Why taking it slow is the best way to explore the area around Bath and Bristol

Bath and Bristol are two of southwest England’s most famous cities. Important history, influential figures and beautiful architecture make them hotspots for visitors from around the world – but by rushing in, ticking off the famous sights and heading home, many are missing out on the most exciting, hidden parts.

Among the towns, cities and villages that make up the south west of England, there are hundreds – probably thousands – of fascinating places to visit, brilliant and creative people to meet, and divine local produce to sample. 

From ancient churches to spellbinding scenery, for a slow and serene jaunt to the West Country taking in some of England’s most beautiful but wildly underrated destinations, this is your route.

Step back in time in Chippenham & Avebury

A pretty market town, Chippenham has roots that go way back beyond the Roman times. Little is left of that town today, of course, but there are a few historic landmarks well worth seeking out. The Buttercross in the centre of town was built in the late 1500s as a place to sell meat and dairy, and nearby the Yelde Hall is a spectacular timber-framed building dating back to 1450. 

But the real historic highlight in this area of the country is Avebury – Wiltshire’s lesser-known stone circle just an hour’s bus ride from Chippenham. A wonderful alternative to Stonehenge, the ancient rocks at Avebury have been standing here since around 2850 BC. Nearby Silbury Hill is the largest man made mound in Europe, dating back to 2400 BC, and more standing stones link Avebury with the Sanctuary, an ancient circular site that’s still shrouded in mystery today. Travellers with a head for history will absolutely love this area. 

Slow down in Bradford on Avon

Right on the fringes of the Cotswolds, Bradford-on-Avon goes rather unnoticed by many visitors. But it’s got plenty of appeal – not least because it’s a quieter alternative to the big-hitting Cotswold towns. Running through its centre, the River Avon is lined with former textile mills that once used the rushing water to power their looms. Now, they’re homes, hotels, restaurants and bars and hopping between them for an afternoon of imbibing is a deeply pleasant way to get acquainted with the town. 

There’s a small museum which imparts local history by way of artefacts and engaging displays (kids will love the mock old pharmacy), and the Saxon church of St Laurence is a simple but fascinating building that is one of the few churches not rebuilt during the medieval times. Keen birders will want to head to the river’s towpath for a walk – kingfishers can be spotted flitting about here.

Take the path less travelled between Bath & Bristol

The cities of Bath and Bristol aren’t exactly off the beaten track, but you don’t have to follow the crowds when you get there. Seek out some of the lesser-visited spots, such as the lively, alternative Stokes Croft in Bristol where great bars and restaurants line one of the longest independent shopping streets in Britain, or head to Bath’s Museum of Architecture to learn how it grew into a thriving Georgian city. 

The highlight here, though, is the journey between the two cities. Don’t simply take the train – the nearly 30km trail along the River Avon is a far more interesting way to get from A to B. It takes around seven hours on foot from centre to centre, or you can hire a bike for a glorious ride; every mile is worthwhile as you pass pretty canal boats moored along the waters and get to see some of the locks in action. The Lock Keeper in Keynsham makes an ideal pub lunch pitstop. 

Coastal views in charming Clevedon 

Sitting on the north Somerset coast, almost directly opposite the Welsh capital across the River Severn’s estuary, Clevedon is a lovely endpoint to any slow adventure in England’s west country. 

Take in the sea views from the end of the restored Victorian pier – the only Grade I listed pier in the country – or spend a day on the pebbly beach if the weather’s on your side. It’s easy to while away a few days here, with swimming at Marine Lake and walks along the coast path, before you head back to real life. 

If a slow holiday to the West Country sounds like what you need for a relaxing break, get in touch.

Clevedon Marine Lake - @aurelpaduraru.ro