Whether you’re planning to travel by car or public transport, there are plenty of worthwhile places to visit in and around the splendid city of Bath, which is idyllically nestled on the edge of the Cotswold region. Experience authentic England by traveling round the hidden gems that lie just beyond the outskirts of the city and encounter a range of experiences, stories and people.
Though Bath itself is a great city break, it also provides a great base from which to explore the rest of the West Country. Venture out into the rural surroundings and discover ‘chocolate box’ villages such as Lacock and Castle Combe, or travel to historic landmarks such as Stonehenge and Avebury. This area of the South West is dotted with a range of interesting towns and stately homes and hosts a diverse range of National Trust and English Heritage properties as well. The blooming estates of Dyrham Park and Prior Park are both within cycling distance of the city centre, with Westonbirt Arboretum in neighbouring Gloucestershire also worth a visit.
Bristol’s cosmopolitan harbourside is only a short journey from Bath, with the sandy stretches of Weston-Super-Mare offering a traditional seaside affair along the nearest stretch of coast. You may even choose to drive south towards Weymouth in Dorset and spend some time along the Jurassic Coast. Whether you’re keen to explore historic ruins, manicured gardens or charming rural towns, there is plenty to see; from heritage sites to cider farms, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Other attractions within easy distance worth mentioning are the small cathedral city of Wells, Bradford-on-Avon and Frome, which has become increasingly renowned for its home-grown independent collective. If you’ve got access to a car and have the kids with you, then you may also want to consider visiting the nearby Mendip Hills and stop by Cheddar Gorge or the Wookey Hole Caves with their dramatic underground caverns. To book your stay at the heart of it all, click here to secure your stay with Tucking Mill Self-Catering.