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The Great Outdoors Guide

Be rejuvenated by the English countryside, whatever the weather.
 

The Great West Way boasts an abundance of indoor attractions, from wonderfully quirky museums to immersive storytelling ships, but its natural wonders are even more impressive. Pull on that waterproof coat or - if you’re lucky - sun hat, and head out to explore some quintessentially English landscapes. Whether you’re smitten by scenic waterways or sweeping hilltop views, here’s 3 different outdoor experiences for inspiration…

An aquatic adventure 

Mermaids and mermen! How about a weekend exploring the Great West Way in and on the water? 

You could start by canoeing a stretch of the River Thames. Or test your balance stand-up paddle boarding on Bristol’s Floating Harbour, Both modes of transport are sure to bring you up close to lots of local wildlife as well as offer unique perspectives on well-known sights, from the Tower of London to Brunel’s SS Great Britain. 

If you’d rather bob along in a sturdier vessel, embrace the freedom of a self-drive narrowboat trip on the Kennet & Avon Canal. You’ll still get the dreamy riverside views and plenty of fresh air, but with the added comfort of onboard cooking facilities and a restroom.

Strong swimmers might also like to brave a dip in the wild. There are some magical places to go wild swimming along the touring route. Try Avoncliff, a luscious river pool with a rope swing in Bradford-on-Avon, or Warleigh Weir near Bath. 

Alternatively, plunge into one of the Great West Way’s historic lidos to enjoy the invigorating feel of an outdoor swim - but with changing rooms. Bristol Lido and the Thames Lido in Reading are much-loved by locals. 

Good to know: You can bathe outside in the rooftop pool at Thermae Bath Spa year-round (except for Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year's Day).

A walk to remember 

Did you know? Woodlands carpeted with pretty bluebells are a definitive spring sight in Britain. You’ll find bluebell woods all along the Great West Way, as well as in famous gardens and grounds such as Stourhead in Wiltshire and Cliveden in Buckinghamshire.  

Perhaps the purest way to embrace the great outdoors is simply to start walking. Take a look at our suggestions for both short walks and long distance trails and see which suits your fitness level and itinerary. The Bath Skyline and Cheddar Gorge Cliff-top walks both offer spectacular panoramas with minimal exertion. While the 87-mile Ridgeway National Trail offers a tantalising challenge for a week-long walking holiday. 

And you’re sure to find a good stroll if you just head straight for one of the 3 Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty along the touring route - either the Cotswolds, the North Wessex Downs or The Chilterns. With an OS map under your arm (and plenty of snacks), you’ll have your pick of rambles, picnic spots and life-affirming vistas. 

Top tip: The Wood for the Trees by Richard Fortey takes a long view of the British landscape through the lens of his small beech woodland in the Chiltern Hills. It’s an enchanting introduction to the rich and varied wildlife of the region (and also makes a thoughtful souvenir for a nature-lover).

A sensational cycle ride 

Cycling is hugely popular in the UK, thanks in part to the professional success of British cyclists such as Bradley Wiggins and Laura Kenny. On any given day you’ll spot lycra-clad cyclists careering round the countryside - the more hills the better! 

But of course cycling doesn’t have to be competitive. It can be one of the most relaxing ways to experience the great outdoors as you gently roll from one idyllic village to another, listening to birds chirping in the trees and stopping off at tearooms whenever you wish. (You can even hire an electric bike to help you on your way.) Try the very doable 25-mile North Wiltshire Rivers Route, which meanders along quiet river paths and sleepy country lanes, leading you to the magical mysteries of Avebury’s prehistoric stone landscape.  

Or put navigation in a trusted guide’s hands on an Active England cycling trip, suited to your group’s abilities and preferences (families welcome). They organise 4 and 6 day cycling adventures along the Great West Way, from London to Bristol, stopping off at places of interest such as Downton Abbey filming location Highclere Castle, Stonehenge and Bath.