Your Guide to Bradford-on-Avon

Beautiful Bradford-on-Avon

Iford Manor, Bradford-on-Avon
The Iford Estate is a natural wonderland with 3 miles of public foothpaths to follow through ancient woodland and pastures. Otters and beavers make the river their home and cattle graze the fields. During the open season you can visit the romantic, grade I gardens while the café and restaurant are open year round serving ingredients from the estate.

Bradford-on-Avon Wharf
Spend some time on the edge of the Kennet and Avon canal watching boats gently pass by, popping into The Lock Inn or the Canal Trust Cafe for some food. Hire a canoe here and get out on the water for a bit or bring your bikes and follow the towpath to the Avoncliff Aqueduct.

Bradford-on-Avon Museum
With a past rooted in the wool trade, the museum delves into the history of this market town and the surrounding area. Displays cover the Roman era, iron foundries and blacksmiths, the church and haberdashery. The most prominent part of the museum is the reconstruction of an old chemist shop which really sets the scene and allows you to step into the past.

The Shambles, Bradford-on-Avon
This charming part of the town is where medieval market stalls once traded. Today you can browse the independent shops and stop off at The Bolthole café for a hot drink and a sandwich. You will spot features that have withstood the passing of time including timber framed buildings and a 15^th century doorway.

The Hall Estate, Bradford-on-Avon
This beautiful Jacobean mansion is the legacy of pioneers in the wool, rubber and automotive industries. Originally built for a mill owner in 1610 it passed to the Moulton family who have kept the house in its prime. Book a private tour to discover the stories and secrets of this house.

Town Bridge Blind House Open Days
As you cross the town bridge over the River Avon you will see the old blind house. What is thought to have originally been a chapel was rebuilt as a lock up during the 1700s. It became known as the ‘blind house’ as it has no windows and prisons were kept here before they could be brought before the magistrate. At the top of the building is a golden weathervane in the shape of a fish which began the saying that prisoners were “under the fish and over the water”. Keep an eye out for heritage open days when you might get the chance to see inside.

Wonderful Wiltshire

Dundas Aqueduct
This picturesque aqueduct is named after Charles Dundas, the first chairman of the Kennet and Avon Canal Company. Forming the point where the canal crosses the River Avon just outside Bath it’s a lovely spot for a walk with some great views. Take a picnic and spend some time here spotting ducks.

English Heritage Farleigh Hungerford Castle
This ruined 14^th century castle was home of the Hungerford family and today remains as two corner towers, sections of outer walls and the chapel. Take a free audio tour of the castle learning the story of the Hungerfords, which is quite shocking at times, and make sure you don’t miss out on any of the points of interest. The best-preserved building is the chapel where you can see faded wall paintings and lead coffins in the burial vault beneath.

National Trust Great Chalfield Manor and Garden
Explore this beautiful medieval manor and its romantic gardens of roses, a lily pond and topiary houses. The 15^th century house might look familiar to some as it has been used as a filming location for Wolf Hall, The Other Boleyn Girl and Tess of the d’Urbervilles. The impressive building features soldiers, griffons and monkeys carved into the rooftops.

Roman Baths, Bath
The baths have been visited for centuries by people looking to heal their ailments with the warm, mineral rich waters. Today you can walk the corridors of the Roman temple of the goddess Sulis Minerva, discover the unique thermal springs and try the waters in the Pump Room Restaurant.

Lacock Abbey
With over 800 years of history within its walls, Lacock Abbey began as a convent in the 13^th century before becoming a private home. The abbey’s most famous resident was Henry Fox Talbot who developed the earliest surviving photographic negative. You can learn more about the history of photography here, see the original medieval cloisters and walk the meandering paths through woodland, parkland and the historic rose garden.

Jane Austen Centre, Bath
Get to know Jane Austen and what life was like during the Regency period. The costumed guides inform your visit to this immersive attraction. You can also join a walking tour around Bath and if you visit in September the Jane Austen Festival takes over the city.

Longleat
Longleat is a stately country house in Wiltshire, England, famous for its stunning Elizabethan architecture, extensive landscaped gardens, and the Longleat Safari Park—the first drive-through safari park outside Africa. It combines history, wildlife, and outdoor adventure, making it a popular destination for families and visitors interested in both heritage and animals.

English Heritage Stonehenge
Stonehenge is a prehistoric monument in Wiltshire, England, consisting of a ring of massive standing stones set within earthworks. Dating back over 4,500 years, it is one of the world’s most famous archaeological sites, thought to have been used for ceremonial or astronomical purposes.

National Trust Stourhead
Visiting Stourhead is like exploring another world. Carefully designed by Henry Hoare it is a world-famous landscaped garden with a lake at its centre, reflecting and amplifying the beauty.  Walk up to Alfred’s Tower for panoramic views across three counties, spot the garden temples and explore the wider estate. The Palladian-style villa is home to a collection of heritage pieces collected by the Hoare family including artwork, furniture and more.

Connect with Culture

National Trust Westwood Manor
Westwood Manor might be smaller than your average National Trust property, but it holds some surprises. Built over three centuries it feels homely with wooden paneling and original window glazing. There are two historic musical instruments here which have been fully restored and outside are curious topiary.

English Heritage Tithe Barn, Bradford-on-Avon
A tithe barn was used to store the rental payments (tithes) which were paid to the church and amounted to a tenth of the property’s agricultural produce. This barn was part of Barton Grange farm and dates back to the 1330s. You can still see the original roof and its cruck timber frame.

Trowbridge Museum
Trowbridge has a history shaped by the wool trade and the towns museum celebrated this. Collections include rare machinery, historic clothing, stories of the people that lives and worked in the town and over 6000 photos and paintings. Visit here before a stroll around Trowbridge.

If Opera
From their first performance in 1996, If Opera gives everybody the opportunity to enjoy the magic of opera. From classic operas to picnic proms and ‘get into opera’ days the team at If Opera make the whole experience incredibly accessible. Their performers are nurtured from a young age and they have a real focus on having a positive impact on the local community.

Wiltshire Music Centre
At the Wiltshire Music Centre you can attend concerts covering a seemingly unending choice of genres. Folk, soul, classic, dance and more fills the calendar and there are even events to get involved with yourself!

Wine and Dine

Ravello, Bradford-on-Avon
Perfect for: lunch, dinner, drinks
Ravello brings traditional Italian dining to a beautiful historic restaurant in the heart of the town. The menu features pizzas, pastas, meats and fish using local produce and classic techniques. There is also an extensive wine menu to accompany your meal.

Pablo’s Tapas, Bradford-on-Avon
Perfect for: lunch, small bites, dinner, Sunday roast
This family run restaurant serves traditional Spanish and Basque tapas, the perfect option when you’re dining with a group. Pick and choose a selection of small dishes from the menu and find which flavours you prefer. Paired with a glass of sangria you’re in for a fabulous night out.

The Bunch of Grapes, Bradford-on-Avon
Perfect for: breakfast, lunch, dinner, Sunday roast
Focusing on quality produce and exceptional service The Bunch of Grapes offers a seasonal menu and has been included in the Michelin Guide. The husband and wife team prioritise ingredients from the local area to craft their menus, book a tasting evening to sample their very best.

Pizzeria Amici, Bradford-on-Avon
Perfect for: dinner
At Pizzeria Amici you get a truly authentic Italian experience. Run by the Capetti family, you will be warmly welcomed before choosing from the menu of delicious home cooked meals.  If you don’t fancy eating out, a takeaway menu is available.

Timbrell’s Yard, Bradford-on-Avon
Perfect for: breakfast, lunch, dinner, Sunday roast, pop-up bakery
Overlooking the river, Timbrell’s Yard serves award-winning food in their bar and restaurant throughout the day. There are dining options to suit every occasion with a feast menu, light lunches, Sunday dinners and a pop-up bakery. Book a table to make sure you’re not disappointed.

Thai Barn, Bradford-on-Avon
Perfect for: takeaway, Thai food
Step into Thailand where the dishes are authentic and your surroundings whisk you away. The extensive menu lets you order a combination of flavours for at truly Thai dining experience. It is a popular spot so make sure you book a table.

Pipit Bakery, Bradford-on-Avon
Perfect for: pastries, freshly baked bread
Freshly baked bread and delicious pastries are found at this charming bakery. Pick up a sweet treat for breakfast as you pass on a stroll into Bradford-on-Avon.

The Bridge Tearoom, Bradford-on-Avon
Perfect for: afternoon tea, lunch, tea and cake
There is nothing more quintessential than a classic afternoon tea, layers of finger sandwiches and cakes accompanied by cups of tea or champagne. At The Bridge Tearoom you sit within historic surroundings with bone china, wooden beams and servers in Victorian uniform.

Kettlesmith Brewery, Bradford-on-Avon
Perfect for: drinks
Book a tour of this independent brewery where a core range of 6 beers are produced. You will be shown the science and art of producing beer before leaving with a case of the freshest beers. To create their flavours, the Kettlesmith team draw inspiration from America, England and their love of Belgian beers.

Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House, Bath
Perfect for: breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner, the home of Bath buns
This is one of the oldest houses in Bath, dating back to around 1482. Here, you will find the Sally Lunn Bun – a famous delicacy in Bath. Guests can enjoy fine English food in the evenings – including handmade pies. No bookings are necessary during the day, but do book for an evening meal.

Sotto Sotto, Bath
Perfect for: lunch, dinner
Priding themselves on their simple menu of exquisite Italian meals, Sotto Sotto provides an interesting setting. Found in a historic cellar the curved Bath stone ceiling and walls surround the dining area. Celebrating beautiful, locally sourced and Italian ingredients they let the flavours sing.

Ponte Vecchio, Bath
Perfect for: lunch, dinner
Looking across to Pulteney Bridge and the River Avon this Italian restaurant celebrates fresh pasta and authentic regional dishes. The dining room is elegant and the staff are known for being knowledgeable and providing excellent service. It is perfect for a special occasion.

Ultimate Days Out for the Family

The Little Zoo – Wolves of Wiltshire
The Little Zoo was for many years a sanctuary for exotic pets and today is home to wolves, snakes, tarantulas, ocelots and more. To support the animals, you can book a unique wolf experience. These wolves have adjusted to human company as many were hand reared from birth. Walk a wolf hybrid, meet a European wolf inside their enclosure or feed wolves through their fence. It’s a fantastic opportunity to learn more about these animals and get up close.

Fairfield Animal Centre
A family day out at Fairfield Animal Centre is fun for everybody. Get some animal feed when you arrive and visit the alpaca, donkeys, emus, goats and so many more. There is a fantastic play area and opportunities for alpaca and goat walks before visiting the café.

Bath Exit Escape Rooms, Bath
A truly immersive experience in Bath. Choose from three different themes: Aladdin’s Cave, The Secret Garden, or The Master, which range in difficulty. Each escape room lasts for an hour. The question is, will you get out in time? Note: There is a minimum age of 14 years for these escape rooms.

Children’s Literature Festival, Bath
Held in September, the little ones won’t be left out with Bath’s Children’s Literature Festival, where talks and activities take place. Books and stories are shared to inspire the younger generation of readers and writers. Best of all, they’ll be having so much fun, it won’t feel like learning! 

Relax and Revive

Vitality Day Spa, Bradford-on-Avon
A tranquil haven in the heart of Bradford-on-Avon, Vitality Day Spa offers a curated selection of treatments. Seasonal specials leave you feeling your best, or book a more traditional massage or facial. Bespoke treatments draw on therapists skills for 90 minutes of pure bliss, and if you’re stretched for time there is even a selection of express treatments available. Opposite, you can shop a selection of wellness products and gifts at the Vitality shop.

Woolley Grange, Bradford-on-Avon
The Woolley Grange spa is an idyllic retreats with views of their walled garden. As well as booking an Elemis treatment you can enjoy the indoor swimming pool, which has adult-only swim times so you can really make the most of some alone time, a sauna, steam room and relaxation area. In summer, make the most of better weather in the outdoor pool with a drink from the pool bar.

The Gainsborough Spa, Bath
This beautiful spa encapsulates the history of the Bath waters in stunning surroundings. The spa includes a circuit of natural thermal pools beneath a four-storey glass atrium.

Thermae Bath Spa, Bath
You can choose to visit the Thermae Bath Spa for a two-hour experience and spend time in the thermal pools, or also add on a treatment for a truly relaxing experience. Enjoy views across Bath from the rooftop pool for a really special day.

Lucknam Park Spa, Chippenham
Alongside a treatment menu Lucknam Park also has a range of mind and body sessions including massage and a dry floatation experience. The award-winning facilities include thermal rooms, swimming pools and a lounge.