Find everything travel trade partners need to plan a visit and sell Bristol, Bath and the wider region. From getting here and practical visitor information, through to accessibility, sustainability and group travel, this page covers the essentials for building itineraries your clients will love.
Practical Information
| Currency |
The local currency is the British Pound (GBP) |
| Languages |
Locally, English is the language spoken, however tours and guides are available in a variety of languages for non-English speakers. Contact us for specific details. |
| National holidays |
The UK has eight public holidays each year. These include New Years Day, Good Friday, Easter Monday, Early May Holiday, Late May Holiday, August Bank Holiday, Christmas Day and Boxing Day. Some businesses may operate changed hours or even close on these days. Please check in advance to avoid disappointment. |
| Places of worship |
There are many places of worship across the region for a variety of religious beliefs with visitors welcome. Many historic sacred sites are available to visit, too. |
Travel Information
Located in South West England, Bristol, Bath and beyond is easy to reach by rail or road. Bristol Airport serves the whole region with over 120 flight routes from across Europe, including the main hub airports, as well as a number of domestic routes.
Do I need a visa to visit Bristol and Bath? You usually need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) rather than a visa to travel to the UK if you're from Europe, the USA, Australia, Canada or certain other countries. These are valid for visits of up to six months. Please check the latest ETA requirements and prices on the Gov.uk website. Do not use a third-party service who may overcharge you. Using the UK Government ETA website is quick and easy.
Visitors from other countries may require a visa. Check the Gov.uk website to check your eligibility: https://www.gov.uk/check-uk-visa
How do I get to Bristol and Bath from the airport? Bristol Airport serves the whole region with over 120 flight routes from across Europe, including the main hub airports, as well as a number of domestic routes. Bristol, Bath and beyond is easily accessible for domestic groups and international visitors. The two cities and surrounding countryside are easily accessible via rail or road with mainline train services and the motorway network.
About the Region
Bristol
Creative and colourful, from its brightly painted houses to its contemporary art galleries and cutting-edge street art, Bristol always makes a big impression and offers an exciting mix of experiences for visitors of all ages.
A packed festival and events calendar, a dynamic cultural programme and some of the best food and drink in the UK makes the city a laid-back yet cutting-edge destination. Bristol is also a UNESCO Creative City of Film.
Bath
Bath is the only entire city in the UK that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The city has been a centre of relaxation and wellness for over 2,000 years due to its natural hot springs, which has earned it a second UNESCO accreditation as part of the Great Spa Towns of Europe.
Today, Bath combines world-class heritage and wellbeing, independent shopping and a vibrant food and drink scene, making it the perfect destination for a city break.
...and beyond
Bristol and Bath are vibrant cities complementing each other with huge numbers of experiences and places to stay. The wider region offers even more with opportunities for day trips and country stays. A hub and spoke itinerary can be very attractive, combining the convenience of a base to stay (and unpack!) while being able to explore even further afield.
Accessibility
For clients with access needs, our team have impartial local knowledge and are able to reassure visitors with up to date information to ensure the best possible experience. We are committed to making our region as accessible and inclusive as possible so that every visitor can feel welcome, safe and able to fully enjoy their visit.
If your clients have specific access and inclusion needs, we aim to provide as much useful information as possible to help with planning your itinerary and further exploration of the area.
Sustainability
Visit West encourages sustainable travel and itineraries. Our aim is that travel trade activity in Bristol, Bath and beyond addresses economic, social, and environmental sustainability, and that buyers and their clients are provided with information to help them make good choices.
Cruise excursions
Bristol Cruise Terminal is the maritime gateway to Bristol, Bath, Cotswolds and South Wales. The location is close to the M5 and M4 motorways, offering a wide variety of excursions within 90 minutes.
The range of high-quality day excursions available from Bristol Cruise Terminal is exceptional.
School groups and education groups
Bristol, Bath and beyond offers an exceptional setting for school trips and educational group travel, combining world-class heritage, pioneering science and engineering, outstanding cultural attractions and spectacular landscapes. From the Roman history and Georgian architecture of Bath to Bristol's reputation for innovation, creativity and sustainability, the region provides curriculum-friendly experiences for learners of all ages.
Visit West Travel Trade welcomes opportunities to work with educational tour operators from the UK and overseas.
