Scale the rigging, clamber through the cabins and dive under the glass sea to marvel at the ship from below. For the best ticket prices, book online: ssgreatbritain.org
PLUS DON'T MISS! <strong>Travel</strong>ling the <strong>Great</strong> <strong>West</strong> Way is all about discovering the real England, and alongside the picturesque sights and seasonal events there are all sorts of quirky customs and traditional events that you can discover in this vibrant swathe of England too! Pictured: Enchanted Christmas at <strong>West</strong>onbirt, The National Arboretum with gorgeous candlelit displays, roaring open fires and a magnificent 20ft Victorian-decorated Christmas Tree in the Gothic Hall. Discover an Enchanted Christmas at <strong>West</strong>onbirt, The National Arboretum, or at Longleat's Festival of Light, the UK’s original, biggest lantern festival. Watch hundreds of breathtaking, illuminated lanterns, set in over 30 acres of splendid ‘Capability’ Brown landscaped grounds transform the Estate as darkness falls. Step back in time into a classic Christmas from England's past as you explore Victorian Christmas Weekend at SS <strong>Great</strong> Britain in Bristol. The iconic ship SS <strong>Great</strong> Britain is transformed into a Dickensian winter scene where you can meet Victorian characters, shop for seasonal gifts and indulge in festive food and drink. And Christmas just wouldn’t be the same without a festive trip to the theatre - Bristol Hippodrome or Theatre Royal Bath perhaps? A Christmas show or pantomime is an essential part of any traditional English Christmas, so be sure to pick up a Christmas programme from the Watermill Theatre, Newbury, the Barn Theatre in Cirencester, Pound Arts Centre in Corsham or head to the Wyvern Theatre in Swindon. For a heartwarming traditional Christmas, why not sing in a carol service in front of Windsor Castle, or enjoy the seasonal atmosphere at the Hampton Court Palace ice rink, a wonderful way to get into the festive spirit, with spectacular views of the Thames-side Tudor palace. Discover an enchanted wonderland of light and magic during Christmas At <strong>West</strong>onbirt Arboretum, Tetbury or discover the glittering spiral trees, and dynamic laser projections which illuminate the iconic Temperate House at Christmas at Kew, Richmond. Or why not put the sparkle in your family Christmas by enjoying the annual Christmas Extravaganza and Carol Concert in Hungerford, or the season of lights and lanterns in Devizes with their annual Lantern Parade & Christmas Festival. Wassailing An ancient pagan celebration performed in January to encourage fruit trees to give a healthy harvest. This ancient tradition still takes place in certain village orchards, particularly in cider producing country - and there is plenty of cider country along the <strong>Great</strong> <strong>West</strong> Way! Morris Men Morris Men are one of the most well known of England's ancient traditions. Troupes of Morris Men dress in white with bells and ribbons and dance traditional dances together, with much slapping of knees and hitting of sticks! You'll likely see Morris Men at local fairs and festivals taking place along the <strong>Great</strong> <strong>West</strong> Way - a reminder that you're undoubtedly in England. Hocktide The charming Berkshire market town of Hungerford is reputed to be the only place in England where locals still dress up to celebrate the medieval festival of Hocktide. The residents of Hungerford throw themselves into the many customs surrounding Hocktide, which takes place annually after Easter, including dressing up, decorating their houses, welcoming the 'Tutti Men' and exchanging oranges and kisses. Swan Upping In Windsor, the ancient custom of 'Swan Upping' takes place in July each year, with uniformed 'Royal Swan Uppers' travelling in traditional rowing skiffs on the Thames to assess the health of the local mute swans, which are by tradition the property of the British monarch. Oxford Traditions Within easy reach of the <strong>Great</strong> <strong>West</strong> Way is the university city of Oxford, which has a whole host of quirky customs and traditions of its own, including penny throwing, May day singing, and boat burning. Don't forget to tag #<strong>Great</strong><strong>West</strong>Way so we can see your pictures along the route! <strong>Great</strong><strong>West</strong>Way.co.uk 19