Things to Do along the Great West Way

The Great West Way leads to famous places you’ve always dreamed of visiting, like the Royal Windsor Castle in the east, or Clifton Suspension Bridge in the west. As well as those secret spots and hidden gems even some locals have yet to discover! 

Along the Way you can immerse yourself in the grand dramas of English history like that at Hampton Court Palace, seek out quirky attractions you wouldn’t find anywhere else in the world and happen upon cute little cafés, artisan craft shops and one-of-a-kind festivals and events.

Your Great West Way journey may see you floating over Bristol as the sun rises on the city’s annual International Balloon Fiesta. Or relaxing in a rooftop pool on Valentine's Day amongst Wiltshire’s breath-taking countryside. Enjoying a cold pint as you look around a local English brewery. Walking amongst ancient standing stones. Lazing in the summer sun aboard a pretty narrowboat. Need more inspiration? Take a look at the many things to do around the East of the Thames, or journey to the centre of the Great West Way and explore Wiltshire and the Cotswolds, before discovering more towards the west in Bath and Bristol.

History and Heritage between Bristol and London

As you travel, you will pass through the cities, towns and villages of the Great West Way and begin to discover England's history and heritage. Follow ancient roadways and explore the canal networks that pay tribute to an industrial past. Step into ages past at stately homes and grand houses and gardens. Take a sightseeing tour and uncover secrets and stories from England's history. 

Indoor and Outdoor Activities along the Way

But as much as you want to see the sights, we know there’s also lots you’ll want to do, from long-distance walking and adrenaline-pumping sports to much more leisurely pursuits, like boat rides and hot air ballooning. There are plenty of activities to keep you busy along the route, from shopping to cycling and from arts and culture to evening entertainment.

Food and Drink Experiences near you

For Foodies, the Great West Way offers plenty of hidden gems when it comes to food and drink along the route. Perhaps you will want to treat yourself to a seasonal tasting menu at a top independent restaurant or head out for a wine tasting at an English vineyard - did you know the climate of southern England is ripe for crisp, aromatic sparkling wines?

Explore below for more wonderful things to see and do, from the iconic to the totally unexpected. After all, you never quite know what awaits the curious around the next corner. Discover your way. 

FAQs

Are there any Family-Friendly things to do on the Great West Way?

Families will have plenty of things to do along the Great West Way, with attractions including zoos and interactive museums, and plenty of gardens, parks and forests to explore! Around London, you can find Hampton Court Palace or Legoland just outside Windsor. Further inland, there is Reading Museum and Longleat in Wiltshire, the county’s iconic Safari Park!
Click here to plan your family adventure along the Great West Way.

What can I do during Bank Holiday Weekend?

There are plenty of things to do if you are visiting the Great West Way during a bank holiday weekend. Many attractions will launch exclusive bank holiday events or exhibitions. Think Easter Egg hunts or Christmas wreath making. Towns across the route will often hold parades, festivals or markets as well.
Click here for more inspiration on where to visit during the next bank holiday weekend.

Are there Free Things to Do along the Great West Way?

Between London and Bristol, there are a range of free or budget-friendly things to do. From nature trails to art exhibits. Museums and some attractions are also free to enter. You can also enjoy a range of free annual events, including Bristol’s International Balloon Fiesta in the Summer, or Bath’s iconic Christmas Market.
Click here to explore all the free things to do along the Great West Way.

What are the best Outdoor Activities to do on the Great West Way?

There are so many different outdoor activities to experience when exploring the Great West Way. If you enjoy the water, have a go at kayaking or paddle-boarding up the Kennet and Avon Canal, or if you prefer a little adventure, there is plenty of high adrenaline activities along the route, including rock climbing at Cheddar Gorge! If you like the peaceful countryside landscape, head out on the many walking and cycling paths.
Did you Know? There are 3 National Landscapes along the Great West Way route, including North Wessex Downs, which boasts some of the most picturesque views and is home to Wiltshire’s famous White Horses!
Click here to plan your next outdoor adventure along the Great West Way.