Discover the wider West of England region for travel trade, with key attractions, group-friendly experiences, itineraries and practical visitor information.
About the wider region beyond Bristol and Bath
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.
Think country pubs, cosy places to stay and beautiful accessible walks. Much of the immediate countryside around Bristol and Bath is accessible via public transport from the city centres, along with a number of off-road cycle routes with bike hire available locally.
The Cotswolds
To the immediate north of Bristol and Bath is South Gloucestershire and the South Cotswolds. This also includes much of the area between the two cities as well as some of the northern and eastern urban areas of Greater Bristol. The area offers the gateway into the Cotswolds with honey-coloured stone buildings and picturesque villages. Some small towns have big reputations, but there are still many others to discover, too.
We recommend booking clients on a guided tour with operators such as Rabbies, Max Mad Tours, Bath Insider Tours, Galahad Tours and In & Beyond Bath.
Cheltenham and Gloucester are a little further up the motorway or rail tracks, with Stratford-upon-Avon and Worcestershire beyond that.
Stonehenge & Somerset
To the south-east of Bath, just beyond Warminster, you will find Stonehenge. This can be accessed independently using the regular direct GWR rail service from Bristol Temple Meads or Bath Spa stations and picking up the shuttle bus from Salisbury station. The shuttle bus also stops at Salisbury Cathedral on the return journey. Alternatively, there are many operators running day trips from Bristol and Bath, some of whom offer access into the stone circle.
South of the cities lie the Mendip Hills and Chew Valley, home to adventurous activities, fantastic views and local producers. Combine a day trip here with visits to the towns of Glastonbury (home to the famous festival as well as Arthurian legend) and Cheddar (the origin of the famous cheese - make sure to try the cave-aged cheese the way it is meant to be before you leave!). Wookey Hole show caves and family attraction is nearby, as is the medieval city of Wells with its magnificent Cathedral.
More destinations
Further south, the Jurassic Coast is achievable in a day trip, as are the cities of Exeter and Plymouth.
To the west is South Wales, with Cardiff under an hour from central Bristol by rail or road. Further on you can experience the Brecon Beacons National Park, Carmarthenshire and Pembrokeshire.
