Innholdsfortegnelse for Spring 2024 i Great West Way® Travel Magazine

Blenheim Palace boasts over 300 years of history, more than 2,000 acres of Parkland and Formal Gardens, and has an annual diary of don’t miss dates, to include the fabulous Flower Show and mouth-watering Food Festival return, alongside family favourites including an Easter Extravaganza. This spring marks the opening of their biggest and most exciting exhibition yet, Icons of British Fashion, alongside a brand-new permanent exhibition and a host of activities celebrating 150 years since the birth of Sir Winston Churchill. Icons of British Fashion The highly anticipated Icons of British Fashion exhibition runs 23 March-30 June featuring a line-up of world-class designers and labels, with each fashion house taking over one of Blenheim Palace’s significant rooms. The exhibition will celebrate fashion from the past through to the present day…

Malmesbury is a vibrant market town that has stood the test of time. With its rich history and unique charm, it’s a must-visit destination. And if you're planning a trip to Malmesbury in 2024, you're in for a real treat, with a special programme of events to mark the town’s illustrious past. One of the highlights of the year is the Devereux Weekend, taking place on 4-5 May. Visitors can experience the 1640s with a real-life replay of the last battle for Malmesbury between the Roundheads and Cavaliers of the English Civil War. It’s a unique opportunity to step back in time and witness history come alive. Another significant event is Athelstan 1100, which runs from June to October. This year marks 1100 years since Athelstan became the first King…

‘You will find the Rose and Crown at the foot of the rolling countryside… expect a traditional village inn where… Europe’s oldest road – the Ridgeway – runs nearby’ Whatley Manor Hotel, near Malmesbury Whatley Manor is a luxurious, quintessentially English Wiltshire hotel with a number of dog-friendly ground floor rooms. Set in 12 acres of grounds, and located on the edge of the Cotswolds near Malmesbury, you can be sure of plenty of pretty Great West Way walks for you and your four-legged friends to enjoy in the surrounding countryside. Well trained dogs over 6 months are welcome to stay if booked in advance, with a £30/night supplement. You will find a luxury dog basket, food, treats, poo bags and a toy for your companion waiting in your room…

Come for the day, or better still stay longer and discover more in ’24. In Windsor and the Royal Borough there is accommodation to suit all budgets and styles, including luxury and boutique properties, historic inns and family-friendly hotels. New for this spring, The LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort open their Woodland Village and thrilling race-themed rollercoaster Minifigure Speedway, bringing fresh excitement to the park. Longer evenings and warmer days breathe new life into Windsor Great Park and The Savill Garden, where magnolia and blossom can be enjoyed in abundance, and the incredible Adventure Play offers unique adventures for younger families. The River Thames is at its glorious best in spring; there are multiple ways to enjoy it in the Royal Borough, from scenic cruises, rowing boat hire or how about booking…

Located in the heart of Bristol, the University of Bristol Botanic Garden is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves nature and plants. The garden is spread over four and a half acres, featuring over 4,500 different plant species from around the world. The garden is divided into different zones, each showcasing a unique collection of plants. The Evolution Dell is a prehistoric landscape that tells the story of plants' evolution from water onto land. Here, you can see a diverse range of plants that existed over 350 million years ago - from giant ferns to towering horsetails. Another fascinating zone is the Chinese Medicinal Herb Garden, which displays the traditional uses of plants that span over 3,000 years. The garden also features a glasshouse with four climatic zones, where…

Ah, the romance of the railway. The sound of the whistle that announces the train’s departure, the clack-clack rhythm of the rails as they pass beneath the wheels, and the ever-changing view that passes by the window. Settling in to a railway carriage is a treat – one that heralds adventure and can be accompanied by a steaming cup of tea or a cooling bottle of beer, no driving required. Seeing the towns and cities of the Great West Way by train means becoming a part of its history. Trains have chugged and steamed along this route for over 175 years, bringing produce to market and business to towns, holidaymakers to the countryside and rural folk to the capital. Join the story of England’s railways on a journey along the…

Michelin Starred and Fine Dining Sit down to a meal of gastronomical delights at one of the award-winning fine-dining establishments along the Great West Way. Sample sumptuous tasting menus created by Michelin-starred chefs, innovative dishes featuring local produce, and traditional English delicacies cooked to perfection. The Vineyard, Stockcross, Berkshire Not only is The Vineyard a luxury five-star hotel and spa, it also has a fine dining restaurant and 30,000-bottle wine cellar. Head chef Robby Jenks is at the helm of this 3AA Rosette restaurant. Diners can choose from an à la carte or tasting menu where they can enjoy dishes such as veal sweetbread ravioli with pumpkin seeds in a pumpkin and brown butter sauce or roast brill, brassicas, caper berries and almond. → Stockcross, Newbury Bulrush, Bristol One of…

Carvers Hill Farm: A new vineyard offering a unique wine experience in Wiltshire Shalbourne is now home to a new vineyard, Carvers Hill Farm, which promises to provide a unique experience for wine enthusiasts. Owned by the Smith family, the vineyard sits on a picturesque spot, surrounded by rolling hills and beautiful countryside. The vineyard, which spans over 16 acres, is planted with a variety of grapes, including Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier. The grapes are carefully selected to produce high-quality wines that reflect the unique terroir of the region. Vineyard and winery tours will be bookable in the Spring/Summer season, when visitors will be able to join in the fun of various cultural events throughout the season. Visitors to the vineyard will also be able to enjoy a…

FOOD & PROVENANCE Aldwick Estate: award-winning English wines from the largest vineyard in Somerset Set amidst the rolling Mendip Hills, Aldwick Estate is a family-run vineyard producing award-winning English still and sparkling wines. Located between Bristol and Bath and at 11 acres of vines, Aldwick is Somerset’s largest vineyard The Bath Distillery - a small-batch gin and vodka distillery based in Bath. The Bath Distillery use a unique blend of botanicals, including kaffir lime leaves and lemongrass, to create their award-winning gins. Bath Soft Cheese - delicious cheese made with old-fashioned manual methods The Padfield family have been happily milking a herd of cows at Park Farm for four generations. All of their cheeses are made using old-fashioned manual methods, which gives the cheeses more flavour. Notably, they're the producers…

Immerse yourself in the ancient world of the Romans at the Roman Baths, an incredible spa that boasts some of the finest examples of ancient Roman architecture. The natural thermal springs that still flow today were the site of relaxation, socialising, and worship for the Romans. As you walk around the Great Bath, you'll be transported back in time on ancient Roman pavements. The East and West Baths, and Roman Gym are brought to life with modern projections, showcasing how the Romans once relaxed and exercised. The museum collection next to the bathing complex is home to the ruins of the Temple of Sulis Minerva and a stunning gilt bronze head of the goddess. A modern projection brings the Temple Pediment to life, with the Gorgon’s head at its centrepiece.…

Embark on a journey of discovery with the Stonehenge Tour, an experience that will take you to walk in the footsteps of your Neolithic ancestors at Stonehenge – one of the wonders of the world and the best-known prehistoric monument in Europe. From the moment you step aboard the tour bus, you'll be transported back in time to an era when the world was a little more mysterious and magical. Operated by Salisbury Reds, the Stonehenge Tour is the perfect way to explore the famous ancient site, that has fascinated visitors for centuries. As you travel through the beautiful Wiltshire countryside, you'll have the opportunity to hop on and off at your leisure and take your time exploring the stunning surroundings of Old Sarum before moving on to the stone…

Henley-on-Thames is a charming town that offers much more than just its prestigious rowing event. Whether you're a family looking for fun activities or a culture enthusiast, Henley has a lot to offer. Take a stroll through the town’s picturesque walks and enjoy the beautiful scenic cycle routes. Families can have a great time playing the new adventure golf, which features miniatures of the town, or explore the soon-to-be-opened adventure playground that promises endless joy from June onwards. If you're a history buff, then Henley-on-Thames is the perfect destination for you. The town’s rich history can be seen in its architecture and landmarks, such as the beautiful St Mary’s Church and the Henley Bridge. You can also explore the River and Rowing Museum, which showcases the town’s strong connection to…

1 THE MITRE The Mitre Hotel is a historic hotel located by the river Thames in the charming town of Hampton Court. The hotel is known for its stunning views of the river and the iconic Hampton Court Palace. If you are looking to spend a relaxing day by the river, you can take a stroll along the scenic riverbank, enjoy a picnic or try some water activities such as kayaking or paddle-boarding. The Mitre Hotel also offers a variety of activities such as guided tours of the palace, cycling and walking tours, and even hot air balloon rides! The hotel’s restaurant offers delicious cuisine made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and the bar provides a wide range of drinks to enjoy while taking in the beautiful views. 2 SIR…

Brimming with unusual items, visually sumptuous imagery, ominous soundtracks, bespoke smells and special effects, the House of Frankenstein delivers an original, illuminating and entertaining experience. It also features rooms dedicated to popular culture; an intimate screening room showing the first ever Frankenstein silent movie from 1910; a hyper-realistic 8ft animated recreation of “The Creature” as Mary imagined him; two themed Escape Rooms and, for the braver visitor, a horror walkthrough experience in the basement. Mary Shelley’s House of Frankenstein is open Sunday–Friday 11am–5pm, and Saturdays 10am–6pm. Extended opening hours during UK holiday periods. "This was such a fun experience! Very informative and interesting, it gave a lot of detail about Mary Shelley’s life and her inspiration to write Frankenstein. Lots of fun exhibits too and then there’s the scary basement!…

MAY 2024 ROYAL WINDSOR HORSE SHOW 1–5 May 2024 The Royal Windsor Horse Show is a prestigious annual equestrian event that takes place in the grounds of Windsor Castle. It is one of the most popular horse shows in the world, attracting top riders and horses from around the globe. The event features a wide range of competitions, including show jumping, dressage, endurance riding, and carriage driving, as well as displays of traditional British horsemanship and other equestrian entertainment. PUB IN THE PARK, MARLOW 16–19 May 2024 Pub in the Park is set to return to Marlow in Buckinghamshire for 2024, bringing together some of the country’s top chefs and musicians for a weekend of culinary delights and live entertainment. Visitors can sample delicious food and drink from top-notch restaurants,…

THINGS TO DO FOR A WOOF-TASTIC TIME! Stretching from London to Bristol and with three Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty on route, there are an abundance of walking trails on the Great West Way ready for you and your dog to explore. Plus, with a range of pet-friendly attractions, restuarants and more, you can enjoy pawsitively perfect days out. Here’s our selection of some of the top dog-friendly attractions… Cheddar Gorge Situated in the depths of the Mendip Hills and within easy reach of the Great West Way, Cheddar Gorge is one of England’s most spectacular natural landmarks. The stunning gorge boasts awe-inspiring cliffs, holding fascinating secrets of prehistoric times. The gorge has a large variety of attractions within it, accompanied by plenty of trails to explore on foot and…

Housed in a charmingly converted Victorian grain mill, this iconic destination is just a stone’s throw away from the city centre and the train station. It offers an ideal space for leisurely browsing, shopping, and dining, making it the perfect place to spend a day out with friends or family. Whether you're in the mood for a quick visit or hoping to stay a while, you'll find plenty to enjoy at Fisherton Mill. The Gallery Café is a must-visit spot providing mouth watering lunches and scrumptious homemade cakes alongside a state-of-the-art barista bar. The focus on seasonal dishes and quality ingredients ensures that every meal is fresh, delicious, and satisfying. If you're in need of some retail therapy, the Gallery Shop is an absolute gem. With a curated collection of…

Galahad Tours offers privately guided sightseeing tours on the Great West Way. The business is owned and operated by Matt, who offers a door-to-door service in a luxury Mercedes vehicle. By booking Matt you put the fun into seeing the Great West Way’s highlights by taking the hassle out of touring. "I’m exactly the same as my clients", says Matt with a knowing smile. "When I travel, I don't want to worry about driving on the wrong side of the road, navigating unfamiliar routes and planning itineraries. So, I always hire a private guide to guarantee a memorable experience - now I offer that same service to others!" Matt’s tours have received nothing but glowing 5-star customer reviews since launching in 2022. He provides entertaining commentary, historical context, and tasty…

Nestled in the North Wessex Downs, the Vale of Pewsey is a picturesque area with plenty of activities and events. Visit Wilton Windmill, the only working windmill in Wessex, or Crofton Beam Engines, a 19th century pumping station on the Kennet & Avon Canal. Located in the North Wessex Downs the landscape is rich in wildlife covering around 700 square miles of designated National Landscape. The Vale is accredited as a Walkers are Welcome area, the Crop Circle Visitor Centre is a must-visit attraction and the 77-mile long Pewsey Vale Circular Way is perfect for a long-distance cycle ride. Pewsey itself is a pretty village with free parking, a variety of independent shops, cafes and pubs, and is home to the Pewsey Heritage Centre. Quintessential England, home to the Kennet…

Since World War II, REME has been ensuring that the British Army’s state-of-the-art equipment is always battle-ready, and the museum’s interactive galleries showcase a wide range of exhibits from rare recovery vehicles to a tiny toothbrush made by a Prisoner of War. Take a journey through time, starting from the beaches of Normandy, and uncover fascinating stories of skill, innovation, and bravery, including the REME Officer who saved Volkswagen from the ruins of war and the intrepid mechanic who powered the first overland crossing of Antarctica. Recently awarded the VisitEngland Gold Accolade in 2023, the museum is a perfect destination for a fun-filled day out for all ages. Experience life in Wartime Britain, get up close with Daleks at Sci-Fi Day, or explore miniature scenes at the Model Show during…

BY BIKE AND FOOT Hiring a bike and cycling along the canal, countryside paths and trails, taking a walk through picturesque villages and visiting our three Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty and three UNESCO World Heritage sites by foot is a beautifully scenic experience. Whether you’re up for a lengthy hike in the Cotswolds, a cycle ride racing down the 13.7km (8.5 miles) steeply twisting Swinley Red trail with its berms, drops and white-knuckle descents, or just fancy a potter around some village antique shops, walking and cycling is a wonderful way to explore. You can cycle the entire length of the Great West Way via National Cycle Route 4, which links up regional cycle routes such as the Thames Valley Cycle Route and the Kennet & Avon Cycle Route.…

BATH Abbey Hotel, Bath This charming hotel in Bath offers a blend of traditional and contemporary design, with comfortable rooms and modern amenities. → abbeyhotelbath.co.uk Bath Apartment Breaks Looking for a home away from home in Bath? These apartments offer the perfect way to relax and explore the city at your own pace. → bathapartmentbreaks.co.uk Bath Area Self Catering Enjoy the ultimate freedom and flexibility with self-catering accommodation in the Bath area, perfect for families and groups. → bathselfcatering.com Brooks Guesthouse B&B This cosy bed and breakfast in Bath offers a warm welcome and comfortable rooms, with a delicious breakfast to start your day. → brooksguesthousebristol.com Dukes Hotel Experience luxury and style at this elegant hotel in Bath, with spacious rooms, fine dining and impeccable service. → dukesbath.co.uk The Apartment…