Great West Way Travel Magazine | Issue 08

SPRING/SUMMER 2023
TRAVEL MAGAZINE | ISSUE 08
GreatWestWay.co.uk
JOIN THE FUN!
Summer Festivals, Sporting Events,
Picnic Spots, Tea Shops and more...
Follow the paths through England’s idyllic countryside, quaint villages and elegant
towns, where our best kept secrets from the past meet twenty-first-century hospitality

THERE’S YOU YOU,
THEN THERE’S
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WELCOME TO ENGLAND'S
GREAT WEST WAY
Combining expansive countryside
views surrounding Areas of
Outstanding Natural Beauty,
with vibrant cities and thriving
towns, the Great West Way welcomes you
to explore its exciting route this spring and
summer.
This issue has everything from sporting events
(page 56), summer music festivals (page 74) to best days out with
the kids (page 62). Learn about the Great West Way’s vast history
as you visit some of the wonderful museums found along the path
– including brand new exhibitions and events (page 24) and treat
yourself to a hot brew and freshly baked scone at one of the routes
quintessential teashops, (page 40).
Discover star-studded celebrities born along the way from
royalty to internationally acclaimed actors and authors (page 18)
and don’t miss our interview with Graham Dillamore, deputy head
of gardens and estates at Historic Royal Palaces (page 9).
The Great West Way offers a taste of quintessential England
at every turn, and we hope this latest edition with its range of
experiences will help inspire you to make the most of a season full
of unforgettable memories when travelling the route.
Cover Image: Reading on Thames Festival, photo credit
Stuart Turkington. Pictured Above: Summertime in
Jessica
Newbury; Malmesbury Abbey
England’s Great West Way is one of the world’s
premier touring routes, bringing together many of
England’s most famous destinations and attractions
along a corridor between London and Bristol
x
Jessica Way
Editor-in-Chief, Great West Way Travel Magazine
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
GreatWestWay.co.uk
3

CONTENTS
SPRING/SUMMER | Edition 08
DISCOVER OUR WAY
YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE
MY GREAT WEST WAY
08 Interview with Great West Way local, Graham
Dillamore, deputy head of gardens and estates at
Historic Royal Palaces, sharing his highlights of living on
the Great West Way
THE WAY FORWARD
12 From the UK’s first CO2-neutral venue on the River
Thames to a brand new dining concept in Bristol and
delicious new artisan gelato in Malmesbury, we take a
look at what’s new and exciting on the route
TOP 10 FAMOUS FACES BORN ALONG THE
18 GREAT WEST WAY
Discover some of our special royalty and internationally
acclaimed actors and authors who were born along the
Great West Way route
WHAT'S NEW AT OUR MUSEUMS
24 We bring you the lowdown on some of the
many wonderful museums with upcoming exhibitions
and events you won't want to miss
PICNIC SPOTS ON THE GREAT WEST WAY
34 The Great West Way offers countless choices
for an al fresco lunch stop, with the opportunity to sit
and enjoy stunning views with a glass of fizz enjoying
delicately cut sandwiches atop a gingham rug. We hope
you enjoy our eight best picnic spots
THE GREAT WEST WAY'S TEA SHOPS
40 From traditional British-style tearooms to modern,
hipster coffeehouses, the vast array of quaint independent
shops along the Great West Way is an absolute delight for
tea aficionados
GreatWestWay.co.uk
5

HIGHLIGHTS ON THE WAY
10 BRILLIANT REASONS TO VISIT THE
48 GREAT WEST WAY THIS SUMMER
With 3 of Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the
longest cycling and walking tunnel and the largest
public park in the UK, and Britain’s only naturally
warm waters, do you need a better reason to visit –
paragliding above the Wiltshire Downs perhaps?
SPORTING EVENTS ON THE GREAT WEST WAY
56 From cricket to motor racing, rugby to
athletics, mountain biking to rowing, there are plenty
of opportunities to get active or inspire your sporting
break on the Great West Way
TOP TEN DAYS OUT WITH THE KIDS
62 From splish-splashy water parks to wonderfully
wild safari parks there’s plenty of choice along the Great
West Way for family days out
SUMMER MUSIC FESTIVALS
74 Don't miss out on the incredible music festivals
kicking off on the Great West Way this summer. From
dance fests like Glastonbury and Boomtown to groovy
jazz at Cheltenham Jazz Festival
PUBLISHED BY
Contista Media Ltd
Unit 6, Basepoint, Andersons Road,
Southampton, SO14 5FE
contistamedia.co.uk
Brought to you by the Great West Way
GreatWestWay.co.uk/digitaltravelmagazine
REGULAR FEATURES
ARTS, EVENTS AND CULTURAL CALENDAR
82 The Great West Way is known for its many special
events – don't miss our cultural calendar highlights
WAYS TO TRAVEL THE GREAT WEST WAY
88 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
GOURMET GUIDE TO FOOD & DRINK
92 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
WHERE TO STAY ALONG THE GREAT WEST
104 WAY
Stay overnight on the Great West Way, whether on a
romantic weekend away or a week-long adventure
ISSN: 2632-3540
Image copyright credits: Throughout © GreatWestWay.co.uk
Page 5 © Adam Gasson / ss Great Britain Pages 11/69 © Historic
Royal Palaces Pages 12/20 /21/23/34/38/56 © Shutterstock
Page 14 © SOUTHWORKS CREATIVE LTD Page 16 VisitBritain/
Simon Winnall Pages 24/25/68 © visitlondon.com/Jon Reid Page
27 © MONITOBA.COM / The Historic England Archive, Historic
England Page 28 ©National Trust Images/James Dobson Page 33
©VisitEngland/BathTourismPlus/Colin Hawkins Pages 33/64/83/88
Jon Attenborough Photography Ltd Page 35 ©britainonview/Pawel
Libera Pages 36, 39 © In and Beyond Bath 2015-2022 Pages 42/97
©nicksmithphotography.com Pages 54 /62 /70 © Getty Images/
iStockphoto Page 61 © Ben Rodford Photography Page 64 The Royal
Collection © Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II Page 65 SS Great Britain
Max McClure Page 66 © Mikael Buck / Legoland Page 82 © ADAGP,
Paris and DACS, London 2023 / photo courtesy of the owner Page 85
© Victor Frankowski/Henley Festival Page 87 © Adrian Sherratt
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.
6 GreatWestWay.co.uk

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romanbaths.co.uk

MY GREAT
WEST WAY
Having looked after royal gardens for over 40 years,
Graham Dillamore, deputy head of gardens and estates at
Historic Royal Palaces, is now responsible for some of the
most magnificent palace gardens in the country
Please start by telling us about your journey
in becoming head gardener of the worldfamous
gardens at Hampton Court Palace?
I knew I had to be outdoors no matter what.
Gardening seemed to be something I was
good at and I was happy, relaxed and always
comfortable to be in a Garden. People talk about
Gardens having profound effects on people
and its true. So, when I was 16 years old and at
the very earliest opportunity, I began looking
for a job in gardening where I could also gain
some training. I got rejected a few times but I
kept going and eventually began working as an
apprentice in London’s Royal Parks. Later on in
1985, I became head gardener at Kensington
Palace before going to work for The Royal
Household, where I took on the responsibility of
tending to the then-Prince Charles and Diana,
Princess of Wales’ private garden. Around 5 years
later I made the exciting move to Hampton
Court Palace as the ‘Foreman’ now there’s a
word you don’t hear anymore! My job title
changed a few times and I was given different
roles from time to time but I stayed at Hampton
Court and now here I am, still gardening.
What does your role involve, and what is a
typical day like for you?
My role involves coordinating and overseeing
everything that goes on in the gardens not only
on a day-to-day basis, but also week-to-week,
month-to-month, and year-to-year. I work
closely with a few team leaders and we usually
get to together to talk about what we need to
do that week, what is coming up next and how
we can make things better for our visitors. I
sometimes take the dogs with me - we might
chase off a few geese before our visitors arrive
and it’s time for a cup of tea. We like a lot of
cake with our tea at Hampton Court and that
suits me fine. Its then on to the keyboard and
like any other manager in any other business I
have emails, meetings, invoices and planning to
work on.
Do you work with a wider team and what
achievements are you most proud of?
I head up the Gardens team and our
responsibility is to take care of the formal
gardens around the Palace here at Hampton
Court and at Kensington. We try to create a
GreatWestWay.co.uk
9

memorable visitor experience and present the Gardens to
the highest possible standard. I also provide advice and
professional guidance to other lead managers within the
organisation on conservation projects, commercial activity
and strategic development.
There are a number of achievements that I look back
on proudly with my team. Recreating King William III’s Privy
Garden, a magnificent private garden for the Stuart monarch,
to look exactly as it was in 1702 was something very special,
and a real highlight of my career. The transformation of this
formal garden took place in 1995, and is still recognised as
a major milestone with regard to the history and care of
the gardens. It has also been especially rewarding to see the
gardens at Kensington Palace transform over the past fifteen
years, as they have opened up and become more accessible.
I understand you recently oversaw the transformation of
The Sunken Garden at London’s Kensington Palace, which
Diana, Princess of Wales was particularly fond of?
To mark the 20th anniversary of the death of Diana, Princess
of Wales, in 2017 we transformed the White Garden in
her memory – a real highlight for me. We then went on to
develop the garden further in 2021 to create a relaxing setting
for the statue of the late Princess. To be a part of that, and to
be there at the moment when the statue was unveiled – gosh,
that was very special.
What do you find most inspiring day-to-day?
I really like gardens with history and heritage. Working in
a garden that has been there for hundreds of years and
following in the footsteps of other gardeners has always been
very appealing to me. I’ve never been the kind of gardener
who wants to change everything, instead I’ve always been
interested in conservation and preserving what we already
have, as well as going back in time to understand what went
on before.
Can you recommend any hidden jewels for visitors to the
gardens to ensure they don't miss?
Yes, the Great Vine! It is a staggering 255 years old and the
largest in the world. In the summer, its grapes are sold in
the palace giftshop, giving visitors the rare opportunity to
try its historic fruit, which was once a favourite of Queen
Victoria, no less. The grapes are a very old variety called Black
Hamburg, they are a really tasty dessert grape. Just imagine
eating fruit from a plant that was planted in 1768. And what
a taste!
What are you most looking forward to for the summer
ahead?
Yes, this springs Tulip Festival. Towards the end of 17th
century, William III and Mary II began importing tulip bulbs
from the Netherlands, and by the time Queen Victoria
10 GreatWestWay.co.uk

IMAGES © HISTORIC ROYAL PALACES
opened the gardens to the public in the 1820s, people would
come from miles around to see the palace’s splendid tulip
displays. It became a real destination for a day out, and we
want to celebrate that again. Last winter, the gardening team
worked tirelessly to plant a whopping 110,000 tulip bulbs
throughout the gardens, including some rare and historic
varieties, and in April this year Hampton Court Palace is
hosting a truly glorious tulip festival. We’ve planted the bulbs
in flowerbeds all around the gardens, and each area has a
different theme and story as to why we’ve chosen that bulb
and that colour scheme. We’ve got traditional mass planting
and I am also bringing more tulips into the courtyards as well,
much to the housekeeper’s disdain. I’ve been planting bulbs in
all sorts of things – wheelbarrows, pots, troughs. We want to
offer visitors something a bit different. For example, as part
of the event we will be giving the palace’s famous 14ft wine
fountain a fabulous floral makeover. We’re going to cover it
in tulips, and we’ve gone for deep red wine colours – maroons
and burgundies, even jet black. We’ve also got a tulip variety
called Merlot, and a few rosé colours too.
Are you a city, town or country person?
I think I’m a mixture of all three. I find it humorous that I had
to move away from leafy Hampshire and travel to central
London for my career as a gardener, but the fact remains that
some of the best gardens are in the middle of cities.
What do you think makes the Great West Way special?
The countryside, landscapes and of course the gardens make
the Great West Way special. The further west you travel the
better they get! For me, Stourhead is a particular favourite,
although Longleat is also very special – prior to its current
layout it was a formal Baroque Garden like Hampton Court
Palace. It is fascinating to see how the gardens have changed
if you find an old print. I’d recommend investigating which
private gardens on the Great West Way are open for free as
part of the National Garden Scheme each year.
Please describe your perfect adventure on the Great West
Way?
I think I have an in-built compass in my head that has been
passed down by my father. He used to say “West is always
best!” as we prepared for our camping holidays, and I’ll
always remember camping with Dad during a thunderstorm
at a little place near Marlborough.
Click here to find out more
about becoming a Great
West Way Ambassador
GreatWestWay.co.uk 11

THE WAY FORWARD
A look at the highlights and what’s new on the Great West Way
IMAGE © SHUTTERSTOCK
The release of Bridgerton Season 3
Season 3 breaks rank with the order of the
novels to focus instead on the fourth Bridgerton
book, Romancing Mister Bridgerton. The story
focuses on the romance between Penelope and
Colin, who have been on our screens throughout
the first two seasons. Expect more of Bath’s
beautiful architecture to feature.
12 GreatWestWay.co.uk

2023 marks the 60th anniversary of
the Bristol Bus Boycott
In 1963, Bristolians chose to boycott the Bristol
Omnibus Company in protest of its refusal to
employ Black or Asian bus crews. The boycott
lasted four months before the company backed
down. Events to mark the boycott will be taking
place across the city.
Malmesbury’s very own Artisan Gelato!
The Cosy Cone in Malmesbury, Wiltshire has opened after
eight months of renovations. The shop in the Triangle sells
a range of delicious flavours of Abygail's Artisan Gelato,
ranging from vanilla and pistachio to dark chocolate sorbet,
Nutella and mint choc chip.
Oceandiva, London
The UK’s first CO2-neutral venue and a stateof-the-art
vessel, Oceandiva on the River
Thames will span three decks and be powered
by renewable energy. When it launches, the
1,500-capacity venue will become the largest
floating events space on the river. Aside from the
glamour, sustainability will remain as the Vessel’s
core focus, with fast-charging shore-based green
electricity and smart technology to support
carbon emission tracking.
Don't miss... Bristol 650
events, where you can join
the celebrations across
the city with Bristol marking
its 650th anniversary of
becoming a city and county
in 2023, and look out for
unicorn sculptures, painted
by Bristol artists on display at
several famous landmarks
GreatWestWay.co.uk
13

THE WAY FORWARD
Beckford Canteen Bath
Just opened on Bartlett St just down the road
from its sister restaurant Beckford Bottle Shop,
Beckford Canteen is overseen by George Barson
(Ex River Cottage). The knockout food puts a
modern twist on British favourites and sharing
plates of Wagu beef.
BoxHall Bristol
A brand-new destination dining hub and
event space is coming to Bristol’s Welshback
Waterfront this summer. BoxHall is from the
same team behind BoxPark, the hugely successful
dining and drinking spaces in London. BoxHall is
a new concept offering a food hall with a host of
independent restaurants, street food traders and
pop-ups for all-day dining, live music and events
including art shows, film screenings and gaming.
The Mutton at Hazeley Heath
A short detour from the main Great West Way route
Hampshire’s exciting new family-run pub has opened.
Located in the idyllic village of Hartley Wintney,
the lovingly restored 19th century public house and
former post office will be offering up reimagined pub
classics that champion local producers.
14 GreatWestWay.co.uk

THE WAY FORWARD
Reading Walks Festival
The first Reading Walks Festival launches this
year (10-14 May) with over 40 guided walks
ranging in length from an hour’s gentle walk to
40 km along the St James’ Way. Taking place
across five days, the festival brings to life the
stories, heritage, wildlife and landscapes of
Reading and the surrounding countryside.
5 great ways to... travel the
Great West Way sustainably
1 Travel By Public Transport
The Great Western Railway runs throughout
the route and there's many convenient rail links
2 Explore on Foot or by Bike
Arrive at any of Great West Way’s cities by train,
and get your bearings with a walk or a bike ride
3 Sample Local Produce
Cut down on your food miles with a
delicious meal created with local produce
Ashton Gate stadium, Bristol
Phase one of an exciting 3,626 seater Sports and
Convention Centre next to Ashton Gate Stadium in south
Bristol is now in progress! The Sporting Quarter will provide
a new home for the Bristol Flyers basketball team, there
will be a hotel, shops and a multi-storey car park. The first
phase of the Sporting Quarter development will be the
Sports and Convention Centre alongside the hotel, with
hopes to be on site in late Summer 2023.
4 Discover Exciting Eco Initiatives
As you travel through our cities you will
discover all kinds of exciting eco initiatives
5 Get Back to Nature
If you’re a lover of nature, you’ll be keen to
discover some of the conservation charities
and nature reserves along the Great West Way
Click here to find out more
GreatWestWay.co.uk 15

THE WAY FORWARD
inster
ern edge of Salisbury Plain, Warminster is a busy market town
rgian buildings and a wide variety of independent shops, cafés,
nd inns. The Lake Pleasure Grounds provide a free splash pad,
a boating lake, children’s playground, putting green, café and
rby, Smallbrook Meadows Nature Reserve is a lovely mosaic
ws between the Were and Wylye rivers. The surrounding
ides numerous opportunities for walking, cycling and horse
leat – with its historic house, safari park and more – is
Annual events in Warminster include Spring in the Park, a
(May), and Carnival (October).
A bustling market town surrounded by
beautiful countryside and local
attractions such as Longleat and
Stonehenge within easy reach.
Browse the variety of independent
shops and cafes nestled in amongst
historic buildings.
Enjoy the award-winning Warminster
Lake Pleasure Grounds with its free
splash pad, skate park and nature
reserve.
For further information visit our
website www.warminster-tc.gov.uk/
Wonderful Warminster
The ancient market town that packs a postcard-perfect punch
Wilton Windmill (Near Marlborough)
Wilton, Near Marlborough, SN8 3SW T: 01672 870594 E: enquiry@wiltonwindmi l.co.uk
Find out how a Victorian mi ler lived and how the windmi l works. Built in 1821 and set high in the
North Wessex Downs, this is the only working windmi l in Wessex. Picnic area and site accessible
a l year round. Guided tours, refreshments and stone ground flour available during opening times.
Fabulous walking and great views.
Admission: A £5, Ch FREE
Map Ref D5
Wiltshire Towns and
Villages map
Wiltshire's towns and villages
are the perfect places to
connect with the past whilst
enjoying the present. With our
new map you can escape to
Wiltshire and experience the
gentler pace of life on your
Great West Way journey.
s and villages connected by the rail network include
adford on Avon, Chippenham, Dean, Dilton Marsh,
Open: From Easter to end Sep, Sun and Bank Hol Mon 2pm-5pm
www.wiltonwindmill.co.uk www.facebook.com/WiltonWindmill
alisbury, Swindon, Tisbury, Trowbridge and Westbury.
erful Warminster
w.marlborough-tc.gov.uk/visitors
ver Pewsey Vale
day or multi-day
& cycling itineraries
the heart of the
rth wessex downs
rink ~ shop ~ stay
sitpewseyvale.co.uk
il ~ spiritual ~ ancient
Wilton Windmill (Near Marlborough)
HERE YOU CAN TOUCH
AND FEEL THE PAST
Waterways, too, were vital to the Wiltshire economy in years gone by
and the Kennet & Avon Canal runs right across the centre of the county.
During the Industrial Revolution it was a key means of transport for goods
and materials. Now it makes a peaceful way to enjoy Wiltshire’s timeless
scenery.
In the east of the county the Canal runs through the lush meadows and
downland of the Vale of Pewsey. This tranquil area makes a great base
for walking, cycling and horse riding. At the heart of the Vale is the village
of Pewsey with its Heritage Centre and statue of Alfred the Great, while
Crofton Beam Engines and Wilton Windmill can be visited nearby
The historic market town of Devizes also stands on the Kennet & Avon
Canal, at the top of Caen Hill Locks. Rising 237 feet over two miles, this
continuous flight of 29 locks is one of the longest in the country. Home to
both Wiltshire Museum and Wadworth Brewery, the town has kept its
character, with many small, family-run businesses and a traditional market.
Wiltshire’s history has been thousands of years in the making
and our museums showcase outstanding exhibits of national
importance. Neolithic, Bronze Age and Iron Age. Roman, Norman
and Saxon. These and later civilisations have all left their mark,
bequeathing tangible connections with the past.
The friendly market town of Highworth stands on a hill at the
gateway to the Cotswolds, its picturesque streets and alleyways
lined with bustling shops and places to eat and drink. With its
origins in medieval times, Highworth is particularly noted for its
fine Queen Anne and Georgian architecture. There is a wealth of
history to discover, and a Town Crier to keep you up to date with
what is going on.
Were you to delve into the Domesday Book of 1086 you would
find a listing for Ludgershall, a small town on the eastern
Ludgershall Castle
Map Ref D5
Pewsey Wharf
Museum • Great places
to eat, drink & stay
www.exploremalmesbury.com
www.discovermalmesbury.life
@malmesburylife
www.visit-corsham.co.uk
JOURNEY THROUGH TIME
edge of Salisbury Plain. Dating from the late 11th century,
Ludgershall Castle was originally a royal hunting lodge; today
the Castle’s ruins are in the care of English Heritage. From the
castle grounds there are splendid views, and local walks to
nearby Collingbourne Woods.
Swindon was a small market town mentioned in the Domesday
Book. This original settlement is now known as Old Town. Here
you can take time to wander through its quiet courtyards and
alleyways, stroll around the Town Gardens, or enjoy a vibrant mix
of traditional shops, pubs, bars, and cafes. The arrival of the
GWR in 1840 led to great expansion and the creation of the town
as it is today. There’s plenty to keep you busy including shopping
at the McArthurGlen Designer Outlet, a visit to Lydiard House
an elegant Georgian abode set in rolling parkland and you can
also discover the history of the Great Western Railway at STEAM
Museum. There is also a buzzing arts scene with many events
taking place throughout the year at venues including the Wyvern
Theatre, Arts Centre and Swindon Museum and Art Gallery.
Annual events include Swindon Fringe Festival (April) Swindon
Spring Festival of Literature and Arts (May).
The picturesque village of Tisbury has been a settlement for over
2,000 years. With an excellent choice of independent shops and
places to eat and drink, it also makes a superb base for walking,
riding and cycling. Annual events include the Village Fête (June),
Carnival (September) and ‘Tis the Season’ Christmas Fayre. Visit
Old Wardour Castle nearby and the medieval tithe barn at Place
Farm, now home to a stunning centre for the arts.
BOOK TICKETS ONLINE
Tickets for many places to visit and things to do in Wiltshire can now be
bought online - just visit visitwiltshire.co.uk/shop
n surrounded by
nd local
ngleat and
y reach.
GET SOCIAL
Share your Wiltshire stories using #timeforwiltshire
independent
d in amongst
Formerly Colston Hall, Bristol’s The Royal Crescent @VisitWiltshire Hotel @visitwiltshire & Spa
Wilton, Near Marlborough, SN8 3SW T: 01672 870594 E: enquiry@wiltonwindmill.co.uk
ON AND OFF
VisitWiltshireLtd
VisitWiltshire
ing Warminster
Find out how a Victorian miller lived and how the windmill works. Built in 1821 and set high in the
with its free largest North Wessex Downs, concert this is the only working windmill hall in Wessex. Picnic will area and site accessible open TRACK have not only unveiled their newly
all year round. Guided tours, refreshments and stone ground flour available during opening times.
This Map has been produced by VisitWiltshire.
and nature
Fabulous walking and great views.
EXCITEMENT
The information contained within is correct at time of going to press.
Chippenham
Wiltshire SN14 7EY
Whilst every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, VisitWiltshire can
Displays and fun for petrolheads of all ages
T 01249 782417
Admission: A £5, Ch FREE
n visit our
in autumn 2023 following a at the West Country’s Home of Motorsport refurbished castlecombecircuit.co.uk designer accept no liability for any suites, errors or omissions. © they
VisitWiltshire.
Open: From Easter to end Sep, Sun and Bank Hol Mon 2pm-5pm
ter-tc.gov.uk/
www.wiltonwindmill.co.uk
www.facebook.com/WiltonWindmill
This Map is also available to download from our website:
visitwiltshire.co.uk/download It can be made available in other formats
upon request.
et town that packs a postcard-perfect £48.8m punch transformation. Bristol are launching exclusive flights for
CC 62x92mm Wilt Living.indd 1 04/01/2023 11:54 Front Cover Photo: Marlborough High Street
Additional Photography: Anna Stowe, English Heritage, Jody Photography,
Neville Stanikk.
TURY,
EK,
SDAY
DAY *
since 1227
ber
Brough to you by
Bristol Beacon, Bristol
visitmarlborough www.marlborough-tc.gov.uk/visitors
Discover Pewsey Vale
One day or multi-day
walking & cycling itineraries
in the heart of the
north wessex downs
eat ~ drink ~ shop ~ stay
www.visitpewseyvale.co.uk
tranquil ~ spiritual ~ ancient
Ludgershall Castle
HERE YOU CAN TOUCH
AND FEEL THE PAST
Beacon has undergone a complete
refurbishment and redevelopment,
turning the venue into one of
Europe’s best performance and
music learning spaces.
Waterways, too, were vital to the Wiltshire economy in years gone by
and the Kennet & Avon Canal runs right across the centre of the county.
During the Industrial Revolution it was a key means of transport for goods
and materials. Now it makes a peaceful way to enjoy Wiltshire’s timeless
scenery.
In the east of the county the Canal runs through the lush meadows and
downland of the Vale of Pewsey. This tranquil area makes a great base
for walking, cycling and horse riding. At the heart of the Vale is the village
of Pewsey with its Heritage Centre and statue of Alfred the Great, while
Crofton Beam Engines and Wilton Windmill can be visited nearby
The historic market town of Devizes also stands on the Kennet & Avon
Canal, at the top of Caen Hill Locks. Rising 237 feet over two miles, this
continuous flight of 29 locks is one of the longest in the country. Home to
both Wiltshire Museum and Wadworth Brewery, the town has kept its
character, with many small, family-run businesses and a traditional market.
Wiltshire’s history has been thousands of years in the making
and our museums showcase outstanding exhibits of national
importance. Neolithic, Bronze Age and Iron Age. Roman, Norman
and Saxon. These and later civilisations have all left their mark,
bequeathing tangible connections with the past.
The friendly market town of Highworth stands on a hill at the
gateway to the Cotswolds, its picturesque streets and alleyways
lined with bustling shops and places to eat and drink. With its
origins in medieval times, Highworth is particularly noted for its
fine Queen Anne and Georgian architecture. There is a wealth of
history to discover, and a Town Crier to keep you up to date with
what is going on.
Were you to delve into the Domesday Book of 1086 you would
find a listing for Ludgershall, a small town on the eastern
ON AND OFF
TRACK
EXCITEMENT
Chippenham
Displays and fun for petrolheads of all ages
at the West Country’s Home of Motorsport
CC 62x92mm Wilt Living.indd 1 04/01/2023 11:54
Historic Abbey • Walks •
Unique shops • Arts •
Museum • Great places
to eat, drink & stay
www.exploremalmesbury.com
www.discovermalmesbury.life
@malmesburylife
For more inspiration go to visitwiltshire.co.uk/what’s-on
Historic Abbey • Walks • Guests who take to the skies can
Unique shops • Arts •
Pewsey Wharf
JOURNEY THROUGH TIME
Avebury
hotel gardens.
www.visit-corsham.co.uk
edge of Salisbury Plain. Dating from the late 11th century,
Ludgershall Castle was originally a royal hunting lodge; today
the Castle’s ruins are in the care of English Heritage. From the
castle grounds there are splendid views, and local walks to
nearby Collingbourne Woods.
Swindon was a small market town mentioned in the Domesday
Book. This original settlement is now known as Old Town. Here
you can take time to wander through its quiet courtyards and
alleyways, stroll around the Town Gardens, or enjoy a vibrant mix
of traditional shops, pubs, bars, and cafes. The arrival of the
GWR in 1840 led to great expansion and the creation of the town
as it is today. There’s plenty to keep you busy including shopping
at the McArthurGlen Designer Outlet, a visit to Lydiard House
an elegant Georgian abode set in rolling parkland and you can
also discover the history of the Great Western Railway at STEAM
Museum. There is also a buzzing arts scene with many events
taking place throughout the year at venues including the Wyvern
Theatre, Arts Centre and Swindon Museum and Art Gallery.
Annual events include Swindon Fringe Festival (April) Swindon
Spring Festival of Literature and Arts (May).
The picturesque village of Tisbury has been a settlement for over
2,000 years. With an excellent choice of independent shops and
places to eat and drink, it also makes a superb base for walking,
riding and cycling. Annual events include the Village Fête (June),
Carnival (September) and ‘Tis the Season’ Christmas Fayre. Visit
Old Wardour Castle nearby and the medieval tithe barn at Place
Farm, now home to a stunning centre for the arts.
Royal Crescent, Bath
MADE IN WILTSHIRE
Many Wiltshire towns owe their modern-day prosperity to the production of
woollen broadcloth in centuries past. With the exception of Wilton Carpets,
the textile industry is long gone, but outstanding examples of industrial
architecture remain. Perched on the edge of the Cotswolds is the charming
honey-coloured gem of Bradford on Avon, renowned for its stylish shops
and restaurants. Evidence of its textile heritage can be found in the 19th
century cloth mills flanking the river bank, and former weavers’ cottages lining
the hill above. Visit the Saxon Church, the 14th century Tithe Barn and the
ancient Town Bridge. Then take a relaxing narrowboat trip on the Kennet &
Avon Canal. With events taking place all year round you can take part in the
Walking Festival (September), check out the Food & Drink Festival (June) or
enjoy an outstanding performance at Wiltshire Music Centre. Alex Moulton
Charitable Trust (The Hall) is a hidden gem in central Bradford on Avon.
Historically significant for its connection to the industrial trade, it has had a
variety of purposes including that of a family home, a storage space for wool,
accommodation for factory workers, and an officer’s mess.
Just outside Bradford on Avon is Iford Manor Gardens, featuring romantic
Italianate terraces cut into the hillside, evokes an Edwardian version of
Tuscany.
Thanks to the wool trade and the quarrying of golden Bath stone, Corsham
developed from Saxon
origins into a prosperous
town. The historic High
Street is lined with
properties from the
16th, 17th and 18th
centuries, many of which
are now home to quirky,
independent shops.
Taste of Corsham Food Festival
You’ll find a choice of
characterful places to
eat and drink, as well as
Bradford on Avon
Bath Abbey is moving from past to
SHROUDED IN MYSTERY, STEEPED IN LEGEND
Wiltshire has been a special place for a very long time and our World
Heritage Site stands testament to the ages. On a misty morning at Avebury
you can understand the appeal this sacred place held for our ancestors. Here,
a massive outer bank and ditch surround the world’s largest prehistoric stone
circle which, in turn, encloses two smaller stone circles and part of the village.
Just a few miles away, set in the beautiful countryside of the North Wessex
Downs, lies the market town of Marlborough. Today, this handsome former
staging post has evolved into a stylish and cosmopolitan town. The wide High
Street is lined with characterful old buildings housing an array of high quality
shops, pubs and restaurants, and there are plenty of riverside parks and green
spaces to enjoy. The town’s busy events calendar includes the ever-popular
Marlborough College Summer School (July-August) and colourful Music
and Literature Festivals (September). Don’t miss The Merchant’s House,
a glorious restoration dating from 1653.
If you stand on Salisbury Plain at sunrise or sunset it’s easy to see why the
ancient Britons believed Stonehenge was special. Even today, visitors from
around the world make the pilgrimage here to marvel at one of the most iconic
wonders in the world. Among its many unique features is its orientation on
the rising and setting sun, but why it was built in this way remains a mystery
to this day.
Marlborough
Wiltshire SN14 7EY
T 01249 782417
castlecombecircuit.co.uk
two in the hotel's own balloon.
Avebury
enjoy an afternoon tea afterwards,
while sipping champagne in the
BOOK TICKETS ONLINE
Tickets for many places to visit and things to do in Wiltshire can now be
GET SOCIAL
Share your Wiltshire stories using #timeforwiltshire
It’s time for
WILTSHIRE
@VisitWiltshire @visitwiltshire
VisitWiltshireLtd VisitWiltshire
This Map has been produced by VisitWiltshire.
The information contained within it correct at the time of going to press.
Whilst every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, VisitWiltshire can
accept no liability for any errors or omissions. © VisitWiltshire.
This Map is also available to download from our website:
visitwiltshire.co.uk/download It can be made available in other formats
upon request.
MADE IN WILTSHIRE
Many Wiltshire towns owe their modern-day prosperity to the production of
woollen broadcloth in centuries past. With the exception of Wilton Carpets,
the textile industry is long gone, but outstanding examples of industrial
architecture remain. Perched on the edge of the Cotswolds is the charming
honey-coloured gem of Bradford on Avon, renowned for its stylish shops
visitwiltshire.co.uk
and restaurants. Evidence of its textile heritage can be found in the 19th
century cloth mills flanking the river bank, and former weavers’ cottages lining
the hill above. Visit the Saxon Church, the 14th century Tithe Barn and the
ancient Town Bridge. Then take a relaxing narrowboat trip on the Kennet &
Avon Canal. With events taking place all year round you can take part in the
Walking Festival (September), check out the Food & Drink Festival (June) or
enjoy an outstanding performance at Wiltshire Music Centre. Alex Moulton
Charitable Trust (The Hall) is a hidden gem in central Bradford on Avon.
Historically significant for its connection to the industrial trade, it has had a
variety of purposes including that of a family home, a storage space for wool,
accommodation for factory workers, and an officer’s mess.
Just outside Bradford on Avon is Iford Manor Gardens, featuring romantic
Italianate terraces cut into the hillside, evokes an Edwardian version of
Tuscany.
Thanks to the wool trade and the quarrying of golden Bath stone, Corsham
developed from Saxon
origins into a prosperous
town. The historic High
Street is lined with
properties from the
16th, 17th and 18th
centuries, many of which
are now home to quirky,
independent shops.
Taste of Corsham Food Festival
Front Cover Photo: Marlborough High Street
Additional Photography: Anna Stowe, English Heritage, Jody Photography,
Neville Stanikk.
For more inspiration go to visitwiltshire.co.uk/what’s-on
You’ll find a choice of
characterful places to
eat and drink, as well as
Towns and Villages Map
attractions including the
350-year-old Almshouses
and stately Corsham
Court. Popular events
include the Walking
and Taste of Corsham
Festivals (June) and
the Peacock Arts Trail
(October) while
#timeforwiltshire
The Pound arts centre
is a thriving venue with
a year-round programme
of performances, exhibitions and films. In recent years the town has
achieved fame thanks to its starring role – as Truro – in the first series
of BBC One’s Poldark.
Trowbridge
Trowbridge – Wiltshire’s county town and a Magna Carta baron town –
has a history of weaving dating back over 1,000 years. The result is a rich
architectural legacy ranging from the late-16th to the mid-19th century.
Trowbridge Museum contains a fascinating collection relating to West
Country woollen cloth production, including working looms. Today Trowbridge
also boasts many independent retailers, quality markets, an Odeon cinema
and family restaurants, as well as a vibrant heritage and arts scene. Annual
highlights include the Active Festival (July), Country Fayre (September) and
Carnival Procession (October).
SHROUDED IN MYSTERY, STEEPED IN LEGEND
Wiltshire has been a special place for a very long time and our World
Heritage Site stands testament to the ages. On a misty morning at Avebury
you can understand the appeal this sacred place held for our ancestors. Here,
a massive outer bank and ditch surround the world’s largest prehistoric stone
circle which, in turn, encloses two smaller stone circles and part of the village.
Just a few miles away, set in the beautiful countryside of the North Wessex
Downs, lies the market town of Marlborough. Today, this handsome former
staging post has evolved into a stylish and cosmopolitan town. The wide High
Street is lined with characterful old buildings housing an array of high quality
shops, pubs and restaurants, and there are plenty of riverside parks and green
spaces to enjoy. The town’s busy events calendar includes the ever-popular
Marlborough College Summer School (July-August) and colourful Music
and Literature Festivals (September). Don’t miss The Merchant’s House,
a glorious restoration dating from 1653.
If you stand on Salisbury Plain at sunrise or sunset it’s easy to see why the
ancient Britons believed Stonehenge was special. Even today, visitors from
around the world make the pilgrimage here to marvel at one of the most iconic
wonders in the world. Among its many unique features is its orientation on
the rising and setting sun, but why it was built in this way remains a mystery
to this day.
Marlborough
Nestling in a loop of the
meandering River Avon is the
small town of Amesbury, just
three miles from Stonehenge
and close to the Neolithic sites of
Durrington Walls and Woodhenge.
Amesbury has a history dating
back to 8,820BC. Imagine what
life would have been like all those
thousands of years ago… think of
the stories this place has to tell…
then find out more at Amesbury History Centre (opening in 2023). The grave
of the Amesbury Archer – an early Bronze Age man – was discovered here in
2002. Today visitors can enjoy a range of events, including the Carnival (June),
Scarecrow Trail (September) and Christmas Market (December).
Nestling in a loop of the
meandering River Avon is the
small town of Amesbury, just
three miles from Stonehenge
and close to the Neolithic sites of
Durrington Walls and Woodhenge.
Amesbury has a history dating
back to 8,820BC. Imagine what
life would have been like all those Stonehenge
thousands of years ago… think of
the stories this place has to tell…
then find out more at Amesbury History Centre (opening in 2023). The grave
of the Amesbury Archer – an early Bronze Age man – was discovered here in
2002. Today visitors can enjoy a range of events, including the Carnival (June),
Scarecrow Trail (September) and Christmas Market (December).
Stonehenge
It’s time for
WILTSHIRE
Towns and Villages Map
visitwiltshire.co.uk #timeforwiltshire
Footprint Project, Bath
Bradford on Avon
attractions including the
350-year-old Almshouses
and future stately Corsham thanks to a pioneering £21
Court. Popular events
include the Walking
and Taste of Corsham
million Festivals (June) and investment project, Footprint.
the Peacock Arts Trail
(October) while
The Pound arts centre
is a thriving The venue with Abbey’s Trowbridge collapsing floor, a
a year-round programme
of performances, exhibitions and films. In recent years the town has
achieved fame thanks to its starring role – as Truro – in the first series
of BBC
precious
One’s Poldark.
part of Bath's Georgian
Trowbridge – Wiltshire’s county town and a Magna Carta baron town –
has a history of weaving dating back over 1,000 years. The result is a rich
architectural heritage legacy ranging from the has late-16th to the not mid-19th century. only been saved
Trowbridge Museum contains a fascinating collection relating to West
Country woollen cloth production, including working looms. Today Trowbridge
also boasts many independent retailers, quality markets, an Odeon cinema
and family from restaurants, as collapse well as a vibrant heritage and arts but scene. Annual given an ecofriendly
underfloor heating system
highlights include the Active Festival (July), Country Fayre (September) and
Carnival Procession (October).
powered by Bath’s famous hot spring
waters. There's also a brand-new
learning space, a newly refurbished
Abbey shop and song school for the
Abbey’s choirs to rehearse.
Stay in the know
Click here to sign
up to our monthly
e-newsletter
bought online - just visit visitwiltshire.co.uk/shop
16 GreatWestWay.co.uk

Britain’s
Greatest
Palace
Birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill
UNESCO World Heritage Site
blenheimpalace.com
partnerships@blenheimpalace.com
SEE WHAT’S ON
Registered charity number 1166164

TOP TEN
FAMOUS
FACES
BORN ALONG
THE GREAT WEST WAY
The Great West Way is a popular area for celebrities to reside in.
George Clooney has a mansion in Sonning, Orlando Bloom lived
in Henley on Thames where Phillip Schofield is still a resident,
Terry Pratchett lived in Wiltshire... there’s just too many to list.
What makes the Great West Way even better is our
star-studded ties who were born along the way from
royalty to internationally acclaimed actors and authors
18 GreatWestWay.co.uk

GreatWestWay.co.uk
19

KATE WINSLET
Famous for her portrayal of Rose in Titanic amongst
other big titles, Kate Winslet is a Reading girl at heart. Born in the
town in 1975, Kate grew up in West Berkshire where her parents
still live today, and went to school in Redroofs Theatre School
in Maidenhead. Kate has also appeared in the Divergent films,
Finding Neverland, The Reader and Steve Jobs. She has been
commemorated by the town with a recycling lorry named after her
called ‘Kate Binslet’, a name suggest by local people who recognise
her as a local treasure.
CARY GRANT
Born in 1904 in Horfield, Bristol, Cary Grant moved to
the US and became a Broadway actor and later on, signed to
Paramount Pictures. Grant was the first actor to be asked to play
James Bond on screen but turned it down, however the bond
franchise did use 3 other Bristolians – Caroline Bliss, Samantha
Bond and Naomie Harris as Miss Moneypenny. You will find a
life-sized statue of Cary Grant in Millennium Square in Bristol and
street art to commemorate him on Gloucester Road.
BILL BAILEY
Bill Bailey is a British comedian, musician, actor
and author born in Bath in 1965. He spent most of his
childhood growing up in Keynsham between Bath and
Bristol. Bill’s works include Never Mind the Buzzcocks, a
global tour of Bewilderness, multiple appearances in QI
and Have I Got News for You. Bill often returns to the
area performing at gigs and was awarded an honorary
doctorate from the University of Bath in 2018.
KATE HUMBLE
Famous on Britain’s television screens for her
love of nature and wildlife, Kate Humble is Great West
Way born and bred. Born in Wimbledon in 1968, Kate
grew up around Bray spending most of her time outdoors
with horses and in the countryside. She attended school
in Reading and then married husband Ludo Graham, a
television producer, in Newbury in 1992. Kate has filmed
many programs along the Great West Way including
Animal Park with Ben Fogle at Longleat.
20 GreatWestWay.co.uk

THE DUCHESS OF
CAMBRIDGE
The Great West Way is familiar with
England’s royalty particularly with King
Charles residing in the Cotswolds and
Henry VIII’s former home Hampton
Court Palace on the River Thames. The
Duchess of Cambridge is no exception
as she is a Great West Way resident
through and through. She was born in
Reading in 1982 and lived in Bucklebury
near Newbury where her family still live.
Catherine attended Marlborough College
in Wiltshire whilst she was growing up, as
did HRH Princess Eugenie.
MARY BERRY
The baking phenomenon that is
Mary Berry is another lady who is Great
West Way through and through. Born
in Bath is 1935, Mary moved to France
to train at The Cordon Bleu in Paris and
then returned to the Great West Way
to live in Henley on Thames. Mary has
received may accolades in her time but
our favourite ones include Freedom of the
City of Bath and an Honorary Graduate of
Bath Spa University.
IMAGES © SHUTTERSTOCK / STEVE VAS / FEATUREFLASH
MICHAEL BOND
Michael Bond, the author of the
international sensation Paddington Bear
was born in Newbury in 1926 and moved
to Reading as a young child. The story
of a bear from deepest darkest Peru was
first published in 1958 and since then has
sold a staggering 35 million copies, been
translated into over 40 languages and later
turned into a television series and a film.
JANE SEYMOUR
Jane Seymour was the ‘fairest of
all the king’s wives’ as she became Henry
VIII’s wife on 30th May 1536. She gave
the king a long awaited son but sadly died
from ‘childbed fever’. Born at Wolfhall in
Marlborough, Jane grew up in Wiltshire
then moved to Hampton Court Palace
to be with the King. After her death, she
was the only one of Henry’s 6 wives to be
given a queen’s funeral, and you can find
her buried next to him at Windsor Castle. →
GreatWestWay.co.uk 21

22 GreatWestWay.co.uk

‘Bristol girl Maisie
Williams nightclub
of choice in Bristol
is Motion and if she
was going to the
theatre anywhere
in the city, her top
choice is Bedminster.’
J.K ROWLING
The famous author of the Harry Potter series injects an
element of mystery into the Great West Way. Born in Yate on the
outskirts of Bristol in 1965, she used elements of the Great West
Way to inspire her writing and the settings for scenes in the movies.
Locations used during filming include Lacock Abbey which stood in
as Hogwarts and Professor Snape’s classroom during potion class
for Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone and Harry Potter and
the Chamber of Secrets. Virginia Water outside Windsor was used to
portray Hogwart’s Lake in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban
and Harry Potter of the Goblet of Fire. You can take a look at other
locations used in our recommendation – The Best: Places to pretend
you’re Harry Potter.
FIRST PAGE: KATE WINSLET. PREVIOUS PAGE LEFT TO
RIGHT: KATE WINSLET; BILL BAILEY; MARY BERRY AND
THE DUCHESS OF CAMBRIDGE. THIS PAGE LEFT TO RIGHT:
MAISIE WILLIAMS; J.K ROWLING.
MAISIE WILLIAMS
Bristol girl Maisie Williams shot to fame for her role as Ayra
Stark in Games of Thrones. Born in the city in 1997, Maisie grew up in
Clutton and attended Bath Dance College studying performing arts. As
well as Game of Thrones, Maisie has gone on to appear in Doctor Who
with 4 guest appearances. Her nightclub of choice in Bristol is Motion
and if she was going to the theatre anywhere in the city, her top choice
is Bedminster.
GreatWestWay.co.uk
23

WHAT’S NEW AT OUR
MUSEUMS
Travelling along the Great West Way is an incredible experience with
so much fascinating history and culture. Here’s a look at some of the
many wonderful museums that can be found along the path – including
the upcoming exhibitions and events you won't want to miss
24 GreatWestWay.co.uk

There are some really big, world-famous attractions
along the Great West Way, as well as magnificent
ancient abbeys and cathedrals, stately homes,
arboretums and nature reserves, interactive art
galleries and immersive museums. We take a look at what’s
new and exciting for you to see and experiences this summer:
LONDON & THE THAMES
THE BRITISH MUSEUM, CENTRAL LONDON
The British Museum was the first national public museum in
the world, and today is home to eight million objects. Here
you can discover the vast diversity of human cultures from the
dawn of human history to the present. Located in London, at
one end of the Great West Way route it is a great museum to
begin or end your Great West Way journey. Visit between the
4 May -13 Aug 2023 to see Luxury and power Persia to Greece,
an exhibition drawing on dazzling objects from Afghanistan to
Greece, exploring the story of luxury as a political tool in the
Middle East and southeast Europe from 550–30 BC.
THE NATIONAL GALLERY, LONDON
Founded in 1824, the National Gallery tells the story of
European art, masterpiece by masterpiece. From its home
in London’s Trafalgar Square, the gallery collects and cares
for more than 2,600 of the world’s greatest paintings, from
Renaissance Italy and by the French Impressionists. The
National Gallery welcomes groups to explore over 700 years
of wall-to-wall masterpieces. Visit to discover the history and
stories from their collection which is open all year round, or
join them for a one-hour, intimate expert-led tour of their
world-renowned collection.
STRAWBERRY HILL HOUSE AND GARDEN,
TWICKENHAM
Britain’s finest example of Georgian Gothic revival
architecture, Strawberry Hill House and Garden was
Horace Walpole’s 18th Century masterpiece. The property
is breathtaking both inside and out. Be sure to explore its
decorated corridors and furnished rooms before settling into
the garden café for a light treat. There are often book clubs,
heritage and twilight tours, quizes and more - plus you might
even like to get involved, volunteering as a sewing bee, choir
singer, community gardener or by becoming a member of the
book club.
WINDSOR & ROYAL BOROUGH MUSEUM, WINDSOR
TOWN CENTRE
Before leaving behind the Thames-side delights of Henry
VIII’s Hampton Court, historic Runnymeade, notorious
Cliveden and Royal Windsor, seek out the Windsor & Royal
Borough Museum, unassuming but full of interesting exhibits
illustrating the thousands of years of the settlement’s
existence and Royal patronage. Exhibitions include A Lost
Generation from Eton Wick, documenting a whole generation
who came of age in the early 20th century and had their lives
entirely transformed by the First World War. →
GreatWestWay.co.uk
25

TURNER’S HOUSE, TWICKENHAM
Sandycombe Lodge was where J.M.W. Turner went as his
retreat away from the London art world. The architecture of
this little building is quirky, reflecting Turner’s own designs but
also the influence of his good friend, John Soane. Many rich
stories have emerged during research into the years Turner
spent at Sandycombe, such as those relating to the Napoleonic
wars. Visit the museum to see the beautiful etchings from his
Liber Studiorum on display, several of them of them responding
to those troubled years when England was under threat of
invasion, along with beautifully crafted models of ships,
variations on those which Turner had here.
THE HISTORY ON WHEELS MUSEUM, ETON WICK,
WINDSOR
You will find an absorbing, privately-owned collection of civilian
and military motor vehicles and militaria at The History on
Wheels Museum. As a bonus, there’s also an all-encompassing
exhibition of Princess Diana memorabilia, painstakingly
assembled and, reputedly, second only to the Althorp
collection. Plus don’t miss the Air Raid Shelter from 1943.
BERKSHIRE
MAIDENHEAD HERITAGE CENTRE, MAIDENHEAD
At the Maidenhead Heritage Centre you can both trace the
two thousand years of the town’s history and, unforgettably
for enthusiasts of all ages, ‘fly’ in a WWII Spitfire simulator.
In its permanent and temporary exhibitions, Maidenhead
Heritage Centre tells the story of the town and its
relationships to older nearby villages and towns (there was
a Roman villa at Cox Green and Cookham and Bray were
recorded in the Domesday Book).
READING MUSEUM, READING
The Reading Museum is full of fascinating regional history
and artefacts, a 70-metre long, woven replica of the famous
Bayeux Tapestry and the Huntley & Palmer exhibition,
reflecting on the 150 years of local biscuit manufacture.
Highlight for 2023 is the Discovering Untold Histories
exhibition showing until 10 June 2023. Created by
communities participating in Reading's High Street Heritage
Action Zone, this display showcases some of their creative
collaborations, telling the story of how local people and
artists are responding to the vibrant everyday life, rich cultural
diversity and fascinating untold stories of our streets.
THE MUSEUM OF ENGLISH RURAL LIFE, READING
The Museum of English Rural Life is where agriculture, through
the ages, is brilliantly brought to life with interactive exhibits
as well as comprehensive displays of implements, machinery
and vehicles, and the Abbey Galleries are a great introduction
to exploring the ruins of Reading Abbey and finding out more
about Henry I, England’s last ‘unfound’ king. Don’t miss the
Country Crafts Weekend 3 June - 4 June 2023 where you can
explore the museum and see demonstrations of rural, rare and
disappearing crafts demonstrated by their volunteers.
WEST BERKSHIRE MUSEUM, NEWBURY
The West Berkshire Museum is a treasure trove of information
and exhibits illustrating the origins of the county and its
people. Housed in two of Newbury’s best loved historic
buildings - the 17th century Cloth Hall and the old Granary/
Corn Stores in the Wharf. The permanent exhibition ‘Lives and
Landscapes’ tells the story of West Berkshire. The second floor
galleries host a series of special exhibitions so there is always
something new to see along with a year round program of
events and family activities.
STEAM, SWINDON
Moving forward in time, the history of 19th and 20th-century
steam railways is retold at STEAM, the Museum of the Great
Western Railway. Be sure not to miss the Swindon Railway
26 GreatWestWay.co.uk

Festival returning to STEAM on the 9 and 10 September 2023.
Here you can experience the amazing detail of over 20 of
the UK’s finest model railway layouts that will be uniquely
displayed alongside iconic Swindon-built locomotives. You’ll
also see new special exhibitions, unique trade stands and
modelling demos.
SHAW HOUSE, NEWBURY
Shaw House was built by a Newbury clothier in 1581 and
retains much of its original Tudor architecture - it is one of
the best preserved Elizabethan mansions in England. Over
the centuries Shaw House has welcomed royalty, seen action
during the Civil War, housed soldiers during World War II and
schooled generations of local children. The House offers a year
round programme of events and family activities including the
Spring Food and Craft Fair on the 2 April 2023. Visit on this
day and you can explore the house and browse over 60 stalls
offering artisan food, drink and locally produced crafts, giving
you the perfect opportunity to shop for unique gifts and treats.
THE RIVER & ROWING MUSEUM, HENLEY ON THAMES
This stunning museum is situated in the picturesque town of
Henley on Thames and housed in an award-winning building,
designed by the acclaimed architect Sir David Chipperfield.
Located on the banks of the river, the museum explores
the River Thames, the international sport of rowing and the
town of Henley. The Museum hosts a lively programme of
temporary and visiting exhibitions, working with partners such
as the National Portrait Gallery, the V&A and the Hayward
Gallery in London. 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.
WILTSHIRE
STONEHENGE AND AVEBURY, SALISBURY
Starting with the world-famous, it could be argued that a trip
along the Great West Way isn’t complete without visiting the
world-famous Stonehenge. And, new for 2023 is the Circles of
Stone: Stonehenge and Prehistoric Japan exhibition. Standing
impressively amongst the Salisbury Plain, this prehistoric
monument welcomes visitors from all around the globe and
has done for centuries. For a more personal experience of the
monstrous stones visit between the months of December and
August to see them up close with a Stone Circle Experience.
Available outside regular visiting hours, here you will get the
unique opportunity to capture the fascinating statues within a
much quieter setting. Plus, don’t miss the nearby secret stones
of Avebury - 4,000 years of history you never knew existed.
WILTSHIRE MUSEUM, DEVIZES
Negotiating the pretty lanes of the Vale of Pewsey brings the
happy traveller to Devizes, home of the Wiltshire Museum,
telling the 500,000 years story of the county through its
award-winning galleries, exhibits, high-quality graphics and
striking reconstructions. Take part in a day course of Stone
Carving with Andrew Ziminski on Saturday 27 May and
23 September 2023. This one-day workshop is perfect for
beginners looking to pick up the basic skills required to carve
stone. The Bath stone used is easy to carve, and you will be
able to take it home with you. Take some time here to also
stop in at the independent craft brewers, Wadworth Brewery.
CROP CIRCLE EXHIBITION & INFORMATION CENTRE,
VALE OF PEWSEY, WILTSHIRE
If you have ever wanted to learn about crop circles or to
meet crop circle enthusiasts to share thoughts with then The
Crop Circle Exhibition & Information Centre based at the
Honeystreet Mill Café in the Vale of Pewsey is the place to go.
The multi-media exhibition, which was initially created for →
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27

the Wiltshire Museum, features key facts about the crop circle
phenomenon and mixes it with stunning photography. At the
attached Crop Circle Information Centre, be sure to read the
latest up-to-date crop circle reports and visit between 15 June
- 15 August 2023 to enjoy a personal guided exhibition Tour &
High Tea.
TROWBRIDGE MUSEUM, TROWBRIDGE
In Wiltshire’s county town, 1000 years of the town’s history
comes to life at the Trowbridge Museum, which recently
underwent a multi-million-pound expansion, which saw the
museum double in size for its re-opening! The museum offers
an insight into the rich textile-related heritage in the heart of
the town including how Trowbridge was shaped by the scale
of production and quality of its West of England woollen cloth
and became the county town of Wiltshire. Visit before the 29
April 2023 to see the In Focus Photography Showcase of work
by award winning photographers Sheri O’Reilly, Sue McDine
and Roy McDine.
FOX TALBOT MUSEUM AT LACOCK, LACOCK VILLAGE
In the picture-perfect village of Lacock you will find National
Trust’s Lacock Abbey and Fox Talbot Museum and Village.
Here, in 1835, William Fox Talbot created the world’s first
photographic negative, and so it is only proper that the
Museum of Photography is established here. New for 2023
the Fox Talbot Museum is holding Mandy Barker's Plastic Soup:
Photography Exhibition until 23 April 2023 where the work of
award-winning photographer, Mandy Barker, created to raise
awareness of marine plastic pollution will be on display. You
might also enjoy combining your trip to the nearby market
town of Corsham, home to two more museums, a moving
historical experience in the original 17th century Corsham
Schoolroom and Almshouse and The Pound Arts Centre, a
North Wiltshire hub for the performing and visual arts.
THE CROFTON BEAM ENGINES, MARLBOROUGH
Discover a pair of remarkable survivors from the early days
of the Industrial Revolution. The Crofton Beam Engines were
built over 200 years ago to maintain water levels in the nearby
Kennet & Avon Canal and, amazingly, those great steam
engines are still in working order, doing the job for which they
were designed!
BOSCOMBE DOWN AVIATION COLLECTION, OLD
SARUM, SALISBURY
If historic aeroplanes are a ‘must-see’ for you or your children,
you need look no further than the Boscombe Down Aviation
Collection, where cockpits are mostly open, and you can sit in
and use the controls. Exhibits of national importance including
the unique Sea Harrier XZ 457 and the rare Comit C Mk 2
Sagittarius, and the museum is proud to have the most fast jet
cockpits available to sit in than anywhere else in the UK.
REME MUSEUM, CHIPPENHAM
Since its formation in 1942, the Corps of Royal Electrical and
Mechanical Engineers has been the driving force of the British
Army and the inspiring story of the unit is told at the REME
Museum through its collections of armoured vehicles and
weaponry and child-friendly interactive displays. Don’t miss
Wartime Britain between the 13-14 May 2023 - an amazing
weekend exploring the vehicles, weapons and military life
experienced by many during World War II.
28 GreatWestWay.co.uk

Private day tours from Bath in a luxury vehicle with Matt
For tours & prices go to galahadtours.co.uk

Tour buses
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& Salisbury
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experience the
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onboard commentary
as we guide you through the glorious landscape.
Available in 10 languages
Photo- English Heritage
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CHIPPENHAM MUSEUM & HERITAGE CENTRE,
CHIPPENHAM
Set in an immaculate 18th-century townhouse and relating
the story of the town’s development since the prehistoric era
Chippenham Museum & Heritage Centre is well worth a visit
when exploring the charming Georgian town of Chippenham.
ATWELL-WILSON MOTOR MUSEUM, CALNE
From unique classic cars and motorcycles to the rarer gems
of vintage racecars, visitors can expect an assortment of
remarkable vehicles that are simply oozing with nostalgia. It'll
be a chance to marvel at some truly remarkable relics from
motoring's illustrious past. Plus, don’t miss their annual Classic
Vehicle Show on the 9 July 2023.
BATH AND BRISTOL
AMERICAN MUSEUM & GARDENS, BATH
Housed in a fine Georgian manor house with outstanding
views over the Limpley Stoke Valley on the edge of Bath
next to the University, the American Museum takes you on
a journey through American history, with its remarkable
collection of folk, decorative arts and cultural objects. The only
museum of Americana outside of the United States, it was
founded to bring American history and cultures to the people
of Britain and Europe. Each year, special temporary exhibitions
are on display in their Exhibition Gallery. Don’t miss America In
Crisis showing from 11 March – 4 July 2023, a major American
photography exhibition exploring social change in the US
through the lens of a diverse group of artists. This captivating
exhibition features over 80 photographs by 39 top American
artists, from the 1960s till today.
THE HOLBURNE MUSEUM, BATH
There’s a superb collection of fine and decorative arts to
be viewed at the Grade 1-listed The Holburne Museum,
who describe themselves as 'Changing Lives through Art',
by bringing the enjoyment of art to people of all ages and
from every walk of life. The Holburne was founded in 1882
with the gift of Sir William Holburne’s collection of 16th and
17th century Italian and Dutch paintings, silver, sculpture,
furniture, porcelain and diverse objets d’art of national
and international significance. That founding gift has been
augmented with a collection of 18th century paintings by
such artists as Gainsborough, Lawrence, Ramsay, Stubbs
and Zoffany. Set within the historic Sydney Pleasure
Gardens, The Holburne has secured a national reputation
as an outstanding museum which holds critically acclaimed
exhibitions. Don’t miss exhibitions for 2023 include a new
major exhibition looking at the role of portraiture in the
process of marriage in the Renaissance of Northern and
Southern Europe, Painted Love: Renaissance Marriage
Portraits at The Holburne, from 26 May – 1 October 2023
JANE AUSTEN CENTRE, BATH
Celebrating Bath’s most famous resident, The Jane Austen
Centre offers a snapshot of life during Regency times and
explores how living in this magnificent city affected Jane
Austen’s life and writing. ‘Live’ Guides, costume, film, superb
giftshop and an authentic period atmosphere await you,
and don't forget to visit the Regency themed Tea Rooms on
the 2nd floor for a pot of real leaf tea and a slice of home
made cake with splendid rooftop views over the city. Plus
don't miss the Jane Austen Festival taking place from the
8-17 September 2023 - Ten wonderful days of celebrating all
things Austen in the beautiful city of Bath. →
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NO.1 ROYAL CRESCENT, BATH
Take a look beyond the Crescent's famous Palladian facade
and see what life was like for the wealthy and their servants
in eighteenth-century Bath with a wander inside No. 1 Royal
Crescent. Built between 1767 and 1774 to the designs of the
architect John Wood the Younger, the Royal Crescent is justly
considered one of the finest achievements of eighteenthcentury
urban architecture, and represents the highest point
of Palladian architecture in Bath. No. 1 was the first house
to be built in the Crescent, and originally provided luxury
accommodation for the aristocratic visitors who came to
take the waters and enjoy the social season. Each room is an
exquisite example of Georgian interior design with authentic
furniture, paintings, textiles and carpets.
MUSEUM OF EAST ASIAN ART, BATH
Incongruously placed just a stone’s throw from two of Bath’s
iconic attractions, The Circus and The Royal Crescent, the
Museum of East Asian Art is a hidden gem of a museum,
and the only museum in the UK solely dedicate to arts and
culture from East and South East Asia, with a collection of
over 2,000 objects. Spread over three floors of a converted
Grade II listed Georgian townhouse, the Museum is a
sanctuary of tranquillity in a busting World Heritage city:
ceremonial jade objects as luminous today as they were over
thousands of years ago sit alongside imperial household
items, Ming vases, bronze Buddhas, Chinese Blue and White
porcelain and other artefacts representing over 7,000
years of artistry and craftsmanship. Don’t miss Artists’
Reinventions: War, Revolution and the Art of New China on
the 4 May 2023. This illustrated talk highlights the career
transformations of some great wartime printmakers, from
the late 1930s, into the 1990s.
MARY SHELLEY’S HOUSE OF FRANKENSTEIN, BATH
In 1816, Mary Shelley wrote the world’s first science fiction
novel, Frankenstein, whilst resident in Bath. This new museum
is a world-first visitor attraction to explore the dark world
of Mary Shelley, bluring the lines between museum and
immersive visitor experience. The attraction is set in a Grade
II listed property, extending over four atmospheric floors
including a dank foreboding basement. One of the floors is
dedicated to uncovering her history and tragic life events and,
confront the formidable 8ft monster recreated exactly as Mary
imagined. Plus, don’t miss attempting to flee to your safety
with a nail-biting Victor’s Lair Escape Room experience.
VICTORIA ART GALLERY, PETER BROWN: BATH, BRISTOL
AND BEYOND
Aesthete’s will ove popping their head into the Victoria Art
Gallery in the centre of Bath. Don’t miss exhibitions for 2023
include Capturing Life: A Century of the New English Art Club
at Victoria Art Gallery from 21 January – 11 April 2023. The
exhibition showcases work by past and present members of
the New English Art Club, an elected society of contemporary
painters inspired by the visual world.
ROMAN BATHS, BATH
Bath was founded upon natural hot springs with the
steaming water playing a key role throughout its history.
Lying in the heart of the city the Roman Baths were
constructed around 70 AD as a grand bathing and socialising
complex. It is now one of the best preserved Roman remains
in the world. 1,170,000 litres of steaming spring water
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eaching 46 °C still fill the bathing site every single day. The
Romans believed that this was the mystical work of the Gods
but we now know that the water source, which comes from
the King’s Spring, fell as rain water around 10,000 BC. Visit
The Great Bath, the magnificent epicentre to the complex
and walk on the ancient pavements as the Romans did 2,000
years ago. The Great Bath that lies below street level can also
be viewed from the Terrace, which is adorned with statues
and shadowed by the great Abbey. Other chambers to
explore include the remains of the ancient heated rooms and
changing rooms as well as tepid and plunge pools.
BRISTOL MUSEUM AND ART GALLERY, BRISTOL
2023 marks the 200th year of Bristol Museum and Art Gallery
and the bi-centenary of their forerunner, The Bristol Institution
for the Advancement of Science, Literature and the Arts. 200
years of Bristol Museum & Art Gallery will be celebrated by
bringing together amazing objects and stories from their
collections through a series of themed seasons throughout the
year. As well as displays and interventions, the programme will
feature a number of high-profile events highlighting significant
objects and milestones in the museum’s history.
AEROSPACE BRISTOL, BRISTOL
Aerospace Bristol tells the incredible story of Bristol’s amazing
aviation achievements and offers the chance to step aboard
Concorde Alpha Foxtrot, the last of the supersonic jets
ever to fly. Learn about the earliest days of powered flight,
through to today’s cutting-edge aerospace technology. There's
aeroplanes, helicopters, missiles, satellites, engines and
interactive exhibits for all ages. The highlight of your day will
surely be the iconic Concorde, the world's fastest passenger
jet, where you can the step aboard inside, glimpse into the
cockpit, and walk through the passenger cabin.
WE THE CURIOUS, BRISTOL’S HARBOURSIDE
Due to a fire in April 2022 We the Curious has been closed,
however, the museum is hoping to re-open in 2023/2024.
Once it does there will be all sorts of different experiences and
exhibits for you to interact with, and experiments you can take
part in – a science centre and interactive space where everyone
can ask questions, play and test ideas out together. You will
lose yourself in over 200 hands-on exhibits, science shows and
activities and don’t miss contributing to scientific research and
journey to the stars in the UK’s first 3D Planetarium.
NATIONAL WATERWAYS MUSEUM, GLOUCESTER
Housed in the old Llanthony Warehouse in the heart of what
once was the bustling Gloucester Docks, the museum charts
the 200-year history of the docks and the Gloucester and
Sharpness Canal. The Grade II listed grain warehouse has
been renovated with fun, interactive exhibits, café and a
lovely tea room with a fantastic selection of picnic benches,
funded by the Friends of the National Waterways Museum.
Plus, during the spring and summer season, 45-minute boat
trips are available along the Gloucester and Sharpness Canal
on Queen Boadicea II, a Dunkirk Little Ship.
Click here to find out more
about the museums on
the Great West Way
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IMAGE © SHUTTERSTOCK

EIGHT
PICNIC SPOTS
ON THE GREAT WEST WAY
The Great West Way offers countless choices for an al fresco
lunch stop, with the opportunity to sit and enjoy stunning views
with a glass of fizz enjoying delicately cut sandwiches atop a
gingham rug. We hope you enjoy our eight best picnic spots for
experiencing that most English of pastimes in some of the
most scenic, historic and evocative places in England.
Words | Jules Mittra
1
WINDSOR’S GREAT PARK
Starting at the eastern end of the Great West
Way, and with the iconic Windsor Castle as a
backdrop, Windsor’s Great Park is essentially the
extensive grounds that make up King Charles’
back garden. And, in a coronation year, there can be few
better choices for a picnic stop in 2023. The grounds
are beautifully maintained, and as with all grand English
estates, are made up of various elements and features
making this a great place to spend a day or part thereof.
The best spot for a picnic however, is at the top of the
‘Long Walk’ – a wide, grassy avenue guarded by trees,
that leads right up to the castle. →
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2
RICHMOND RIVERSIDE, PARK IN
RICHMOND
Richmond Riverside is an open space that overlooks the
River Thames in the centre of Richmond Town Centre.
With many seats and terraced lawns, and in close
proximity to bars, restaurants and cafes, this is an ideal place
to relax on a summer day or evening. Watch the boats sail pass,
people watch while enjoying your picnic. Afterwards why not hire
a canoe or if you are feeling more adventurous go paddleboarding
under the oldest bridge, Richmond Bridge that spans the River
Thames.
3
THE KENNET AND AVON CANAL
The bucolic Kennet and Avon Canal opened in 1810 to
provide the cities of Bristol and London with a costeffective
method of transporting large quantities of
goods between England’s two largest ports at the
time. The canal winds through exquisite countryside, providing
numerous idyllic picnic stops as well as incredible walking routes
with some amazing pubs on the way. With so many spots
too choose from, it’s hard to pick a favourite, but at least one
contender would have to include the stretch around the villages of
Great and Little Bedwyn. Set in classic English countryside, dotted
with small yet striking settlements, sitting alongside the canal’s
banks, it’s easy to imagine oneself transported back to a bygone
time, well before the frenetic pace of the modern world was even
a thought.
4
LACOCK
The village of Lacock is iconic in its own right. A
medieval village set in the very southernmost part of the
Cotswolds, the village has been owned, maintained and
preserved by the National Trust since the 1950s. Having
featured in countless TV shows and films, including Harry Potter,
as well as almost every period drama you care to name over the
last 30 years, Lacock, and it’s grand house, Lacock Abbey, attracts
large numbers of visitors keen to connect with the past and the
screen. Head east to the footpaths that follow the River Avon as
it winds its way alongside the village and house, and you’ll not
only escape from any crowds present, but discover some stunning
picnicking and paddling spots with views across to the historic
house beyond.
36 GreatWestWay.co.uk

5
COMBE GIBBET, THE NORTH WESSEX
DOWNS
This hilltop location provides stunning views of the North
Wessex Downs countryside for miles around, and is an
ideal picnic stop. The name refers to a gibbet erected
on the site in 1676 to hang two locals, George Broomham and
Dorothy Newman. The two were having an affair and were hanged
for murdering Broomham's wife Martha, and their son Robert,
after the two discovered the lovers together on the downs. The
gibbet was erected there for the execution as a warning to others,
and a replica gibbet has remained there ever since. Ignoring its
dark past, the spot offers incredible views in all directions, and
is as popular with hang-gliders and para-gliders today as well as
walkers and beauty lovers.
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6
WILTON WINDMILL,
WILTSHIRE
Set high above the village
of Wilton, Wilton Windmill
has the most fantastic views.
The grounds are open all year round
and there are picnic tables you can
use or of course you can have a picnic
blanket on the grass. Plenty of space
for playing games!
It's ideal for families with children
or those with dogs as the site is very
secure with a fence all the way round.
And the views are just breathtaking.
IMAGE © SHUTTERSTOCK
7
SILCHESTER ROMAN CITY, HAMPSHIRE
West of London, beyond the belt of satellite towns that
orbit the capital, lies the relatively unknown remains of
Silchester. This walled Roman city flourished during the
Roman occupation of Britain from the 1st century on, but
was abandoned in the 5th or 6th centuries, once the Romans left.
Unlike other Roman cities, it was never reoccupied, and much of
the Roman walls, along with an evocative amphitheatre remain.
Walk along the walls to find your ideal picnic spot, then sit down
to enjoy the tranquil ambiance as sheep or cattle gently graze in
within the grounds of the once great city.
38 GreatWestWay.co.uk

8
DYRHAM PARK, NEAR BATH
The grand country house of Dyrham Park sits nestled in a
valley just north of Bath. Built in the Baroque style in the
late 18th century, the house is managed by the National
Trust and preserved as it would have looked in the 19th
century. The grounds are just as alluring as the house however,
and its deer park spreads along the edge of the escarpment that
defines the western boundary of the Cotswolds, providing views
down to the city of Bristol sprawled out in the distance, and across
the Severn Estuary to the hills of Wales beyond. The view alone
would be worth a picnic stop, but sitting amongst the well tended,
undulating estate grounds make it utterly irresistible.
9
AVEBURY STONE CIRCLE AND ITS
SURROUNDS
The World Heritage site of Avebury is one of the most
remarkable prehistoric wonders of ancient Britain. Set
just off the King’s Road linking Bristol to London (the
modern A4), Avebury and adjacent prehistoric remnants combine
to provide some of the most fascinating and inspiring prehistoric
remains anywhere in northern Europe. Climb atop the giant
earthen banks carved out using deer antlers 5000 years ago and
set your picnic down overlooking the stones and picturesque
village that has encroached into the circle over the centuries. Or,
make your way to Kennett Long Barrow, a large, prehistoric burial
chamber that rests on a nearby hill overlooking the prehistoric,
pyramid-like, Silbury Hill, in the valley below, to commune with
the ancients over pimms and sausage rolls.
10
CLIFTON DOWN, BRISTOL
Ending our list at the western end of the Great
West Way, in Bristol, is this gem of a spot. Sitting
atop the eastern edge of the Avon gorge, this
stunning park was established in the 1800s to
provide the well-to-do of nearby Clifton with a space to ‘take the
airs’. Clifton, a suburb of the the city of Bristol below, became the
residential district of choice for merchants and slave traders in the
18th century as Britain’s trade empire and its wealth exploded.
The suburb, set atop a hill close to town, but not in it, allowed its
occupants the space and elegance to enjoy the good life without
becoming caught up in the squalor and unpleasantness of the port
below. Today, Clifton Down affords views of the river and gorge,
as well as Isambard Kingdom Brunel’s iconic Clifton Suspension
Bridge, the first suspension bridge in the world, and is framed by
stunning Georgian architecture along its other sides making it a
remarkable spot for a picnic in a remarkable city.
GreatWestWay.co.uk
39

THE GREAT WEST WAY'S
TEA SHOPS
The Great West Way is an absolute delight for tea aficionados.
From traditional British-style tearooms to modern, hipster
coffeehouses, the vast array of quaint independent shops
along the Great West Way is certain not to disappoint
A
great way to experience the sights and sounds
of the Great West Way is to take a tour of its
many delightful tea shops. Whether you are
looking for an afternoon pick-me-up or a cozy
evening hangout, these establishments offer something
for everyone. From traditional Victorian tearooms with
freshly baked scones to modern cafés serving locally
sourced artisanal teas, these fabulous tea shops will
definitely satisfy your cravings.
One such example is the charming 7 Flowers &
Tea in central Reading, located on Cross Street. With
its homey atmosphere and colourful interior, one can
quickly immerse themselves in a delightful afternoon
tea session here, sharing a pot of speciality tea and a
scrummy cake, while taking in the tranquil atmosphere
and fresh floral aroma.
Those who prefer their cuppa with a side of artsy
vibes should check out the Total Health Cafe on Eastcott
Hill. This is an eclectic cafe and art gallery serving freshly
baked pastries and cakes, freshly roasted coffee, teas
and plenty of vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free food
options. There’s an incredibly friendly atmosphere and
plenty of seating options, including a garden courtyard
– perfect for those sunny summer days when you want
to soak up some sun whilst sipping your brew. They hold
art classes for adults and kids and for those looking for
something a bit different, they even sell CBD cookies
and chocolates, and stock a large range of CBD retail
products including balms, oils, vapes and even bath
bombs! If you’re in the mood for a spot of retail therapy
head to the nearby Designer Outlet Swindon give your
legs a rest at the wildly modern SOHO Coffee Co.
On the way out of London you’ll pass through
Richmond, which has all the cosmopolitan kudos of
the capital but in a more serene setting. Vegan and
vegetarian café Tide Tables is the epitome of this
gratifying fusion. Hidden under an arch of Richmond
Bridge, it leads out onto a garden with superlative views
of the River Thames. For something more traditional, →
40 GreatWestWay.co.uk

Newens Maids of Honour charts its beginnings back to
the early 18th century. It still sells its eponymous tarts -
apparently first made by Anne Boleyn for King Henry VIII
when she was a Maid of Honour. The cheese-curd-filled
puff pastry treats go down very well indeed with a hot
pot of tea.
Set in a unique grade II listed building by the Kennet
& Avon waterway in The Wharf, Newbury, The Teashop
by the Canal is a must-visit, blending the warmth of
Italian culture, with fine and splendid rituals of English
Cream Teas. There is plenty of outdoor seating to enjoy
the view, and watch The Kennet and Avon Canal Trust
boat trips on their lovely canal boat 'Jubilee' leaving
from the wharf next door.
Head north towards Lechlade and the River Thames
and enjoy a hot beverage at The Tearoom of Kelmscott
Manor, the iconic Grade I listed country home of poet
William Morris. The Tearoom is in an attractive old
stable barn adjacent to a tranquil tea lawn with plenty
of seating.
‘Bradford on Avon is a very pretty town making it a
perfect cuppa-lovers rest stop, with its canalside cafés
and eccentric tea rooms.’
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Further west, Bradford on Avon is a very pretty town making it a
perfect cuppa-lovers rest stop, with its canalside cafés and eccentric
tea rooms. There are some lovely options along the towpath, ideal if
you’re mid-hike or bike ride and want something as you go. On a sunny
day sit outside the Canal Trust Café with a made-in-the-West-Country
Marshfield Farm ice cream (try the salted caramel). On a less sunny
day, treat yourself to a marshmallow-topped hot chocolate at the
quirky, curios-filled café The Lock Inn. You’ll find lots of options amid the
alleyways in town, too, including Mr Salvat’s Coffee Room which, down
to the quill used to take your order, is happily ensconced in the 17th
century.
The Bridge Tea Rooms, meanwhile, are an ode to the Victorian era
complete with costumed staff. If you’re visiting with the kids, Woolley
Grange Hotel keeps everyone happy, serving both children’s and
champagne teas.
Walking the Kennet and Avon Canal towpath you’ll arrive in Pewsey.
A quiet, mystical sort of place with its own Wiltshire White Horse.
Stop for a cup of tea, and you’re bound to have some illuminating →
GreatWestWay.co.uk
43

conversations. The Apple Cart Café is a warm, welcoming place on the High Street,
while The Charlton Cat has a seriously tasty selection of cakes (try the rhubarb and
custard) and an outdoor courtyard with fabulous countryside views. And make sure you
pop into Marshalls Bakery to sample their legendary Wiltshire Lardy Cake.
Thanks to its handy location on the route from London to Bristol, the ancient town
of Marlborough has always attracted tired travellers (and their thirsty horses) in need of
a pick-me-up. Today it continues to cater to passing visitors with all sorts of interesting
cafés. The Polly Tea Rooms is perhaps the most well-known. First opened in 1912, it has
been ranked one of the best places to enjoy afternoon tea in the UK by The Telegraph.
It’s also had some very high-profile visitors over the years, from John Betjeman to
the Duchess of Cambridge, who used to pop in with her friends while a student at
Marlborough College. Go all out with Polly’s Luxury High Tea, which is everything you’d
imagined afternoon tea could be.
Add a touch of romance to your tea break in beautiful Bath. Have a dreamy Tea
with Mr. Darcy or perhaps some Crawfords Crumpets at The Regency Tea Room, part
of the Jane Austen Centre. Or try some of the city’s famous Bath Buns at Sally Lunn’s -
soft, sweet rolls created by a Frenchwoman attempting to create a treat reminiscent of
the brioche she missed from home. For a more contemporary experience, there are lots
of speciality coffee shops frequented by hip locals - Colonna & Small’s, Society Café
and Picnic Coffee are current favourites.
44 GreatWestWay.co.uk

One of the newest tea shops to open in Bath is
Sweet Little Things tea room and bakery, centrally
located, just next to Southgate. Hard to miss, the café's
'instagrammable' window is bedecked with pink flowers,
and is decorated inside with even more blooms, making
for lots of aesthetically pleasing corners perfect in which
to sit with a coffee and slice of cake. Take your pick from
their extensive menu, including brunch options such as
pancakes with a variety of toppings and acai smoothie
bowls, quiches and toasted sandwiches for lunch,
afternoon tea options ranging from classic to prosecco
and gin, and plenty of hot drinks, from coffee to their
own signature pink hot chocolates.
This atmospheric village of Castle Combe is a
destination in itself but also makes a lovely stop-off
point for a cup of tea as you explore the velvety hills of
the Cotswolds. The Old Stables, with its super spacious
lawn, is popular among cyclists and ramblers looking for
a place to stretch out and rest. Well-behaved pups are
very welcome too. Elsewhere, Sweetapples Teashop is
another perfect stop for cyclists located in the centre of
the beautiful historic Cotswold village of Marshfield.
Goring-on-Thames and Streatley are two places
that sit on opposite sides of the River Thames, scenically
linked by a bridge where many like to stop and soak
up the view. Both have some wonderful tea options.
Pierreponts Café is a favourite, serving up both a Goring
and a Streatley themed afternoon tea. The Village
Chocolate Cafe has a warm, community feel and was
a favourite of the late pop star George Michael, who
had a house nearby. Try The Royal Goring Cream Tea
- a traditional high tea with hearty scones, strawberry
jam and clouds of rich clotted cream and over on the
Streatley side, by the water, The Swan and its Boathouse
Deli & Cafe.
Head to the charming Wiltshire town of Malmesbury
on the edge of the Cotswolds for a relaxed break. This
lovely town has plenty of welcoming cafes, alongside
many independent shops and the stunning 12th
Century Abbey. For a sumptuous, 3-tiered afternoon tea
experience, the magnificent Whatley Manor is the →
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45

place to go. Nearby, Westonbirt, the National Arboretum
is a lovely option; a magical garden of trees where you
can recharge your batteries amongst the greenery before
enjoying a refreshing cuppa at the cafe.
For a truly unique tea break, stop at Avebury, which
has the unusual honour of being the only village within
a prehistoric stone circle. There are several places to
pause here, as you explore the largest stone circle in the
world. The Coach House café is right in the middle of all
the action, perfect for a quick cuppa and an energising
flapjack, while Avebury Manor tea room is more of a
sit-down-and-savour affair, where nothing but a full
cream tea will do. Avebury is also a fine spot for a picnic
if you want to sit outside and behold the mysteries of
the stones. Over at the Stonehenge Visitor Centre, you
can try Wiltshire’s very own blend of tea made by The
Wiltshire Tea Company.
Due to Hungerford’s relatively central location along
the Great West Way, it’s an especially convenient place
to stop and replenish your energy. The Tutti Pole is a cosy
hideaway for a cup of tea and a toasted teacake. While
the health-conscious café, Elaine, serves up colourful
salads and green juices. Then there’s Honesty Hungerford,
a bright and breezy space with onsite parking. Cobbs
Farm Shop and Kitchen is also nice to visit if you’d like
to sample some fresh, seasonal produce after your cup
of tea or coffee. It also has a pleasing garden terrace -
and a log burner inside for chilly days. Or why not treat
yourself and someone special to an Afternoon Tea at the
Peppermill Town House Hotel restaurant? Afternoon
Tea includes a traditional selection of finger sandwiches,
home-baked scones, colourful cakes and pâtisserie,
accompanied by freshly brewed tea or coffee and the
option to add some fizz to your afternoon tea with a glass
of Botter Prosecco or Collet Champagne to make the
occasion sparkle.
Not far from the Great West Way, amid the natural
splendour of the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural
Beauty, you’ll find Tetbury. With its cobbled steps,
listed buildings and elegant spire, the small town is
an enchanting place to spend some time. Café 53 has
a secret garden, and is close to the Prince of Wales’s
46 GreatWestWay.co.uk

Highgrove Shop where you can buy organic teas, including his own blend
of black tea. Meanwhile, Hobbs House Bakery is great for a coffee and a
sourdough sandwich.
These are just some of the many delightful tea spots on the Great
West Way, there are plenty more family-run establishments serving
traditional varieties to modern cafes selling novelty infusions and exotic
oolong blends to discover, so be sure to brew yourself some nostalgia
and include these heavenly tea shops into your next journey.
Click here to find out more about
exploring the cafes and tea rooms
on the Great West Way
GreatWestWay.co.uk
47

TEN BRILLIANT REASONS TO VISIT
THE GREAT WEST
WAY THIS SUMMER
Experience a range of exciting adventures when you
embark on a Great West Way journey in 2023
1
GET ON YOUR BIKE!
From family-friendly woodland paths to long distance
routes, the Great West Way offers a wealth of landscapes
for you to embark on your own cycling adventure. Whether
you have your own bike or are looking to hire, there are
plenty of places to help you make the most of your journey. Escape
to the rural parts of our touring route to capture picturesque views
from one of 3 Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the perfect way
to explore quintessential England at its prime!
Even our cities are two-wheel friendly, for example in
Bath there's the relatively new Two Tunnel path to discover.
This is a mostly flat walking and cycling route that gives you a
wonderful view of Bath's Georgian crescents before it leaves the
city behind. The path is a four-mile stretch of disused railway
line running through the Linear Park on the south side, to the
disused Devonshire tunnel at Bloomfield. The railway closed as a
through route in 1966 and physical work started on the new path
at Devonshire tunnel in 2010. The Two Tunnels route eventually
opened in 2013. Once out of the Devonshire tunnel you emerge
into a deep, wooded valley as the route leaves Lyncombe Vale and
heads underground into Combe Down Tunnel, and then over the
renovated Tucking Mill viaduct. At over one mile long, the Combe
Down tunnel is the longest cycling and walking tunnel in Britain and
features an interactive light and sound installation.
48 GreatWestWay.co.uk

2
SPEND A DAY EXPLORING
WINDSOR AND THE RIVER
THAMES
At nearly 30 square kilometres, Windsor Great
Park is the largest public park in the whole
of the UK. From ancient forests to formal gardens, as
well as the spectacular Virginia Water, there’s plenty
to discover. Windsor Castle is the oldest and largest
inhabited castle in the world and welcomes visitors
from all around the world each year! Discover the
state apartments, furnished with some of the greatest
works from the Royal Collection, or explore St George’s
Chapel, one of the most beautiful buildings in England.
Embark on a river cruise with Thames Rivercruise this
year and discover the picture-perfect surroundings
as you meander along the river Thames to stunning
destinations including Henley, Sonning and Streatley. →
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Did you know?
The Great West Way
route passes through
three Areas of
Outstanding Natural
Beauty. In London,
the southern section
of The Chilterns’
324-miles makes a
great start to the
route, The Wiltshire
White Horses and
the White Horse at
Uffington will be a
joy to spot ambling
in the North Wessex
Downs, or start your
tour from Bath and
follow The Cotswold
Way north, for 102
more, glorious miles.
3
PARAGLIDING OVER THE WESTBURY
WHITE HORSE
Imagine running as fast as your legs will carry you and
then jumping straight off a hillside. In Wiltshire you can
do just that, on a paragliding session above the beautiful
Wiltshire Downs. Conditions here are perfect for paragliding, with
reliable thermals above the undulating hills, and taking a tandem
flight with an instructor is the closest thing to flying like a bird you
can experience. You don’t even need to learn how to operate the
controls if you don’t want to, though taking the reins while mid-air
is the real thrill.
4
EXPERIENCE BRITAIN’S ONLY
NATURALLY WARM WATERS
The city of Bath was founded upon natural hot springs
which have continued to play a key role throughout its
history. Be sure to visit Thermae Bath Spa in the heart of
the city, where you can experience Britain’s only naturally warm
waters. Relax in the indoor Minerva Bath or enjoy breathtaking
views of the city from the open-air rooftop pool. →
50 GreatWestWay.co.uk

BEST DAY OUT IN BATH
americanmuseum.org
SPECTACULAR GARDENS • EXHIBITIONS • MUSEUM & SHOP
AMERICAN GARDEN DELI • EXCITING EVENTS

5
DINE AT A FLOATING RESTAURANT
ALONG THE GREAT WEST WAY
If you're looking for a unique experience, why not
consider dining on one of the Great West Way's floating
restaurants? From the Glass Room, which offers incredible
views over the picturesque Thames, to the Grain Barge, located on
Bristol's iconic Floating Harbour – you can savour a selection of
dishes whilst sailing along. You could also try Thames Rivercruise
for its popular afternoon tea cruises through Henley and Sonning
up to Goring and Streatley. Whichever one you choose, it'll be sure
to provide an unparalleled dining experience!
6
EXPLORE SALISBURY’S CATHEDRAL
Standing within the medieval city for over 800 years,
Salisbury Cathedral offers worship, welcome and
hospitality to all its visitors. Telling the tale of defiance
dating back to the early 13th Century and with a Spire
stretching to 404ft, Salisbury Cathedral is a masterpiece of its
time. Capture the true height when embarking on a behindthe-scenes
tour of the ancient roof spaces and base of the spire
where you will find incredible views of the city and surrounding
countryside.
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7
EXPLORE NEWBURY ON FOOT
AND GLIDING THE WATERWAYS
Alongside the Kennet & Avon Canal, the
largest town in West Berkshire, Newbury, has
a bustling high street with many interesting
shops, which include unique stores such as familyrun
department store Camp Hopson. Once you have
investigated by foot why not step onto a paddleboard
with a qualified Wild Paddle Berkshire instructor to
enjoy the picturesque views from the water, setting off
from Newbury lock. →
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8
CHALLENGE YOURSELF TO CLIMB THE
HUGE MAINMAST ON BRUNEL’S SS
GREAT BRITAIN
If you’re feeling brave this year, why not step into the
shoes of a Victorian sailor and climb the huge mainmast
of Brunel’s SS Great Britain! Secure yourself in the harness
provided before heading up the rigging to a viewing platform,
26 metres from ground level. Challenge yourself even further by
stepping out onto the main yard, 9 metres across from the ship
below. Once you’re up there, be sure to take in the incredible views
of Bristol’s harbour.
IMAGE © GETTY IMAGES/ISTOCKPHOTO
9
TAKE PART IN THE KENNET & AVON
CANAL RACE
Run the Great West Way in this non-stop 145 mile race
takes you from London into the heart of Bristol. The
race route follows easy to navigate canal, river and
railway paths. Competitors receive comprehensive maps of the
entire route which passes through some of the best of English
countryside. On the way runners descend the magnificent Caen
Hill flight of 29 locks, a drop of 237 feet in 2 miles, one of the
Seven Wonders of the Waterways and well worth seeing.
10
SWING
THROUGH THE TREES AT
SWINLEY FOREST
Make like a monkey at Go Ape where the Tree Top
Adventure high ropes course runs for 704 metres
(770yds) through the tall trees of Swinley Forest,
reaching stomach-churning heights of up to 13 metres (42ft)
above the forest floor. Strap on a harness (you can’t fall off) and
test that head for heights as you cross gaps several metres wide on
challenging crossings made up of swinging logs and rope bridges
– you’ll even get to fly like Tarzan on a rope swing. Each stage
ends with a zip wire – the longest is 160 metres (175yds) – and
a massive smile. See if you can make it all the way to black, the
most challenging stage of the course.
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EVENTS 2023
It’s a bumper year for Events in Malmesbury, so be sure to visit www.discovermalmesbury.life/events
for details of these and even more events!
April 7 to 9 - Easter at Malmesbury Abbey
April 22 - St George’s Day celebration
May 6 to 8 - King Charles III Coronation
May 27 to 29 - St Aldhelm’s Fair
July - Arts Festival (4 weekends)
July - Malmesbury in Bloom
27 to 30 July - WOMAD Festival
August 6 - Carnival Open Gardens
August 20 - Carnival Petticoat Lane
August 28 - Carnival Music in the Cloisters
September 2 - Carnival Procession
September 23 & 24 - Flying Monk Arts Trail
October 14 to 21 - Wessex Week
December 1 - Late Night Xmas Shopping
Plus walks, talks, family trails, art competitions, Abbey events, gallery exhibitions, craft fairs, markets, heritage days, cinema, wine tastings, cocktail
masterclasses, Malmesbury Live Arts – www.malmesbury-live-arts.org.uk Stay in touch here www.discovermalmesbury.life/events
For more information contact:
hello@discovermalmesbury.life
Malmesbury Town Council
Charter 880ad
@malmesburylife
Step back in time with a traditional horse
drawn boat trip or self-drive traditional narrow boat
hire on the Kennet & Avon Canal in Berkshire
Plus, new for 2023... Delightful Shepherds Hut!
Sitting pretty on a 10-acre Berkshire field near
Newbury, our Shepherds Hut offers cosy accommodation,
beautifully kitted out with stylish furnishings and a
wood burner to keep warm on cooler days

IMAGE © SHUTTERSTOCK

SPORTING EVENTS
ON THE GREAT WEST WAY
The Great West Way is bustling with activity this Spring and Summer, with
some of the best sporting events on offer. From cricket to motor racing,
rugby to athletics, mountain biking to rowing. And as well as all these
special spectator experiences, there are plenty of opportunities to get
active yourself too. Here are a few ideas to inspire your sporting break
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 at a game in Bristol,
which has multiple teams.
Catch a nerve-racking game of scrums and tries watching
Bath Rugby play at The Rec by the River Avon. The team’s
been going strong for more than 150 years, making it one of
the oldest teams in the world – and enjoy the 2023 Guinness
Six Nations England matches at Twickenham Stadium.
If you prefer your sport a little less boisterous, you could
go and see the Gloucestershire County Cricket Club, located
in Bristol to the north of the City Centre. They are proud
to be hosting both England Men and England Women's
international matches at the Seat Unique Stadium in 2023!
The Women’s Ashes Series (12 July 2023) is a highlyanticipated
home Ashes series with England Women taking
on Australia – two of the world's best teams going head-tohead.
England Men return to the Seat Unique Stadium 26
September 2023 to play Ireland. The mouth-watering fixture
is part of a three-match series which represents the last
chance for Jos Buttler's side to fine-tune their skills ahead of
their ODI World Cup title defence in October 2023.
You can also get ready for an action-packed match of
stumps and boundaries at Lord's Cricket Ground, London.
They will be hosting four international fixtures in 2023;
Australia, Ireland and New Zealand will face England,
including matches that form part of both the men’s and
women’s Ashes Series.
If you like high-octane sport, you can watch petrol heads
tackle high-speed laps and time trials, as well as experience
a white-knuckle passenger ride with a pro driver at the
wheel at Castle Combe Circuit, incongruously located in
‘the prettiest village in England’. Experience the thrill of
the engine roar as professionals battle it out on the circuit
throughout the 2023 race season. →
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‘At the UIPM Modern Pentathlon and Laser Run World
Championships not only do they compete in the five traditional
events – fencing, swimming, equestrian showjumping, running
and shooting – but there's a thrilling laser run finale.’
Pick a date in the calendar such as May Day Madness (1 May
2023), the Summer Spectacular Race Weekend (10-11 June
2023) and Carnival Race Day (15 July 2023). It will be a day
of exhilarating high-speed action!
Athletics fans will be delighted to hear the University of
Bath is hosting the 2023 UIPM Modern Pentathlon and Laser
Run World Championships (a Paris 2024 Olympic qualifying
event), between 21-29 August 2023. The UIPM Modern
Pentathlon and Laser Run World Championships are the
pinnacle of modern pentathlon competitions, showcasing
the amazing athleticism and courage of participants
from all over the world. Not only do they compete in the
five traditional events – fencing, swimming, equestrian
showjumping, running and shooting – but also in a thrilling
laser run finale, where athletes battle it out on an obstacle
course that combines elements of each sport into one
exhilarating challenge. It's truly remarkable to witness these
incredible athletes push themselves to their physical and
mental limits as they strive for greatness! Spectators can
expect to be taken on a captivating journey full of suspense
and emotion as champions are crowned.
Cyclists will love the annual Cotswolds 200 race taking
place on 1st September 2023. Cheer participants on from the
startline in Bath, or perhaps take part, joining them on the
epic ride yourself. The route heads north into the stunning
Cotswolds AONB, which as many mountain bikers know, is a
wonderful area to ride – created with the purpose of linking
the many fun descents this area offers. There are incredibly
over twenty-five significant downhill sections on this route
which of course means a lot of uphill too! The 200-mile
route covers the full length of The Cotswolds area there and
back. This isn’t a regular ‘there n back’ route, however – the
58 GreatWestWay.co.uk

eturn leg is on an entirely different route, you have been
warned! Riding through Somerset, Wiltshire, Gloucestershire,
Worcestershire, Warwickshire and back again, the many
highlights will include some of the best mountain biking
trails found in England. Not only is the riding superb, but the
views from The Cotswolds escarpment are also fantastic too
– especially looking west across The Severn Valley towards
The Black Mountains and The Malvern Hills.
There’s also the UKCE Wiltshire Classic cycling event
taking place on 18 March 2023. The route starts from
Salisbury Racecourse in Wiltshire, and crisscrosses through
the rolling countryside of Cranborne Chase AONB, an area
rich in history, passing through numerous Saxon villages
including Rockbourne, which is home to an Ancient Roman
villa dating as far back as the Iron Age to the 5th century.
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 on 22 June
2023. There are many other racecourses in the region too,
including those at Newbury, Windsor and Bath. And don’t
miss Barbury International Horse Trials in July, set against the
beautiful backdrop of the Marlborough Downs.
Henley-on-Thames is world-renowned for Henley Royal
Regatta, which takes place from 27 June-2 July.
You’ll find various other rowing events throughout the
year along the River Thames like Henley Women’s Regatta,
Marley Regatta (now at Dorney Lake near Eton) and Marlow
Town Regatta - a great one for kids with its family fun day,
Dragon Boat Festival and dog show.
If you’re inspired to have a go yourself, there are multiple
companies along the touring route offering horse riding and
rowing experiences. Explore Salisbury Plain on horseback, →
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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

stopping for a nice cup of tea and a biscuit
while you take in the scenery (see Salisbury
Plain Safaris). Or for an unforgettable time
on the water, have a gold, silver or bronze
rowing session in Henley-on-Thames with
Olympic rower Toby Garbett.
For something a little different, be
sure not to miss the World Shin-Kicking
Championships, 2nd June 2023, at the
Cotswold Olimpick Games in Chipping
Campden, just a short detour off the Great
West Way route. You might also like to
sign-up yourself for an event, there’s the
traditional King of the Hill games – this
involves a series of challenges including
jumping as far as possible from a standstill,
Spurning the Barre (an old English version
of the Scottish tossing the caber), Hammer
Throw and Putting the Shot. There’s also Tug
‘O War, a former Olympic sport, and back
in 2023 after a few years’ absence running
races.
For sporting matches you won’t be able
to experience live on the Great West Way,
including the 2023 Women’s FIFA World
Cup (taking place 20 July to 20 August
2023 in Australia & New Zealand), head to
Clifton sports bar Racks, a favourite Bristol
hangout for watching live sport – or soak up
the atmosphere at the Ashton Gate Stadium
Sports Bar – the biggest indoor pub screen
in the UK!
Did you know?
In 1971, Mollie
Gerrard became
the first woman
president of Bath
Rugby, and indeed
any rugby club
There are plans for a
new Rugby stadium
in Bath, with an
exceptional design
due to be completed
by 2025
GreatWestWay.co.uk 61

TOP 10 DAYS OUT
WITH THE KIDS
There’s plenty of choice along the Great West Way for family
days out, from splish-splashy water parks to wonderfully wild
safari parks. Here’s a look at some of the best attractions for some
unforgettable family fun

1
LONGLEAT, WARMINSTER,
WILTSHIRE
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 drivethrough
to the awe-inspiring sight of real-life
rhinos in the Big Game Park – it’s sure to be a
lasting memory. 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
are 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!
MAIN IMAGE © GETTY IMAGES / ISTOCK
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2
WINDSOR CASTLE,
WINDSOR BERKSHIRE
A castle always goes down well
with children excited to explore the
turrets and to look out at the view,
feeling like a king or queen. Windsor Castle
is the oldest and largest inhabited castle in
the world. It has been the family home of
British royalty for almost 1,000 years. Visit
the magnificent State Apartments and St
George's Chapel, one of the most beautiful
ecclesiastical buildings in England. The
Castle's State Apartments are furnished with
some of the greatest works from the Royal
Collection including paintings by Holbein,
Rubens and Van Dyck.
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3
BRUNEL’S SS
GREAT BRITAIN,
BRISTOL
Step on board an
extraordinary iconic
steamship – Brunel’s SS Great
Britain is the world’s first great
ocean liner, and the brainchild
of the most famous honorary
Bristolian, Isambard Kingdom
Brunel. Rescued from rust
and wreckage in 1970, and
since lovingly restored to her
Victorian hey-day, a visit to the
ss Great Britain allows you to
step back in time and explore
true stories from the opulent
First-Class to the cramped and
quarrelsome Steerage.
Each kitchen and cabin, dining
room and doctor’s surgery
emanates authentic sounds and
smells which bring the ship and
its history to life.
You can even step
‘underwater’ for a unique and
magnificent view of the ship
below the beautiful glass sea.
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4
LEGOLAND,
WINDSOR
Of all the wow-worthy family
attractions, there are a few big
ones you should be aware of,
and Legoland is one of them. 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 fairytale-themed rooms.
66 GreatWestWay.co.uk

5
AVON VALLEY
ADVENTURE AND
WILDLIFE PARK
Avon Valley Adventure and Wildlife
Park is full of farmyard favourites
including a zoo, children's playground, mini
train and go-karts. Make your visit extra
special with a VIP Animal Encounter and
watch the delight on your little ones' faces
as they get up close with the meerkats and
ponies. The Raptor encounter is a ‘roarsome’
experience for any velociraptor fan! Plus don’t
miss their end-of-season family water fight!
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6
KEW GARDENS,
RICHMOND, SURREY
For an unforgettable horticultural
experience, make a beeline for Kew
Gardens. For a quick and easy way
to see the vast UNESCO World Heritage Site
and save the children’s legs, hop aboard the
Kew Explorer Land Train, which will whizz you
around the main sites in around 40 minutes.
Current highlights of any tour include the
Palm House, built with a rainforest climate
to nurture the plant life brought back by
Victorian botanists; The Hive, an immersive
experience that echoes the life going on
inside a real beehive; and The Princess of
Wales Conservatory, which is packed with
all sorts of prickly curiosities from cacti to
carnivorous plants.
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7
HAMPTON
COURT PALACE,
RICHMOND
UPON THAMES
Kids will love a day
out at Hampton Court Palace
during their five-day joust in
the gardens which takes places
between the 2-6 August 2023.
Hampton Court Palace is one of
Britain’s most famous buildings,
and a surviving Tudor treasure
that was at the centre of court
and political life for over two
hundred years. Built to house
monarchs, their courtiers and an
army of servants, and designed
to impress powerful visitors,
this vast complex of buildings
contains over a thousand rooms
and is set within many acres of
stunning gardens and parkland.
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8
COTSWOLD WATER PARK
The term ‘water park’ doesn’t convey
the magnitude of this place, a short
detour from the Great West Way –
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,
bird watching and lovely off road cycle
routes. In fact, National Cycle Route 45 going
right through the Cotswold Water Park, on its
way from Salisbury to Cirencester. 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.
70 GreatWestWay.co.uk
IMAGE © GETTY IMAGES/ISTOCKPHOTO

9
WESTONBIRT
ARBORETUM
Just north of the Great West Way, Westonbirt
is well set up for young naturalists. The nice
clear paths and Treetop Walkway make
arboretum adventures easy, whatever the
season and there are 15,000 different species of trees
from around the globe. Keep an eye out for special
events and activities, too. Spring and summer are
natural highlights, with a confetti of pink blossoms
bound to put a bounce in your tiny tot’s steps.
Did you know...
There is access to all
on the Great West
Way with accessible
accommodation and
accessible things to
do along the route.
Click here to find
out more
GreatWestWay.co.uk
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10
NOAHS ARK ZOO,
BRISTOL
Visit Janu the elephant and over
100 species of big zoo animals,
including giraffe, lions, rhinos,
tigers and spectacled bears at this familyowned
zoo set on a working farm in 100 acres
of beautiful, peaceful countryside. Founded by
Anthony and Christina Bush, who have lived
and worked here together as dairy farmers
since 1962 when the original Moat House
Farm was part of the Tyntesfield Estate. Get
hands-on with giant tortoises, bottle-feeding
lambs and up close to the farm animals and
exotic animals, including llamas, camels
and wallabies. The children will also love the
tractor rides and playing in the hay barn!
Click here to book experiences!
Now is the perfect time to plan
your escape through real England on an
adventure along the Great West Way...
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Against the backdrop
of a renowned collection
experience critically acclaimed
exhibitions of historical and
contemporary art, lectures,
concerts, workshops and
events or indulge in our
Garden Café.
DON’T MISS
Alberta Whittle: Dipping below a waxing
moon, the dance claims us for release
Until 8 May 2023
Painted Love: Renaissance Marriage Portraits
26 May to 1 October 2023
Michael Simpson: Drawing towards Painting
6 May to 17 September 2023
Lucie Rie: The Adventure of Pottery
14 July 2023 George to 7 Shaw January 2024
A Corner of a Foreign Field
‘Without Hands’ The Art of Sarah Biffin
Édouard Vuillard
29 September 2023 to 14 January 2024
The Poetry of the Everyday
Gwen John:
Lauren
Art
Child
and Life in London and Paris
27 October The 2023 Art of to Illustration 14 April 2024
2019 HIGHLIGHTS
Against Rembrandt
the backdrop of a renowned collection
experience A Life critically in Print acclaimed exhibitions
of historical Henri and Matisse contemporary art, lectures,
concerts, Master workshops of Line and events or indulge in
our Garden Café
Great Great Pulteney Pulteney Street, Street, Bath Bath BA2 BA2 4DB 4DB
www.holburne.org
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

74 GreatWestWay.co.uk

SUMMER MUSIC
FESTIVALS
ON THE GREAT WEST WAY
Don't miss out on the incredible music festivals kicking off on the
Great West Way this summer. From dance fests like Glastonbury and
Boomtown to groovy jazz at Cheltenham Jazz Festival and folk legends
at End of the Road, you won't want to miss these festival gems...
GreatWestWay.co.uk
75

APRIL 2023
SWINDON JAZZ & SOUL
FESTIVAL
15 APRIL 2023
Following the success of the
last two years the Swindon
Jazz & Soul Festival is back
for its third consecutive
performance in 2023 - and
it is an absolute mustvisit
for anyone who loves
to get their groove on! It
offers a tremendous variety
of musical performances
and, the lineup changes
every year, so there's
always something new to
discover. Be sure to mark
your calendar now – with
last year’s acts featuring
British Jazz award winners,
and established soul
acts. Headliners included
international swing kings
from Ray Gelato and the
Giants, to The Soul Strutters
and Jonny Henderson.
BRISTOL FOLK FESTIVAL,
BRISTOL CATHEDRAL AND
ST GEORGE’S, BRISTOL
28-30 APRIL 2023
For nearly 50 years, Bristol
Folk Festival has been
enlivening this picturesque
city with its vibrant beats
and diverse sounds from
around the world. From
melodic folk tunes to
rowdy bluegrass, there’s
an exceptional line-up for
2023 that includes Lady
Maisery, The Eliza Carthy
Trio, Fay Hield, Angeline
Morrison and Nick Hart. The
opening night is on Friday
at Bristol Cathedral, College
Green, while St George’s,
Bristol forms the heart of
the festival over the rest
of the weekend, with the
nearby Bristol Folk House
hosting dance sessions and
upbeat sets. Keep your eyes
peeled for dance, singrounds,
sessions and live
interviews.
CHELTENHAM
JAZZ FESTIVAL,
GLOUCESTERSHIRE
26 APRIL-1 MAY 2023
Within easy reach of the
Great West Way you
can enjoy 6 days of live
music from international
stars at the Cheltenham
Jazz Festival, one of the
country’s best-loved jazz
festivals!
Featuring a bevvy of
talented jazz musicians,
the Cheltenham Jazz
Festival 2023 is sure to be
76 GreatWestWay.co.uk

an exhilarating experience
with boisterous bluesy
improvisations to sultry
swing sounds. Adding to the
auditory stimulation, visuals
and theatricals abound
with stylishly dressed
performers, stunning light
displays and captivating
dance numbers.
MAY 2023
BATH FESTIVAL, VARIOUS
VENUES ACROSS THE
CITY
12-21 MAY 2023
Bath Festival is one of
the most renowned
music festivals in the
country, with a storied
history and an unbeatable
atmosphere. From rock
to pop to classical, Bath
Festival ensures an array
of music and celebrates
books too - whether you're
an aficionado, bookworm
or simply looking to
experience some great
tunes. You'll be able to
witness amazing live
performances in unique
venues like hot air balloons,
historic Georgian mansions,
and open-air events under
the stars.
THE LECHLADE FESTIVAL,
LECHLADE, THE
COTSWOLDS
26-28 MAY 2023
Set in the beautiful
Cotswolds, a short detour
from the Great West Way
route, this multi-day
event is an unforgettable
experience and a must-see
for any music lover. From
live acts ranging from folk
to rock, there's something
to suit everyone’s taste.
The atmosphere is lively yet
welcoming, with delicious
food and drinks available
to enjoy while soaking up
the melodious sounds.
Venture into the beautiful
surrounding countryside
and explore serene riverside
paths - blissful tranquillity
perfect for soaking up
some much-needed
downtime. Then end
your day with a party
under starlit skies; with
such prodigal panache,
it promises to be one
heckuva razzle-dazzle
weekend!
DOT TO DOT,
BRISTOL, VARIOUS
VENUES ACROSS THE
CITY
27 MAY 2023
Dot to Dot has been
known to bring
the hottest new
emerging artists to the
spotlight, previously
spotting the talents
of The xx, Ed Sheeran
and Florence + The
Machine. The lineup
for 2023 includes
Yard Act, Alvvays, Beka,
Cryalot, Finn Foxell, High
Vis, Kofi Stone, Opus Kink,
and Yunè Pinku - and if
you’ve not heard of them
yet, the chances are they
will go on to be famous
around the globe. See them
first at this award-winning,
metropolitan festival.
LOVE SAVES THE DAY,
ASHTON COURT ESTATE,
BRISTOL
27-28 MAY 2023
Championing local acts as
well as attracting worldclass
artists, Love Saves
the Day is back in May.
Acts are to be announced,
but previous years have
seen the likes of Chase and
Status, Bicep and Kurupt FM
take to its stages.
CHIPPENHAM FOLK
FESTIVAL, CHIPPENHAM,
WILTSHIRE
26-29 MAY 2023
2023 marks 50 years of
the amazing Chippenham
Folk Festival – a community
celebration of folk music,
song, dance and arts. From
local talent to renowned
artists, this vibrant music
event provides a feast
for every musical palate,
whether that’s traditional
folk or cutting-edge
contemporary sounds.
And with its inclusive
atmosphere and charmingly
bucolic surroundings,
visitors often feel as though
they've stepped into
another world – one filled
with artistry, conviviality
and delight. →
GreatWestWay.co.uk
77

JUNE 2023
FORSET LIVE,
WESTONBIRT, THE
NATIONAL ARBORETUM,
GLOUCESTERSHIRE
8-11 JUNE 2023
Held in beautiful forest
locations, Forest Live is a
major live music series of
summer concerts across the
country. At Westonbirt you
have everything required for
a great night out, a relaxed
atmosphere, spectacular
backdrops and great music
from artists including Jack
Savoretti and Tom Grennan.
PUB IN THE PARK, ROYAL
VICTORIA PARK, BATH
16-18 JUNE 2023
Bath's Royal Victoria Park
is the perfect setting
for Pub in the Park, an
unforgettable musical
extravaganza where you
can enjoy toe-tapping tunes
against an idyllic backdrop
of stunning scenery. With
a plethora of top-notch
acts gracing the stage
and delectable food from
some of the UK's leading
chefs, the atmosphere will
be electric with vendors
hawking their wares and
families picnicking on the
grassy knolls. Its vibrant
energy is palpable and
captivating. Witness
up-and-coming talent or
throwback classics from
renowned artists – it’s truly
an idyllic way to spend an
afternoon.
GLASTONBURY FESTIVAL,
PILTON, SOMERSET
21-25 JUNE 2023
It is set to be as special
as ever this year with
Elton John headlining,
for what will be the final
UK show of his last-ever
tour. The Glastonbury
Festival is renowned for
its kaleidoscope of vibrant
music, art and cultural
experiences. From the
thundering basslines of
the Pyramid Stage to
the eclectic array of acts
performing at Shangri-
La, every year presents a
bewitching atmosphere.
But it's not just the music
and performances that
make this event so alluring
– there's also a palpable
camaraderie between
attendees that can't be
replicated anywhere else.
People come from near
and far to revel in this
ephemeral escapade,
forming lasting friendships
with those they share
their experiences with. To
immerse yourself in the
captivating spectacle of
Glastonbury is truly an
incomparable experience.
BRISTOL SOUNDS,
BRISTOL HARBOURSIDE
21-25 JUNE 2023
Another iconic set of dates
for Bristol live music, set
on the Harbourside is
Bristol Sounds in June.
Jacob Collier, James, and
The Levellers have been
announced so far, with
more hotly anticipated acts
to be confirmed soon.
WRDEUP FESTIVAL,
HIGHWORTH, WILTSHIRE
30 JUNE - 1 JULY 2023
Music lovers rejoice!
WrdeUppers will be able
to “Rock the Rec” again
in their own unique style
in 2023. Kicking off on
Friday evening as a warmup
before the one-day
festival with music and
entertainment. With bands
playing across multiple
stages throughout the day,
festivalgoers will be able
to hear a mix of sounds.
For those who prefer more
than just music, there'll also
be plenty of activities and
entertainment happening
at WrdeUp; from face
painting to impromptu
performances. There's even
a special kids' area where
younger guests can have
their own little slice of
festival heaven.
JULY 2023
CHELTENHAM MUSIC
FESTIVAL
8-15 JULY 2023
Cheltenham Music Festival
brings eight days of
performances and events by
leading international artists,
new talent and innovators.
Celebrating the very best
contemporary composition
alongside a feast of popular
classics. Celebrated since
its inception in 1945 for
championing new music,
Cheltenham Music Festival
is all about high-calibre
performances, magnificent
venues and a huge variety
of music – from symphonic
grandeur to the intimacy of
chamber music, and from
sublime choral experiences
78 GreatWestWay.co.uk

to brand new musical
adventures. With excursions
into world music, film,
dance, the visual arts and
the spoken word, it’s a
musically-centred cultural
banquet that has few equals
in the UK.
THE BRISTOL HARBOUR
FESTIVAL, BRISTOL
HARBOUR
15-16 JULY 2023
A distinctive and
unmissable spectacle, the
Bristol Harbour Festival
is a renowned event in
the cultural calendar of
Britain's beautiful port city.
Taking place annually since
1971, this music festival
brings together thrilling
performances from around
the world against the
stunning backdrop of the
historic harbour. From live
bands to DJs and buskers on
every corner, expect reggae,
jazz, hip-hop, folk, rock and
electronic. It's easy to see
why the Bristol Harbour
Festival has become such
a beloved tradition for
locals and tourists alike,
aside from musical acts,
the festival also features
theatrical shows, street art
installations, interactive
activities and educational
talks from renowned
speakers. What makes
the experience even more
special is the inclusive
atmosphere created by its
organisers. All visitors are
encouraged to get involved,
with many donning
traditional costumes to
celebrate their culture
alongside others.
WOMAD FESTIVAL,
MALMESBURY, WILTSHIRE
27-30 JULY 2023
WOMAD is a cacophony of
music, art, and culture that
makes for an unforgettable
experience. Every year
the festival invites locals
and visitors from around
the world to indulge in
its unique blend of artists
and genres - from reggae
and folk, to drum and bass
and hip hop. Alongside
live performances, there
are workshops and familyfriendly
activities too.
You'll hear stories being
told, rhythms resounding,
melodies meandering, and
beats bouncing off each
other. Get ready to explore
new cultures, be inspired
by creative expression,
and have your taste buds
tantalised by delicious food.
→
GreatWestWay.co.uk
79

READIPOP FESTIVAL,
CHRISTCHURCH
MEADOWS, READING
JULY 2023 DATES YET TO
BE CONFIRMED
Celebrating its 6th
anniversary this Summer
this new festival takes
place by the banks
of the River Thames
in Christchurch
Meadows. This
vibrant event has
been a mainstay
of the local
community and
is showing no
signs of slowing
down! From
obscure local acts
to internationally
renowned headliners,
the lineup always
offers something fresh
and exciting. The venue
itself is top notch too;
sprawling grounds with
plenty of shade provide a
pleasant setting for all day
dancing and merriment.
Even when the sun isn't
shining, the undying
energy of the crowd keeps
things pumping until late
into the night. Previously
featuring stars and charttoppers
including The Orb,
Sleeper, Audio Bullys and
Cassetteboy.
LARMER TREE FESTIVAL,
CRANBORNE CHASE,
DORSET
JULY 2023 DATES YET TO
BE CONFIRMED
Larmer Tree Festival is an
annual music extravaganza
held in the rolling hills of
Dorset, just a short detour
from the Great West Way.
It's a unique experience,
combining diverse musical
genres, delicious food
and drink and plenty of
activities for adults and
children alike. There is a
vibrant atmosphere with
folk singers to DJs playing
eclectic beats, there's
something for everyone
to enjoy. The main arena
features headliners that
attract crowds from all
around, while smaller stages
showcase up-and-coming
artists with local and
international flavour. What
really sets Larmer Tree apart
is its combination of artistry
and entertainment; it has
a variety of quirky stalls
selling handmade crafts,
street performers capturing
attention, colourful parades
and interactive workshops -
it’s a utopia of both culture
and fun!
AUGUST 2023
WILDERNESS FESTIVAL,
CORNBURY PARK,
OXFORDSHIRE
3-6 AUGUST 2023
Not far from the Great
West Way, the Wilderness
Festival is a magical event
held in the Oxfordshire
countryside every summer.
It's an oasis of eclectic
music, inspired talks and
discussions, luxurious feasts
and activities for all ages.
From enlightening panel
debates to lively disco
dances, there's something
unique and captivating
around every corner. With
its diverse lineup of acts
and attractions, Wilderness
Festival offers something
truly special – it feels like
being lost in a land of
enchantment. In the 2023
line-up, you can get excited
to see world-class acts
including The Chemical
Brothers, Fat Boy Slim and
Sugarbabes.
BOOMTOWN, THE TWIN
TRAIL, MATTERLEY ESTATE
NEAR WINCHESTER,
HAMPSHIRE
9-13 AUGUST
A short stretch from
the Great West Way,
Boomtown 2023, is set to
be an electrifying music
festival that will bring
together some of the best
musicians from around the
world. With a diverse range
of genres from punk to jazz
and renowned artists like
Cardi B and The Strokes, it's
sure to please any music
fan. For those who want
to experience something
truly unique, there'll be
immersive performances
and interactive activities in
the Boomtronix area - this
year's most cutting-edge
spot for electronic music.
And if you're looking to
take a break from the
action, look no further than
the campgrounds where
attendees can relax by fire
pits or catch up on their
favourite podcasts while
exploring nearby trails.
80 GreatWestWay.co.uk

REWIND FESTIVAL,
TEMPLE ISLAND
MEADOWS, HENLEY-ON-
THAMES
18-20 AUGUST 2023
Rewind Festival Henley-on-
Thames is the perfect place
to revel in nostalgia and
recapture those glorious
sounds of the 80s and
beyond. From petulant
pop classics to new-wave
anthems, this annual event
provides a melodious oasis
for those seeking musical
euphoria. There are plenty
of awesomely iconic acts
- including Boy George &
Culture Club, Bananarama
and Duran Duran. It's the
perfect opportunity to don
your brightest neon, party
like it's 1985, and relive
those special memories of
a bygone era. The eclectic
lineup features over forty
artists performing across
four stages, plus, every
day starts off with an
invigorating yoga session so
you can get limber before
grooving along to the sweet
sounds of synthpop. Step
into the time machine and
prepare yourself for the
ultimate nostalgia trip.
END OF THE ROAD,
LARMER TREE GARDENS,
TOLLARD ROYAL,
WILTSHIRE
31 AUGUST-3 SEPTEMBER
2023
Larmer Tree Gardens is
the perfect place for an
epic End of the World
Festival! Nothing quite
compares to a day spent
enjoying amazing music
and performances in
this stunningly beautiful
location. With its lush
trees, rolling hills, and
idyllic views, Larmer Tree
Gardens offers visitors a
unique experience that's
sure to be remembered.
The festival features top
musical acts from around
the world, and you'll
definitely find something
to please everyone's taste.
From up-and-coming indie
bands to household names,
the lineup has something
for everyone. Plus, with
plenty of food stands and
craft beer gardens, it's
easy to have a great time
all day long. This festival
also includes plenty of
activities like workshops,
interactive experiences,
art installations and more.
So you can discover new
things while having lots of
fun! There's even a special
area devoted to kids, so
they won't miss out on the
festivities either.
SEPTEMBER 2023
FORWARDS FESTIVAL,
BRISTOL
SEPTEMBER 2023 DATES
YET TO BE CONFIRMED
After its hugely successful
inaugural event in 2022
on Clifton Downs (with
acts such as Little Simz,
Self Esteem, Chemical
Brothers and Charlie XCX)
FORWARDS festival is
returning in 2023 to bring
together music, social
action initiatives, discussion
and debate to inspire
positive change.
OCTOBER 2023
CALNE MUSIC AND ARTS
FESTIVAL
OCTOBER 2023 DATES
YET TO BE CONFIRMED
Calne Music and Arts
Festival (CMAF) is a
community celebration of
music and the arts, which
takes place during a ten-day
period at the beginning
of October each year. The
Festival aims not only to
provide entertainment
for the people of Calne
and surrounding villages
but also to promote
local musical and artistic
talent. The Festival was
inaugurated in 1974 and has
grown substantially over
the years, showcasing some
exceptional talent, whilst
reaching a wide crosssection
of the community.
Click here to find out more
and keep up-to-date with
festivals and events on the
Great West Way
GreatWestWay.co.uk
81

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
MARCH/APRIL
10
APRIL
Howard’s Day at Castle Combe
Easter Monday is the traditional start
to the motor racing season at Castle
Combe circuit, marked by this race
25 March 2023 – 13
August 2023
After Impressionism:
Inventing Modern Art,
National Gallery, London
Spring’s art season
explodes with this
colour-drenched modern
art show. Spanning 1884
to 1914, there's iconic
works by Cézanne, Van
Gogh and other French
masters alongside equally
avant garde paintings by
artists from Barcelona
to Berlin
15-16
APRIL
Newbury Garden Show,
Newbury Showground
Celebrate the very best of
gardening home and lifestyle
7-10
APRIL
The Devizes to Westminster Canoe Race
The world’s longest non-stop canoe
race, 125 miles, following the Kennet
& Avon Canal and The Thames
82 GreatWestWay.co.uk

MAY
11-14
MAY
Royal Windsor Horse Show,
Windsor, Berkshire
Join the royal razzamatazz
at the Royal Windsor Horse
Show, where royals attend
and compete. Watch show
jumping and don’t miss
the military spectaculars
as the Household Cavalry
performs to music
27-29
MAY
Blenheim Palace Food
Festival
A gastronomic
weekend guaranteed
to satisfy your taste
buds and indulge
your passion for great
food and drink with a
host of top chefs and
producers
28-29
MAY
Highclere Country Show
For some half-term fun
head to the estate better
known as Downton
Abbey. Highclere Castle
hosts one of England’s
best country shows, The
Highclere Show, with
falconry, gundog displays
and the chance to have a
go at clay shooting
GreatWestWay.co.uk
83

Arts and Events Cultural Calendar
JUNE/JULY
15-16
JULY
Bristol Harbour Festival, Bristol
The Bristol Harbour Festival, the city’s
prime, maritime event attracting around
250,000 visitors each year, returns in
July 2023 with its popular mix of attractions.
There's a world-class circus and
on-water activities, music, family
entertainment, food stalls and of course,
the many ships which come into the
harbour for the event
20-24 JUNE
Royal Ascot, Berkshire
Arguably England’s most famous – and
grandest – horse racing event, with four
days of races each kicked off by a royal
carriage parade. Revered across the
globe, Royal Ascot plays host to the
finest horse racing, spectacular fashion
and delicious food and drink. Steeped in
elegance, the atmosphere found across
the Royal Meeting's five-days creates the
perfect canvas for a drama that cannot
be written
84 GreatWestWay.co.uk

JULY 8Bath Carnival, Bath
Bath’s biggest party
features a procession
of more than 1,000
dancers and musicians
through the city plus
plenty of world music
on the sound systems
and at Party in the Park
in Sydney Gardens
JUNE
Malmesbury in Bloom
There's a competition as
floral displays enhance
the beautiful town of
Malmesbury
27
JUNE
UNTIL 2 JULY
Henley Royal Regatta, Henley
Established in 1839, this annual
regatta attracts rowing crews
from around the world
2-11
JUNE
North Wessex Downs Walking Festival
A celebration of the stunning
landscapes, gorgeous scenery and
top-class walking country AONB
8-17 June
Hampton Court Palace
Festival
Two weeks of top artists
including Grace Jones,
Kaiser Chiefs, Björn Again
and Rick Astley
GreatWestWay.co.uk
85

THE ONLY MOTOR MUSEUM IN WILTSHIRE!
■ A small, friendly museum just off the A4 in Calne
■ 100+ exhibits – many are vehicles from the 1920s onwards
■ Apr-Oct (Tues-Sun11-5) Nov, Feb-March (Thurs-Sun 11-4) Dec-Jan (closed)
www.atwellwilson.org.uk
EXPLORE THE GREAT WEST WAY ®
WITH AN EXPERT GUIDE
Chauffeur driven tours with a Blue Badge Guide
HEATHER NEWMAN
HEART OF ENGLAND
IAN NEWMAN
SOUTH WEST ENGLAND
www.bbhtours.co.uk | hello@bbhtours.co.uk | 01985 840049

Arts and Events Cultural Calendar
JULY/AUGUST
JULY
1Battle Proms Picnic
Concert
The Battle Proms is a
quintessentially British
open-air picnic concert:
the perfect opportunity
to celebrate the summer
in style, in a stunning
setting at Blenheim
Palace!
11-12
AUGUST
Highworth Art & Literature Festival
Talks and workshops by authors
such as Jasper Fforde, fringe events
and an art exhibition
27
AUGUST
The Joust! Berkeley Castle
Knights and horses combine for
medieval Jousting displays, filled with
sword swinging, gut punching thrills
11-13 August
Bristol International
Balloon Fiesta, Bristol
The jam-packed fiesta
returns with over 100 hot
air balloons, live music,
food and activities in the
grounds of the Ashton
Court Estate
Find out more
Click here to stay
up-to-date with our
festivals and events
GreatWestWay.co.uk
87

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...
88 GreatWestWay.co.uk

BY BIKE AND FOOT
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.
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
Cycle the City tour of Bristol's best landmarks.
BY BOAT AND ON WATER
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.
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.
GreatWestWay.co.uk
89

Ways to travel the Great West Way
BY CAR
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.
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.
BY TRAIN
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.
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.
90 GreatWestWay.co.uk

BY BUS AND COACH
If you’d rather someone else was driving, or aren’t able
to drive, the extensive bus and coach services along the
Great West Way will come as a relief. They can also be a
very cost effective choice, useful for budget travel.
There are multiple coach services between London and
Bristol by companies including National Express, Megabus,
Stagecoach and Eurolines. Once you’ve reached your
destination, you can access various local bus services -
some travelling to fairly remote rural locations. Download
the Tootbus app and enjoy hop-on hop-off flexibility in
Bath and Windsor.
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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91

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.
92 GreatWestWay.co.uk

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, it also has a fine dining restaurant and
30,000-bottle wine cellar. Head chef Robby Jenks is
at the helm of this 3AA Rosette restaurant. Diners can
choose from an à la carte or 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
THE PIG-near Bath
You don't have to be staying at THE-PIG-near Bath
to book a table at their impressive Kitchen Garden
restaurant. Home to quite a few four-legged and
feathered friends, it is the farm to fork experience
that has made the PIGs so successful. THE-PIG-near
Bath rear their our own chickens and pigs for eggs
and pork meaning they can be sure of their quality
and provenance, ensuring they lead happy lives.
Hunstrete, Pensford, Bath
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 multi sensory 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
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93

Gourmet Guide to Food and Drink
for fine gastronomy and creative cooking. Diners
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 between an
à la carte menu or an eight-course tasting menu.
Cliveden Rd, Taplow, Berkshire
Paco Tapas, Bristol
An ever changing menu combining traditional tapas
with personal interpretations from Michelin starred
Chef Peter Sanchez-Iglesias. Staying true to the
vibrant and comforting flavours of his heritage, with
jamón ready to carve, padrón peppers roasting over
the wood fire and sherry straight from the barrel.
3a Lower Guinea Street, Bristol BS1 6FU
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
94 GreatWestWay.co.uk

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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95

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
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
Beau’s Bar and Restaurant at Donnington
Grove Hotel & Country Club
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
The Brasserie at Sir Christopher Wren Hotel
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
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
Cloisters Restaurant, Bailbrook House Hotel
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
Cricklade House & Spa
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 Gainsborough Brasserie
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
96 GreatWestWay.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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97

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, Chippenham
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
Windsor & Eton Brewery, Leaf
at The Castle Hotel
From comforting classics to light bites and
delectable vegan options, British artisan cheeses and
local beers visit Leaf, serves dishes made from the
finest locally sourced produce with a wide-ranging,
modern menu.
castlehotelwindsor.com/dining/
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 serveing 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
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
98 GreatWestWay.co.uk

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
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
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 Swan Bradford On Avon
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
Mark’s Bar, Riverside Hotel, Salisbury
Mark’s Bar is truly a fabulous place to enjoy a
relaxing drink, lunch or dinner with friends. Opening
out on to a terrace overlooking the river and
Salisbury Cathedral, on a summers day, it certainly
will be the place to be - with a great choice of wines,
Champagnes, premium spirits and cocktails.
riversidesalisbury.co.uk/salisbury-food-and-drink/
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
The Bird in Hand, Knowl Hill
Bath Road, Knowl Hill, Reading
butcombe.com
Crown & Anchor Inn
Ham, Wiltshire
crownandanchorham.co.uk
The Crown, Tolldown
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
100 GreatWestWay.co.uk

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.
The Six Bells Walborough
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
Tea Shop by the Canal
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
The Bridge Tea Rooms
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
Honeystreet Mill Cafe
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
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
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
Windsor Castle Undercroft Café
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
Lido Spa & Restaurant, Bristol Lido
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
102 GreatWestWay.co.uk

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
GreatWestWay.co.uk
103

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
The Apartment Bath
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
The Roseate Villa 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/
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
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
Bath Area Self Catering
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
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No.15 Great Pulteney
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 B&B
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
Hampton by Hilton Bath City
Located in the heart of Bath, Hampton by Hilton
Bath City is less than 10 minutes from dozens of
parks, museums, and historic sites, just a quarter
mile from the Roman Baths and Thermae Bath Spa,
and half-mile from Bath Spa Railway Station.
hilton.com/en/hotels
BERKSHIRE
Royal Berkshire – Exclusive Collection
Royal Berkshire is a country house located in the
heart of Ascot, perfect for overnight stays, with 66
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
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.
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.
Relax at the restaurant and bar, and enjoy free hot
breakfast and free WiFi.
hilton.com
The Bristol Wing part of YMCA
The Bristol Wing is a boutique hostel in Bristol city
106 GreatWestWay.co.uk

centre in the Grade II listed old Police Headquarters.
Since the first lockdown it has been repurposed and
provided a safe place for people at risk of homelessness
– it is now being fully refurbished with plans to re-open
Spring 2023. 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 and spectacular panoramic views.
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. Walkers will enjoy the Thames
Path Nature Trail – a long-distance 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
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
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 will treasure for a lifetime.
millfarmglamping.co.uk
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
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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
NEWBURY
Donnington Grove Hotel & Country Club
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
The Chequers Hotel
This former 18th Century Coaching Inn comprises
56 bedrooms and an intimate restaurant serving
modern British and European cuisine. Situated
within distance of outstanding natural beauty and
attractions from the grounds and Castle of Highclere
Castle (Downton Abbey), to sports events at the
Newbury Racecourse.
donnington-grove.com
HUNGERFORD
Herongate Apartments
A collection of four purpose built self serviced/
serviced apartments 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 there.
herongateservicedapartments.com
LONDON
Roseate House London
Located on a street steeped in history with stunning
views over leafy Westbourne Terrace. John Constable,
son of the famous landscape artist, once lived here,
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.
roseatehotels.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
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
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Whately Manor Hotel & Spa, Malmesbury
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
SURREY
Pennyhill Park – Exclusive Collection
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,
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
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The Kingsbury @ No7 & No8, Marlborough
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
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. Children and dogs welcome.
queensarmseastgarston.co.uk
WILTSHIRE, 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
Riverside Hotel, Salisbury
Set in beautiful grounds leading down to the River
Nadder and just a short stroll from the historic
Salisbury city centre, this charming and newly
renovated hotel consists of 38 beautifully restored
bedrooms, some that enjoy stunning views over
the river to Salisbury Cathedral. In 2022 the hotel
and grounds underwent a major yet sympathetic
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efurbishment to restore and bring back to life
this charming contemporary manor house hotel –
previously it was the Grasmere House Hotel. Built
in the 1800s by the Wort family the Riverside Hotel
was one of the first houses built in Harnham.
riversidesalisbury.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
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
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
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
Woolley Grange Hotel
Surrounded by 14 acres of stunning grounds, Woolley
Grange is a Jacobean manor house offering a warm
welcome to families, with 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
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, 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
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. 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
which runs the full length of the original building,
making the most of the hotel's elevated position,
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Rowley Cottage at Iford Manor, Bradford-on-Avon
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
Village Hotel Swindon
A great spot for exploring Wiltshire’s many beauty
spots with the world-famous Cotswolds a short drive
north and the breathtaking North Wessex Downs to
your south. The hotel has everything you need for
a great stay including a swimming pool and buzzing
Pub & Grill and even a Starbucks coffee shop.
hilton.com
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
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
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113

Discover the
best of England
Adventures into authentic
England for the curious &
discerning
inandbeyondbath.com

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
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
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.
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 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.
redlionfreehouse.com
HAMPSHIRE
Lainston House – Exclusive Collection
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
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
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. Individually
designed rooms and suites with beautiful walks and
bike rides in the grounds, inspiring cookery classes
in Season and delicious dining in The Avenue or
their brand new restaurant, The Wellhouse. Not to
mention outstanding afternoon teas in the drawing
room and casual dining in The Cedar Bar. Head out
to explore local attractions, with the historic city of
Winchester, Bombay Sapphire distillery, Marwell Zoo
and Paultons Park 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.
GreatWestWay.co.uk
115

*Standard network charges apply. Calls from mobiles may be higher.
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?
Great West Way routes
Great West Way routes
included – WEST included – EAST
Train routes
Train routes
Food and Drink Map
• Bristol Temple Meads – • London Paddington-Swindon
Swindon (via Bath Spa and
(via Didcot or Westbury)
Chippenham)
• London Waterloo-Westbury via
• Bristol Temple Meads –
Salisbury using GWR or SWR
Salisbury via Westbury
services
Food lovers can download • Chippenham-Trowbridge our food via and drink More map information
• Thames Valley branch lines for
Melksham
east of Reading (except
• Westbury-Pewsey
services to Guildford)
Bus route
Bus route
an overview of the incredible
• X5 Salisbury, Amesbury,
culinary delights
GWR.Feedback@GWR.com
available
• X2 and X32 beween Oxford
Pewsey, Marlborough,
and Wantage via Didcot
Swindon (Salisbury Reds)
Parkway (Thames Travel,
• 49 Trans-Wilts-Express,
Connector)
Swindon, Trowbridge,
• X38/X39 & X40, Reading,
GWR.com/contact
along the route, featuring local (Stagecoach West) breweries, Henley, Wallingford, Oxford Michelin
• 55 Swindon-Royal Wootton
(Thames Travel, River Rapids)
Basset-Chippenham
• X5 Salisbury, Amesbury,
(Stagecoach West GOLD)
Pewsey, Marlborough,
Follow us: @GWRHelp
• S6 Swindon-Faringdon-
Swindon (Salisbury Reds)
starred dining, farmers' markets, Oxford (Stagecoach West afternoon • Green Line services 702 tea, food
GOLD)
and 703 between Heathrow,
Like us: facebook.com/GWRUK
• 80/81 Swindon-Marlborough Windsor and LEGOLAND
(Stagecoach West)
Windsor Resort
• All First West of England • Reading Buses services,
and drink festivals, quaint country services (except Bristol Flyer) excluding pubs Greenwave, and more.
Kennections, football and
special event services
Discounts on the following
services:
• Open Top Oxford
03457 000 125* (open 0600-2300 daily)
Don’t miss out on our latest offers,
special deals and news. Register at
GWR.com/signup
• A railcard discount is given on
the Reading RailAir Coach
Kennet & Avon Canal map Great West Way routes included – GLOBAL
GreatWestWay.co.uk
All routes included in East and West regions
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.
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.
Great West Way ®
Discoverer pass
Click here to book online
with prices from just £27.50
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
This Way for a Journey of Discovery
Click here to download the
Food and Drink Map
Click here to download the
Kennet & Avon Canal map
116 GreatWestWay.co.uk

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 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
Cheddar Gorge
Chippenham Museum and Heritage
Centre
Chippenham Town
Cholderton Rare Breeds Farm
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, Swindon
Dukes Hotel
Dyrham Park
Exclusive Collection
Fashion Museum Bath
First Travel Solutions
Fisherton Mill
French Brothers
Galahad Tours
Great Western Railway
Great West Way Official Tour
Operators
Hampton Court Palace
Hampton by Hilton Bath City
Hampton by Hilton Bristol Airport
Henley Greenlands Hotel
Henley Rowing Association
Henley on Thames
Herongate Apartments
Hilton Reading
Hobbs of Henley
Holiday Inn, Salisbury - Stonehenge
Honey Street Boats
Hungerford Town
Iford Manor Gardens
Jones’s Mill at The Vera Jeans Reserve
Kelmscott Manor
Kennet & Avon Trade Association
Kennet Horse Boat Company
Lacock Abbey, Fox Talbot Museum &
Village
Lainston House
Live Escape Salisbury
WWT 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
Mary Shelley’s House of Frankenstein
McArthurGlen Designer Outlet
Swindon
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
National Waterways Museum
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 Park
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 Cathedral
Salisbury, Stonehenge and Sarum
Tours
Sally Narrowboats
Savouring Bath
Shaw House
Skydive Netheravon
South Western Railway
St Peter’s Church
Stay in Bath
Stasher
Steeple Ashton
Stonehenge
Stourhead
Strawberry Hill House & Garden
Studley Grange
Sulis Guides
Swindon Village Hotel
Teashop by the Canal
Thames Lido
Thames Rivercruise
The Abbey Quarter
The Bridge Tea Rooms
The Bristol Wing/YMCA
The Castle Inn & Bakers Cottage
The Chequers Hotel
The Courts Garden
The Crown & Anchor
The Gainsborough Bath Spa
The Guild Wiltshire
The Holburne Museum
The Jane Austen Centre
The Kennet & Avon Canal Trust
The Kingsbury @ No.8
The Manor House
The Merchant’s House
The Merchants House Hotel
The Museum of English Rural Life
The National Gallery
The Old Bell Hotel
The Pound Arts Centre
The Queens Arms Hotel
The Riverside
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 Stonehenge Tour
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
Tourism South East
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
We The Curious
Wellington Arch
West Berkshire Museum
Westonbirt, The National Arboretum
Whatley Manor Hotel & Spa
Whitchurch Silk Mill
Wilton Shopping Village - The Guild
White Horse Inn
Wilton Windmill
Wiltshire Museum
Wiltshire Stonehenge landscape
Windsor Carriages
Windsor Castle, Royal Collection
Trust
Windsor Duck Tours
Woolley Grange Hotel
Wyvern Theatre
YMCA Bath Group
Discover more about our Ambassadors at: GreatWestWay.co.uk

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