Top 10 Must Dos

Including sunrise at Stonehenge, Afternoon Tea and a spa day in beautiful Bath…The touring route packs a lot into the relatively short distance - in American terms, anyway - between London and Bristol. You’ll find world-famous attractions, off-the-beaten-track experiences and some total surprises.

Wonder at England’s royal history in Windsor 
Windsor, less than 1 hour west of London, is rich with royal history. Visit Windsor Castle, which has origins stretching back to the beginnings of England as we know it - it was built by William the Conqueror after the Norman invasion in the 11th century. And don’t miss St George’s Chapel (you’ll get entry with your Windsor Castle ticket). It was the romantic, rose and blossom-adorned location of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s wedding in spring 2018. Did you know? Henry VIII is buried at the chapel.

Step back into prehistory at Stonehenge & Avebury 
Stonehenge is perhaps England’s most iconic sight, but nothing beats standing in front of those neolithic stones as the sun rises on the longest (or shortest) day of the year. And don’t forget the lesser know, but much larger, Avebury - free to visit and especially atmospheric on a misty winter morning. 

Treat yourself to a Traditional Afternoon Tea 
Yes - the locals really do still partake in Afternoon Tea! One you’ve sat down to a 3-tiered tea at The Tutti Pole in Hungerford - complete with finger sandwiches, scones and a selection of indulgent cakes - you’ll understand why. 

Go on a street art tour in Bristol
One of the few things widely known about secretive street artist Banksy is that he comes from Bristol. Sign up for a street art tour and be guided through the city where he learnt his art. As well as several of his most well-known works, including ‘Mild Mild West’ in Stokes Croft, you’ll discover attention-grabbing pieces from other top artists. 

Enjoy a relaxing spa day in Bath 
This spa city is renowned for its elegance and beauty - and no wonder, exploring its Regency streets feels like stepping straight into the pages of a Jane Austen novel. So where better to indulge in a spot of pampering? Head for the rooftop pool at Thermae Bath Spa for fine city views - twilight is best. Check into a super swanky hotel, like The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa. And sample the waters (thought to be healing) at The Roman Baths.
Did you know? Bath is a great gateway to the picturesque, golden-stone villages of the Cotswolds, such as Corsham and Castle Combe. 

Have a float in a boat 
The Great West Way is connected by waterways, from the River Thames to the Kennet & Avon Canal to Bristol Floating Harbour. Make the most of these scenic spots by hopping aboard a boat. Row gently downstream in Henley-on-Thames, navigate a narrowboat along the entire route or enjoy a quick ride in a boat taxi. In Bristol, you can even sleep on board luxury boat hostel the Kyle Blue.  

Walk to see Wiltshire’s White Horses 
Up close, Wiltshire’s giant chalk horses - there are 8 different ones - seem to leap at you from the lush green hills they’ve been etched onto over the years. The best way to view them is on foot, so pull on your hiking boots and take to the trails. Try a section of the White Horse Trail - a long distance walking path (90 miles) traveling between market towns worth stopping in such as Marlborough, Pewsey and Devizes. 

Dress up for a day at the races 
There is a strong horse racing heritage to be found in some parts of the Great West Way. Even if you’re not a fan of placing bets, the pomp and ceremony surrounding a day at the races is a unique cultural experience. Royal Ascot in June is the most high profile, but check out fixtures at Newbury, Salisbury and Bath racecourses too. Top tip: Wearing an elaborate hat is half the fun (and part of the dress code at Ascot).

See bluebells bloom in ancient woodland
Beyond the exhilarating cities and colorful towns, the Great West Way’s natural spectacles are a real slow-travel joy. Come springtime (mid April to late May), many locals like to venture to the nearest woodland in search of carpets of delicately perfumed bluebells. Some top spots include West Woods in Marlborough, Mortimores Wood near Chippenham and Bowood House and Garden - with its famous Capability Brown parkland - near Calne. 

Explore engineering history 
The history of the Great West Way is tied to engineering feats through the ages, from the creation of the Kennet & Avon Canal in the 18th century to the Great Western Railway in the 20th century. Top sights along the way include Caen Hill Locks, STEAM, Brunel’s SS Great Britain and Aerospace Bristol.