Follow the paths taken by generations of travellers and discover an essential strand of England. Based on one of the first Great Roads commissioned by the Kings of England, the Great West Way winds its way through lush green landscapes filled with the world-famous and the yet-to-be-discovered. On the Great West Way, extraordinary history rubs shoulders with everyday life. Traditional pubs and inns with World Heritage Sites on their doorsteps, serving craft ales and local farm food. Churches which have watched over their parishes for centuries. Independent shops and galleries filled with contemporary designs and creations. You don’t have to travel far to explore further and delve deeper into England. The Great West Way links London with Bristol through twists and turns and new discoveries. Explore by road, by railway or by waterway. Slow right down, base yourself along the route, walk it or cycle it. Welcome to the real England. It’s England undiluted. It’s England concentrated
Highlights
The famous Clifton Suspension Bridge
Afternoon tea at Jane Austen Centre
Visit the Roman Bath
Day By day
Start your discovery of Bristol's historic centre with a walk through Banksy's urban works: political, humorous and poetic, they will take you into the graphic and ideological world of this anonymous, but world famous, British graffiti artist! Then take a river cruise and end the day with spectacular views of the Avon Gorge and Clifton Suspension Bridge.
Overnight: Bristol
Fifteen minutes by train and you're in Bath, the emblematic Georgian city!
A visit to the Roman Baths is a must if you want to understand the origins of this city built on natural hot springs, already considered sacred by Celtic tribes who associated them with Sulis, the goddess of healing. Fancy a treat? Enjoy afternoon tea at the Jane Austen Centre after visiting this delightful museum dedicated to the author of the famous quote: "Oh, who can ever get tired of Bath?” At the end of the day, take a stroll along the Kennet & Avon Canal and watch the sun set over the city... On the way down, stop off at a traditional pub for a convivial evening.
Overnight: Bath
Head out from Bath on a group excursion through the historic, picturesque villages of the southern Cotswolds: Castle Combe, Bibury & Arlington, Bourton-on-the-Water, Stow-on-the-Wold, Malmesbury Abbey & Market Cross...
After this escapade in the unspoilt English countryside, enjoy your final evening in Bath, enjoying local cuisine in one of its many restaurants.
Overnight: Bath
A short train ride takes you to the historic city of Salisbury, just in time for your first timeless stop at Mompesson House. Nestled in the cathedral grounds, its garden is the perfect place to enjoy a sweet or savoury cream tea. It's also a great way to recharge your batteries before climbing the 332 steps of the impressive Gothic cathedral, whose spire, at 123 metres, is the highest in England! In the evening, enjoy a pint in one of the historic pubs with their exposed wooden beams.
Overnight: Salisbury
Hop on a coach for a short trip to the famous megalithic site of Stonehenge. Marvel at the remarkable size and ceremonial design of these sky-high stones, transporting you back 5000 years! Did you know that the first few metres of the avenue were built on the axis of sunrise on the summer solstice and sunset on the winter solstice? Finish your visit with a more intimate tour of Old Sarum to discover the original site of Salisbury and its first cathedral.
Back in Salisbury, take a stroll through Fisherton Mill, a former flour mill converted into a cafe and craft gallery where you're sure to find something unique and original to buy!
Overnight: Salisbury
From the small station at Whitchurch, take a bucolic path along the banks of the River Test, which is particularly popular with fly fishermen and discover its many watermills.
Along the way, enjoy a full tour of the distillery at Laverstoke Mill (you'll be offered a gin-based cocktail).
At the end of the day, head to Reading for a luxurious experience, starting with a gourmet dinner at your hotel.
Overnight: Reading
In the morning, stroll through the city centre along the Thames and uncover a hidden gem—the remains of Reading’s medieval abbey, a testament to its religious and political significance. Then, hop on a train to Windsor! Wander its charming streets lined with shops filled with royally themed souvenirs. End the day with a classic afternoon tea before heading back to London by train.
Overnight: London
EXCLUSIVE
accommodation
Boutique hotels, unique lodgings, and authentic houses... our team will carefully handpick your accommodations while traveling with us
Our Expertinsight
Bristol is only 1 hour and 30 minutes from London by train, yet I was able to experience a true snapshot of England within this small territory… Naval history, river cruises, street art, Roman heritage, Georgian architecture, film locations, afternoon tea, charming English countryside villages, a Gothic cathedral, megalithic sites, canal-side walks, gin tasting, and an immersion into the world of the royal family… This journey is full of surprises for those who take the time to explore beyond the train platforms! And to top it all off, a final night's stay in affordable luxury will be the perfect way to end this week rich in cultural, active, and gourmet discoveries.
Emmanuelle
We are
a full-service Tour Operator and our trips generally include:
accommodation, transportation, visits, immersive experiences, personal crafting, unique roadbook creation and assistance on the ground (meals & flights excluded). Please note that this trip price will vary based on factors such as your hotel preferences, your favourite transportation mode, whether you want to take part in shared group activities or private experiences, travel dates, and more. To receive a customized quote for your tailor-made trip, please reach out to us directly.