A Spring Adventure Along the Great West Way

Spring is in full bloom and between London and Bristol, there are plenty of family-fun things to do, with a range of activities and events taking place throughout the season. Embark on an exciting journey along the Great West Way as you explore colourful countryside and vibrant towns. Stretch your legs on a warm nature walk or meet adorable wildlife at the several animal parks between London and Bristol. Discover rich heritage as you meander along the famous River Thames or Kennet and Avon Canal before stopping by one of the pretty villages for a taste of local treats!

From annual festivals to outdoor exhibitions, take a look at what’s happening along the Great West Way below.

Why Spring is a Great Time to Visit the Great West Way

It’s easy to fall in love when travelling along the Great West Way during spring time, with so many stunning places to explore and enjoy the warmer weather. This season welcomes new beginnings, sunny skies and blossoming flowers, and with plenty of attractions and activities between London and Bristol, there is endless things to do in Spring! Spend time with family and friends during the Easter Holidays, or head out on an exciting adventure through some of the prettiest gardens, parks and landscapes! Spring also welcomes the years’ first bank holiday, with two taking place in May.

Easter Activities along the Great West Way

Marking the celebration of new beginnings, Easter takes place at the start of April, and between London and Bristol, there are a range of family-fun events taking place!

The Illuminated Cave with Wallace & Gromit at Cheddar Gorge and Caves

Head within easy reach of the Great West Way route to Cheddar Gorge and Caves this Easter, where visitors can step into 50 years of Aardman magic, mischief and marvellous clay with an illuminated trail in Gough’s Cave!

Explorers of all ages will take to the magical illuminated trail deep within the Gough’s Caves and discover cool facts about the dazzling Aardman lantern scenes including Wallace & Gromit. Little adventurers will crack the secret code to retrieve an Easter treat!

Imber Open Days, Wiltshire

Open from Good Friday to Easter Monday is St Giles Church in the historic village of Imber. Evacuated during World War II in 1943, Imber is still deserted to this day, providing a unique and memorable experiences for visitors each year.

Easter Lates at The Roman Baths, Bath

Spend the evening amongst the iconic Roman Baths as they stay open throughout the Easter weekend. Enjoy a drink with friends from a pop-up bar beside the Great Bath as it illuminates by flickering torchlight into the early evening.

Must-Visit Festivals along the Great West Way

Explore iconic attractions and destinations along the Great West Way route as you experience a range of exciting festivals this season.

Cheltenham Jazz Festival

The annual Cheltenham Jazz Festival returns from April 29^th to May 4^th, attracting over 20,000 music fans annually. This festival celebrates all genres of jazz with a carefully curated mixture of international jazz icons, up-and-coming new artists and unique Festival performances to ensure the programme has something for everyone!

Outdoor Activities and Scenic Routes

Make the most of the warmer weather by venturing outside this season! The Great West Way offers plenty of reasons to enjoy the great outdoors, with stunning walking and cycling routes along National Landscapes. As well as this, there are also a range of walking festivals and tours taking place this Spring!

Reading Walks Festival

This years’ Reading Walks Festival, taking place between May 10^th-18^th, is more diverse than ever and includes 50 walks in and around the historic town. Each walk is led by local volunteers and is designed to bring to life the stories, heritage, wildlife and landscapes of Reading and its surrounding countryside.

Bristol Walk Fest

Head to the far western part of the Great West Way for this years’ Bristol Walk Fest. This month-long festival offers a choice of ways to explore the city and its surroundings on foot. Including heritage tours, nature walks, explorations of street art and statues, woodland story times and much more!

Most of the festivals’ events are free and there’s something in the programme for all ages, interests, backgrounds and fitness levels, including those in wheelchairs or with children in buggies.

Gardens, Parks and Natural Landscapes

Opening for the year from this season are a range of gardens, adorned with colourful flowers and plenty of history. Discover local heritage between London and Bristol as you journey through some of the most breath-taking spring gardens along the Great West Way.

Bowood House and Gardens

Bowood House and Gardens, located in Wiltshire, is the magnificent family home of the Marquis and Marchioness of Lansdowne. The House was purchased in the early 18^th Century by the 2^nd Earl of Shelburne. Interesting rooms include Robert Adam’s Library, the Laboratory where Dr Joseph Priestley discovered oxygen in 1774, and the Chapel that is still used for family services.

The House itself is set in the middle of Capability’ Brown’s grade 1 park. This incredible estate features an outstanding collection of trees and shrubs, an impressive cascade and a stunning lake.

The Woodland Gardens

Open from late April to mid-June is Bowood’s Woodland Gardens. The third Marquis of Lansdowne began developing this area in 1854 and today, visitors can explore an array of flora including original hardy hybrid rhododendrons, which were thought to be extinct!

Be sure to start your adventure along the Great West Way this season.