

The Chilterns View offers luxury lodge accommodation overlooking the beautiful Chiltern Hills. Guests love the privacy and seclusion of these lodges with wonderful south-facing views and hot tubs. Sit around the fire pit with a glass of fizz to watch the sun set over the hills, and in the daytime you can relax by the pond or take a walk to one of the many fine pubs and eateries in the area.  thechilternsview.co.uk

Whately Manor Hotel & Spa, Malmesbury

READING Hilton Reading

Ideally located off junction 11 of the M4, the Hilton Hotel in Reading offers a warm and inviting atmosphere. Bedrooms feature air conditioning, wired and wireless Internet access, laptop safes, mini bar, on-demand movies, a spacious workdesk and famous Hilton Serenity bed system. Access to the 24-hour LivingWell Health Club is included.  hilton.com

Novotel Reading Centre

Perfectly suited in the heart of the town. Many of Reading's best restaurants, bars and shops are just a stone's throw from the hotel, and you are close to Windsor and Oxford, and family attractions like Legoland, Reading Museum, Reading Abbey Ruins and Forbury Gardens Public Park. Reading train station is a two-minute walk away and Thames Valley Park is just a shuttle bus away.  all.accor.com/hotel

The Roseate Reading

Described as 'The UK's Sexiest Townhouse Hotel' by The Evening Standard, The Roseate Reading is also recognised for its artful conception and luxury.  roseatehotels.com/reading/theroseate

SALISBURY (WITHIN EASY REACH) Salisbury Camping and Caravanning Club Site

Within easy reach of some of the most famous sites in England. The historic centre of Salisbury, known as ‘the city in the countryside’, is an easy two mile walk from the campsite and offers many must-see attractions including the famous cathedral.  campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk

The Merchant’s House Hotel, Salisbury

37 newly and beautifully refurbished en suite rooms located in the city centre. A must visit is The Merchant’s Bar with open fire and wonderful choice of wines, beers and spirits.  themerchantshousehotel.co.uk

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The Kingsbury @ No7 & No8, Marlborough

SURREY Pennyhill Park

There are only a few places able to offer such a diverse range of experiences as Pennyhill Park.

Set in 123 acres of Surrey countryside with a host of individual experiences, they offer exceptional overnight breaks, Michelin starred dining, bespoke weddings, distinctive meetings and events, family celebrations and an award-winning spa. There are two award-winning restaurants, The Ascot Bar, and The Spa including a state-of-the-art fitness suite, treatment rooms, nail bar, hot tubs and indoor and outdoor pools.  exclusive.co.uk/pennyhill-park

Walton on Thames Camping and Caravanning Club Site

Tucked away in rural Surrey, you’d hardly know Walton on Thames Club Site is just half an hour from Central London. For a hearty dose of adrenaline, head to the much-loved theme parks of Thorpe Park,

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Chessington World of Adventures, and Legoland, where kids (and big kids too) can go wild on wacky rides and looping rollercoasters. For something a little more sedate, head to Hampton Court Palace, once the palatial home of King Henry VIII and his six wives, to experience Royal life by exploring the splendid interiors and wandering around the magnificent estate with its rich variety of gardens and plants.  campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk

SWINDON Rose & Crown Inn, Ashbury Located in a charming ‘off the beaten track’ village at the foot of the rolling countryside of the Lambourn Downs and historic sites of the Vale of the White Horse. This village inn boasts an exceptional menu and very comfortable rooms. It has a unique atmosphere and very much reflects the gentle pace of a friendly and welcoming ‘unspoiled’ village inn.  roseandcrownatashbury.co.uk

WEST BERKSHIRE The Queens Arms Hotel

The Queens Arms is an award-winning hotel, pub and restaurant with its own private lodge. Situated in the beautiful village of East Garston, between London and the West Country yet in the heart of an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The Queens Arms features 12 bespoke bedrooms, a large friendly bar with log fire that leads into the dining room, a south facing patio and a large enclosed garden – all ideal for alfresco dining. Children and dogs welcome.  queensarmseastgarston.co.uk

WILTSHIRE, MARLBOROUGH The Kingsbury @ No7 & No8 Boutique hotel come Airbnb with modern, keyless entry system allowing you to come and go as you please. All rooms have been lovingly and individually designed to offer quality, comfort and style, for you to relax and enjoy your stay. Fun dining concept including fabulous afternoon teas and cocktail making in the restaurant (book in advance).  thekingsbury.co.uk

WILTSHIRE, BRADFORD ON AVON Church Farm Country Cottages

Enjoy a rural location on a working sheep farm staying in award-winning single storey cottages and barn conversions with exposed beams and vaulted ceilings. Situated in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty you can enjoy walking and cycling from your doorstep or it is a short journey to Bradford on Avon, Longleat and the World Heritage City of Bath.  churchfarmcottages.com

Cumberwell Country Cottages

Set in a peaceful, rural location, these seven unique, luxurious and spacious self-catering cottages are set in the beautiful Wiltshire countryside on the edge of an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty just five miles from the World Heritage city of Bath and one mile from the Saxon town of Bradford on Avon.  cumberwellcountrycottages.com

Woolley Grange Hotel

Surrounded by 14 acres of stunning grounds, Woolley Grange is a Jacobean manor house located on the edge of Bradford on Avon. The hotel offers a warm welcome to families, has award-winning children's facilities, a beautiful spa, and great food using fresh produce from the walled kitchen garden. For a stargazing evening stay in one of the new Luxury Glamping Suites, you also have access to the historic hotel and its facilities, including heated indoor and outdoor swimming pools, spa, OFSTED-registered childcare and The Hideout Pizza Cafe.  woolleygrangehotel.co.uk

WILTSHIRE, CHIPPENHAM Best Western Plus Angel Hotel, Chippenham

Superbly located five miles from the M4 between Bath and Swindon. This 400-year-old coaching inn has been sympathetically extended to include a gym, indoor pool, courtyard garden and bedroom wing. The addition of a stylish new brasserie, bar and lounge create the ideal surroundings to relax.

A perfect base for enjoying motor racing at Castle Combe, the Badminton Horse Trials, Longleat Safari Park and Swindon designer shopping village.  angel-hotel-chippenham.com

WILTSHIRE, DEVIZES Cliffe Farm Dairy

Self-catering accommodation in the heart of Wiltshire; ideal for families looking for that quiet escape. A secluded and unique cottage on a working farm. This special place offers uninterrupted views and wonderful walking opportunities.  cliffefarmdairy.co.uk

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WILTSHIRE, BRADFORD-ON-AVON Rowley Cottage at Iford Manor Surrounded by nature in the beautiful Iford Valley and set within the Grade 1 listed Iford Manor Gardens, this luxury, self-catering period cottage is in an idyllic setting. Recently renovated, with three en-suite bedrooms, sleeping six it is the perfect base to explore from. Just 15 minutes from Bath.  ifordmanor.co.uk/stay

WILTSHIRE, MALMESBURY The Old Bell Hotel

A comfortable, country hotel full of character and charm, reputed to be the oldest purpose built hotel in England (c.1220) and Grade I Listed. The hotel nestles in the beautiful medieval Cotswold town of Malmesbury and is 75 yards from the famous Abbey House Gardens with over 2000 roses.

With crackling log fires, cosy corners, squashy sofas, plump duvets, fine linen and fabulous food and wine – this is pure indulgence.  oldbellhotel.co.uk

Pettifers Hotel

Pettifers Hotel is the perfect spot to relax, unwind and explore. You've got the fabulous Cotswold Water Park, Highgrove, Westonbirt Arboretum, Tetbury, Malmesbury and Cirencester all on the door step perfect for family stays and mini breaks, plus they are super dog friendly too so no need to leave your four legged friends behind!  pettifershotel.co.uk

Devizes Camping and Caravanning Club Site

This peaceful campsite beside the Kennet & Avon Canal is perfect for walking, cycling, and exploring the region’s many historic attractions. Head out on a scenic walk to the historic market town of Devizes along the towpath, passing the Caen Hill flight of 29 locks – one of the longest continuous flight of locks in the country, rising 237 feet over two miles. In the bustling market town of Devizes, visit the Wiltshire Museum with its award-winning galleries and ancient gold collection (which dates back to the time of Stonehenge) pop into the Kennet & Avon Canal Trust Museum to learn more about the local waterways.

Head to Wadworth’s Brewery to take a tour and sample ales at the visitor centre, and see the famous shire horses making deliveries. If you fancy stretching your legs, take the five-mile circular walk from Devizes to Roundway Hill, taking in stretches of the Kennet & Avon Canal, with opportunities to take longer walks by joining the Mid Wilts Way, Wessex Ridgeway or the White Horse Trail.  campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk

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WILTSHIRE, SALISBURY Holiday Inn, Salisbury – Stonehenge

This modern friendly hotel has over 100 air conditioned bedrooms and is the nearest hotel to Stonehenge, offering a stylish, contemporary gateway to the Great West Way and to the picturesque county of Wiltshire and beyond.

Enjoy easy access to the colourful landscape of sights and attractions dotting the English countryside.  hisalisbury–stonehenge.co.uk

WILTSHIRE, SWINDON Cricklade House Hotel

Standing in over 30 acres of peaceful, secluded grounds on the edge of the Cotswolds, Cricklade House Hotel offers a traditional, warm and friendly welcome for those in search of tranquility, comfort, good food and wine, with extensive recreational facilities. This beautiful and dignified country house, built at the turn of the last century, has been tastefully restored and carefully extended.

Perhaps the most impressive addition is the magnificent Victorian-style glass conservatory

Rowley Cottage at Iford Manor, Bradford-on-Avon

which runs the full length of the original building, making the most of the hotel's elevated position, with wonderful panoramic views over the Wiltshire countryside. The ideal location for exploring the wonders Wiltshire and the surrounding area have to offer – with brilliant links to both the M4 and M5 and through to Oxford.  crickladehotel.co.uk

DoubleTree by Hilton, Swindon

West of Swindon, this relaxing hotel is an excellent base for touring the beautiful Great West Way countryside including the Wiltshire Downs and the Cotswolds, visiting pretty villages such as Chippenham and Marlborough, and, for a truly memorable experience, you'll find the World Heritage Site of Avebury nearby too.

The accommodation comprises 171 bedrooms with 61 Deluxe rooms and eight Suites and for food and drink head to The Larder Restaurant and Bar.  hilton.com

WILTSHIRE, VALE OF PEWSEY Totteridge Farm Camping Pods

Totteridge Farm Camping Pods offer a wonderful English countryside experience, for those who want to be close to nature without giving up home comforts. Step out of your timber lodge into the fresh calm of a rural Wiltshire morning, explore the towns, villages and trails of the Vale of Pewsey, or sit out under the stars around a wood fire with a glass of farm-grown English wine.

There are five luxury log pods in total, and they are exclusively for adults (for ages 18 and above), with fantastic views over the Pewsey Vale, and with the home comforts of a hot shower and a King Size bed in a double-glazed, underfloor-heated There is plenty of choice for walking, cycling or even kayaking, with many dog friendly pubs nearby. Come home to your own firepit, spectacular sunsets and dark skies. There is also an all-weather shelter and BBQ area.  totteridge-farm.website/camping-and-holidays

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Experience the new menus by Executive Chef Ricki Weston and his team Bursting with flavour. Choose either the Michelin-starred restaurant ‘The Dining Room’, or Grey’s Brasserie.

Enjoy a one-night break with dinner in Grey’s Brasserie from £449.

Or the Michelin star experience with dinner in The Dining Room from £784.

Book online whatleymanor.com or call reservations on 01666 822 888

Escape to the Cotswolds this Summer

Food bursts with flavour. Choose either the Michelin starred restaurant ‘The Dining Room’, or for a more relaxed experience Grey’s Brasserie. Unwind in Aquarias Spa, and take a leisurely stroll around the 12 acres of English country gardens.

Whatley Manor welcomes children from the age of 12 and is dog friendly.

Whatley Manor Hotel & Spa Easton Grey Malmesbury SN16 0RB whatleymanor.com

Biscuit-themed Events, Exhibitions and more:

VISIT-READING.COM/BISCUITTOWN Official Travel Partner

The Great West Way caters to the desires of all travellers, with its mix of quirky glamping and camping sites, pretty countryside B&Bs, cool city hotels, traditional village pubs and even fancy castles and stately homes Troutbeck Guest House

The Red Lion Freehouse and Troutbeck Guest House at East Chisenbury have gained quite a reputation for providing the best of Wiltshire's food, drink and accommodation in a truly beautiful setting. East Chisenbury is in a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty complete with the River Avon (Site of Special Scientific Interest) running straight through the tiny village, and is home to stunning countryside views, Stonehenge, fly fishing and excellent walking routes. The thatched pub now holds a Michelin star for its outstanding food, but has never changed its relaxed, distinctively 'pubby' atmosphere.

If there were any improvements to be made to the Red Lion experience, it could only be the addition of a cozy, classy guest house to go back to after a lovely meal. In December of 2012 the Red Lion opened a newly converted bungalow to its loyal following – a gorgeously polished accommodation sat right on the bank of the River Avon. Each of the five unique rooms has been individually decorated, very carefully outfitted with all the best comforts and amenities and boasts uninterrupted countryside views from a private deck.  redlionfreehouse.com

HAMPSHIRE Lainston House

Lainston House is a 17th century luxury hotel, offering luxurious stays, award-winning dining, bespoke meetings and memorable weddings. It is also home to the Season cookery school with awardwinning chefs and renowned external experts.

Tucked away in 63 acres of rural Hampshire countryside, you can enjoy both a remote and relaxing escape in the country or a more activity filled getaway with lots to do on site, as well as so many attractions on your doorstep. Our luxurious and individually designed rooms and suites can

Manor Farm Courtyard Cottages Luxuriously-appointed self-catering cottages situated in glorious Berkshire countryside.

These 17th century former barns and stables, renovated by the Betts family farm, provide everything you need for a luxurious stay on the Great West Way and with a village community shop and café next door for fresh food.  stayatmanorfarm.co.uk

be hard to tear yourself away from, but when you do you can enjoy beautiful walks and bike rides in the grounds, inspiring cookery classes in Season and delicious dining in The Avenue or our brand new restaurant, The Wellhouse. Not to mention outstanding afternoon teas in the drawing room and casual dining in The Cedar Bar and on the sun-drenched terrace. Head out to explore local attractions, with the historic city of Winchester just 10 minutes drive, as well as the River Test, Bombay Sapphire distillery, Marwell Zoo and Paultons Park (and so much more) all within 15 miles.  exclusive.co.uk/lainston-house

Plan your complete trip One of the most exciting ways to travel the Great West Way is to stop somewhere new each night.

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Prepare before you go There’s nothing like a good map to make you feel like a true adventurer

This Way for a Journey of Discovery Download our 'This Way for a Journey of Discovery' map of the Great West Way, and get a sense for the exciting possibilities that lie ahead. Will you venture out to explore the mysteries of the North Wessex Downs? Make a summer solstice pilgrimage to Stonehenge? Or set off to photograph the pretty villages of the Cotswolds?

Of course, while these maps will steer you towards incredible attractions, beautiful landscapes and top places to stay, eat and drink – you are ultimately your own tour guide. Please do wander off course and find things to see and do that are not marked on our maps. This dreamy part of England is set up for surprising discoveries.

Food and Drink Map Food lovers can download our food and drink map for an overview of the incredible culinary delights available along the route, featuring local breweries, Michelin starred dining, farmers' markets, afternoon tea, food and drink festivals, quaint country pubs and more.

Kennet & Avon Canal map Take a look at our Kennet & Avon Canal map to find out about travelling along the beautiful and historic canal that stretches between Reading and Bristol.

Looked after by the Canal & River Trust, you can explore the towpath by foot or bike - or float gently along on a narrowboat, canoe or kayak.  Click here to download

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 Click here to book online with prices from just £24.

 Click here to download the

Food and Drink Map

Great West Way Discoverer Pass Tickets for the Great Western Railway can be bought from ticket offices at stations along the route but for cheaper tickets and no queues we recommend buying in advance. There are three Great West Way Discoverer routes available, (East, West or global) giving you the opportunity to explore your chosen area in one-day instalments or over the duration of a week.  Click here to download the Great West Way Discoverer Pass  Click here to download the

Kennet & Avon Canal map

THANK YOU TO THOSE WHO’VE HELPED US ALONG THE WAY...

Aerospace Bristol Alder Ridge Vineyard Aldermaston Tea Rooms, Visitor Centre, & Shop Aldwick Estate All Saints Church American Museum & Garden Apex Hotel Apsley House Ascot Racecourse Atwell-Wilson Motor Museum Auto Europe Avebury Bailey Balloons Barrington Court Bath Apartment Breaks Bath Area Self Catering Bath Bus Company Bath Business Improvement District Bath Insider Tours Berkeley Castle Best Western Plus Angel Hotel Bishopstrow Hotel & Spa Blakehill Farm Nature Reserve Blenheim Palace Bluestone Vineyard Bombay Sapphire Boscombe Down Aviation Collection Bowood House & Garden Bozedown Alpacas Bradford on Avon Town Bristol Airport Bristol Cathedral Bristol Community Ferry Boats Bristol Packet Boats Bristol Tandem Hire Britains Best Heritage Tours British Museum Brooks Guest House Bath Brooks Guest House Bristol Bruce Branch Boats Brunel’s SS Great Britain Calne Town Canal & River Trust Canal Trust Café Castle Combe Circuit Cheddar Camping and Caravanning Club Site Cheddar Caves & Gorge Chertsey Camping and Caravanning Club Site Chippenham Museum and Heritage Centre Chippenham Town Cholderton Rare Breeds Farm Cholderton Youth Hostel Church Farm Country Cottages Clayton’s Kitchen Cliffe Farm Dairy Clifton Suspension Bridge Cobbs Farm Shop & Kitchen Corsham Town

Cotswold Water Park Cricklade House Hotel Crofton Beam Engines Crop Circle Visitors Centre & Exhibition Crown & Anchor Cumberwell Country Cottages Devizes Camping and Caravanning Club Site Devizes Town Devizes Wharf Tea Room Donnington Grove Hotel & Country Club DoubleTree by Hilton Dukes Hotel Dyrham Park Fashion Museum Bath First Travel Solutions Fisherton Mill French Brothers Galahad Tours Great Western Railway Great West Way Official Tour Operators Hampton by Hilton Bristol Airport Hampton Court Palace Henley Greenlands Hotel Henley Rowing Association Henley on Thames Herongate Apartments Hilton Reading Hobbs of Henley Holiday Inn, Salisbury - Stonehenge Honey Street Mill Café & Boats Hotel Novotel Reading Centre Hungerford Town Hungerford Wharf Iford Manor Gardens Jones’s Mill at The Vera Jeans Reserve Kenavon Venture Kennet & Avon Gateway Lacock Abbey, Fox Talbot Museum & Village Lainston House Lido Spa & Restaurant Live Escape Salisbury London Wetland Centre Longleat Lower Moor Farm Nature Reserve Lytes Cary Manor Mad Max Tours Maidenhead Heritage Centre Malmesbury Town Manor Farm Courtyard Cottages Marlborough College Summer School Marlborough Town Marlow Town Mary Shelley’s House of Frankenstein McArthurGlen Designer Outlet Merchants House Mill Farm Glamping Mompesson House Monkey Island Estate Montacute House Museum of East Asian Art

MV Barbara McLellan MV Jubilee National Garden Scheme National Trust Newark Park, Ozleworth Newbury Racecourse No. 1 Royal Crescent No.15 Great Pulteney North Wessex Downs AONB Novotel Reading Centre Old Sarum Oldbury Tours Original Wild Parkway Shopping Centre Pennyhill Parkt Pettifers Freehouse Hotel Pewsey Vale of Tourism Partnership Prior Park Landscape Garden Reading Museum Reading UK Red Lion Freehouse REME Museum River & Rowing Museum Rose & Crown Inn Roseate House London Royal Berkshire, Sunninghill Royal Borough of Windsor & Maidenhead Salisbury Camping and Caravanning Club Site Salisbury Cathedral Salisbury, Stonehenge and Sarum Tours Sally Narrowboats Savouring Bath Shaw House Sir Christopher Wren Hotel & Spa Skydive Netheravon South Western Railway St Peter’s Church Stay in Bath Steeple Ashton Stonehenge Stonor Park Stourhead Strawberry Hill House & Garden Studley Grange Sulis Guides Teashop by the Canal Thames Lido Thames Rivercruise The Abbey Quarter The Apartment Bath The Bridge Tea Rooms The Bristol Wing/YMCA The Chilterns View The Courts Garden The Crown & Anchor The Engineman’s Rest Café The Gainsborough Bath Spa The Guild Wiltshire The Holburne Museum The Jane Austen Centre The Kennet & Avon Canal Trust

Discover more about our Ambassadors at: GreatWestWay.co.uk

The Kennet & Avon Trade Association The Kingsbury @ No.8 The Langley The Manor House The Merchant’s House The Merchants House Hotel The Museum of English Rural Life The Old Bell Hotel The Pound Arts Centre The Queens Arms Hotel The Roman Baths The Rose of Hungerford The Roseate Reading The Roseate Villa Bath The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa, Bath The Royal Windsor Pub The Swan Hotel The Tutti Pole The Watermill Theatre The Wave Thermae Bath Spa Timbrells Yard Tintinhull Garden Totteridge Farm Camping Pods Tour and Explore Tours 2 Order TransWilts Community Rail Troutbeck Guest House Trowbridge Town Tucking Mill View Turner’s House Tyntesfield, Wraxall University Of Bristol Botanic Gardens Vaughan’s Kitchen Vintage Classics VisitBritain/VisitEngland Visit Gloucestershire Visit Highworth Visit Newbury Visit Thames Visit West - Bath Visit West - Bristol VisitWiltshire Waddesdon Manor Walton on Thames Camping and Caravanning Club Site We The Curious Wellington Arch West Berkshire Museum Westonbirt, The National Arboretum Whatley Manor Hotel & Spa Whitchurch Silk Mill White Horse Inn Wilton Windmill Wiltshire Museum Windsor Carriages Windsor Castle, Royal Collection Trust Windsor Duck Tours Woolley Grange Hotel Wyvern Theatre YMCA Bath Group

DISCOVER YOUR WAY

Begin your next adventure at

GreatWestWay.co.uk #EscapetheEveryday