Top 10 Free Things to do

There’s no need to always spend money to have a good time on your adventure, some of the best things to do are in fact free! The Great West Way has some wonderful free attractions that are worth stopping off listed below. 

Silbury Hill and UNESCO World Heritage Site Avebury
Located near Marlborough, Silbury Hill and UNESCO World Heritage Site Avebury are both Sites of Special Scientific Interest. Silbury Hill is the largest artificial mound in Europe comparing in volume and height to the ancient Egyptian pyramids. Although you cannot walk on the hill, you can walk around it and take it in from all angles, you can even walk from Avebury to see it. UNESCO World Heritage Site Avebury is like Stonehenge but secretly better. The prehistoric stone circle which encompasses the village is extraordinary in the fact you can touch the stones, climb on them and even hug them. Inside the stones is The Red Lion pub, a great place to relax after exploring The Avenue to The Sanctuary, another 5,000-year-old stone arrangement.  

Bristol Cathedral
Built in the 12th century, Bristol Cathedral is a great example of England’s medieval churches. Located near Bristol’s harbourside close to We The Curious, the Cathedral is within walking distance of the city’s central attractions. 

Bath Abbey
Bath Abbey, located near the Roman Baths and the Parade Gardens in Bath’s city centre, was built in the 15th century but has been used as a place of worship for over a thousand years. The first King of England, King Edgar, was crowned on the site in 973. Although entry is free, you are encouraged to pay a donation. Charges apply for the tower tour. 

Arnos Vale Cemetery
Discover a spectacular Victorian Garden Cemetery as you look around the 45 green acres of Arnos Vale Cemetery. Walk amongst Victorian gravestones and tranquil woodland in the heart of Bristol. Entry to the Cemetery is free, and you can go on a self-guided tour of this intriguing location, full of heritage and widlife - the perfect spot for an afternoon stroll with a difference. 

Great Windsor Park 
Great Windsor Park in the borough of Windsor and Maidenhead is over 4800 acres of open parkland. Perfect for walking, running, cycling, horse riding and the ultimate day exploring, the park has so many treasures to uncover. Walk the iconic Long Walk and Deer Park famous for the view of Windsor Castle, explore Virginia Water’s woodland shores and waterfall, and visit The Valley Gardens filled with brightly coloured Magnolias, Rhododendrons, Azaleas and Himalayan and Chinese birches. Car parking charges may apply. 

Clifton Suspension Bridge
Walking across the iconic bridge should be on your bucket list for your Great West Way adventure. Clifton Suspension Bridge is free to cross and you can take in the amazing views across Bristol and the Avon Gorge. Discover the bridge’s history in the visitor centre and take a free tour which start at the toll booth every 3pm on Saturdays, Sundays and Bank holidays between Easter and October.  

Discover Bristol’s Museums 
Bristol has a number of museums that are completely free to enter. The Matthew is a modern-day interpretation of John Cabbot’s ship that he sailed to Newfoundland in 1497. The ship is free to look around and explore, make sure you talk to the guides who will tell you all about the history, (additional trips on the boat do incur charges and require booking). M Shed on the Harbourside collates all the history of the city in one place from prehistoric times to the present day with over 3000 objects and archive collections. Bristol Museum and Art Gallery consists of 19 galleries over 3 floors of world-class collections of art, geology, archaeology and natural history plus much more waiting to be uncovered. 

 
Richmond park
As London’s largest Site of Special Scientific Interest and one of eight royal parks in the country with over 2500 acres of parkland, Richmond Park is one of the best free attractions along the Great West Way. Play spot the deer, cycle or walk around the park, settle down for the day with family and a nice big picnic, the possibilities are endless! Parking is free of charge so you can come and go as you please too. 

Chippenham Museum and Heritage Centre
The market town of Chippenham, located in Wiltshire, has a wonderful museum and heritage centre telling the story of the town from prehistoric times up until today. There are exhibitions, children’s activities and historic artefacts all held in the 18th century building. Close by is Yelde Hall, a medieval hall where the historic council chamber is located on the first floor. 

The Kennet and Avon Canal
Looked after by the Canal and River Trust, the Kennet and Avon Canal runs along the Great West Way route between Bath and Reading. The K&A is free and open for everyone to use and enjoy every day. Walk or cycle along the towpath to see amazing wildlife (keep an eye out for herons and kingfishers) as well as remarkable reminders of the area's industrial heritage, including locks and aqueducts.  

For more ideas of things to do along the Great West Way, take a look at our See & Do pages and top 10s for inspiration.