Summer

When we hear the word Summer, we think road trips, picnics and countryside pursuits. Whether you’re exploring Richmond Park on horseback or floating around Bristol Harbour with Bristol Ferry Boats, heading up-up-and-away in a hot air balloon or staying firmly on the ground walking around the grounds of the National Trust properties. Whatever it is you choose, discovering the Great West Way will lead you to some wonderful off the beaten track locations.

It's the time of the year where you spend most of you time outdoors (weather permitting), making unforgettable memories. There are plenty of events happening along the Great West Way to get together with friends and family to celebrate the riches of the South. The best-known regatta in the world, Henley Royal Regatta, returns from 2-7th July. Don your finest dress and fascinator or lounge suit and boat shoes for a spectacular 5 days of rowing. Bristol International Balloon Fiesta is celebrating its 40th year and is being held on 8-11th August for 4 free days of family fun. There are balloon rides, morning balloon lifts, nightglows, music and so much more, it’s totally instagrammable too.

When it gets a bit too hot, go swimming! Bathe in the wild at the river pool in Avoncliff or jump into the deep end at Thames Lido or Bristol Lido for something a bit more civilised. If you’d rather stay dry, try walking The Ridgeway or cycling around Wendover Woods for a more shaded route. After your walk or cycle, rest at one of the pubs and make the most of their garden with a refreshing glass of cider. Some of them have spectacular views like the garden at The Royal Windsor Pub which looks out onto the back of Windsor Castle!

For more ideas on how to spend your summer along the Great West Way, take a look below. You can also visit our See and Do and Top 10 pages for more ideas to start planning your 2019 adventure.