Great West Way Must Do's

Spanning across 500 miles, it’s without a doubt that the Great West Way is filled with unique and bucket list experiences! How many will you tick off this year?

Go Hot-air Ballooning over Bristol

With complimentary chilled champagne in hand and a camera to capture the stunning views from above, there is no better way to start the list than with a hot-air balloon ride over Bristol year! Join Bailey Balloons as you reach new heights, peacefully floating above the gorgeous city skyline. Flights are available from April to October, so you’ll be able to make the most of picture-perfect scenes in the warmer months!

Climb the Huge Mainmast on Brunel’s SS Great Britain

If you’re feeling brave this year, why not step into the shoes of a Victorian sailor and climb the huge mainmast of Brunel’s SS Great Britain! Secure yourself in the harness provided before heading up the rigging to a viewing platform, 26 metres from ground level. Challenge yourself even further by stepping out onto the main yard, 9 metres across from the ship below. Once you’re up there, be sure to take in the incredible views of Bristol’s harbour.

Experience Britain’s only Naturally Warm Waters

The city of Bath was founded upon natural hot springs which has continued to play a key role throughout its history. Be sure to visit Thermae Bath Spa in the heart of the city, where you can experience Britain’s only naturally warm waters! Relax in the indoor Minerva Bath or enjoy breath-taking views of the city from the open-air rooftop pool!

Explore the Caves at Cheddar Gorge

Within easy reach of the Great West Way is Somerset’s spectacular Cheddar Gorge and Caves. Explore the Gough’s Caves which boast an array of beautiful rock formation, or step foot into the Cox’s Caves to discover the Dreamhunters audio-visual experience.

Climb Jacobs Ladder

For breath-taking panoramic views of the Somerset Levels, why not challenge yourself by climbing Jacob’s Ladder, a 274-step route all the way to the top of Cheddar Gorge. Here, you will be greeted with stunning landscapes all around!

Step into the World of Harry Potter

The Great West Way welcomes all witches and wizards to step into the world of magic and embark on a journey travelling to some of the most famous film location for the Harry Potter series!

During the early films, Harry Potter can be found wondering the historical corridors within the 11^th Century Gloucester Cathedral. Its architecture is one so familiar that visitors are often spotted waving their wands and re-enacting the favourite scenes.

Learn Potions at Lacock

Both Lacock Abbey and the village can be seen in the early Harry Potter films as well. The medieval Cloister within the National Trust site stood in for Hogwarts and visitors can peer in to Snapes famous Potions class too!

Venture to the Historic Stonehenge

A trip along the Great West Way isn’t complete without visiting the world-famous Stonehenge! Standing impressively amongst the Salisbury Plain, this prehistoric monument welcomes visitors from all around the globe and has done for centuries! For a more personal experience of the monstrous stones, why not join a small group between the months of December and August to see them up close with the Stone Circle Experience! Available outside regular visiting hours, here you will get the unique opportunity to capture the fascinating statues within a much quieter setting.

Explore Salisbury’s Cathedral

Standing within the medieval city for over 800 years, Salisbury Cathedral offers worship, welcome and hospitality to all its visitors. Telling the tale of defiance dating back to the early 13^th Century and with a Spire stretching to 404ft, Salisbury Cathedral is a masterpiece of its time. Capture the true height when embarking on a behind-the-scenes tour of the ancient roof spaces and base of the spire where you will find incredible views of the city and surrounding countryside.

Experience the Races at Royal Ascot

A true highlight of the Summer Social Season, the Royal Ascot is a bucket list experience everyone wants to tick off. Enjoy five days of socialising, racing, pageantry, and fine dining as you experience a race day like no other! Be sure to place your bets and hope you’re a lucky winner!

Step inside Sir Winston Churchill’s Birthplace

Located within easy reach of the Great West Way is the magnificent home of the 12^th Duke and Duchess of Marlborough. Birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill, the grounds of Blenheim Palace are truly breath-taking, with 18^th Century Baroque architecture and home to some of the finest antique collections in Europe! Now joining these displays is one of Sir Winston Churchill’s suits, a 1950s great pinstripe!

There’s plenty more to discover along the Great West Way this year. Be sure to extend your trip on route by choosing from a range of unique stays!