Great West Way Travel Magazine | Issue 11

Travel one of the world's most exceptional touring routes
with highlights from London to Bristol
Follow the paths through England’s idyllic countryside, quaint villages and elegant towns,
where our best kept secrets from the past meet 21st century hospitality
Discover Our Way

Begin your next adventure
Grace and elegance, rural peace or contemporary cool. Travelling through the cities, towns
and villages along the Great West Way, you will encounter England at its most beguiling
GreatWestWay.co.uk
2 Discover Our Way

Welcome to the Great West Way
THIS IS ENGLAND'S
GREAT WEST WAY
Pictured above: Nikki Amuka-Bird
as Lady Russell and Dakota Johnson
as Anne Elliot, filming Persuasion
in Bath. Afternoon tea at The
Gainsborough Hotel. Read more
and 'Follow in the footsteps of Jane
Austen' in celebration of 2025's 250
year anniversary events, p38
Front cover image: Explore the
stunning displays at the Tulip Festival,
Hampton Court Palace. Find this and
other events featured in our 'Events
and Festivals', p50
Welcome to a world of discovery
along the Great West Way, a route
where you can travel through time
and uncover the hidden gems of
real England. Escape the everyday and embark
on a unique adventure from London to Bristol,
a touring route that promises uninterrupted
countryside, famous landmarks and awardwinning
attractions.
Within these pages, you'll discover some
of the finest restaurants, prettiest villages and
most vibrant cities in England. Whether you seek
outdoor adventures, spellbinding museums,
luxury hotels with spas, unique experiences or
glamping under the stars, the Great West Way
is guaranteed to enrich your journey. Join us in
discovering iconic sites and hidden landscapes as
we delve deeper into exploring this fascinating
route together.
Jessica x
Jessica Way
Editor-in-Chief,
Great West Way Travel Magazine
@GreatWestWay
@TheGreatWestWay
@GreatWestWay
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.
Did you know? Great West Way is a multi-modal touring
route based on ancient routes, with many different ways to
travel, see and experience its destinations and attractions.
Discover Our Way 3

The River Kennet, Newbury
Your Great West Way
adventure, a route of
500 miles of navigable roads,
rails, water, footpaths and
cycleways starts here...
Jane Austen Festival, Great Pulteney Street, Bath
Afternoon tea at The Gainsborough
IMAGES © ROB STOTHARD FOR JANE AUSTEN'S HOUSE MUSEUM / NICK WALL / NETFLIX
4 Discover Our Way

Welcome to the Great West Way
Contents
Inside our 2025 edition...
Jane Austen Festival, Bath
...through West London and
the Thames Valley, Berkshire,
Wiltshire, the Cotswolds,
Bath and Bristol
Jane Austen's House Museum, Chawton
Discover Our Way
The Way Forward
08 From the grand opening of The Coat & Bear
in Newbury to exploring Jane Austen's final residence
for the first time and enjoying scenic boat trips,
discover exciting new hotels, attractions and unique
experiences along the Great West Way.
My Great West Way
12 Go behind the scenes at Blenheim Palace
with Social Historian Antonia Keaney as she shares
stories on developing podcasts, celebrating the
Palace's 75th anniversary of public opening and
recommending her favourite spots along the route.
Stargazing Spots
14 Discover the best dark sky locations along
the Great West Way, from the iconic Stonehenge
and Avebury to the hidden gem of Pewsey Vale,
offering breathtaking views of constellations, meteor
showers and the magical night sky.
Arts & Culture
Bowood House & Gardens
20 Celebrate Bowood House & Gardens' 50th
anniversary of public opening with a journey through
this historic Wiltshire estate. Explore the newly
opened Walled Garden, opulent interiors and scientific
history, and enjoy luxury at the hotel, spa and
championship golf course.
Uncork the best distillers, breweries and
28 vineyards
Embark on a journey of taste along the Great West
Way, from the iconic Bombay Sapphire Distillery
and award-winning Bluestone Vineyards to artisan
breweries like Loddon and Bristol's own Wiper and True.
Jane Austen 250
38 Join us on a captivating journey through Jane
Austen's England, marking the 250th anniversary of
her birth. Discover the inspiration behind her novels
and the real-life locations that shaped her world.
Discover Our Way 5

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Purchase train tickets with
Great Western Railway
at GWR.com. Choose
from three Great West
Way Discoverer routes
(East, West or Global)
to explore your selected
area in one-day trips
or over the course of a
week, with prices starting
at £30.50. International
visitors should book via
acprail.com, prices from
£121.50.
Hocktide in Hungerford
46 Step into a world of quirky tradition in
Hungerford, exploring the ancient festival of Hocktide,
the origins of Tutti Day and meet the Tutti Men and
Girls. Delve into the unique history of the Town and
Manor, from ceremonial horns and pewter tankards to
anchovies on toast and the 'colt to be shod' tradition.
Events and Festivals
50 Discover the Great West Way's vibrant events,
from Bradford on Avon's Duck Race and Hampton
Court's Tulip Festival to Royal Ascot's elegance and
Kew the Music's concerts. Indulge in Indian fusion
cuisine, explore Jane Austen's legacy, enjoy local
carnivals and experience unique exhibitions.
Discover Our
Ambassadors
Explore the Great West Way with
62 our Discover Our Ambassadors
highlights and learn more about a
wealth of unique destinations. Immerse
yourself in the blend of history, fashion
and dining at McArthurGlen Designer
Outlet Swindon, and then step into the
grandeur of Blenheim Palace, Sir Winston
Churchill's birthplace and a World Heritage
site brimming with unmissable events
and tours. Experience the iconic country
charm of Kelmscott Manor, the beloved
home of William Morris, and uncover the
ancient Wiltshire landscape of the Vale
of Pewsey, filled with quirky landmarks
and stories. Visit Malmesbury, England's
oldest borough, steeped in history and
boasting 400 listed buildings, or marvel
at the Roman Baths, one of the world's
finest ancient spas. Walk in the footsteps
of Neolithic ancestors at Stonehenge, and
delve into the fascinating history of the
Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers
at the REME Museum. Enjoy a privately
guided tour with Galahad Tours on the
Great West Way in a luxury vehicle, and
visit the charming town of Corsham with
its historic buildings and roaming peacocks.
For a luxurious retreat, consider Urban
Apartments' serviced accommodation
in Bristol and London, and don't miss
the chance to explore the story behind
Isambard Kingdom Brunel's iconic Clifton
Suspension Bridge and its museum.
6 Discover Our Way

Planning Your Stay
Where to Eat & Drink
78 Savour the diverse food and drink experiences of
the Great West Way, from Bristol's bustling markets to
London's fine dining.
Where to Stay
88 Linger longer and discover the magic of the
Great West Way with an overnight stay – perfect for a
romantic interlude or a full week of adventure.
Ways to Travel
96 Imagine travelling through time, experiencing
England's beauty your way. Whether it's the open road,
the rhythmic click of the train, the gentle sway of a
boat, the quiet pace of walking, or the invigorating rush
of cycling, your Great West Way adventure begins here.
Discovery our Way...
Prepare for your adventure on
the Great West Way
There’s nothing like a good map to make
you feel like a true adventurer!
Download the This Way for a Journey of
Discovery map to explore the North Wessex
Downs, Stonehenge, the charming villages
of the Cotswolds and much more.
Check out the Kennet & Avon Canal
map to discover this historic waterway
between Reading and Bristol, perfect for
walking, biking or boating.
While our maps highlight amazing
attractions and experiences, feel free
to explore off the beaten path — you
might uncover delightful surprises in this
enchanting part of England!
greatwestway.co.uk/explore/maps
Food on the Great West Way
Whatley Manor Hotel, Malmesbury
Discover Our Way 7

The Way Forward
Discover what's new on the Great West Way...
NEWBURY
British Charm with a Quirky Twist
THE COAT & BEAR, NEWBURY OPENS
The Coat & Bear has had a grand opening following
an exquisite multi-million-pound refurbishment.
Named after beloved character Paddington Bear
and the historical Newbury Coat of 1811, this
delightful pub serves as Newbury’s newest retreat.
Part of the acclaimed Heartwood Inns collection,
The Coat & Bear invites guests to enjoy 26 boutique
bedrooms. Step inside to discover a striking
reception adorned with racing wallpaper, reflecting
the area’s horse racing legacy. Enjoy seasonal
dishes, including locally sourced venison and a
dedicated children’s menu. Unique cocktails like the
‘Marmalade Sandwich’ enrich the experience, which
is perfect for families and dog lovers too. From
The Coat & Bear, it’s easy to discover Newbury’s
highlights, including the renowned Racecourse
and stunning Highclere Castle, famously known as
Downton Abbey. Enjoy leisurely strolls along the
Kennet & Avon Canal, explore local galleries and
museums, or browse independent shops.
8 Discover Our Way

Discover What's New
Soaring to new heights
THE GREAT BUSTARD
The Great Bustard, a vibrant
new pub with rooms in Wiltshire,
blends classic elegance with
contemporary style. Enjoy
locally sourced cuisine,
artisan drinks and a stunning
atmosphere, all while supporting
the reintroduction of the Great
Bustard bird to England.
THE PIG-in the Cotswolds
NEW PIG ON THE BLOCK
Nestled in stunning gardens,
the latest addition to THE PIG
collection offers an extended
spa and its own Village Pub.
Formerly Barnsley House, the
17th-century Grade II listed manor
was home to renowned garden
designer Rosemary Verey, whose
influence is evident throughout.
Hotel Gotham, Bristol
ONE TO WATCH
Opening in Autumn 2025,
the historic Guildhall
transforms into Hotel
Gotham Bristol – a
lavish 5-star hotel with
75 sumptuous rooms,
a restaurant, spa and
a rooftop terrace bar.
Described as “glitzy and
opulent,” this is the place for
‘pizzazz and pampering’!
Discover Our Way 9

HAMPSHIRE CELEBRATES 250
YEARS OF JANE AUSTEN
One of Hampshire’s best loved daughters, Jane Austen,
has been a household name for more than two centuries.
Discover more about her life in Hampshire through special
events and exhibitions happening across the county to
mark the 250th anniversary of her birth in 2025.
visit-hampshire.co.uk
visitwinchester.co.uk
VisitHampshire
@handle VisitHampshire
visit_hampshire
VisitWinchester
@handle King_Alf
VisitWinchesterUk

Discover What's New
STEP INTO HISTORY
Discover Jane Austen’s Last
Residence
This summer marks a special
occasion as we celebrate the
250th anniversary of Jane
Austen’s birth. For the first
time ever, the doors of 8
College Street, where Austen
spent her final weeks, will be
open to the public.
DANIEL THOMAS PHOTOGRAPHY
Michelin Key Award
NUMBER 38 CLIFTON
This beautifully refurbished
12-bedroom Georgian
merchant's house at the
top of the city in Bristol is
one of just ten hotels across
the southwest to receive a
coveted Michelin Key – a new
award recognising the most
outstanding hotels in the UK.
HONEYSTREET BOATS
Hire Honey Days for a
memorable day on the water
Experience the picturesque
15-mile stretch between
Wootton Rivers and Devizes
on a day trip or sundowner.
Dogs are welcome, and you
can hire a captain if needed.
Plus, you can pre-order
picnic boxes, sandwiches and
celebration cakes from the
Honeystreet Mill Café.
Scan here to
sign up to our
monthly Great West
Way e-newsletter and
stay in the know!
Discover Our Way 11

My Great West Way
Meet the innovators and forward thinkers
Step into the captivating
world of Blenheim Palace
through the eyes of Antonia
Keaney, the estate's
dedicated Social Historian. In this
exclusive interview, Antonia shares
a unique perspective on life and
work along the Great West Way.
From uncovering hidden stories
of past residents and evacuees
to developing engaging podcasts
and interactive guides, her role
is as diverse as it is fascinating.
Antonia's passion for history
shines through as she recounts her
journey, detailing the unexpected
turns and delightful discoveries
that come with delving into
Blenheim’s rich heritage.
Please tell us a little more about
your role as the Social Historian at
Blenheim Palace?
My initial task was to find and
interview people with a past
connection to Blenheim Palace; this
tended to be former employees,
evacuees and family members for
the most part. Some of the most
fascinating interviews have been
with the Malvern Old Boys, who
were evacuated here during World II,
and with Lady Rosemary Muir, sister
of the late 11th Duke.
As well as living at Blenheim
during her early life, she was a Maid
of Honour at the Coronation of
Queen Elizabeth II and also present
at the funeral of Winston Churchill –
two of the most significant events of
the latter part of the 20th century.
What you love most about your
job?
I love the fact that no two days are
ever the same. Covid had a great
effect on my role at Blenheim – we
were closed to the public in 2020,
but were very keen to keep in
touch with people. To this end, we
developed a series of webinars and
lectures – we have kept this up and
now have a collection of Blenheim
related podcasts that cover a vast
array of subjects.
What achievements are you most
proud of?
Many – but I derived a particular
satisfaction in being able to help
Lady Rosemary to be reunited with
her long lost Maid of Honour dress!
What’s a typical day like for you?
There is no typical day – at the
moment, I’m working on the new
visitor guide but alongside that,
I’m in the throes of interviewing
the team who is running the roof
project. That will then need to be
edited before making it available to
the public.
What do you find inspiring day-today?
I just love learning about the
people who have lived in the
Palace and who have walked its
corridors. There’s always a new
fact to be discovered and more
to learn. Only today, I heard
that there will be 31 miles of
scaffolding for the roof project –
and it will take around six months
to erect. No wonder the Palace
took 28 years to build!
Any interesting or funny anecdotes
related to your role or your
experiences with visitors that you
can share?
12 Discover Our Way

I had a very interesting run in with
a mannequin, a hack saw and a
leather jumpsuit when trying to
portray a scene from Catherine
Zeta Jones’ role in Entrapment –
one of the many many films shot at
Blenheim Palace
What does slow travel mean to you?
Savouring every mile.
What do you think makes the
Great West Way special?
So many varied and fascinating
places – there really is something
for everyone.
Do you have any insider tips or
advice for travellers who want to
experience the touring route ‘like
a local’?
Engage with the people you meet
and keep an open mind!
Please describe your perfect
adventure or day on the Great
West Way.
A crisp, sunny day, a variety of
stops – good food, good coffee,
good company and a good walk
thrown in for good measure.
Any cafes, restaurants or pubs you
can recommend?
I love the Back Lane Tavern in
Woodstock – so many delicious
small plates.
City, town or country?
Country.
Pick a place along the Great West
Way that best represents you and
what you do.
It would have to be Blenheim –
working at Blenheim has given
me the opportunity to do things
and meet people I could only have
dreamt of.
Are there any English stereotypes
or traditions you’d like to set
straight?
Yes – the stereotype of being
reserved is a thing of the past.
If you could choose one must-visit
attraction along the Great West
Way, what would it be and why?
Again, it would have to be
Blenheim. There is something
for everyone – history buffs, film
buffs, families, environmentalists.
The list is never-ending.
What do you think will surprise
first-time visitors about the
Great West Way? Any secret,
lesser-visited spots you’d like to
recommend?
The variety of stops along the way.
I’m a huge Jane Austen fan, but less
obvious places like Marlborough are
well worth a visit.
Any exciting plans happening at
Blenheim Palace this year?
This year is significant for
Blenheim Palace. We're celebrating
the 75th anniversary of the 10th
Duke opening the Palace to the
public in 1950. We've launched
'Archie', our new interactive guide,
named after Palace Administrator
Archie Illingworth. The roof project
is underway, offering visitors
unique rooftop views. New rooms
are opening on the visitor route,
and guests can explore life below
stairs in the Palace Kitchens. It's a
very exciting time with many new
experiences to discover.
The home of
the 12th Duke
and Duchess of
Marlborough and
the birthplace of Sir
Winston Churchill
• Explore this World
Heritage Site amongst
over 2,000 acres of
Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown
landscaped parkland.
• Blenheim Palace is not
only an iconic part of
history, but also a living,
changing experience with
a wealth of sporting and
cultural events, themed
exhibitions and tours on
offer all year.
greatwestway.co.uk
Discover Our Way 13

Stargazing Spots
Discover the breathtaking dark sky locations along the Great West Way, where
unspoiled landscapes offer perfect stargazing opportunities revealing stunning
constellations, planets and the magical beauty of the night sky
Words | Elaine Wilson
The Great West Way offers more than just
picturesque countryside and charming historic
towns; it is a remarkable journey through some of
the UK’s most stunning landscapes and home to
some of the best stargazing spots in the country.
Here, we share the best places to visit, where
clear, dark skies open up to reveal breathtaking views
of the cosmos. As the sun sets, the darkness envelops
the terrain, allowing the stars to shine brightly above.
Whether you’re an amateur astronomer, a night sky
photographer or simply someone who loves the wonder of
the universe, the Great West Way has some epic viewing
points. You'll find numerous places to marvel at the night
sky, where constellations come to life and the Milky Way
stretches across the horizon. Pack a blanket, grab your
telescope or just lie back and gaze up – this enchanting
route promises unforgettable experiences under starry
skies that inspire awe and curiosity about the universe.
14 Discover Our Way

Stargazing on the Great West Way
STONEHENGE AND
SALISBURY PLAIN
Salisbury Plain, best known for being the
home of Stonehenge, is one of the most iconic
places to stargaze in the UK. The vast, open
landscape means there is little to no light
pollution, allowing for excellent visibility of
celestial events. While access to the inner
circle of Stonehenge is restricted at night,
nearby locations such as Woodhenge and
Cley Hill provide fantastic vantage points
for stargazing. During meteor showers, such
as the Perseids in August, Salisbury Plain is
a prime location to see streaking meteors
lighting up the sky.
AVEBURY – MYSTICAL SKIES
OVER ANCIENT STONES
Another iconic location for those who
appreciate both history and stargazing,
Avebury is an unmissable destination. Home
to the largest stone circle in Britain, this
UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a truly
unique setting for night sky observation.
Stand among ancient monoliths as the stars
shine brightly overhead, creating a mystical
atmosphere that has fascinated visitors for
centuries. Avebury’s remote location ensures
minimal light interference, making it a great
place for spotting constellations, shooting
stars and even the occasional meteor shower.
Discover Our Way 15

Stargazing on the Great West Way
NORTH WESSEX DOWNS –
A STARRY SANCTUARY
The North Wessex Downs National Landscape
is a fantastic destination for stargazing, offering
large open landscapes and an absence of urban
light pollution. The profound darkness of the night
plays an essential role in enhancing the beauty
of this remarkable landscape. Combe Gibbet,
located on the highest point of Inkpen Hill, is a
particularly popular spot. Another excellent site
within the North Wessex Downs is Walbury Hill,
which stands as the highest chalk hill in England.
The high elevation and remote setting make it a
top choice for astronomy enthusiasts looking to
capture stunning images of the stars and planets.
PEWSEY VALE – A HIDDEN
GEM FOR STARGAZERS
Nestled between the North Wessex Downs
and the Salisbury Plain, Pewsey Vale is a
lesser-known but equally magical stargazing
location with a stunning backdrop for celestial
observation. Recommended by North Wessex
Downs National Landscape, stargazers
who arrive at Pewsey Downs may be lucky
enough to witness the Zodiacal Light, a faint,
triangular glow visible in spring and autumn.
This rare phenomenon is caused by sunlight
reflecting off cosmic dust in the solar system
and can only be seen in exceptionally dark sky
areas like this one.
16 Discover Our Way

Stargazing on the Great West Way
SAVERNAKE FOREST – A
CELESTIAL CANOPY AMONG
ANCIENT TREES
Savernake Forest, located near Marlborough,
offers a distinctive stargazing experience.
Unlike the open hills and valleys of other
locations, this ancient woodland provides
a different kind of beauty where you
can witness the stars peeking through
the towering trees. The forest’s remote
location and restricted artificial lighting
make it a wonderful place for observing the
constellations, and its peaceful atmosphere
ensures an immersive experience away from
the distractions of modern life.
LACOCK VILLAGE – HISTORIC
CHARM UNDER THE STARS
Famed for its picturesque streets and
medieval architecture, Lacock Village is a
magical location for stargazing at night.
The surrounding countryside offers an
unobstructed view of the night sky. Lacock
village has very few street lights and hence
very low light pollution, which makes it
perfect for those seeking a great view of the
stars visible along the Great West Way. Lacock
Abbey’s historic setting adds to the charm,
allowing visitors to feel transported back in
time as they gaze upon the same stars that
have shone for centuries.
Discover Our Way 17

Stargazing on the Great West Way
UFFINGTON WHITE HORSE
– A VIEW OVER ANCIENT
CHALK HILLS
Perched atop the rolling hills of Oxfordshire,
the Uffington White Horse is an iconic
prehistoric landmark that also happens to
be a fantastic stargazing location. The high
elevation and remote setting provide an
excellent view of the breathtaking Milky
Way on clear nights. Watching a spectacular
meteor shower from this historic site is an
unforgettable experience. Regular stargazing
walks are regularly organised from the
National Trust car park, attracting enthusiasts
and families alike.
THE PLANETARIUM AT WE
THE CURIOUS IN BRISTOL
We The Curious is home to the UK’s only
3D Planetarium. The most advanced 3D
planetarium. show yet is based on one of the
questions we always ask ourselves: ‘Is there
anyone else out there?’ See the worlds in our
solar system that could host alien organisms
and consider how we might get there. Join the
planet hunters on their quest to uncover hidden
exoplanets and unlock their secrets. There are
several different planetarium shows presented
throughout the day aimed at different age
groups, from The Story of Stars to Expedition:
Solar System in both 2D and 3D.
IMAGES © ADOBE STOCK / SUE MARTIN
18 Discover Our Way

Stargazing on the Great West Way
The Great West Way is
more than just a scenic
journey – it is a pathway
to the stars
Whether you visit Avebury’s stone circle,
the ancient Uffington White Horse or iconic
Stonehenge in the vast openness of Salisbury
Plain, there is no shortage of extraordinary
places to marvel at the universe.
Pack your telescope, set your sights on the
heavens, and let the magic of the Great West
Way’s night skies take your breath away.
Tips for the best stargazing
experience
To make the most of your stargazing
adventure along the Great West Way,
consider these helpful tips:
• Check the weather forecast: Clear skies
are essential for the best visibility.
• Use a stargazing app: Apps like Star
Walk or SkySafari can help identify
constellations and planets.
• Dress warmly: Even in summer,
temperatures can drop at night, so bring
layers.
• Bring a telescope or binoculars: While
many celestial objects can be seen with
the naked eye, a telescope enhances the
experience.
• Plan around celestial events: Meteor
showers, planetary alignments and lunar
eclipses make for particularly memorable
stargazing nights.
• Check the moon: It significantly
influences how well we can see celestial
objects at night. Choose nights when
the moon isn't shining brightly, as this
will ensure the darkest skies for better
visibility.
Scan or click here for
more information
about stargazing on
the Great West Way!
Discover Our Way 19

Bowood 50th Anniversary
Bowood House & Gardens
Offering a timeless glimpse into England's historic past, Bowood House on the
Great West Way is a magnificent stately home renowned for its rich history,
elegant interiors and spectacular gardens
Words | Elaine Wilson
20 Discover Our Way

Bowood 50th Anniversary
In the heart of the rolling Wiltshire countryside on
the Great West Way, 270 year-old Bowood House &
Gardens is one of England’s most treasured estates.
This year, this magnificent home marks its milestone
50th anniversary of welcoming the public and celebrates
decades of history, leisure and world-class hospitality.
About Bowood House & Gardens
The beautiful Georgian house sits in 2,000 acres of
Lancelot 'Capability' Brown-designed parkland, which
includes a picturesque lake and exceptional gardens.
Often used as filming location for period dramas such
as Downton Abbey and Sanditon, Bowood has been
home to the Lansdowne family since 1754. The estate
is owned and managed by Lord Kerry and his father,
Lord Lansdowne, who are the 10th and 11th generation
custodians of Bowood. From its breathtaking grounds
to its state of the art spa and championship golf course,
there is something of interest for every visitor. Spend
the day exploring the gardens and arboretum or extend
your stay with a short break at the charming boutique
hotel. Bowood House & Gardens is also Grade I listed on
the Register of Historic Parks and Gardens.
Opening the Walled Garden for the first time
As part of the estate’s celebrations to mark this milestone
in its history, Bowood will open its Walled Garden to
the public for the first time. This special garden has
remained private to the Lansdowne family for the past
270 years. Originally producing food and cut flowers for
the house, the garden now supplies Bowood Hotel and
other catering outlets but has not been accessible to
the general public before now, other than on privately
booked tours. The Walled Garden showcases striking
double borders planted in soft hues of white, cream and
all shades of green (particularly lime green), reflecting the
design of the famous chintz fabric found inside Bowood
House.
The hotel at Bowood
One of the finest luxury hotels in Wiltshire, Bowood
Hotel, Spa and Golf Resort at the heart of the estate is
ideally situated on the Great West Way route, just off
the M4. Each of the 43 beautifully decorated rooms and
suites offer spacious bathrooms and modern amenities.
This is a unique chance to stay within the grounds of this
elegant and historic estate. Dine in style at the stunning
Discover Our Way 21

Bowood 50th Anniversary
Bowood Hotel, located on
the estate, offers luxurious
accommodation and stunning
views of the grounds, making it a
perfect retreat for guests seeking
relaxation and elegance.
Adding to the rich tapestry of
Bowood's heritage, the Chapel at
Bowood House, designed by the
renowned architect Henry Keene,
is a charming and historically
significant structure that dates
back to the 18th century. Its
beautiful stained glass windows
and intricate woodwork reflect the
elegance of the period, making it
a serene space for reflection and
worship.
22 Discover Our Way

Bowood 50th Anniversary
Shelburne Restaurant or relax over drinks in the duel
lounge bar with its open fire.
A historic gem
Built in the 18th century, this Georgian masterpiece
holds stories of aristocracy, art and scientific discovery
– most notably, the laboratory where Dr. Joseph
Priestley first discovered oxygen in 1774. Today, visitors
can explore opulent interiors adorned with priceless
paintings, antiques and a library filled with historical
treasures. The family library has many thousands of
books and the laboratory, which offers a glimpse into
the history of science, is fascinating.
The Orangery now showcases the unique Lansdowne
collection of art. The sculpture gallery – which used to
be a menagerie for wild animals including a leopard and
orangutan – now houses Bowood’s impressive sculpture
collection. The exhibition rooms display a fascinating
array of family treasures, including Napoleon's death
mask and Queen Victoria's wedding chair.
A garden wonderland for every season
Bowood’s spectacular gardens are a masterpiece. Visit
in spring when thousands of tulips and rhododendrons
burst into colour, or in summer when the Italian-inspired
terraces are in full bloom. The Woodland Garden
features rare plants and exotic species, and there is also
a 300-year-old arboretum with a tree collection of over
360 species. For families, the adventure playground offers
hours of fun for children of all ages. It was inspired by
Lord Lansdowne’s own childhood memories of playing on
an old pirate ship and the playground – one of the UK's
largest – and features a full size pirate ship, zip lines and
aerial rope walks.
Luxury, leisure and championship golf
Beyond the house and gardens, Bowood is home
to a premier golfing experience at the resort’s PGA
championship golf course. One of the finest on the
Great West Way, it offers an 18-hole challenge set in the
stunning Wiltshire countryside.
Discover Our Way 23

After a day on the greens the Bowood Spa is the perfect
place to unwind. Indulge in a treatment, take a dip in the
infinity pool or simply relax in the steam room.
A year of celebration and special events
To mark its 50th anniversary, Bowood has planned an
exciting calendar of events. Look forward to exclusive
guided tours, themed garden festivals and historical
exhibitions showcasing the estate’s rich past. Special
dining experiences, afternoon teas and summer
soirées are also planned. For golf enthusiasts, exclusive
tournaments and coaching sessions with top PGA
professionals are set to make this a landmark year. This
milestone year is the perfect time to discover the magic
of Bowood and create new memories that will last a
lifetime. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this golden
50th anniversary celebration.
Bowood House opening for 2025
The House & Gardens attract more than 120,000 visitors
every year, and many more visitors attend special events
here. Bowood opens on 1 April 2025. Day tickets are
available from £17 for one adult, with concessions available
for children, seniors and young adults. Season tickets are
also available.
Step into the enchanting ages of the
past at our magnificent stately homes
and uncover a treasure trove of grand
houses and beautifully landscaped
gardens; greatwestway.co.uk
24 Discover Our Way

EVENTS 2025
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 4 to 6 Thomas Hobbes Festival
April 13 to 20 Easter at Malmesbury Abbey
May 22 to 25 Shindig Music Festival
May 24 to 6 July Pride of Place Festival
May 24 to 1 June St Aldhelm’s Fayre
June 1 eat: Food & Drink Festival September 27 & 28 Flying Monk Arts Trail
August 3 Carnival Open Gardens October 11 & 12 Westport Sound Music Weekend
August 17 Carnival Petticoat Lane October 18 to 25 Wessex Week (History)
August 30 Carnival Procession
November 8 St Aldhelm’s Mead Fireworks
September 20 Folk & Roots Music Festival December 5 Late Night 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 For full August Carnival events visit www.Malmesburycarnival.co.uk
For more information visit
www.discovermalmesbury.life
Malmesbury Town Council
Charter 880ad
@discovermalmesbury
@malmesburylife
Riverside Hotel on the Thames
The Greenlands Hotel is set within the 30 acre Henley Business
School Estate in the beautiful Oxfordshire countryside along the
Great West Way, providing well-appointed accommodation, fine
dining or afternoon teas on the banks of the River Thames.
Henley Business School, Henley-on-Thames, RG9 3AU
info@venuehenley.com I 01491 418 854 I venuehenley.com
100 Bed Hotel
Riverside Gym
Afternoon Tea
Private Dining & Restaurant
Beautiful Riverside Setting
Complimentary Parking

Explore
ancient baths
and
sacred springs
in the heart of
Georgian Bath
www.romanbaths.co.uk
26 Discover Our Way
Booking online is advisable

Bowood 50th Anniversary
Bowood House's
Laboratory is a fascinating
historical feature that showcases
the scientific interests of the
Bowood family – particularly the
3rd Marquis of Lansdowne, who
was known for his passion for
innovation and experimentation.
The Laboratory houses various
scientific instruments and
equipment from the 18th and
19th centuries, reflecting the
period's advances in alchemy
and chemistry. This unique space
gives visitors a glimpse into
the intellectual pursuits of the
time and highlights Bowood's
commitment to education and
exploration.
IMAGES © ANNA STOWE / BOWOOD HOUSE
Bowood's Walled Garden has opened to the public
for the first time in its 270-year history. Did you
know that the garden also features a stunning waterfall that
adds to its beauty and tranquility? The Library at Bowood,
with its exquisite collection of books and rich history,
complements the charm of the Orangery where guests can
enjoy a beautiful setting filled with natural light and lush
surroundings.
Discover Our Way 27

Uncork the best distillers,
breweries and vineyards
Britain is at the top of its game when
it comes to crafting beers, wines
and spirits, with many of its best
producers being along the Great West
Way to visit for tours and tastings
Words | Emma Henderson
Bombay Sapphire Distillery,
Hampshire
A spirit that needs little introduction thanks to
its famed sapphire-blue bottle, Bombay Sapphire
Distillery is set inside an old Grade II listed paper
mill, which has been given a new lease of life.
Here, the gin is made using its innovative vapour
infusion process that you can learn more about on
one of its six tours to choose from, ranging from
distillery tours to cocktail masterclasses. Outside,
the botanical glasshouses cleverly use hot air
from the distilling process to create temperate
climates to grow botanicals for the gin.
Bottle to buy: Bombay Sapphire Laverstoke
Edition Limited Edition Gin, £25
28 Discover Our Way

Bluestone Vineyards,
Wiltshire
Near the ancient Stonehenge
site, Bluestone Vineyard's name
is inspired by the smaller stones
at the site known as bluestones.
In 2016, the McConnell family
planted their first vines and
released their first vintage in
2019. Choose from the selfguided
tour following a map (£6),
the 40-minute Sip and Stroll tour
(£20) or the two-hour Signature
Tour and Tasting (£30). All can
have a sharing lunch platter
of locally sourced cheese and
charcuterie too.
Bottle to buy: Premier
cuvée, £45
Carvers Hill Estate,
Wiltshire
As one of the most recently planted
vineyards started in 2021, the land
at Carvers Hill Estate in Shalbourne
is owned by the Smith family. The
16-acres has been turned over to
22,000 vines for chardonnay, pinot
noir and pinot meunier. Last year,
a winery and visitors centre was
added. This means wine can be
made on site and, most importantly,
people can taste (and buy) it here
too. Both are by appointment only,
so be sure to book ahead. Join as a
member for elegant summer BBQs
in the expansive gardens. Experience
exclusive, intimate dinners with
some of the world’s most celebrated
winemakers, high-calibre chef's
nights and so much more.
Bottle to buy: Still a little too
early to say!
30 Discover Our Way

Catch the tour
bus at
Salisbury
Railway Station
or City Centre
experience the visitor centre
at English Heritage &
board the shuttle bus
up to the stones
Photo - English Heritage
Buy tickets from
the driver,
online or the
Salisbury Reds app
Contactless App Cash
Enjoy onboard commentary
Available in 10 languages
thestonehengetour.info
SURPRISE YOURSELF IN READING
1000 years of history,
Jane Austen, Oscar Wilde, King Henry I, the British Bayeux Tapestry,
gorgeous River Thames trips, the St James’ Way, amazing museums,
Banksy, top notch shopping and dining…
and all just 23 minutes from London.
More at: visit-reading.com

CRAFT YOUR
OWN GIN
After mixing up a drink for you at the
bar, we’ll teach you how to select your
own unique blend of botanicals to suit
your taste.
You’ll then distil your blend in our
miniature copper pot stills.
Creating a personalised gin, named
and bottled up on the day for you to
take home.
gift vouchers available
Ramsburyestates.co.uk
Stockclose Farm, Aldbourne, Wiltshire, SN8 2NN
Wiltshire’s first
gin school!
@Ramsbury Brewery
@Ramsbury Brewery

Vineyard Tours
Ramsbury Distillery and
Brewery, Wiltshire
Found near the village of
Hungerford, everything The
Ramsbury Estate does is with
sustainability in mind, from using
solar power to refilling its spirit
and beer bottles. Its single estate
vodka and gin and its range of
beers, are made here using grain
grown on the estate and chalkfiltered
water from its own
source. Book The Ramsbury
Experience Tour (£95), which
includes a 'countryside
safari' that showcases
some of Wiltshire's best
countryside, tastings and
lunch at the local pub. Distill
your very own gin with your
favourite botanicals in the
Gin School with your own mini
copper pot.
Bottle to buy: Ramsbury
Single Estate gin, £41
Winding Wood, Reading
Winding Wood vineyard
was born back in 2012 after the
owners had the idea of turning a
sheep-grazing field into a vineyard.
It then became organic and
biodynamic in 2021 and has won
plenty of awards for its sparkling
wines. The owners run small tours
themselves at weekends between
May and October, which are by
appointment only.
Bottle to buy: 2019 Brut
Reserve, £34.50
Discover Our Way 33

Welcome to our traditional town centre c
• We are open ALL DAY, EVERY DAY, for food
n-site customer parking • Coffees, teas, pastries & ca
hai Chilli restaurant • Pub Classics menu • Traditiona
• Excellent en-suite accommodation • Dog-
USTIC THURSDAYS Live, chilled Acoustic music every
me to our traditional town centre coaching inn
Welcome to our traditional
e are open ALL DAY, EVERY DAY, for food & drinks
stomer parking town • Coffees, centre teas, Coaching pastries & cakes Inn • Cream Teas
restaurant • Pub Classics menu • Traditional Sunday lunches
Excellent • en-suite We are accommodation open ALL DAY, EVERY • Dog-friendly DAY,
HURSDAYS
for
Live,
food
chilled
& drinks
Acoustic
• On-site
music
customer
every Thursday 7pm-9pm
parking • Coffees, teas, pastries & cakes
ther info; Tel: 01985 216611 or email: info@oldbellwarminster.co.uk
• Welcome Cream Teas to our • Thai traditional Chilli restaurant
town centre coaching inn
• Pub • We Classics are open menu ALL DAY, • Traditional
EVERY DAY, for food & drinks
42 Market Place
• On-site customer parking • Coffees, teas, pastries & cakes Warminster
• Cream Teas
Sunday lunches • Excellent en-suite
• Thai Chilli restaurant • Pub Classics menu • Traditional Sunday BA12 9AN
lunches
accommodation • Excellent en-suite Dog-friendly accommodation • Coach
• Dog-friendly
oldbellwarminster
ACOUSTIC Parties Welcome THURSDAYS by Live, prior chilled arrangement
Acoustic music every Thursday 7pm-9pm
oldbellwarminster
Booking/Further info; Tel: 01985 216611 or email: info@oldbellwarminster.co.uk
oking/Further info; Tel: 01985 216611 or email: info@oldb
wn centre coaching inn
Y DAY, for food & drinks
as, pastries & cakes • Cream Teas
nu • Traditional Sunday lunches
odation • Dog-friendly
stic music For every bookings Thursday call 7pm-9pm 01985 216611 or email:
info@oldbellwarminster.co.uk
mail: info@oldbellwarminster.co.uk
42 Market Place Warminster BA12 9AN
www.oldbellwarminster.co.uk
42 Market Place
Warminster
BA12 9AN
oldbellwarminster
oldbellwarminster
www.oldbellwarminster.co.uk
www.oldbellwarminster.co.uk
42 Market Place
Warminster
BA12 9AN
oldbellwarminster
oldbellwarminster
www.oldbellwarminster.co.uk
w

Vineyard Tours
All Angels Vineyard,
Berkshire
After the Darley family took over
Church Farm back in 2009, they
planted vines in 2011 and named
the vineyard after the Parish
Church, which now produces
sparkling wines. Take the
90-minute guided tour through
the vines followed by a tasting
and a charcuterie, cheese and
local smoked trout platter.
Bottle to buy: Premier
cuvée, £45
Best of the rest vineyards...
Alder Ridge Vineyard, Hungerford
The first vines went in at Alder Ridge
Vineyard in 2011 covering just 10 acres,
which has since been extended by another
40 acres in 2022. The newest area is all
Chardonnay, making it one of the largest
growers in the UK of that grape.
Aldwick Estate Vineyard, Bristol
This family-run 11-acre vineyard at Aldwick
Estate has been in the same family for
five generations and was first planted in
2008. There's six grape varieties, including
bacchus, pinot noir and seyval blanc, and
it's Somerset's largest vineyard.
Wraxall Vineyard, Somerset
Home to 50 year-old vines, Wraxall
produces excellent whites, rose and reds
and its own 'Somerset sparkling'. There's
tours and tastings, plus its own restaurant
and ad-hoc music, food trucks and yoga
events, too.
Discover Our Way 35

England's brewing
scene is a vibrant
mix of historic breweries
and innovative craft beer
makers. Berkshire has a
rich history of brewing:
the region's fertile land
has always been suitable
for growing barley, a key
ingredient in beer, and
there's evidence of brewing
activities dating back
centuries here.
Breweries in Berkshire
Renegade Brewery (formerly
West Berkshire Brewery)
Independent brewery Renegade Brewery
started life in 1995, and was formerly
known as the West Berkshire Brewery.
It rebranded in 2022 and has a tap room,
kitchen and shop, and creates a range of
beers from classic bitters and stouts to the
more modern peach lagers and alcoholfree
IPAs.
Loddon Brewery
On a farm just one mile from
Reading, family-owned artisan Loddon
Brewery has its own spacious tap room and
distillery tours on Saturday nights. Here,
Loddon beers on draught are rotated and
there's always a special and a cider or two
on. Plus, it serves food from its own kitchen
using locally-sourced ingredients.
Reading Mysterious Brewing
Company
The Reading Mysterious Brewing Company
is a small craft brewery celebrating both
traditional beers and innovation too with
its hop-forward approach to brewing,
which it creates in cask, keg and cans.
The Bath Brew
House, Bath
This microbrewery in
the city centre has been
brewing up its own unique
creations since 2013, which
have won multiple awards.
Book brewery tours and
experience days to get
behind the scenes on how
they make everything from
cask ales, crisp lagers, rich
stouts, craft beers and
hoppy IPAS.
IMAGES © ADAM GASSON
36 Discover Our Way

Brewery Tours
Wiper and True,
Bristol
As one of the city's
best known breweries,
recognisable for its white
and gold designs, this is the
perfect behind the scenes
tour for its fans. Kick the
weekend off properly with
one of its Friday night tours,
then afterwards, enjoy a pint
of your favourite brew in the
tap room, and get the chance
to try something new.
Best of the rest...
Wadworth Brewery, Wiltshire
Celebrating 150 years of business, the
family-run Wadworth Brewery is now in
the hands of its fifth generation. With kegs,
lagers and cask ales, it produces ales from
amber to session, golden to gluten free,
and even a rum-infused ale.
Bristol Beer Factory, Bristol
With a brand new brewery, which has
moved just half a mile down the road from
its North Street location of 20 years, you
can taste all six beers on the tour, and
finish with a pint of your favourite at the
end in the tap room.
Bristol Brewery Tours, Bristol
The Bristol Brewery Tours boat trip gives a
different perspective of the city from the
water, while tasting great beers and delving
into the city's brewing past. It also includes
a brewery tour, plenty of tastings along
the way and finishes with lunch and, most
likely, more beer.
Discover Our Way 37

Jane Austen 250
On the 250th anniversary of the author’s birth, Jane Knight
ties up her bonnet strings and checks into one of the
author’s homes in Bath, explores another in Chawton and
pays her respects in Winchester
38 Discover Our Way

Scan here to discover more Jane Austen events •
JANE AUSTEN'S 250TH
Mark the Anniversary
Discover more about Jane
Austen's life in Hampshire,
Bath, Winchester and
Reading through special
events and exhibitions
happening across
the Great West Way
to mark the 250th
anniversary of her birth.
Discover Our Way 39

The Royal Crescent, Bath
Henry Golding as Mr. Elliot in Persuasion, filmed in Bath

Jane Austen 250
I’m sitting on the sofa swooning over Mr Darcy, aka
Colin Firth, in the BBC adaptation of Jane Austen’s
Pride and Prejudice. Viewing the arrogant aristocrat
turned tame hero’s scathing glances, wet clinging
shirt and eventual passion for Elizabeth Bennet makes
the perfect end to a day exploring beautiful Bath. This
spa city where Georgian society came to mingle was the
author’s home for six years. It also forms the elegant
backdrop to parts of two of her six great novels –
Persuasion and Northanger Abbey.
My visit is particularly special, and not just because it
falls in a celebratory year, marking 250 years since Jane’s
birth on 16 December 1775. It’s because I’m staying at
4 Sydney Place, where Jane lived with her parents and
older sister, Cassandra, from 1801 to 1804 after her
father retired as rector of Steventon, Hampshire. She
also probably started her novel The Watsons here too; it
was left unfinished when her father died unexpectedly
in 1805.
OK, I don’t get to sleep in Jane’s bedroom – the fivestorey
house has been converted into flats and the upper
ones are private, albeit with enticing names on their
doorbells, including Cassandra’s first-floor apartment and
Mr Darcy’s second-floor apartment.
Jane Austen's Family Home
from 1801 to 1805, Bath
where I’m sitting before the 55-inch TV, gorging on the
DVD library of Austen adaptations.
It’s only two minutes across the road to Sydney
Gardens and the Holburne Museum (the Sydney Hotel
in Jane’s time), whose columned façade doubled as Lady
Danbury’s House in the screen version of Bridgerton.
Although the garden maze that Jane loved no longer
exists, the park still makes a pleasant place for a stroll,
with the Kennet and Avon canal flowing through.
The Holburne Museum Bath
From the flat, I make forays into the city, following in
the footsteps of both Jane and her novels’ protagonists.
It doesn’t take me long to discover why Catherine
Morland in Northanger Abbey exclaimed ‘Oh! Who can
ever be tired of Bath?’. The architecture alone is cause
for amazement as you promenade along Great Pulteney
Street (Bath’s widest) and follow the glorious curves of
the Royal Crescent and The Circus. From here, I head back
down the hill along The Gravel Walk, where Anne Elliot
and Captain Wentworth finally got together in Persuasion.
Dakota Johnson as Anne Elliot in
Persuasion, filmed in Bath
Instead, I’m in the basement and former kitchen,
where Jane would have made tea for the family. It’s been
converted into an extremely comfortable Airbnb rental,
with a modern galley kitchen, a spacious master room
with wooden bed and a compact single room with a
futon. The former kitchen is now a large sitting room with
original flagstone floors, a desk in what was the chimney
recess should the muse strike you, plus an inviting sofa
Discover Our Way 41

Afternoon tea, this time with Mr Darcy (or at least his
picture) is also on offer at the Jane Austen Centre at No
40 Gay Street, where you can gen up on the novelist in
the fascinating museum. It’s just steps from No 25 up the
street, where Jane, her mother and sister rented rooms
after Revd Austen died. Unlike my abode, though, this
house isn’t open to overnight guests or indeed visitors,
unless they have a toothache – a plaque outside the
door simply reads ‘CJ Rushforth, JA Thompson, dental
surgeons’.
Camden Crescent's End Balcony, Bath
Although the Assembly Rooms, where high society
came to dance, are closed for renovation, you can still
visit the Pump Room next to the old Roman baths (also
well worth a tour). This is where fashionable folk would
gossip beneath the chandeliers as well as ‘taking the
waters’ from the same fish-themed drinking fountain
that’s there today. I take a few tentative sips of the
mineral-rich waters but infinitely prefer the champagne
served with yummy cakes and scones, accompanied by
softly playing music.
Afternoon Tea at The Pump Room, Bath
Jane Austen Centre, Bath
Onward to Chawton
It’s at her home at Chawton in Hampshire that you can
really get under Jane’s skin. She moved to the quaint
village in 1809 with her mother, sister and family friend
Martha Lloyd after spending three years in Southampton,
where many former Austen haunts were destroyed by
wartime bombing. The modest red-brick house, on one
of the estates her brother Edward inherited from distant
relatives, has been carefully restored to resemble what
it would have looked like at the time. I’m amazed at the
diminutive 12-sided walnut table where she perfected
earlier drafts of Pride and Prejudice, Sense and Sensibility
and Northanger Abbey as well as writing Mansfield Park,
Emma and Persuasion from scratch.
Exploring the cottage, I can’t help being reminded of
its similarity to Barton House in Sense and Sensibility, so
it’s no surprise to learn that it was the blueprint for the
Dashwoods’ home. I channel my inner Jane on the sitting
room sofa, flicking through a copy of Pride and Prejudice
where she first read the novel aloud to her friend, Miss
Benn, whose cottage you can see in the village.
42 Discover Our Way

Chawton House, Hampshire
Jane Austen's Grave, Winchester Cathedral, Hampshire

Jane Austen 250
IMAGES © BATH BID / NICK WALL / NETFLIX / NICKSMITHPHOTOGRAPHY.COM / VISIT BATH / ADOBE STOCK / EMILY WHITING / JOE LOW
From my perch I can see chairs (originally from the
Steventon rectory where the author spent the first 25
years of her life, and which no longer exists), her father’s
mahogany bureau, hand-copied piano music (she played
piano every morning before breakfast) and scraps of
original wallpaper. But it’s upstairs in the room thought to
have been her bedroom that I feel the author’s spirit the
most. With its creaking wood floor, replica tent bed, small
fireplace and cupboard holding a chamber pot, the room
is highly evocative.
After a turn in the garden and a gawp at the donkey
cart Jane used when she went shopping, it’s a short
stroll through the village that feels little changed since
the Austen ladies’ days to Chawton House, her brother
Edward’s home. The place Jane referred to as the Great
House, and where you can easily imagine the novelist
sitting in the reading nook off the ladies’ withdrawing
room, now holds 16,000 manuscripts by pre 20thcentury
female authors (anyone for Essay on Old Maids
or Companion in A Tour Round Northampton?). Outside
the small church in the grounds lie the lichen-covered
gravestones of Jane’s mother and sister.
The final resting place in Winchester
Jane’s own tomb is in Winchester, so it’s to the ancient
capital of England and seat of King Alfred the Great
that I head next. Struck down in 1816 with a mysterious
illness that may have been Addison’s disease or Hodgkin’s
lymphoma, the author carried on writing the opening
chapters of her unfinished novel, Sanditon, (which she
named The Brothers) at Chawton.
However, by May 1817, her disease had progressed
so much that she moved with Cassandra to be near her
doctor at the County Hospital in Winchester, taking
lodgings at 8 College Street by Winchester College,
where eight of her nephews went to school.
It’s on this pretty film set of a street that I stand
gazing at the small mustard-coloured house, which
opens to the public in the summer. ‘Our lodgings
are very comfortable. We have a neat little drawing
room with a bow window overlooking Dr Gabell’s [the
headmaster’s] garden,’ wrote Jane. Just weeks later, she
died, aged 41.
Walking along the same route followed by the small
funeral procession of four male members of her family
while Cassandra watched tearfully from the window, I
pass the bookshop where Revd Austen held an account.
Then it’s onwards to the small Church of St Swithunupon-Kingsgate
above the medieval city gate, before
arriving at the historic cathedral close with its halftimbered
Cheyney Court and brick Deanery.
Jane was buried inside the cathedral’s impressive
perpendicular gothic nave. Her family’s pain is almost
tangible as you read that they ‘know their loss to be
irreparable’ on the inscription. No mention is made of
her prowess as a novelist as she wrote incognito – Sense
and Sensibility, her first published novel, was attributed
to ‘a lady’. It’s only after her death that Jane’s works were
published in her name; a brass wall plaque added later
by her biographer nephew Edward refers to ‘Jane Austen,
known to many by her writings’. No one knows for sure
how she came to be buried within the cathedral. Perhaps
her two clergymen brothers put pressure on the dean,
citing the fact that the Regent had asked her to dedicate
Emma to him. Perhaps they were helped by Jane’s friend,
(the sister of the man she was engaged to for just one
night), who lived at No 11 in the cathedral close.
There’s time to reflect on this mystery and to wonder
why Cassandra destroyed so many of her letters after
her death as I amble around the ruined flint walls of
Wolvesey Castle, which Jane mentioned in her poem
When Winchester Races. She dictated it to her sister just
days before she died, when she was too weak to write.
It was one last contribution to the outstanding legacy
of literary fiction she left behind, which gave us inimical
characters such as the Bennet sisters, Lady Catherine de
Bourgh, and of course, Mr Darcy.
Discover Our Way 45

Hocktide in Hungerford
Something unusual is happening in this pretty town on the Great West Way. As the medieval
festival of Hocktide nears, the Tutti Poles are being prepared for the Tutti Men. Intrigued?
Come and discover this delightful town and its unique, time-honoured traditions
Words | Paul Miles
46 Discover Our Way

Pictured left to right: Enjoy a
scenic trip on the Kennet and
Avon Canal from Hungerford;
The Tutti-man, Philip Porter,
exchanging an orange for a
kiss with his wife, Hocktide
2019; Town Hall steps,
Hocktide 2013, including
Fiona Hobson (far right) and
fellow Tithingman holding
a Tutti-pole; Tea and éclairs
await at Fiona's tea shop, The
Tutti Pole, Hungerford.
One hundred years after her great grandfather
was Tithing Man, also known as Tutti Man,
Fiona Hobson, dressed in top hat and tails,
carried a six-feet-long pole topped with a
posey of flowers around Hungerford. With her fellow Tutti
Man, Tutti girls carrying wicker baskets of sweets and a
man carrying a sack of oranges, the retinue visited forty
homes up and down the High Street. At each one they
collected token rents, or tithes, and residents plied them
with drinks. “By the end of the day, I was propping up my
fellow Tutti Man, he could barely stand,” laughs Fiona
as we sit with a pot of tea in her old fashioned tea shop,
The Tutti Pole. Fiona’s day as bearer of one of the most
unusual offices in the land was something she had dreamt
of since childhood. “I used to think it would never be
possible for me to be Tutti Man because for centuries, the
Tutti Man has always been, well, a man.” Fiona’s mother
was the first female Tutti Man in 2001.
Such is life in this small market town in West
Berkshire. Tutti Day, the second Tuesday after Easter, is
the highlight of Hocktide, a nearly two-week long festival
of strangeness with medieval origins. One important
preparation for Tutti Day takes place the day before when,
in her cafe near the canal, Fiona painstakingly makes the
two posey-topped tutti poles. “The quickest I’ve made
them is nine hours,” she says. “It depends how many
people call in to talk during the day.” The word ‘tutti’ –
which rhymes with butty – is West Country dialect for a
posey of flowers, explains Fiona.
After pouring me another cup of tea, she tells me
more about Hocktide; how it was once celebrated widely
throughout Britain but now Hungerford seems to be the
Discover Our Way 47

Tutti girls Hocktide 1985, including
Fiona Hobson (far left).
only place maintaining the tradition. The collection of
tithes – “or now sometimes just a kiss from the lady of
the house” – allows those with ‘common rights’ to graze
cattle on the common, fish in the local rivers and pick
watercress. Despite having common rights, Fiona does
none of these.
“Each year I tell myself that I’ll go fishing, but I haven’t
yet.” From her conversation and an album of photos we
look through, the events of Hocktide, most of which take
place in the fine Victorian town hall, seem full of much
drinking from pewter tankards, top hats with pheasant
feathers, chains of office and oranges.
It is a bizarre Mad Hatters’ Party. There is a macaroni
supper, an ale tasting session, court meetings, a ‘bell man’
and – the highlight of Tutti Day – Hocktide Lunch, where,
after the vicar has said grace, there is a four-course meal
featuring local trout, watercress and beef that grazes on
the common. Ye olde Plantagenet punch is drunk. There
are toasts to the King and John O’Gaunt, the fourth son
of Edward III, who granted the town fishing rights in the
14th century. Hocktide Lunch is open to the public with a
limited number of tickets on sale beforehand.
Beware, though, that if it is your first Hocktide Lunch,
you may be wrestled to the ground and shod by the local
blacksmith. Nothing surprises. Yes, as a first-timer, you
are known as a ‘colt to be shod’. Having a large man sit
on you is optional these days and no nails will really be
hammered into your foot. Then, after lunch, across the
road from the town hall at the Three Swans Hotel, there
is free anchovies on toast and more merriment. The
traditions might appear fun, but underlying them is a
unique system of local government.
“Hungerford town hall is the only privately owned
town hall in the country as far as we know,” says a man
I meet as he walks out of his beautiful large Georgian
house on the High Street. Philip Porter is a trustee and
48 Discover Our Way

IMAGES COURTESY OF FIONA HOBSON AND THE HUNGERFORD VIRTUAL MUSEUM
Left to right: The Tutti-men and
supporters leaving Hungerford
Hospital, Hocktide 1955; The
Tithingmen Hocktide 1913, including
Fiona Hobson's Great Grandfather,
John Spendley Tyler (far left)
“It is a bizarre Mad Hatters’ Party. There is a macaroni supper, an ale tasting session,
court meetings, a ‘bell man’ and – the highlight of Tutti Day – Hocktide Lunch”
honorary fishery secretary of ‘The town and manor of
Hungerford and Liberty of Sanden Fee’, a local charity
whose long name is usually shortened to ‘Town and
Manor’. The Town and Manor functions like a local council
and possibly owes its origins to King Henry III granting
Hungerford the rights to hold markets and fairs in the
13th century. Today, the majority of the Town and Manor’s
income derives from fishing rights along five miles of the
Rivers Dun and Kennet and other chalk streams.
The trustees work closely with government bodies
and charities such as Natural England and British Trust
for Ornithology, overseeing conservation programmes.
They are in the process of creating a new wetland with
a visitor centre. “Some Hungerford residents don’t like
the Town and Manor,” admits Philip. “They say we’re a
gerontocracy, an Old Boys’ Club, but we’re all volunteers.”
First impressions of Hungerford are of a handsome
market town with lots of antique shops, fine houses
and a canal. Scratch a little deeper though and there are
centuries of intriguing history and traditions waiting to be
discovered.
Hungerford's Hocktide Festival takes place over nearly
two weeks from the Tuesday immediately after Easter
Monday. Many events – such as ale tasting – are invitation
only but Tutti Day, on the second Tuesday after Easter, is
open to all as it mostly takes place on the streets, starting
at 8am with the sounding of a ceremonial horn outside
the Town Hall. At 9am, the two Tutti Men set off with
their entourage while the Hocktide Court meets. Visitors
are welcome to observe proceedings. Hocktide Lunch
at the Corn Exchange in the Town Hall is at 1pm. Tickets
go on sale in advance. After Hocktide lunch, festivities
continue in The Three Swans hotel opposite with free
anchovies on toast. This year's Tutti Day is on 29 April.
visithungerford.com; townandmanor.co.uk
Discover Our Way 49

Events & Festivals
Join us in celebrating the vibrant spirit of the Great West Way,
where every event and festival tells a story, bringing together
local culture, flavours and special experiences
APRIL 2025
Duck Race, Westbury
Garden, Bradford on Avon
21 April 2025
Despite 2024’s river hiccups
due to high water levels on
the River Avon, this year’s
annual tradition promises
smooth sailing. Thousands
gather yearly to watch or
join as 1,000 ducks race
down the river.
Indian Fusion Cuisine,
Pettifers Freehouse,
Cotswolds
April and May 2025
This two-month-long
extravaganza showcases
the finest authentic yet
innovative cuisine from
Korma Sutra with Railway
Tiffins, curries and sizzling
charcoal iron plates.
The Big Brick Build at
Stonehenge
April 2025
Join English Heritage at
Stonehenge Visitor Centre
and help to make a historical
masterpiece with LEGO®
bricks. Thousands of LEGO®
bricks will be transformed
into a huge sculpture under
guidance of master builders.
50 Discover Our Way

Events & Festivals | April 2025
Tulip Festival at
Hampton Court Palace
15 April – 2 May 2025
See thousands of tulips
spring to life and fill the
gardens and courtyards with a
kaleidoscope of colours. Learn
about the origins of tulips
and their fashionable status
championed by William III
and Mary II.
Honey and the Bear,
The Pound Arts
Centre, Wiltshire
11 April 2025
Honey and the Bear blend
folklore with harmonies,
dynamic songwriting and
diverse sounds, from fast
rhythms to gentle ballads.
Their live performances are
full of captivating energy.
The Alpaca Easter Egg
Hunt
7-17 April 2025
Wander the organic farm
trail at Mill Farm Glamping
with adorable alpacas Bertie,
Hugo and Ralph while
tracking down chocolately
treasures and hidden
treasure chests filled with
Easter eggs!
Fascinating fact...
The horizontal lintel stones at
Stonehenge are connected to
the uprights using a mortice
and tenon joint. This is the
same as LEGO®, which uses
studs and tubes to
create the same effect.
Discover Our Way 51

MAY 2025
The Spirit of Water
Flower Festival has
breathtaking floral artistry,
but also raises awareness of
vital environmental issues.
The Spirit of Water
Flower Festival,
Salisbury Cathedral
13-18 May 2025
Experience the sight and
scent of more than 30,000
blooms in spectacular floral
displays, from ‘a world without
water’ to a journey along a
‘river of flowers’ and a seabed
with hundreds of fish.
Royal Windsor Horse
Show
15-18 May 2025
Alongside the top-class
equestrian competition
in jumping, driving and
endurance and the 120-plus
showing classes, visitors
can enjoy plenty of other
entertainment and more
than 170 shops to browse.
Taste of Corsham,
Town Centre
17 May 2025
The town’s annual festival
celebrates the very best
in local food and drink,
plus live music, free craft
activities, the Taste Trail,
entertainment for all ages,
and much more to enjoy
throughout the day.
52 Discover Our Way

Events & Festivals | May 2025
Jane Austen Wednesdays,
Reading Museum
May and June 2025
A series of expert-led talks
and fascinating workshops
are planned to celebrate the
250th anniversary of Jane
Austen’s birth at Reading’s
historic Abbey Gateway,
offering unique insights and
activities for all enthusiasts.
Pub In The Park, Marlow
15-18 May 2025
Music, pubs and chefs heading
to Higginson Park 2025 will
include The Grazing Goat, The
Troublesome Lodger, The Star
Inn, The Abbey Inn by Tommy
Banks and The Butcher's Tap
& Grill plus old favourites like
Ginger Wings, The Green Man
and Rick Stein.
Midsomer Murders Cruise
with Afternoon Tea
21 May 2025
Take in some of the grisly
sights filmed in the popular
television series Midsomer
Murders whilst enjoying a
delicious afternoon tea and
river cruise aboard one of
Hobbs of Henley’s luxury
passenger vessels.
Don't miss... Visiting Jane
Austen’s former school
room in Reading’s Abbey
Quarter, often cited as the
inspiration for Austen’s
Mrs Goddard’s School in
Emma, as part of Reading
Museum’s Abbey Quarter
tours. These guided visits
will take place every
Saturday from April
to October 2025.
Discover Our Way 53

JUNE 2025
Did you know? Castle Combe
Circuit has a rich history dating
back to WWII, when it was originally RAF
Castle Combe, an airfield used by the
Royal Air Force.
Royal Ascot, Berkshire
17-21 June 2025
One of the most anticipated
events in the British social
calendar: five days of top-tier
racing, tradition and elegance.
Witness thrilling races, the
Gold Cup and the glamorous
Ladies Day, famed for its
iconic hats and strict dress
code.
Bath Fashion
Festival at The
Holburne Museum
7-8 June 2025
A two-day festival of fashion
packed with highlights from
catwalk shows to panel talks,
pop-up shops, workshops
and rarely seen installations
featuring talented designers
and industry experts.
Living Water Art
Exhibition, Salisbury
Cathedral
7 June-28 September 2025
This profoundly contemplative
art exhibition is set against
the stunning backdrop of
Salisbury Cathedral and
explores the multifaceted
power of water and what it
means to different people.
IMAGES © GETTY IMAGES / ASCOT RACECOURSE / CHARLIE CROWHURST / ASHLEY NEUHOF / HISTORIC ROYAL PALACES / STEWART TURKINGTON / LIAM PAYNE / HISTORIC ENGLAND / ENGLISH HERITAGE TRUST
54 Discover Our Way

Events & Festivals | June 2025
Iford Manor Jazz Festival,
Bradford on Avon
19-22 June 2025
Jazz in the gardens at Iford
Manor is a highlight of the
summer season; think picnic
rugs, sipping refreshing
drinks from the gin bar,
and chilling in the stunning
Italianate gardens with the
finest jazz and soul music.
REME Museum
Extravaganza,
28 June 2025
For the second year, Armed
Forces Day 2025 will be
celebrated in Chippenham
with a fun-filled open day
featuring games, REME
displays, local stalls, historic
vehicles and inflatables – a
perfect family outing.
Summer Spectacular
Race Weekend, Castle
Combe Circuit
28 and 29 June 2025
Enjoy two days of glorious
mid-summer club racing
motorsport action featuring
multiple rounds of various
‘home’ race series, as well
as unmissable special guests
league.
The Mill at Sonning Theatre,
Reading will present the
world premiere of Death
Comes to Pemberley from
1 May-28 June 2025.
This theatrical adaptation,
based on P.D. James’s novel,
imagines a chilling mystery at
Pemberley, the idyllic estate
of Elizabeth Bennet and Mr.
Darcy from Jane Austen’s
Pride and Prejudice.
Discover Our Way 55

JULY 2025
The historic Steventon rectory,
where Jane Austen spent her first 25
years and began her writing journey, is, sadly,
lost to time – yet her spirit and enduring
legacy live on through her timeless novels.
Henley Royal Regatta,
Henley-on-Thames
1-6 July 2025
Henley Royal Regatta, a
pinnacle of rowing, graces the
Thames annually. Since 1839,
international teams have
raced the 1,640-metre course.
Dress impeccably and enjoy
picnics, fine dining and music
amidst a stylish social scene.
Kew the Music, Kew
Gardens
8-13 July 2025
A glorious week-long
festival of summer concerts
(headlining is Craig David)
with laidback picnics where
guests are welcome to bring
their own food and drinks or
enjoy the open-air bars and
street food stalls.
‘The Most Tiresome
Place in the World’:
Jane Austen & Bath,
No.1 Royal Crescent
5 July-2 November 2025
Visit this exhibition, exploring
Jane's complicated relationship
with Bath. The scandals and
shallowness of the city fuelled
her cynicism and wit, and
nothing escaped her pen.
IMAGES © VISITLONDON.COM/JON REID / HISTORIC ROYAL PALACES / JAMES LINSELL-CLARK / RBG KEW / ROB JONES / BEN RODFORD / VISIT HAMPSHIRE
56 Discover Our Way

Events & Festivals | July 2025
Wake The Tiger After
Hours: No Kids
Allowed
4 and 18 July 2025
Explore more than 40 spaces
with wild and surreal art
installations, full 360-degree
sets with interactive elements,
state-of-the-art theming,
robots and even a slide across
two out-of-this-world levels.
Henry VIII’s Joust at
Hampton Court Palace
12-13 and 19-20 July 2025
Experience an epic spectacle
as knights and the king
face off in daring tricks on
horseback. Choose your
favourite and cheer or jeer
as the high drama unfolds,
culminating until one knight
reigns supreme.
Jane Austen’s Country
Fair, Pump Field,
Steventon Village
6 July 2025
Visit Jane Austen’s birthplace
and home for the first 26
years of her life at the very
site of the rectory where she
was born. The last time such a
fair took place was in 1975 for
Jane’s 200th anniversary.
Discover Our Way 57

AUGUST 2025
At Chippenham
Museum, discover
more about your own
memories connected to
clothing and fashion.
Threads: Clothing,
Memory and Identity,
Chippenham Museum
19 July-1 November 2025
Explore ideas of memory and
identity through the clothes
we wear. On 30 August 2025,
'As we see it', celebrates
photography with a collection
of shared images of clothing
from the past.
Confluence by Nick
Andrew, Fisherton Mill
August and September 2025
This summer exhibition at
Fisherton Mill stars works by
the local artist. It will feature
drawings and paintings of
the sources, tributaries and
confluences of the five rivers
that define and shape the
geography of Wiltshire.
The Confetti Battle and
Colour Rush, Devizes
31 August 2025
Nobody knows why it
started, but Devizes
Carnival’s Confetti Battle
is surely the most fun you
can have with torn up bits
of coloured paper. Get
stuck into the battle in the
marketplace and stay for the
58 Discover Our Way

Events & Festivals | August 2025
Malmesbury Carnival
August 2025
Join the month of events
held in Malmesbury for the
carnival that has been going
for over a hundred years!
Join in the fun with events
including music, theatre,
open gardens, Petticoat
Lane, foodie nights, quizzes
and the famous procession!
Bristol International
Balloon Fiesta, Ashton
Court Estate
9-10 August
The iconic fiesta returns in
2025 for its 47th year. It is
a free to attend, three-day
event that celebrates the
city and its heritage links to
the remarkable world of hot
air ballooning.
Summer of Play at
Dyrham Park
23 July to 2 September
This summer, Dyrham
Park transforms into a
playground of creativity and
exploration with hands-on
art sessions, nature explorer
trails through the park's
stunning grounds, and a
variety of playful activities.
Discover Our Way 59

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

Events & Festivals | September 2025
SEPTEMBER 2025
Pride and Prejudice
and Persuasion, An
Audience with Lucy
Worsley on Jane
Austen, Great Hall,
Winchester
5 September 2025
Lucy discusses the world
of the beloved author of
timeless classics during live,
beautifully illustrated talks.
Craving more Jane Austen? You're in luck! The impressive Grade I listed
Georgian Parade House built in 1720 (where Jane Austen is said to
have stopped off when on her way from Hampshire to Bath) is hosting
their Regency-costumed ‘Ladies & Gentlemen on Parade’ event, 12-21
September 2025. Plus, there's a brand-new permanent exhibition, 'Jane
Austen and the Art of Writing,' opening at Jane Austen’s House in Chawton
on 9 October. This celebration of her ground-breaking talent explores her
entire creative journey, from early writings to celebrated novels.
For more events on
the Great West Way
including Jane Austen 250
celebrations, scan here:
Discover Our Way 61

Discover our Ambassadors
Discover our
Ambassadors
The Great West Way is made up of a network of iconic and
yet-to-be-discovered destinations and attractions – all are
either on, or within easy reach, of our London to Bristol route
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IMAGES © GETTY IMAGES/ISTOCKPHOTO / ADOBE STOCK / IOAN SAID PHOTOGRAPHY
62 Discover Our Way

McArthurGlen Designer Outlet
Swindon
A shopping and leisure destination with history,
fashion and dining
Blenheim Palace
Birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill and World
Heritage site with a wealth of unmissable events,
tours and exhibitions
Kelmscott Manor
Iconic country home of William Morris; poet,
designer, craftsman, socialist and Arts and Crafts
founder
Vale of Pewsey
Ancient Wiltshire landscape in North Wessex
Downs has many quirky landmarks and stories
Galahad Tours
Privately guided sightseeing tours on the Great West
Way in a luxury vehicle, with five-star rated service
Visit Corsham
Corsham is a charming town with historic buildings,
roaming peacocks, film locations, and cultural events
Visit Malmesbury
England's oldest borough steeped in history with 400
listed buildings and unique charm
The Roman Baths
One of the world's finest ancient spas with thermal
springs and Roman architecture
The Stonehenge Tour
Walk in the footsteps of your Neolithic ancestors
at one of the wonders of the world
REME Museum
Discover the intriguing history of the Royal
Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (REME)
Urban Apartments
Luxury serviced apartments in Bristol and
London to serve as your perfect retreat
Clifton Suspension
Bridge and Museum
Discover the story behind Isambard Kingdom
Brunel’s iconic first bridge
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Discover our Ambassadors
ATTRACTIONS
McArthurGlen
Designer Outlet Swindon
Discover a unique shopping and leisure destination where you can experience
history, fashion and dining on the Great West Way
Looking for an exciting day out? McArthurGlen
Designer Outlet Swindon is the perfect destination
for all shoppers and fashion enthusiasts.
Located in the beautifully renovated Grade II listed
buildings of the Great Western Railway Works, it is one of
the largest covered designer outlets in Europe.
With over 100 top name stores, the outlet boasts a
quality mix of high street and designer brands, all with
discounts of up to 60 per cent.
You can shop till you drop with fashion brands like
Calvin Klein, Tommy Hilfiger, Boss, Levi's, adidas, Nike,
Russell & Bromley, Reiss and Guess, as well as home
brands like John Lewis Home Outlet, Denby, Rituals, Le
Creuset, and many more.
Swindon Designer Outlet has a variety of restaurants
around the centre that are open until late most week
nights. You can choose from Five Guys, Wagamama, Pizza
Express, Slim Chickens and more. If you are in the mood
for a quick bite, there is also a great selection of cafes
including Starbucks and Costa.
Next door to the outlet is STEAM - Museum of The
Great Western Railway, which gives families the chance
to learn about the men and women who built, operated
and travelled on the Great Western Railway. There's also
a brilliant play area for children and a mini land train,
the Hooter Express. Find Swindon Designer Outlet off
junction 16 of the M4 and junction 11a of the M5. Open
364 days of the year, seven days a week.
swindondesigneroutlet.com
Discover Our Way 65

Discover our Ambassadors
ATTRACTIONS
Blenheim Palace
Home of the 12th Duke and Duchess of Marlborough and the birthplace of Sir
Winston Churchill, Blenheim Palace is a World Heritage Site with a wealth of
unmissable events, tours and exhibitions throughout the year
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Blenheim Palace boasts over 300 years of history,
more than 2,000 acres of Parkland and formal
gardens, and has an annual diary of unmissable
dates. The fabulous Flower Show and mouthwatering
Food Festival return, alongside family favourites
including an Easter Extravaganza.
This spring marks the opening of Blenheim's three new
experiences: a Rooftop View, Family Treasures collection
and Life Below Stairs experience.
Roof restoration project
Blenheim Palace is embarking on their most ambitious
restoration project to date – the major repair of the roof
of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. This monumental
£12 million undertaking aims to preserve Britain’s
Greatest Palace’s historic architecture and safeguard its
heritage for future generations. Once finished, it will not
only help secure the condition of this critical element of
the UNESCO World Heritage Site for future generations
to enjoy, but also protect the stunning artwork and
historic fabric that rests within it.
The Blenheim story
Discover the opening chapter of Blenheim Palace’s story
in their exhibition from the birth of John Churchill in
1650, the first Duke of Marlborough, to the completion of
the Palace over 75 years later, from 22 March.
Easter Eggstravaganza at Blenheim Palace
Visit Blenheim Palace between 18-21 April for a perfect
family day out during the Easter weekend. Hop along
to the Walled Garden to enjoy a whole host of eggciting
activities including circus skills, archery, bubble
performances, egg trail and a magic show, not to
mention appearances from the Easter Bunny throughout
the weekend too. Head over to the Adventure Play and
you might find one of the special golden eggs, winning
you a prize in their Golden Giveaways.
Blenheim Palace Food Festival
Blenheim Palace Food Festival returns between 24-
26 May, with three days of culinary thrills bursting
with delicious produce. Alongside artisan treats and
homemade delights, there’ll be craft beers, cocktails,
mocktails and more. Visit the festival kitchen to discover
live demonstrations and Q&As from a fantastic line-up of
celebrity chefs and culinary experts. There’ll be exciting
activities for the whole family.
blenheimpalace.com
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Discover our Ambassadors
ATTRACTIONS
Kelmscott Manor
Discover the artistic legacy and cultural significance of Kelmscott Manor
with a journey through history
Kelmscott Manor was the iconic country home
of William Morris; poet, designer, craftsman,
socialist and founding father of the Arts and
Crafts movement. This Grade I listed house
was loved by Morris as an example of traditional
craftsmanship in harmony with the nearby village and
surrounding landscape, towards the very upper reaches
of the Thames.
Today, visitors will find an outstanding collection.
The Manor has so many intriguing stories to tell; its
collections span over 300 years and reflect the lives,
ideas and creative legacy of those who lived and stayed
there. Perhaps the most famous is the portrait of Jane
Morris by Rossetti, The Blue Silk Dress, which was
completed in 1868 and is currently hanging in the White
Room. The domestic charm and ambience of the house
is still retained and having influenced Pre-Raphaelite art
and design and the Arts & Crafts movement – its legacy
is still very much treasured today. These internationally
important works of art, design and personal possessions
are on permanent display at the Manor from April to
October; public open days are Thursday, Friday and
Saturday, 10.30am-5pm with pre-booked group visits
on a Wednesday.
Kelmscott Manor's purpose built Learning Barn has
a variety of activities for all ages to enjoy including
trails, jigsaws, craft making and drop-in family
workshops. Kelmscott Manor also boasts enchanting
riverside gardens and the River Thames is located just a
few hundred yards away.
kelmscottmanor.org.uk
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DESTINATIONS
Vale of Pewsey
Rich in history and heritage and with two white horses carved into the
downs, there are plenty of interesting and quirky landmarks and stories to
discover in this wonderful ancient landscape in Wiltshire
Nestled in the North Wessex Downs National
Landscape, the Vale of Pewsey is the perfect
place to get away from it all, with an
abundance of ancient history and heritage.
Visit Wilton Windmill, the only working windmill
in Wessex, or Crofton Beam Engines, the 19th century
pumping station on the Kennet & Avon Canal, or
discover the White Horses carved into the dramatic
chalk downland.
The Vale is the historical centre of the crop circle
phenomena and where you will find the Crop Circle
Visitor Centre & Exhibition. Pewsey is a pretty village
with free parking, a variety of independent shops, cafes,
galleries, pubs and the Pewsey Heritage Centre. The Vale
has Walkers are Welcome accreditation – explore the
77-mile-long Pewsey Vale Circular Way, the Ridgeway or
the Mid-Wilts Way, or one of the many shorter routes.
Meander along the Kennet & Avon Canal by boat for a
day or longer from Bedwyn Wharf and Honeystreet Mill.
Travel sustainably to the Vale to either of the
mainline stations – Bedwyn and Pewsey – and then
onwards using the Wiltshire Connect on-demand bus
service, connecting villages to the surrounding market
towns of Devizes, Marlborough and Hungerford.
The Vale of Pewsey is a wonderful destination
for anyone exploring the Great West Way. Visit in
September and enjoy the Pewsey Carnival, the oldest
carnival in the county.
visitpewseyvale.co.uk
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EXPERIENCES
Galahad Tours
Explore the Great West Way in style with your own private driver-guide on
an award-winning sightseeing tour in a luxury Mercedes vehicle
Galahad Tours, owned and operated by Matt,
provides privately guided sightseeing tours
along the Great West Way from Bath.
Matt offers a seamless, door-to-door service
in a luxury Mercedes vehicle, ensuring a comfortable
and stress-free experience from your Bath location. Let
Galahad Tours handle the logistics so you can fully enjoy
the highlights of the Great West Way.
"I’m exactly the same as my clients", says Matt with a
knowing smile. "When I travel, I don't want to worry about
driving on the wrong side of the road, navigating unfamiliar
routes and planning itineraries. So, I always hire a private
guide to guarantee a memorable experience – now I offer
that same service to others!" Matt's tours have received
nothing but glowing five-star customer reviews since
launching in 2022. He provides entertaining commentary,
historical context and tasty lunch stops to ensure a
memorable experience for his clients. Matt's award-winning
privately guided sightseeing tours cover destinations
including Bath, the Cotswolds, Stonehenge, Highclere
Castle, Blenheim Palace, Avebury, Glastonbury and Wells.
"Bath is a special place because it's one of only two
UNESCO World Heritage Cities in Europe, explains Matt.
"You leave London behind and suddenly this incredible
region just opens up to you.
"My tours are a carefully curated selection of my very
favourite places. You can sit back and watch the stunning
scenery unfold as I provide the entertaining commentary,
historical context and stops to see some of the Great
West Way's most amazing places.”
galahadtours.co.uk
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DESTINATIONS
Visit Corsham
A hidden gem in Wiltshire along the scenic Great West Way, Corsham is a
delightful place to visit, offering charm and beauty in every season
Just 20 minutes from Bath and sitting on the edge
of the Cotswolds, Corsham is quintessentially
English, characterised by its historic buildings and
glorious countryside right on the doorstep.
This enchanting town offers not only a picturesque
setting but also a whimsical touch, as vibrant peacocks
roam freely, often causing a delightful kerfuffle that
adds charm to the experience.
The historic High Street of Corsham has been
described by the esteemed poet John Betjeman as “one
of the best left in England,” making it no surprise that
the town attracts filmmakers.
Corsham has been featured prominently on screen,
serving as a backdrop for popular productions such as
BBC One’s Poldark, the Oscar-winning classic Remains
of the Day, and, more recently, Disney+'s adaptation of
Jilly Cooper’s Rivals, which whisked viewers back to the
1980s. Beyond its cinematic allure, visitors can explore
the stately grandeur of Corsham Court (corsham-court.
co.uk), indulge in retail therapy at award-winning
independent shops, and enjoy delightful eateries perfect
for a leisurely meal or a quick drink.
If you seek more reasons to visit, be sure to check
out the town’s annual food and drink festival, Taste of
Corsham, on 17 May, and the Corsham Walking Festival
(corshamwalkingfestival.org.uk) from 13-15 June. The
Pound Arts Centre also presents an impressive lineup of
live music, comedy, theatre, and exhibitions (poundarts.
org.uk) all year round, further enriching the town’s
vibrant cultural scene.
visit-corsham.co.uk
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DESTINATIONS
Visit Malmesbury
Step back in time with a trip to England's oldest borough. Steeped in history,
this beautiful and vibrant market town is home to many famous and popular
musical, cultural and festival events throughout the year
Malmesbury, with its unique hilltop location,
has stood the test of time. Its rich history,
400 listed buildings and unique charm make
it a must-visit destination. And if you're
planning a trip to Malmesbury in 2025, you're in for a
real treat – there's a special programme of events to
mark the town's illustrious past and lively present.
Highlights include the Thomas Hobbes of Malmesbury
festival (4-5 April), with a live archaeological dig at the
site of his birth, talks, trails and other activities. Hobbes is
recognised as the founder of modern political philosophy
and is famous worldwide; his remarkable childhood in
Malmesbury means we can rightly claim he was ‘Made
in Malmesbury’. This is followed by Malmesbury’s Pride
of Place Festival (late May to early July), incorporating the
1350th anniversary of Aldhelm becoming the first abbot
of Malmesbury, and a town centre-packed Food Festival
(1 June). August is carnival month, including Malmesbury’s
famous Carnival Procession (30 August). September
includes art and music weekends, and if you are looking for
an exciting programme of words, music, walks and more,
don't miss Wessex Week (18-25 October).
You can also simply enjoy browsing the charming
streets filled with unique independent retailers, cafes,
restaurants, pubs and bars, or take time to pop into the
museum and magnificent Abbey.
discovermalmesbury.life
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ATTRACTIONS
The Roman Baths
Located in the heart of Georgian Bath, the Roman Baths is one of the finest
spas of the ancient world
Discover one of the finest spas of the ancient
world at the Roman Baths, with some of the
best examples of ancient Roman architecture.
The natural thermal springs that still flow today
were the site of relaxation, socialising and worship for the
Romans. As you walk around the Great Bath, you'll relive
a past era on ancient Roman pavements.
The East and West Baths and Roman Gym are brought
to life with modern projections showcasing how the
Romans once relaxed and exercised. The museum collection
next to the bathing complex is home to the ruins of the
Temple of Sulis Minerva and a stunning gilt bronze head
of the goddess. A modern projection brings the Temple
Pediment to life, with the Gorgon’s head at its centrepiece.
You'll also find the Beau Street Hoard collection of
14,000 coins and the Curse Tablets, which were thrown
into the Sacred Spring to ask the goddess for revenge.
Complimentary audio guides in 12 languages are available
to help you explore the site, and costumed characters show
you how Romans would have lived and worked. If you're
visiting during the summer months, stay until sunset and
witness the magic of the Roman Baths. As the torches
flicker and light up the site, you'll feel transported back in
time to experience the Roman way of life.
Don't forget to stop for a bite to eat at the Pump
Room, where you can enjoy breakfast, brunch or a
delicious afternoon tea. If you're looking for a unique
souvenir to take home, visit the Roman Baths shop,
where you can find a variety of gifts inspired by the
Roman period, including jewellery, pottery and books.
romanbaths.co.uk
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EXPERIENCES
The Stonehenge Tour
Experience the English Heritage visitor centre and board the shuttle bus up
to the stones
Embark on a journey of discovery with the
Stonehenge Tour, an experience that will take you
to walk in the footsteps of your Neolithic ancestors
at Stonehenge – one of the wonders of the world
and the best-known prehistoric monument in Europe.
From the moment you step aboard the tour bus, you'll
be transported back in time to an era when the world
was a little more mysterious and magical. Operated by
Salisbury Reds, the Stonehenge Tour is the perfect way
to explore the famous ancient site, which has fascinated
visitors for centuries. As you travel through the beautiful
Wiltshire countryside, you'll have the opportunity to hop
on and off at your leisure and take your time exploring
the stunning surroundings of Old Sarum before moving
on to the stone circle. Step into a Neolithic village and
find out if you have what it takes to move a mighty Sarsen
stone, come face-to-face with a 5,500-year-old man in
the exhibition, and get up close to the iconic Stone Circle
to take the perfect picture. As you journey through time
to discover the secrets of Stonehenge, you'll be captivated
by its mysterious allure. Feel the history come alive as you
wander amongst the giant stones, soaking up the magical
atmosphere that surrounds you. The Stonehenge Tour is
a truly unforgettable experience, one that will leave you
feeling inspired and uplifted long after your visit.
Don't miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime chance
to explore one of the world's most breathtaking
monuments. Book your seat on the Stonehenge Tour
and experience the wonder and enchantment of
this ancient site firsthand. The Stonehenge Tour is a
journey of discovery that will take you on a magical and
inspiring adventure.
gosouthcoast.co.uk
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ATTRACTIONS
REME Museum
Embark on an exciting Great West Way adventure and discover the intriguing
history of the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (REME) at the REME
Museum in Lyneham, Wiltshire
Since World War II, REME has been ensuring that
the British Army's state-of-the-art equipment is
always battle-ready. The museum's interactive
galleries showcase a wide range of exhibits, from
rare recovery vehicles to a tiny toothbrush made by a
prisoner of war. Take a journey through time, starting
from the beaches of Normandy, and uncover fascinating
stories of skill, innovation and bravery, including the
REME Officer who saved Volkswagen from the ruins
of war, and the intrepid mechanic who powered the
first overland crossing of Antarctica. Recently awarded
the VisitEngland Welcome Accolade in 2024 and Gold
the previous year, the museum is a perfect destination
for a fun-filled day out for all ages. With event days,
trails and school holiday activities throughout the year,
there's something for everyone to enjoy. In 2025, find
new additions to the galleries. REME's highest gallantry
award for combat, the Conspicuous Gallantry Cross,
tells the story of a corporal's bravery in Iraq, 2007. Plus,
a temporary exhibition celebrates the uniqueness of
REME's 'sister' corps all around the world.
Don’t miss the chance to explore the 'Dig for
Victory' vegetable patch, wildlife garden and the Garden
of Remembrance while you're there. After a day of
exploring, replenish your energy with a hot drink and
freshly cooked lunch at Crown’s Café located on-site.
rememuseum.org.uk
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ACCOMMODATION
Urban Apartments
A little taste of luxury – more than just somewhere to stay, Urban Apartments'
properties embrace individuality and are infused with thoughtful touches
Whether you’re embarking on or concluding
your Great West Way journey, allow
Urban Apartments' luxury serviced
apartments in Bristol and London to serve
as your perfect retreat.
With thoughtfully designed apartments tailored
to your needs and a seamless booking process, you
can relax and indulge in an atmosphere of complete
comfort. Each apartment is designed to deliver an
exceptional experience, making your city break at either
end of the Great West Way effortlessly enjoyable.
Offering premium amenities and bespoke
surroundings, Urban Apartments' studios, one- and twobedroom
apartments are havens of tranquility nestled
in two of the UK’s most vibrant cities. You’ll discover
that these properties not only provide style and
comfort, but also position you perfectly to explore the
rich delights that await in each city. Bristol pulses with
life as a city steeped in fascinating art treasures and
a creative spirit that permeates every corner. Historic
landmarks, captivating street art and a diverse music
and food scene await your discovery. London awaits, a
city that boasts over 2,000 years of captivating history
and culture. It's renowned as one of the world's most
iconic capitals with a treasure trove of attractions.
With Urban Apartments as your base, you have the
perfect launchpad for exploring the rich diversity of
experiences that lie along the Great West Way. From the
artistic delights of Bristol to the historical grandeur of
London, let each city become a chapter in your journey.
Your adventure starts here – indulge in luxury, explore
vibrant streets and create lasting experience.
urban-apartments.co.uk
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ATTRACTIONS
Clifton Suspension Bridge
and Museum
No visit to Bristol, whether at the beginning or end of your Great West Way
adventure, is complete without crossing the iconic, multi-award-winning
Clifton Suspension Bridge
One of the UK’s most celebrated landmarks,
Clifton Suspension Bridge is a must-see for
everyone, from engineering enthusiasts to
curious travellers looking for a delightful
day out. As well as being a must-see for sightseeing, the
iconic bridge features a free museum that’s open daily
from 10am-5pm, where tourists, families and locals can
discover the story behind Isambard Kingdom Brunel’s
remarkable first bridge and learn when, how and why it
was built.
This fully accessible museum offers stunning views
and engaging exhibits. There are also multilingual
resources and interactive displays, ensuring a
comprehensive and engaging experience.
Don’t forget to check out the guided tours of the
underground vaults, which were only rediscovered in
2002, adding another layer of intrigue to your visit. It's
also worth noting that tours of the bridge take place
every Saturday, Sunday and Bank Holiday at 2pm,
making it easy to fit into your schedule. The museum
is conveniently located on the Leigh Woods side of the
bridge, encouraging visitors to take a leisurely walk
across the structure from Clifton.
Be sure to visit the museum's gift shop for a curated
selection of souvenirs and gifts crafted by local artisans
– perfect for taking a piece of Bristol home with you!
cliftonbridge.org.uk
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Clayton's Kitchen, Bath

Planning Your Stay
Where to Eat & 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
Michelin-starred and fine dining
Sample sumptuous tasting menus created by
Michelin-starred chefs, innovative dishes featuring
local produce, and traditional English delicacies
cooked to perfection.
• Abbey Row at The Old Bell Hotel
The kitchen of this fine dining restaurant features hyperseasonal
and local ingredients, many of which are grown
in the hotel's stunning kitchen garden at Abbey House
Manor. A close relationship with the hotel's gardeners
ensures a constant supply of fresh, vibrant produce.
» Abbey Row, Malmesbury, Wiltshire
• Beau’s Bar and Restaurant at Donnington Grove
Hotel & Country Club
Set amidst beautiful parkland with the River Lambourn
winding through the grounds, this hotel restaurant
has large picture windows to make the most of the
picturesque river views.
» Grove Road, Newbury, Berkshire
• Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons
Raymond Blanc’s two Michelin-starred chic restaurant
has earned itself a global reputation for fine
gastronomy and creative cooking. Diners continue to
be charmed by both the setting (country-house luxe)
and the delicious treats on offer that includes the likes
of spiced monkfish, ravioli of pumpkin and smoked
trout.
» Church Road, Great Milton, South Oxfordshire
• Bulrush Restaurant
One of the recent additions to the Michelin Guide,
Bulrush is certainly on many a foodie’s ‘must visit’ list.
Chef Proprietor George Livesey’s imaginative and wellbalanced
menu is chock-full of seasonal ingredients that
are either organic or have been foraged.
» 21 Cotham Road South, Bristol
• Bybrook
This 14th century manor is set within 365 acres of
gardens and parkland. Its charming interior features
oak panelling and cosy fireplaces, while the menu offers
a flavoursome blend of classic dishes with modern
touches using high-quality, often local produce.
» West Street, Castle Combe
• Cedar at the Langley
Enjoy sumptuous European cuisine crafted with
natural ingredients in an elevated setting overlooking
the grounds. Capture the spirit of European cuisine,
featuring Spanish, French and Italian influences, all
sourced from local suppliers in Buckinghamshire.
» Uxbridge Road, Iver, Buckinghamshire
• Clayton’s Kitchen
Sample uncomplicated dishes that explore and
showcase the freshest and very best ingredients.
Robert Clayton, the restaurant’s Chef Patron since its
inception in 2012, ensures that every dish is prepared,
cooked and presented to perfection.
» 8A Margaret's Buildings, Bath
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• Cliveden Dining Room at Cliveden House Hotel
Originally the Drawing Room of the house, the
restaurant overlooks the 19th century Parterre,
National Trust gardens and the River Thames. Guests
can choose from an à la carte menu or an eight-course
tasting menu.
» Cliveden Road, Taplow, Berkshire
• 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 its original
archways made from traditional Bath stone.
» London Road West, Bath
• Guyers House Hotel & Restaurant
Set in a lovely old house with its own kitchen garden
and orchard, this pretty dining room restaurant offers a
menu of finely cooked modern British cuisine.
» Guyers Lane, Pickwick, Corsham, Chippenham
• Heyworth Restaurant at Henley Greenlands Hotel
Set within the 30-acre Henley Business School estate,
here you can enjoy an evening meal prepared by
passionate chefs with menus designed using seasonal
produce and locally sourced ingredients.
» Greenlands, Henley-on-Thames
• Hinds Head
This charming inn, Heston Blumenthal's informal
dining option, offers modern British dishes with punchy
flavours, like the 'Crab Soup & Sandwich'. Enjoy a
relaxed, buzzing atmosphere and friendly service
» High Street, Bray
• Olive Tree Restaurant at The Queensberry Hotel
The Olive Tree holds 3 AA Rosettes and is Bath's only
Michelin-starred restaurant. Under the direction of Head
Chef Chris Cleghorn, enjoy informal fine dining with a
three- to seven-course Taste of the Season menu.
» 4-7 Russell St, Bath
• Paco Tapas
Award-winning Paco Tapas (named after chef Peter
Sanchez-Iglesias’ father, Paco) offers traditional Spanish
tapas with personal interpretations. Enjoy vibrant,
comforting flavours, jamón, padrón peppers roasted
over a wood fire and sherry straight from the barrel.
» 3a Lower Guinea Street, Bristol
• Pythouse Kitchen Garden
This eatery is housed in a charming red-brick potting
shed within a Victorian walled garden. Dishes are
cooked over fire, showcasing fresh, often garden-grown
ingredients like pickled gooseberry ketchup with rich
game sausage.
» West Hatch, Tisbury
• Queens Arms in East Garston
This award-winning pub, restaurant and hotel (with
its own private lodge), located within North Wessex
Downs National Landscape, serves delicious seasonal
British cuisine.
» East Garston, Berkshire
• Red Lion Freehouse
This charming thatched pub, renowned for its Michelinstarred
dining, relaxed atmosphere and warm hospitality,
also features comfortable bedrooms with private terraces
that overlook the river.
» East Chisenbury, Pewsey, Wiltshire
• Restaurant Hywel Jones by Lucknam Park
This grand Palladian mansion offers opulent, formal
dining at its finest. Expect luxurious décor, expertly
crafted dishes with modern touches and impeccably
polished service.
» Colerne, Wiltshire
• Rick Stein’s Marlborough
Rick Stein’s Marlborough restaurant brings a taste
of Cornwall to the Great West Way, serving a
combination of classic seafood dishes and excellent
wines with plenty of coastal charm.
» 42 High Street, Marlborough
• Shelburne Restaurant at Bowood Hotel
Enjoy laid-back, countryside dining at this 2 AA Rosette
restaurant. From long, lazy lunches to romantic moments
over cocktails, enjoy a range of mouth-watering dishes
prepared with passion and served with flair.
» Bowood, Calne, SN11 9PQ
• The Abbey Tea Bar at Abbey Hotel Bath
Nestled in the heart of Bath, this charming tea bar
offers a delightful selection of artisanal teas and
delectable cakes. In the evening, the restaurant is open
for cocktails and dinner.
» North Parade, Bath
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Chris Cleghorn, Olive Tree Restaurant, Bath
Chef Heston Blumenthal, Botrytis Cinerea dessert
Three Michelin-starred
restaurants
The Great West Way is the only
place where you can experience
eight (of the ten) three Michelinstarred
restaurants in the UK.
Monkfish, Olive Tree
Restaurant, Bath
• Alain Ducasse at The
Dorchester
Elegant fine dining featuring
contemporary French cuisine, with
a focus on seasonal ingredients and
refined techniques.
» Park Lane, London
• CORE by Clare Smyth
Modern British fine dining with
a focus on sustainability and
showcasing the finest produce from
across the UK.
» Kensington Park Rd, London
Pythouse Kitchen Garden, Tisbury
• Hélène Darroze at The
Connaught
Haute cuisine with a personal
approach, featuring seasonal
ingredients and a focus on flavour
and texture.
» Carlos Place, Mayfair, London
• The Fat Duck
Heston Blumenthal's innovative,
multi-sensory dining experience
with a 17-course tasting menu that
pushes the boundaries of modern
British gastronomy.
» High Street, Bray
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Three Michelin-starred
restaurants
The Vineyard Restaurant at The
Vineyard Hotel, Newbury
• Restaurant Gordon Ramsay
A classic, sophisticated restaurant
offering exquisite French cuisine with
impeccable service and a renowned
wine list.
» Royal Hospital Road, London
• Sketch – the Lecture Room
& Library
A unique and opulent dining space
serving modern European cuisine
with artistic flair and a touch of
theatricality.
» Conduit Street, London
• The Ledbury Notting Hill
Modern British cuisine with an
emphasis on seasonal ingredients
and elegant presentation.
» Ledbury Rd, London
• The Waterside Inn
A renowned restaurant offering
exquisite classic French cuisine
and impeccable service, which has
maintained three Michelin stars for
decades.
» Ferry Rd, Bray
Apex City of Bath
The Miller of Mansfield, Reading
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• The Brasserie at Sir Christopher Wren Hotel
Enjoy glorious river views, a stunning bar and terrace
and 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.
» Thames Street, Windsor, Berkshire
• The Coach
Just steps from its sister pub, The Hand and Flowers, The
Coach offers a relaxed, informal dining experience. Its
menu, featuring 'No Meat', 'Meat', and 'Sweet' sections,
showcases top-tier pub dishes with precise cooking and
bold flavours, such as the daily rotisserie or treacle tart.
» 3 West Street, Marlow
• The Dining Room and Grey’s at Whatley Manor
Hotel and Spa
The Dining Room is a Michelin-starred restaurant
offering accomplished cooking and very creative
dishes. Grey’s offers a welcoming neighbourhood
restaurant experience featuring delicious set lunch and
à la carte menus.
» Easton Grey, Malmesbury, Wiltshire
• The Dower House Restaurant at The Royal
Crescent Hotel & Spa
With delightful views over the hotel's pleasant gardens,
guests and non-residents are welcome to enjoy a wide
range of delicious, freshly prepared food. For special
occasions, there's a fine dining à la carte menu or a
curated tasting experience. On warm, sunny days, the
beautiful gardens provide the perfect setting.
» 16 Royal Crescent, Bath
• 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.
» Beau Street, Bath
• The Hand and Flowers
In 2025, The Hand and Flowers will still be the UK's sole
two Michelin-starred pub. Led by the renowned chef Tom
Kerridge, it serves memorable dishes like an outstanding
banana soufflé. Its rustic ambiance will continue to
enhance the refined British dining experience.
» 126 West Street, Marlow
• The Miller of Mansfield
This 18th century country pub has been given a
contemporary twist and offers refined modern British
dishes from the freshest seasonal, locally-sourced
ingredients.
» High Street, Goring on Thames, Reading
• The Moonraker Hotel Brasserie
The Brasserie's seasonal menus, crafted by Xavier and his
team using fresh local produce, feature both classic and
contemporary dishes. A walled garden with a smokery for
meats and fish will add to its culinary appeal.
» Trowle Common, Bradford on Avon, Trowbridge
• The Orange Artichoke at Apex Hotel
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.
» 1 James Street West, Bath
• The Restaurant, No 15 Great Pulteney
Whether you're seeking the perfect patisserie with
speciality coffee, a laid-back lunch or dinner in the
restaurant, you'll find seasonal dishes here crafted from
local meat (Buxton Butchers), fresh produce (Lovejoys)
and baked goods from the iconic Bertinet Bakery.
» 15 Great Pulteney Street, Bath
• The Vineyard Restaurant at The Vineyard Hotel
The à la carte and 3 AA Rosette dining experience offers
expertly crafted dishes like veal sweetbread ravioli and
roast brill alongside access to a remarkable 30,000-bottle
wine cellar and a unique sensory tasting room.
» Stockcross, Newbury
• Wilsons Bristol
Wilsons is a sustainable, neighbourhood restaurant
with an excellent tasting menu. Expect expertly crafted
dishes, like dry-aged trout with pickled mushrooms,
made with ingredients from their own smallholding.
» Chandos Road, Bristol,
• Woven by Adam Smith
Set within an 18th century property on 246 acres
showcasing superb British produce, these chef-driven
dishes are technically skilled, beautifully presented and
full of depth. The signature chocolate dessert is a must.
» Coworth Park, Sunningdale, Ascot
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Tea rooms & cafés
Enjoy a delightful range of cafés and tea rooms along
the Great West Way, perfect for a morning cuppa or
a full afternoon tea with dainty sandwiches, cakes
and tasty scones.
• Canal Trust Café
A beautiful tea room and licensed café sat next to lock
14 on the Kennet & Avon Canal with lovely gardens,
delicious food and homemade cakes.
» Bradford on Avon
• Honeystreet Mill Cafe
A cosy cafe, a fair trade gift shop, farm shop and a hire
boat company with a range of delicious fresh and local
food open for breakfast, lunch or afternoon tea.
» Pewsey Vale
• Lido Spa & Restaurant, Bristol Lido
Spanish and Mediterranean menus, with an open kitchen
featuring a hot blazing Italian clay oven and bespoke
charcoal grill by the Grade II listed outdoor pool.
» Bristol Lido
• Spring's Café and Restaurant
Located at Thermae Bath Spa, this café combines
beautiful Georgian architecture with classic,
contemporary style, offering delicious dishes and
interesting drinks from an extensive menu.
» Thermae Bath Spa
• Tea Shop by the Canal
Set in a unique Grade II listed building by the Kennet &
Avon Canal, this tea room blends Italian culture with the
fine and splendid rituals of English cream teas.
» Kennet & Avon Canal
• The Bridge Tea Rooms
Enjoy traditional British afternoon tea in a charming
1502 blacksmith's cottage, featuring delicate bone
china, fine teas, and staff in Victorian attire.
» Bridge Street, Bradford on Avon
• The Six Bells Walborough
Traditional tea rooms in a lovely setting by the Kennet
& Avon Canal, offering leaf tea, cream teas, apple pie,
canalman's lunch, whippy ice cream, and more.
» Kennet & Avon Canal
• The Tutti Pole
A family-run restaurant close to the Kennet & Avon
Canal in a Grade II listed building, serving quality
homemade food and luxury afternoon teas.
» Hungerford
• Westonbirt, The National Arboretum
This cafe offers freshly prepared hot and cold
refreshments including soups, sandwiches, savoury
snacks, cakes and pastries.
» Westonbirt, The National Arboretum, Tetbury
• Windsor Castle Undercroft Café
The first café for visitors to Windsor Castle located in
Edward III’s medieval Undercroft, which for centuries
served as the Castle’s main wine cellar.
» Windsor Castle
Best places for afternoon tea
Savour the tradition of afternoon tea with a
selection of delightful venues along the Great West
Way, offering tiers of treats and fine teas
• Abbey Hotel Bath
Fill your boots with afternoon tea in central Bath with
a selection of teas, sandwiches and pastries.
» North Parade, Bath
• No.15 Great Pulteney, Bath
Head to this hotel for a luxurious afternoon tea
experience in a stylish Georgian townhouse setting.
» Great Pulteney Street, Bath
• Parade House
A tea room in Trowbridge offering afternoon tea with
homemade cakes and treats in a charming setting.
» Trowbridge, Wiltshire
• The Bridge Tea Rooms
A quintessentially English tea room in Bradford on
Avon offering traditional afternoon tea with Victorianera
service.
» Bridge Street, Bradford on Avon
• The Pump Room Restaurant
Serves afternoon tea in a historic and elegant setting,
accompanied by live classical music.
» Searcys at the Pump Room, Stall Street, Bath
84 Discover Our Way

Afternoon Tea at the Dower House
Restaurant, The Royal Crescent
Hotel & Spa, Bath
The Bertinet
Bakery, Bath
Unique Dining Experiences
and Food and Drink Tours
There are many ways to sample the
best local cuisine on the Great West
Way, from city tours and cookery
classes to nostalgic river cruising.
Afternoon Tea at the Dower House
Restaurant
Food and Drink Tours:
• In and Beyond Bath
This tour explores the culinary
delights and hidden gems in and
around the city of Bath.
• Savouring Bath
A specialist in food tours that highlight
the flavours and culinary heritage of
Bath.
Cookery Schools:
Cocktails at the Abbey Hotel Bath
• The Bertinet Kitchen Cookery
School
Run by renowned baker Richard
Bertinet, offering bread making and
cookery courses in Bath.
• Vaughan's Kitchen
A cookery school in Devizes offering
a range of hands-on classes and
workshops for all skill levels.
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Unique Dining Experiences
and Food and Drink Tours
River Cruise Dining
• Thames Rivercruise
Specialises in river cruises on the
Thames in Reading and surrounding
areas, with various trip options and
private hire.
• Bristol Packet Boat Trips
Offers a variety of boat trips around
Bristol's harbour and waterways,
providing scenic tours and unique
experiences.
• French Brothers
Provides river cruises on the Thames
in Windsor and Runnymede, with
options for sightseeing and private
charters.
• Hobbs of Henley
Offers boat hire and passenger trips
on the River Thames in Henley-on-
Thames, including sightseeing and
special events.
Hobbs of Henley
The Great Bustard, Salisbury
Queens Arms, East Garston
Crown & Anchor Inn, Ham
IMAGES © JAKE EASTHAM / NICKSMITHPHOTOGRAPHY.COM / JOSE LUIS LOPEZ DE ZUBIRIA
86 Discover Our Way

• The Roseate Hotel, Reading
Offers afternoon tea in a refined setting, with a
selection of teas and delicate pastries.
» The Forbury, Reading
• The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa
Provides a luxurious afternoon tea experience in a
prestigious location, with elegant surroundings.
» Royal Crescent, Bath
• Whatley Manor Hotel & Spa
Offers afternoon tea in a beautiful country house
setting, with a selection of teas and homemade treats.
» Easton Grey, Malmesbury
Pubs and inns
From traditional thatched village inns to modern
gastropubs with spacious beer gardens.
• Crown & Anchor Inn, Wiltshire
A traditional, dog-friendly village pub with a large
garden, serving classic British fare and real ales.
» Ham, Wiltshire
• Helen Browning’s Royal Oak, Swindon
An organic pub offering a range of real ales and
farm-to-table dishes in a relaxed country setting.
» Cues Lane, Bishopstone, Swindon
• Old Bell Warminster
A historic pub, offering a selection of real ales and a
traditional pub atmosphere.
» 42 Market Place, Warminster
• Queens Arms, East Garston
A charming pub in East Garston serving real ales and
British cuisine in a welcoming environment.
» Newbury Road, East Garston, Hungerford
• Red Lion Freehouse, Pewsey
A Michelin-starred pub offering refined dining using
seasonal ingredients, with rooms and a garden.
» East Chisenbury, Pewsey
• Rose & Crown Ashbury
A charming country pub known for its warm
atmosphere, good food and selection of local ales.
» 3 High St, Ashbury, Swindon
• The Bear Hotel, Devizes
A historic market town hotel with a traditional pub,
offering comfortable rooms and a central location.
» 2-3 The Market Pl, Devizes
• The Bird in Hand, Knowl Hill
A welcoming pub with a large garden, serving
traditional pub food and Butcombe Brewery ales.
» Bath Road, Knowl Hill, Reading
• The Black Swan, Devizes
A traditional pub with a focus on live music, sports and
a friendly, community atmosphere.
» The Market Place, Devizes
• The Crown, Tolldown
A stylish pub with a modern interior, a seasonal menu
and a curated selection of craft beers.
» Toll Down Way, Dyrham, Chippenham
• The George Inn in Norton St Philip
A historic coaching inn with a large courtyard serving
classic pub dishes and a fine selection of traditional ales.
» High Street, Norton St Philip, Bath
• The Great Bustard, Salisbury
The 19th century inn has been revived and
reinvigorated, with a stylish new restaurant and rooms.
» Great Durnford, Salisbury
• The Newbury in Newbury
A pub offering a variety of real ales and a lively,
friendly atmosphere.
» 137 Bartholomew Street, Newbury
• The Royal Oak Yattendon
A village pub in Yattendon, offering real ales and a
traditional pub experience in a picturesque location.
» The Square, Yattendon
• The Royal Windsor Pub, Windsor
A pub in Windsor, serving real ales and offering a
classic pub experience near Windsor Castle.
» Datchet Road, Windsor
The joy of the Great West Way is that every traveller’s
experience is different and every journey is exceptional
in its own way. Discover your way; greatwestway.co.uk
Discover Our Way 87

88 Discover Our Way
Royal Berkshire Hotel, just outside Ascot

Planning Your Stay
Where to Stay
Staying overnight on the Great West Way makes for a wonderful trip,
whether on a romantic weekend away or a week-long adventure
• Abbey Hotel, Bath
This charming hotel in Bath offers a blend of
traditional and contemporary design, with
comfortable rooms and modern amenities.
» North Parade, Bath
• Artist Residence Bristol
This Georgian townhouse and former boot factory
on Portland Square celebrates local art and produce,
offering an eclectic stay and all-day bar and kitchen.
» Portland Square, Bristol
• Baker's Cottage at The Manor House
A beautifully restored Cotswolds cottage located
within the impressive grounds of The Manor House.
» Castle Combe, Chippenham
• Bath Apartment Breaks
Looking for a home away from home in Bath? These
apartments offer the perfect way to relax and explore
the city at your own pace.
» Various locations, Bath
• Bath Area Self Catering
Enjoy the ultimate freedom and flexibility with this
large range of self-catering accommodation.
» Various locations, Bath area
• Bath Classic Cottages
Delightful self-catering cottages offering a cosy and
authentic retreat in the heart of the city.
» Various locations, Bath area
• Bath Priory
Two adjacent Georgian houses featuring formal
gardens, an outdoor pool and a private spa. There's a
restaurant, a casual pantry and an outdoor terrace.
» Weston Road, Bath
• Best Western Plus Angel Hotel
Situated in the heart of Chippenham, this hotel offers
comfortable rooms, a restaurant and a bar.
» Market Place, Chippenham
• Brooks Guesthouse B&B - Bath
A delightful bed and breakfast in the heart of Bath,
known for its friendly service and comfortable rooms.
» Upper Church Street, Bath
• Brooks Guesthouse B&B - Bristol
Explore Bristol from this convenient location,
offering a welcoming stay with easy access to the
city's attractions.
» St. Nicholas Street, Bristol
• Chequers Hotel
A historic and charming hotel located in the town
centre offering guests a warm and welcoming
atmosphere and easy access to explore Newbury.
» Oxford Street, Newbury
• Church Farm Country Cottages
These charming cottages offer a peaceful and
relaxing base for exploring the surrounding area.
» Farleigh Wick, Bradford on Avon
Discover Our Way 89

• Cliveden House
A grand 19th century Italianate mansion steeped in
history and surrounded by 400 acres of National Trust
gardens, opulent interiors, butler service and rooms
named after notable figures.
» Cliveden, Taplow, Berkshire
• Cliffe Farm Dairy
A family-run dairy farm in the heart of the Cotswolds.
Visitors can take a tour of the farm and learn about the
milking process, as well as sample some of the delicious
dairy products made on site.
» Upper Slaughter, Cheltenham
• Coworth Park, Dorchester Collection
A luxurious country retreat with 18th century elegance,
a setting spanning over 200 acres, a polo field, a striking,
glass-fronted spa and an equestrian centre.
» Blacknest Road, Berkshire
• Cricklade House Hotel
A beautiful country house surrounded by acres of stunning
parkland offering comfortable accommodation, a
restaurant, a golf course and a spa.
» Cricklade, Swindon
• Cumberwell Country Cottages
These delightful cottages are set on a picturesque golf
course in Wiltshire. They offer comfortable bedrooms
and stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
» Cumberwell, Bradford on Avon
• Donnington Grove Hotel & Country Club
A luxurious hotel and country club located in a
picturesque setting offering guests a range of
amenities including golf, a spa and fine dining.
» Grove Road, Newbury
• DoubleTree by Hilton Swindon
West of Swindon just off the M4, this is the perfect
base for visiting Chippenham, Malmesbury, Tetbury,
Cirencester and Marlborough – some of the fantastic
market towns on the Great West Way.
» Frankfurt Street, Swindon, Wiltshire
• Dukes Hotel
Experience luxury and style at this elegant hotel in Bath,
with spacious rooms, fine dining and impeccable service.
» Great Pulteney Street, Bath
• Hampton by Hilton Bath
This modern hotel in Bath offers comfortable bedrooms
and modern amenities, conveniently located for
exploring the city's attractions.
» Avon Street, Bath
• Hampton by Hilton Bristol Airport
A modern and convenient hotel, being on the doorstep
of Bristol Airport – the only hotel within walking
distance of the terminal.
» North Side Road, Bristol
• Herongate Apartments
Modern and spacious apartments with all the necessary
amenities in a charming and peaceful location.
» High Street, Hungerford
• Hilton Reading
A modern and stylish hotel located off the A33 within two
miles of The Oracle shopping centre and with 24-hour
access to a health club with pool, sauna and steam room.
» Drake Way, Reading
• Holiday Inn Salisbury - Stonehenge
The nearest hotel to Stonehenge situated conveniently
near the A303. There is a range of bedrooms, lounge and
outside terrace, Starbucks and Solstice Bar & Grill.
» Solstice Park, Amesbury
• Homewood Hotel & Spa
A short distance from Bath's city centre, this handsome
Georgian residence boasts playful details such as a
topiary sculpture and eclectic, colourful interiors, a spa
and British-Mediterranean restaurant.
» Abbey Lane, Freshford
• Lainston House
This luxurious country house hotel has elegant and
spacious bedrooms, exceptional dining experiences,
a beautiful 12th century chapel ruin and a range of
activities including horse riding, shooting and falconry.
» Sparsholt, Winchester
• Lucknam Park
Enveloped within its own classical gardens and
paddocks, this graciously restored Palladian mansion
near Bath offers opulent bedrooms, an equestrian
centre, a spa, pools and fine dining restaurant.
» Lucknam Park, Colerne
90 Discover Our Way

Lainston House, Winchester
• Manor Farm Courtyard Cottages
Charming and cosy cottages located in a peaceful
countryside setting offering guests a relaxing and
memorable stay.
» Stratfield Saye, Reading
• Mercure White Hart, Salisbury
Located in the historic city of Salisbury, this hotel offers
a blend of traditional charm and modern comforts,
perfect for discovering the area.
» St. Johns Street, Salisbury
• Mill Farm Glamping
Unique and luxurious glamping pods, each with
their own private facilities and stunning views of the
surrounding countryside.
» Hilperton, Trowbridge
• No.15 Great Pulteney
Indulge in the eclectic charm of this boutique hotel in
Bath featuring individually designed rooms, a stylish bar
and a unique Georgian townhouse setting.
» Great Pulteney Street, Bath
• Novotel Reading Centre
A contemporary hotel conveniently located in the heart
of the town with a gym, sauna, steam room, indoor
heated pool and restaurant.
» Friar Street, Reading
Lainston House, Winchester
• Number 38 Clifton
This stylish townhouse overlooking Clifton Downs offers
boutique rooms with wood-panelled walls, loft suites
with copper baths and a rear sun terrace.
» Upper Belgrave Road, Bristol
• Oxford Marriott
This sophisticated hotel in the heart of Oxford offers
stylish rooms, excellent dining options and a range of
amenities including a fitness centre and indoor pool.
» Telford Road, Oxford
• Pennyhill Park
One of the Exclusive Hotels collection along with
Lainston House, Pennyhill Park is a luxurious country
house hotel set in stunning grounds, with elegant
rooms, a spa, and a range of outdoor activities including
golf and tennis.
» Bagshot, Surrey
Pennyhill Park, Surrey
Discover Our Way 91

• Pentahotel Reading
This hotel has flexible check-in and rooms spread across
six floors designed with style and comfort. At the heart
of the hotel is the iconic Pentalounge: part bar, part
restaurant and part chill-out area. It's just a ten-minute
walk to Reading Station.
» Oxford Road, Reading
Pythouse Glamping Village, Salisbury
• Pettifers Hotel
A hotel where family-owned warmth meets fine dining.
Guests wake to award-winning breakfasts, savour local
flavours in the bistro and unwind with afternoon tea or
drinks in the walled garden.
» Crudwell, Malmesbury
• Pythouse Glamping Village
Tucked away in the beautiful and secluded orchard at
the bottom of the walled garden are six romantically lit,
beautifully furnished bell tents with fresh linen. There's
a dining area, a well equipped kitchenette, a breakfast
and cocktail bar and hot showers.
» Tisbury, Salisbury
• RiverSide Hotel
Located just a stone's throw from the picturesque River
Avon, the RiverSide Hotel offers comfortable rooms in
the heart of Salisbury. The hotel is within easy reach of
the city's famous cathedral and other historic attractions.
» Millstream approach
The Gainsborough Bath Spa, Bath
• Rollestone Manor
Escape to the tranquility of the countryside with a stay
at Rollestone Manor, a charming retreat offering peace
and relaxation.
» Rollestone Road, Shrewton
• Rooftop Retro Rocket Caravans
This unique and quirky overnight option offers guests
a memorable and fun stay in one of four retro Rooftop
Rockets set atop a boutique guesthouse, right in the
heart of Bristol's old town.
» Clifton, Bristol
The Gainsborough Bath Spa, Bath
• Roseate House London
This luxurious boutique hotel in the heart of London
offers elegant and stylish rooms, exceptional dining and
a spa. Guests can also enjoy the hotel's beautiful garden
and terrace for a peaceful retreat in the bustling city.
» Westbourne Terrace, London
92 Discover Our Way

• Rose & Crown Inn, Ashbury
This traditional English inn is surrounded by beautiful
countryside with comfortable rooms, a welcoming bar
and a restaurant serving delicious home-cooked meals.
» High Street, Ashbury.
• Rowley Cottage at Iford Manor
This charming peaceful cottage is surrounded by
beautiful gardens and woodland, with stunning
countryside views.
» Iford, Bradford on Avon
• Stay in Bath
Enjoy a selection of beautiful B&Bs, small hotels and
self catering properties in Bath, perfect for exploring the
city's historic sites and cultural offerings.
» Various locations, Bath area
• The Apartment Bath
A multi award-winning two-bedroom, two-bathroom
luxury holiday home located in the heart of Widcombe,
only a few minutes’ walk over ‘Halfpenny Bridge’ across
the River Avon into the city.
» Widcombe, Bath
• The Bristol Wing part of YMCA
A budget-friendly and centrally located option in Bristol
offering guests a simple and comfortable stay in a
historic building.
» Bridewell Street, Bristol
• The Castle Hotel
Located in the heart of central Windsor directly opposite
the Sir Christopher Wren's Guildhall and Windsor Castle,
where guests can watch the ceremony
of the Changing of the Guard.
» Windsor, Berkshire
• The Chequers Hotel
A historic and charming hotel offering guests a warm
and welcoming atmosphere and easy access to local
shops and restaurants.
» Oxford Street, Newbury
• The Chilterns View
Nestled in the beautiful Chiltern Hills, this hotel offers
stunning views, luxurious rooms and access to the
hotel's on-site spa facilities.
» Christmas Common, Watlington
• The Coat & Bear
A remarkable Georgian building with a listed frontage
that exudes timeless elegance, featuring 26 boutique
bedrooms with stylish and uniquely designed interior.
» Bartholomew Street, Newbury
• The Gainsborough Bath Spa
This luxurious hotel in the heart of Bath has it all –
elegant rooms, a world-class spa, exceptional dining and
unrivalled central location.
» Beau Street, Bath
• The Greenlands Hotel
This hotel is set in a historic mansion surrounded by
beautiful gardens, with elegant rooms and easy access
to scenic walks and local attractions.
» Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire
• The Manor House
This beautiful country house hotel has elegant rooms, a
spa and a restaurant serving delicious cuisine.
» Castle Combe, Chippenham, Wiltshire
• The Merchant's House Hotel
This historic 15th century house with a cosy bar and a
restaurant was once known as The Catherine Wheel and
was a regular drinking haunt for Cavaliers. Stay here for
old-world charm and city centre location.
» High Street, Marlborough
• The Old Bell Hotel
This historic coaching inn has been lovingly restored to
offer guests a comfortable and stylish stay. The elegant
rooms, welcoming bar and restaurant offer a touch of
luxury in the heart of the town.
» Abbey Row, Malmesbury
• The Roseate Villa Bath
Discover the perfect blend of comfort and elegance
at this beautiful Victorian villa in Bath, with spacious
rooms, a tranquil garden and a warm and welcoming
atmosphere.
» Henrietta Road, Bath
• The Roseate Reading
Sister property to Roseate Hotels in London and
Bath, this elegant townhouse located near to Ascot
Racecourse offers fine dining, spa, and stylish bedrooms.
» The Forbury, Reading
Discover Our Way 93

• The Royal Berkshire Hotel
This luxurious country house hotel located just a short
distance from Windsor Castle has stunning Georgian
architecture, elegant rooms, a spa and a range of
outdoor activities, including tennis and croquet.
» London Road, Ascot
• The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa
Set within Bath's famed Royal Crescent, this hotel is
a true landmark in Bath. Stay for grandeur, spacious
opulent rooms with four-poster beds, a spa, a library,
a conservatory, stunning gardens and the Montagu's
Mews restaurant.
» Royal Crescent, Bath
• The Queens Arms Hotel
This charming and historic award-winning countryside
hotel is located in the beautiful village of East Garston.
With comfortable rooms, a cosy bar, and a restaurant
serving delicious meals.
» Newbury Rd, East Garston
• The Queensberry Hotel
The Queensberry is an independently owned hotel,
formed from joining four Georgian townhouses. Offering
a unique and characterful experience, the hotel retains
original architectural details and quirky floor plans.
» Russel Street, Bath
• The Kingsbury @ No7 & No8
These luxurious apartments are located in the heart of
Wiltshire, offering guests a comfortable and stylish home
away from home. With modern amenities and elegant
decor, they offer a sophisticated and convenient stay.
» The High Street, Marlborough
• The Vineyard Hotel
Renowned for its extensive wine collection, particularly
Californian wines, this hotel boasts glamorous rooms,
a seasonal restaurant, and frequent wine tastings,
including those from the owner's vineyards.
» Stockcross, Newbury
• The Yard in Bath
The Yard in Bath is a boutique hotel located in a historic
Georgian coaching inn. With 15 rooms over four floors,
antique charm with modern style, a courtyard café,
cocktail bar and breakfast service.
» 1 Monmouth Place, Bath
• Timbrells Yard
Nestled in the heart of Bradford on Avon, this charming
pub with rooms offers guests a quintessential English
experience, blending traditional warmth with a truly
cosy and welcoming stay.
» St Margaret's Street, Bradford on Avon
• Totteridge Farm Camping Pods
These stylish and comfortable glamping pods offer
a unique and memorable camping experience with
stunning views of the surrounding Wiltshire countryside.
» Totteridge Farm, Westbury
• Troutbeck Guesthouse & Red Lion Freehouse
An idyllic 18th century country 3 AA Rosette pub and
restaurant with riverside accommodation, offering local,
hand-pumped beer and cider.
» Vale of Pewsey, Wiltshire
• Urban Apartments Bath
These modern apartments provide a comfortable and
convenient base for exploring the city.
» Various locations, Bath area
• Village Hotel Swindon
With spacious rooms, a fitness centre and a restaurant
serving delicious meals, it's the perfect choice for those
seeking a contemporary and stylish stay.
» Shaw Ridge, Swindon
• Whatley Manor Hotel and Spa
A picturesque Cotswolds retreat offering polished
hospitality and 21st century luxury, two-Michelinstarred
restaurant, a spa and sprawling gardens.
» Easton Grey, Malmesbury
• Woolley Grange Hotel
Set in the picturesque Wiltshire countryside, Woolley
Grange is currently undergoing a period of elegant
refurbishment. Upon reopening, guests can expect
elegant rooms, a spa and a restaurant serving delicious
cuisine in peaceful surroundings.
» Woolley Green, Bradford on Avon
• YMCA Bath Hostel
This affordable and friendly hostel in Bath offers a
comfortable and convenient base for exploring the city,
with modern facilities and a welcoming atmosphere.
» Broad Street Place, Bath
94 Discover Our Way

The Michelin Key: A New
Award
A resounding round of applause for the
shining stars of the Great West Way.
We are thrilled to celebrate the incredible
achievement of our hotels recognised
with the prestigious Michelin Key – a
brand new award reserved for the most
exceptional hotels in the UK.
Troutbeck Guesthouse & Red Lion Freehouse, Wiltshire
These are not just hotels; they are
artisans of experience, crafting truly
unforgettable moments for every traveller
on the Great West Way.
This is where hospitality transcends,
where every detail sings, and where
memories are made to last a lifetime.
Troutbeck Guesthouse & Red Lion Freehouse, Wiltshire
Lucknam Park near Bath stands out
as one of only three hotels in England
outside of London to receive the
exceptional Three Key award. Coworth
Park of the Dorchester Collection, The
Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa, Whatley
Manor Hotel and Spa and Cliveden
House have each earned the impressive
Two Key award. The accolades don't
stop there – Bath Priory, Homewood,
The Gainsborough Bath Spa, The
Queensberry Hotel, The Yard in Bath,
Artist Residence Bristol, Number 38
Clifton and The Vineyard Hotel & Spa all
boast the well-deserved One Key award.
Congratulations – you make the Great
West Way shine even brighter!
Whatley Manor Hotel and Spa, Malmesbury
Discover Our Way 95

96 Discover Our Way
Ways to Travel
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...

Planning Your Stay
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 whiteknuckle
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 that are in and around the touring
route. There are also some excellent routes along the
Wiltshire Cycleway, including a picturesque 15.3km (9.5
miles) 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.
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 by
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.
Enjoy 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 website for hire boats
and boat tours, and find details of river transport options in
the capital on the Transport for London website.
Discover Our Way 97

Planning Your Stay
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 two
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, including Auto Europe and Practical Car
& Van Rental.
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 one hour 40 minutes, but by stopping off
you can explore the route in your own time and turn 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 off-peak travel time restrictions.
98 Discover Our Way

THANK YOU TO THOSE WHO’VE HELPED
US ALONG THE WAY...
Aerospace Bristol
American Museum & Garden
Apsley House
Ascot Racecourse
Atwell-Wilson Motor Museum
Auto Europe
Avebury
Barrington Court
Bath Bus Company
Bath Curious Strolls
Bath Insider Tours
Bath Mozart Festival & Bach Festival
Berkeley Castle
Best Western Plus Angel Hotel
Bishopstrow Hotel & Spa
Blakehill Farm Nature Reserve
Blenheim Palace
Bluestone Vineyard
Bodleian Libraries
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
Brunel’s SS Great Britain
Calne Town
Canal & River Trust
Carvers Hill Estate Winery
Castle Combe Circuit
Cheddar Caves
Cheddar Gorge
Chippenham Museum and Heritage
Centre
Chippenham Town
Cholderton Rare Breeds Farm
Church Farm Country Cottages
Classic Cottages, Bath
Clayton’s Kitchen
Cliffe Farm Dairy
Clifton Suspension Bridge
Corsham Town
Cotswold Water Park
Cricklade House Hotel
Crofton Beam Engines
Crown & Anchor
Crown Plaza, Reading East and
Marlow
Cumberwell Country Cottages
Devizes Town
Donnington Grove Hotel &
Country Club
DoubleTree by Hilton, Swindon
Dr Chocs
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
Henley Greenlands Hotel
Henley on Thames
Herongate Apartments
Hilton Reading
Hobbs of Henley
Holiday Inn, Salisbury, Stonehenge
HoneyStreet Boats
Hungerford Town
Iford Manor Gardens
In and Beyond Bath
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
Longleat Cottages
Lower Moor Farm Nature Reserve
Lytes Cary Manor
Mad Max Tours
Maidenhead Heritage Centre
Malmesbury Town
Marble Hill
Marlborough College Summer
School
Marlborough Town
Mary Shelley’s House of
Frankenstein
McArthurGlen Designer Outlet
Swindon
Mercure White Hart Hotel
Milford Hall Hotel
Mill Farm Glamping
Mompesson House
Monkey Island Estate
Montacute House
Museum of East Asian Art
National Garden Scheme
National Trust
National Waterways Museum
Newark Park, Ozleworth
Newbury Racecourse
No. 1 Royal Crescent
No.15 Great Pulteney
North Wessex Downs National
Landscape
Old Sarum
Oldbury Tours
Original Wild
Oxford Marriott
Pennyhill Park
PentaHotels, Reading
Pettifers Freehouse Hotel
Pewsey Vale of Tourism Partnership
Prior Park Landscape Garden
Quirky Campers
Reading Museum
Reading UK
REME Museum
RHS Garden Wisley
Richmond
River & Rowing Museum
Rollestone Manor
Roseate House London
Royal Berkshire
Royal Borough of Windsor &
Maidenhead
Salisbury Cathedral
Salisbury, Stonehenge and Sarum
Tours
Savouring Bath
Shaw House
Skydive Netheravon
South Western Railway
St Peter’s Church
Stay in Bath
Stasher
Stonehenge
Stourhead
Strawberry Hill House & Garden
Studley Grange
Sulis Guides
Swindon Village Hotel
Syon Park
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 Gainsborough Bath Spa
The Guild Wiltshire
The Holburne Museum
The Jane Austen Centre
The Manor House & Golf Club
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 Riverside
The Roman Baths
The Roseate Reading
The Roseate Villa Bath
The Royal Mint
The Stonehenge Tour
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
Trowbridge Town
Turner’s House
Tyntesfield, Wraxall
University Of Bristol Botanic
Gardens
Urban Apartments
Urban Creation
Vaughan’s Kitchen
VisitBritain/VisitEngland
Visit Gloucestershire
Visit Highworth
Visit Newbury
Visit Thames
Visit West, Bath
Visit West, Bristol
VisitWiltshire
Wadworth
Wake The Tiger
We The Curious
Wellington Arch
West Berkshire Museum
Westonbirt, The National
Arboretum
Whatley Manor Hotel & Spa
Whitchurch Silk Mill
Wilton Shopping Village, The Guild
Wilton Windmill
Wiltshire Museum
Wiltshire Stonehenge landscape
Windsor Castle, Royal Collection
Trust
Windsor Great Park, The Crown
Estate
Windsor Open Top Bus Tours
Woolley Grange Hotel
Wyvern Theatre
YMCA Bath Group
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