If you have yet to sample the delights of the English Countryside, you couldn’t hope to find a better starting out location than Bristol. The city itself is steeped in history and culture, with many interesting museums and art galleries, all set in period architecture. The entertainment in Bristol is second to none, with a curious mixture of quaint taverns and modern bars, along with many fine restaurants. This university city is the cultural jewel of the south west of England, and therefore attracts many visitors.
How to Get There
There are regular flights from many European cities and also flights to Bristol from Aberdeen, and other UK cities, which makes for a pleasant travelling experience. If you are driving from London, the M4 will take you all the way to Bristol, and there are coaches and trains that leave London every hour. You can fly to Bristol from most major European cities with a budget airline, which is a very convenient way to travel.
Clifton Suspension Bridge
This amazing feat of engineering spans the Avon Gorge and the River Avon, which has linked Clifton to Bristol since it opened in 1864. The bridge has been used in many cultural events, including the Concorde’s maiden flight and the 2012 Olympic Torch carrying journey, and the spectacular vista has also featured in many movies.
SS Great Britain
This was Brunel’s creation and since it was launched in 1843, the ship was a model for all modern vessels that followed, including the Titanic. If you do visit the city of Bristol, you simply must see this amazing vessel, and there are many interesting accounts of actual passengers who recorded their experiences. The museum is full of interesting artifacts and makes for a great family day out.
Gateway to the West
Bristol is the gateway to the unique western counties of Devon, Cornwall and Dorset, which are very popular holiday destinations due to the excellent climate in the region. There is no better way to spend a few summer weeks than exploring the delights of the West of England, with stunning beaches and spectacular landscapes. The West of England has long been regarded as the premier tourist region, especially in the summer months, and with a unique culture, this part of the British Isles is perhaps the most popular region.
Range of Accommodation
The tourist is rather spoiled for choice regarding places to stay, with the traditional bed and breakfast being a popular choice. There are, of course, many five star hotels, and if you fancy camping, there are many caravan and tent sites spread throughout the region. There are many small farms where you can arrange a homestay and what better way to experience the West Country lifestyle than staying with a local family.
Cheap flights make Bristol and the Southwest accessible to all, so if you are planning a summer visit to England, you simply must include this picturesque part of the British Isles.
