Visit Bradford on Avon

Visit Bradford on Avon and get the best of everything, from shopping and accommodation, to restaurants and inns, as well as amazing local history at every turn. Sitting along the River Avon and Kennet and Avon canal, the market town of Bradford on Avon is the ideal location to enjoy slow travel along the Great West Way.

Bradford on Avon on the Great West Way

Bradford on Avon is proud to be featured on the Great West Way route of discovery. So, if you fancy exploring the town as part of a road, rail, hiking or boat trip, the Great West Way is your best companion.

You needn’t always bring a car when visiting, as the town has great rail connections to many more amazing destinations across the UK. If you do drive, however, Bradford on Avon is close to both the M4 and M5 with many nearby attractions to explore. If you choose to visit as part of a longer cross-country trip, the Great West Way can act as your guide via London, Bath and Bristol – taking a day or two along the way to enjoy Bradford on Avon.

Visit the Historic Market Town of Bradford on Avon

One of the most compelling characteristics of Bradford on Avon is its unique location on the edge of the Cotswolds. This is reflected in the towns architecture with the ancient bridge in the town’s centre remaining its natural focus, still retaining two of its original 13th-century arches! The historical view from the main bridge incorporates the hill above the town which is dotted with the old weavers' cottages.

Bradford on Avon’s staple industries for six centuries was wool and weaving, starting in the 14th century. The mechanisation of the wool industry in the late 18th century saw the construction of the great mills that still dominate the town’s architecture, along with the rows – or ‘ranks’ – of weavers’ cottages lining the hillsides and streets, punctuated by the grand houses of wealthy clothiers.

Nowadays, the cottages, mills and industrial premises of old are joined by independent shops, accommodation and a host of great spots to wine and dine. The town is well connected by road, rail, water to other nearby tourist destinations making it the perfect place to visit even just for one day.

Top Things to Do in Bradford on Avon

Bradford on Avon offers a rich history amongst its bustling streets and with this, comes a range of interesting things to do when visiting the town. Follow along the same path that the Saxons drove their carts across, the ‘broad ford’ that gave the town its name, leading you to the impressive Tithe Barn. Discover more of Bradford on Avon's history in the town lock up and Museum, or why not hop on a boat trip along the Kennet and Avon canal!

Bradford on Avon Markets

Bradford on Avon provides locals and its visitors with 3 markets throughout the week, offering locally sourced food and drink, unique gifts and more. The town market takes place every Thursday morning in the library car park, the Lamb Yard artisan market is every Friday and the Maker's market is on the first Saturday of the month.

If you are a keen foodie, there’s a whole host of cafes, restaurants, and bars for wining and dining, including Timbrel’s Yard, The Dandylion, Ravello, The Bunch of Grapes, and Pablo’s Bistro.

What's On in Bradford on Avon

All year round, there are plenty events taking place in Bradford on Avon. From Food and Drink festivals in summer, to comedy nights and live performances most weeks, why not experience Bradford on Avon like a local by finding out What's On when you visit.

Annual Events in Bradford on Avon

Bradford on Avon also has a whole host of events taking place every year. From favourite traditions including Pancake Race across the Town Bridge in February, the iconic Duck Race at Easter, Fireworks Night in November and various Christmas activities, Bradford on Avon provides the perfect community feel when visiting throughout the year.