See & Do

The Great West Way leads to famous places you’ve always dreamed of visiting, as well as those secret spots even some locals have yet to discover. Along the Way you can immerse yourself in the grand dramas of English history, seek out quirky attractions you wouldn’t find anywhere else in the world and happen upon cute little cafés, artisan craft shops and one-of-a-kind festivals and events. 

There are no less than 3 UNESCO World Heritage Sites to explore: Kew Gardens, Stonehenge and Avebury and Bath - as well as nearby Blenheim Palace, the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill.

These are matched in magnificence only by 3 National Landscapes: The Chilterns, The Cotswolds and the North Wessex Downs. From dramatic escarpments and velvety hillsides to quiet, wooded valleys and lively wildflower meadows, each paints its own vision of the English countryside.

As you travel, you will pass through the cities, towns and villages of the Great West Way and begin to discover England's history and heritage. Follow ancient roadways and explore the canal networks that pay tribute to an industrial past. Step into ages past at stately homes and grand houses and gardens. Take a sightseeing tour and uncover secrets and stories from England's history. 

But as much as you want to see the sights, we know there’s also lots you’ll want to do, from long-distance walking and adrenaline-pumping sports to much more leisurely pursuits, like boat rides and hot air ballooning. There are plenty of activities to keep you busy along the route, from shopping to cycling and from arts and culture to evening entertainment. Your Great West Way journey may see you floating over Bristol as the sun rises on the city’s annual International Balloon Fiesta. Or relaxing in a rooftop pool on Valentine's Day. Enjoying a cold pint as you look around a local English brewery. Walking amongst ancient standing stones. Lazing in the summer sun aboard a pretty narrowboat. Need more inspiration? Take a look at the many things to do around the East of the Thames or things to do in Bath to get you started. If that's not enough, you can explore things to do in Bristol, things to do in Wiltshire and things to do in the Cotswolds.

There are plenty of unique diversions to suit your particular interests too. Fans of Downton Abbey might want to book in a tour of Highclere Castle, where the much-loved period drama was filmed. While you're there, have a look at all the things to do in the Royal County of Berkshire. And those who like a challenge should tackle Longleat Hedge Maze - the largest in Britain, made up over 16,000 English yews. 

Of course anyone who tuned in for the recent Royal Wedding will want to walk for themselves the winding streets of Windsor (and Windsor Castle), where the wedding took place. Super fans can even have their own fairytale moment and indulge in a romantic night at Cliveden, where Hollywood actress Megan Markle stayed before marrying Prince Harry. 

Foodies, meanwhile, might treat themselves to a seasonal tasting menu at a top independent restaurant or head out for a wine tasting at an English vineyard - did you know the climate of southern England is ripe for crisp, aromatic sparkling wines? There are plenty more hidden gems to discover when it comes to food and drink along the Great West Way.  

Explore below for more wonderful things to see and do, from the iconic to the totally unexpected. After all, you never quite know what awaits the curious around the next corner. Discover your way.