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Arts & Culture along the Great West Way

It's not just London that has a monopoly on arts and culture along the Great West Way. Even in the quaintest of villages you can find a thriving cultural life, from annual festivals that have been faithfully recreated for hundreds of years to pop-up art galleries in repurposed phone boxes. Stretching from Bristol to London, discover the arts and culture scene along the Great West Way.

Explore Local Culture from London to Bristol

The market towns and cities along the Great West Way also reach well beyond their geographical limits when it comes to the quality and breadth of their art and culture. While some showcase the work of celebrated local artists, each inspired in unique ways by their remarkable surroundings, others attract national and international talent, like Banksy in Bristol! This is a joy for travellers as it means a variety of art galleries, theatres, music venues, literary events, comedy nights and more to explore.

The National Gallery in London

Not only is The National Gallery located in the cultural city of London and the UK’s capital, but the Gallery tells the iconic story of European art, showcasing a wide collection for some of the world’s greatest paintings. Founded in 1824, the National Gallery has more than 2,600 paintings from Renaissance Italy to French Impressionists.

Mary Shelley’s House of Frankenstein

Bursting with unusual artefacts, emotive soundtracks and rooms dedicated to Pop Culture, Mary Shelley’s House of Frankenstein in Bath tells the iconic story of the world’s most famous Monster and the legacy of its author, Mary Shelley.

National Trust Properties between Bristol and London

National Trust have a number of unique properties and gardens along the Great West Way. From Prior Park in Bath, featuring one of only four Palladian Bridges in the world, to Stourhead in Wiltshire, with its rich autumn colour and landscape famous for its feature on the big screen.

Avebury Stone Circle in Wiltshire

Located in the heart of Wiltshire is the historic village of Avebury, home to the World’s largest Stone Circle! National Trust own the land surrounding this iconic monument, as well as the Avebury Manor located on the edge of the village. Transformed in partnership between the National Trust and the BBC, the Manor now offers a hands-on experience to visitors, celebrating and reflecting the lives of the people who once lived there.

Unlike Stonehenge, which Avebury shares its World Heritage Site status with, you can walk amongst and touch the stones for free! During the Spring and Summer months, you may also find sheep resting throughout the Stone Circle.

Unique Venues along the Great West Way

Along the touring route you’ll find big name theatres rubbing shoulders with smaller - but just as interesting - backroom gig venues. And one-off woodland poetry readings that prove as soul-stirring as star-studded book festivals. Because around here, art and culture happens anywhere and everywhere.

The Parade House in Trowbridge

The Parade House is a beautiful Grade 1 listed Georgian townhouse located in the historic centre of Trowbridge, Wiltshire. Not only does this property boast a series of fine rooms furnished with antiques and grand ceiling mouldings, but it is also home to a range of regency-themed events including afternoon tea, film screenings, talks and musical performances and exhibitions.

There’s such a rich respect for the arts along the Great West Way, we know you’ll find something to arouse even your most niche interests. As well as these listings, do be sure to check our local What’s On pages for upcoming events.

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