Embark on a family journey along the Great West Way this Spring with a range of things to do between London and Bristol. Explore colourful gardens as 100s of flowers bloom, creating picturesque paths and stunning displays. Make the most of warmer days by getting out on the water or follow along the many cycling paths across breath-taking National Landscapes. There’s plenty for the whole family to enjoy this season…
The Great West Way is home to two of the UK’s most famous waterways, the River Thames and the Kennet and Avon Canal. Stretching across the entire route, enjoy a range of unique experiences from canal and boat tours, to paddleboarding.
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For some of the most spectacular views of Winsor Castle, head out on a tour with French Brothers Boat Trips. Running from Windsor, Runnymede and Maidenhead, families can choose from a short return trip or a full-day cruise, the perfect opportunity to discover the hidden gems of this royal area.
Explore the eastern parts of the Great West Way by stepping on board Thames Rivercruise. Running every weekend and bank holiday this season, there’s plenty to see as you tour the famous river, passing through stunning destinations including Henley and Streately.
Continue your journey to Reading where you will find the Kennet and Avon Canal. Stretching for 87 miles to Bristol, here you can once in a lifetime boat trip experience with Kennet Horse Boat Company. With very few left in the UK, these horse-drawn barges allow you to soak up some history as you enjoy a relaxing cruise along the famous waterway.
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Make the most of the Spring sun with a trip to Cotswold Lakes, 40 square miles featuring over 150 lakes and miles of stunning countryside to explore. This holiday destination is perfect for families looking for a little adventure, with plenty of activities including kayaking, water skiing, archery, cycling and more.
Take to Bath’s waters with Original Wild this season and enjoy a family fun experience, including paddleboarding and kayaking. Make the most of stunning city views as you tour up-stream or join the team for other activities such as raft-building, abseiling, and canoeing.
Blow away the winter cobwebs with a family walk this season. The Great West Way offers plenty nature walks through picturesque gardens, gorgeous parkland, and vast National Landscapes.
The Longleat estate is perfect for a family walk this Spring. Whether you visit the safari park and meet the animals, race around the Hedge maze, or explore the Longleat House gardens, or set out on an adventure through the woodlands to discover remarkable scenes like Shearwater Lake.
Located just a short drive west of Bristol is the National Trust site of Tyntesfield. As well as the near-complete Victorian Gothic country house, Tyntesfield is home to an extraordinary estate, featuring 4 play areas with woodland adventure and sculpture trails.
Open from April 1st is Bowood House and Gardens. Surrounding the Lansdowne home is 100-acres of pleasure grounds, formal gardens and exquisite terraces waiting to be explored. Head to the Adventure Playground, one of the most exciting playgrounds in Wiltshire, boasting a life-size pirate ship, aerial rope walks, giant slides and much more. This area is perfect for picnics and endless hours of family fun.
Explore 5,000 acres of open greenery at Windsor Great Park this season. Blooming with colourful flowers, trees and shrubs, these grounds offer the perfect place to explore. Find a range of monuments like the Copper Horse, or even walk amongst 2,000-year-old Roman Ruins along Virginia Lake!
Did you know the Great West Way is home to England’s third-largest National Landscape? North Wessex Downs encompasses parts of Berkshire, Hampshire, Oxfordshire, and Wiltshire, offering a vast range of walking and cycling routes, perfect for family adventures. Here, you will find ancient woodland, heaths, historic monuments and picturesque towns and villages. Some of the most iconic landmarks can also be found such as Avebury Stone Circle, Wilton Windmill and the Kennet and Avon Canal.
Stretching between London and Bristol is a range of indoor attractions and activities, perfect for the whole family this season…
Learn more about the city’s aviation history at Aerospace Bristol. From the earliest days of powered flight including helicopters and aeroplanes, to stepping on board the famous Concorde, the last supersonic jet to ever fly, Aerospace creates the perfect day out for all ages.
Located in Wiltshire, REME Museum showcases a unique collection of vehicles, uniforms, and weapons. Be sure to visit this season and learn more about the proud history of the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers with its many exhibits.
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From archaeology at the Abbey Quarter, to artistic treasures throughout the Victorian Town Hall, Reading Museum displays an array of historical artefacts waiting to be explored. A visit to the museum isn’t complete without browsing the shop and relaxing at the café too!
The Great West Way offers plenty of family-friendly places to stay, from cosy cottages to luxury hotels. Plan your adventure this season…
© Great West Way 2025.
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