40 Best Stops Between Sidmouth and Swansea (2024)

The top stops along the way from Sidmouth to Swansea (with short detours) are The Roman Baths, Clifton Suspension Bridge, and St. Fagans National Museum of History. Other popular stops include Wookey Hole Caves, Paignton Zoo Environmental Park, and Bath Abbey.

1

Bridport Harbour

Mentioned on

4 lists

Harbor

Nature & Parks

Bodies of Water

Bridport Harbour is a charming manmade harbor located at the end of Chesil Beach, offering stunning coastal scenery and a delightful seaside atmosphere. The harbor has a rich history dating back to 1388, with numerous expansions over the years to accommodate trade and ships. Recent redevelopment has improved navigability, making it more accessible for visitors. Visitors can enjoy activities like crabbing and take in picturesque views of the harbor.

My new home. It’s been a year since I moved here. Have now for the first time really started appreciating the beauty, magic in the air and home.

Thula H — Google review

Nice little place by the sea. Old fashioned with an amusement arcade. Could be a bit less coin pusher and a bit more space invaders in my opinion.

Mark F — Google review

Fantastic place. Nice and peaceful with a fair few things to do with family. Plus a nice harbour side to go crabbing in

Radio C — Google review

During my recent visit to Bridport Harbour, I had a delightful time exploring the beautiful coastal scenery and enjoying the seaside atmosphere. However, I must confess that my attempt at crabbing left a lot to be desired. Despite spending a whole hour with my trusty crabbing net, I didn't catch a single crab, much to the disappointment of the kids. I guess you could say I was "crabby" about not catching any crabs, but hey, at least we had a good laugh about it and enjoyed the picturesque views of the harbor!

Paul V — Google review

This is a great place to sit, chill and unwind.Views are spectacular and stunning 😍Plenty of amenities close by, with pubs, restaurants, tea, coffee, just great!!!Great food available right near to where you could sit a d chill!Very romantic setting as the sun goes down!It's a "must visit place!"

Dave S — Google review

I'd call this West Bay. Lovely little harbour with lots going on. I imagine it would be heaving on a warm summers day. Great cafes and galleries. The Discovery Centre is small but free and packs a lot in. Please donate to keep it going! Car park at North end is 50 metres away from others and much cheaper

Jef C — Google review

Absolutely loved my stay at West bay. Beautiful area with nice pubs and lovely chip shops.

Dave S — Google review

Fantastic place (West Bay). Superb views and good coastal walks.

Barry O — Google review

Cafe here and a fossil shop and Charmouth heritage centre well worth a visit

Stephaine W — Google review

Depends what you like, very busy, loads of people with kids 'crabbing' round the harbour, beach pretty busy but still room, nice walk along the west prom, fairly easy climb up West Cliff with good views, harder climb up East Cliff with good views and coast path to follow. Indoor market with over 100 stalls, lots of takeaway places all over town. Plenty of car parking on edge and in centre of town. Two good pubs too.

Warren H — Google review

Great view of the golden cliffs obvs but also local history about the Second World War walk to from Burton Bradstock along cliffs lovely

Peter R — Google review

Beautiful little harbour with it's own small fishing fleet and several angling boats

Buster B — Google review

Love coming to west bay, bit of crabbing, fish and chips and nice walk

Paul W — Google review

Great view of boats and nice to walk around, right in the centre and surrounded by good eating places and long stretches of coast line, be careful of tide and collapsing cliffs, if you venture along the coast from the harbour as they are very soft and crumbling

Zemertz — Google review

A lovely little seaside town and fishing port, commercial fishing is still carried out here on a daily basis. With lobster pots and fishing nets spread out along the port landing area, when we were there a small fishing boat unloaded about 50 sacks of whelks onto the dockside.There's a couple of nice pubs around the queyside, both with outside seating for you to enjoy your tipple while taking in the views.Either side of the port area are two of what I can only call, mountainous hills of sandstone rock having been laid there over the millennia and now subject to coastal errosion, and on a sunny day look absolutely glorious crowned with it's grassy peak.Both of these hills have well beaten tracks to and from the their peaks, and during our visit we saw lots and lots of people making pilgrimage to the top of this natural viewing point, looking out over the sea. Car parking here is up on the sea front, and it's pay and display. On one of our days we decided to take a walk to Bridport town, and whilst there we popped into the Morrisons supermarket ( see my review ) we went along the road between West Bay and Bridport , it was a sunny day and just over a mile and we were there. Would recommend. ps if you find this review helpful, please give it a 👍

Michael P — Google review

Flood defence work is underway, a few parking spaces lost until work completed, quaint little harbour.

Pego F — Google review

Good day out.

Wendy W — Google review

Nice place but very busy at weekends

Sarah F — Google review

Lovely place to visit. Plenty of options of where to eat and drink.

Andrew F — Google review

Nice area very popular for crabbing and plenty of food to choose from

Matthew A — Google review

4.6

(143)40 Best Stops Between Sidmouth and Swansea (1)

4.5

(1404)40 Best Stops Between Sidmouth and Swansea (2)

West Bay, Bridport, UK

2

Royal Navy Fleet Air Arm Museum

Mentioned on

10 lists

Museum

Military Museums

The Fleet Airarm Museum is a museum dedicated to naval aviation that is located in Somerset. The museum has an extensive collection of Royal Naval aircraft dating back to the early days of aviation.

Exceptional collection of historical aircraft with special coverage of Falkland war and rescue helicopters.Spacious and amazing setup, absolutely awsome experience.Online booking is recommended, there is a small reduction , I booked Online and each ticket cost 18 £ which is worth every penny.

Bhanuka V — Google review

Having the option to purchase tickets in advance not only speeds things up, but also gives you a little discount. Straight up the stairs and into the gift shop / entrance and showed the tickets on my phone and we were in.There are a couple of pinch points when trying to navigate your way down. When trying to read some of the detail and you have people barging past was a bit frustrating.So much to see and read, with the highlight being Concorde. Never would I have thought I would step aboard. Also enjoyed watching the helicopters take off from the airfield. That was a nice touch, although did get busy in there. Nice we can go on some of the aircraft. Really gives you an appreciation of how skilled everyone is to build, maintain and fly these craft from yesteryear to present day.We were here for over 2 hours and probably will need to visit again as I'm sure we missed something. We didn't really see much in the way of signage, though that could've been us just absorbed in the museum exhibits.Bit disappointed with the size of cafe, no tables free and there was still a queue to get food, so we had to go without and find somewhere else down the A303 to eat.Other than that, we enjoyed the visit. Moderately busy for a weekday in September. Plenty of people about if there were any questions that needed answering, but we were happy just going at our own pace.

Mookii — Google review

Great day out, exhibits are amazing, staff and volunteers very helpful and knowledgeable. Honestly couldn't see everything in one day 😅. Definitely recommend to any aviation enthusiast or just a family who want to go for a day out

Charlie P — Google review

Wow! What an enjoyable experience. Surprisingly very good and worth the tickets. My teenagers loved it. Even my husband 😄 Book it and you'll never regret it. Free parking and coffeeshop inside. Clean toilets. Lovely staff, very lovely staff everywhere.

Mrs A — Google review

Took my son as he's interested in fighter planes. It's very informative, has a wide range of planes and helicopters you can actually go inside and view unlike other museum we have been too. The battle ship deck area is good it gives you an insight into what life is like on them. If you are interested in the navy and planes, I would recommend here.

Erica S — Google review

Wonderful day out. Soo much to do and see. Children love it as they can go into some of the aircrafts and explore. Play ground area outside with picnic tables. Fantastic choice of gifts too.

Catherine L — Google review

Really well laid on museum giving visitors the awesome history of our incredible historical naval planes and aviators. Really amazing story telling, fascinating lay out that you need to gradually uncover as you explore, and of course incredibly restored airplanes and copters in all their glory. You can even get into some of the helicopters.. and to top it all off , gorgeous pasties and coffees at the café. Loved it and we're not even plane spotters or military enthusiasts usually!!

James A — Google review

Very informative with superb collections of old and new aircrafts. You cant help but admire these engineering marvels. The innovative evolution of the engines throughout the years. So much to learn as well. You could easily spend about 3 hours there. And the awesome Concorde is the main reason I visited this museum. Friendly staff who also has amazing stories to share. Museum also has a nice gift shop. A great experience.FYI buying tickets online is cheaper.

Viral M — Google review

A really lovely museum; a fantastic collection of aircraft that are clearly looked after to the highest standards. We drove the hour and a half up to Yeovil and it was worth every second; all things considered the pricing was more than reasonable and the staff were all lovely. The transition between hall 2 and the “carrier” hall was a really smart idea, never seen anything like that before and it made for a really immersive experience - hats off to whoever came up with that idea!We’re already planning our return trip. The museum really is A credit to the senior service.

James T — Google review

The museum opened at 1000, worth buying tickets online as you will save a few pounds, you can also gift aid your purchase.The exhibits are split into four halls covering the history of the Fleet Air Arm.The flight deck experience is good , but not all of the effects were working during my visit which was a bit disappointing.The staff are friendly and helpful and will try to answer any questions you have.The whole display gives you a great insight into the Fleet Air Arm and the Royal Navy as a whole.The museum is open until 1630 , it took me until 1530 to cover everything, taking time to read the information available and appreciate everything.There is a cafe that offers a range of snacks at reasonable prices, and a gift shop sells plenty of gifts and souvenirs.An enjoyable day out, my ticket allows me to return throughout the year so I will definitely return .

AL N — Google review

Huge 4 zones including walking through a mock aircraft carrier. You can go in a fighter and two helicopters. Walk through Concorde with the seats mostly taken out. Plenty of reading, cafe is good but not a fan of the tuna,cheese and sweetcorn panini. Toilets in most zones and lifts. Sizable gift shop.

David J — Google review

A real good day out this has to be one of the best museums in the south of the UK plenty to see. If you like the navy and aircraft, this is the museum for you.Interesting kids play area also if you have any children.There is also plenty of parking.

Richard M — Google review

Great place for all the family. The highlight is obviously being able to walk through Concorde. The hall she is in also holds the key planes that were instrumental in testing the shape, etc, of Concorde. So many historical planes there. Take your family. Keep your tickets as they are valid for 12 months.

Geoff W — Google review

If you are interested in aircraft as I am, then this is a marvelous museum! It tells the story of how the royal navy air arm came to be. It covers the Falklands conflict in detail and of course the two world wars, which was very interesting and there is a chance to see what life is like on an aircraft carrier which is brilliantly done.

Roger C — Google review

Had a great time at the Royal Navy Fleet Air Museum! They had an awesome assortment of planes and it was great for our 3.5 year old who loves planes. Obviously when you visit with a toddler, the adults don’t get to fully enjoy the museum but was a great stop on our road trip and would go back again to check out all sorts of airplanes from every era of air travel ✈️

Jared T — Google review

Well worth a visit, really good,tells a great story of the hero's of fleet air arm and the planes and helicopters they use. Book on line for discount ticket but great news once you've been you can return any when during the year.

Adrian W — Google review

Had a great time here. Nice outdoor space for eating, and for younger kids in the play area. Inside was a wealth of information on display, set out in an easy to understand way. Got lucky seeing a wildcat land. Will be coming back to finish looking around the exhibits.

Clash H — Google review

I loved this place loads to see, and it's been done well. It's easy to move around and has ramps for wheelchair access. Cafe is good but a little pricey, but it goes back into the museum. The aircraft carrier is really good. Dressing up areas for kids. Buy tickets online to get them cheaper.

Tom D — Google review

Lovely museum, lots of planes and we'll explained history. Not suitable for small children, but there is a play area outside.

Nicolas O — Google review

A really great day out. Went with the kids and grandparents and everyone liked it. There is so much to see and there's lots of information about all the aircraft and equipment at the museum. Most have seen combat use with bullet holes in some. It is well displayed in its several themed hangers. I really liked the aircraft hanger exhibit. The kids loved all the aircraft, loud noises and little games spread without. There's a decent play park outside to run out the rest of their energy at the end too.

A C — Google review

4.7

(4936)40 Best Stops Between Sidmouth and Swansea (3)

4.5

(2164)40 Best Stops Between Sidmouth and Swansea (4)

RNAS Yeovilton, Ilchester, BA22 8HT, United Kingdom

+44 1935 840565

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2

40 Best Stops Between Sidmouth and Swansea (5)

3

Seaton Tramway

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Mentioned on

21 lists

Transportation

Tramways

Seaton Tramway is a fun tourist attraction that allows visitors to ride on replica electric tram cars along a scenic 3-mile route.

What a great day. Staff are amazing tram was great fun. Well worth the £35 for a family. Ride the teams as much as you like. We stopped for lunch and a pint before heading back on the tram for the return journey. Nice simple play park for the kids at the end and a good old fashioned shop.

Geoff T — Google review

I don't think it's value for money cost me £14 per adult and £10 for 3 year old for 30 min going and 30 min coming back journey, the views are good but could get them in a car as well so not sure why they charge such a high price.Overall experience was much less what I expected but was good for just getting fresh air with family and not be in the driving seat of the car for once in a while.

Arbab C — Google review

We had so much fun😊 the tramway line goes through a beautiful area of Wetlands and River Axe, you can hop on and off few stops with Explorer ticket. Would highly recommend 👍

Aleksandra J — Google review

I was here last 18 years ago and I have to say this was another great run on this tramway. Staff are so friendly and enthusiastic and adds to the enjoyment. I took the return ticket to Colyton and back but you could get a day ticket so you can get off at each station on the way and way back. A great day out for all ages. Will definitely be back and won't leave it another 18 years before I visit again.

Emyr F — Google review

Seaton Tramway is one of the best heritage attractions I have visited, trams every 20 minutes, journey 30 minutes each way.Both our drivers were excellent and took time to hop off at each stop and explain about the local area.Fantastic cafe / tea rooms at Colyford.Some of these narrow gauge trams are well over 100 year old and quite small. It is a testament to the skill of the engineers and volunteers that they are still in service today.We had a great day, thank you.

James F — Google review

Lovely summer's afternoon spent enjoying the British coastal countryside, bird watching in the 3 hides available. We only bought the return ticket to the wetlands which was £6.90 each. But you can buy an all day pass for £14. There's only a really short and long stay at the carpark which costs us £6 for 3 hours. The tram journey was a bit rocky and windy sitting at the top but enjoyed the nostalgia of the bygone days where trams like this were widely used. An enjoyable experience in the sun. It's the main attraction in the seaside resort.

Wei H — Google review

Just a lovely little trip out on the trams. Memories of childhood as I've been twice before. Highly recommend sitting up top (Bring sunscreen though!) Accessible pods are available and the staff and wonderful.

Anthony B — Google review

Good value for money if you pay a little extra to have explorer tickets as you then can get on and off as many times as you want. The wetlands are an excellent place to explore, cafe food was reasonably priced and good quality. All in all a good afternoon out 👌would advise getting there early if you want to explore the wetlands and nature reserve as we ran out of time. Also be prepared to wait for next tram as some were full, but extras were running so that helped with queues 😊

Graham H — Google review

Lovely little afternoon out - the tram operators were really lovely and knew their stuff! Coffees and restrooms at both ends of the line, and even the items in the gift shop were really reasonable, even cheap!My son who is 2 absolutely loved it.We will be going back! (Although the tickets worked out £53 for 3 adults and one 2 year old, so this won't be an every weekend occurrence)

Hannah O — Google review

Cushions = next time I take a rubber ring to sit on. Parking in Seaton is not cheap and no concessions to blue bade holders. Hunt for free parking. Excellent ramped access. Buy an Explorer tickets so you can hop on and off the different trams all day. Any nobility impediment DO take the assisted access Trams. All staff are very helpful so do not worry. The cafe at Colyton is good. The village has a great butchers for Pies cheese. A heritage next door. A seat of rebels in the Monmouth Rebellion with a church illustrating the villages past wealth. Large with amazing chandeliers worthy of a stately home. Toilets good for access. Have a scarves the estuary has a good breeze anytime. Shop caters for all budgets. Plan your visit and you'll have a great day rumbling and Tram hopping

Annie D — Google review

Wonderful place to visit with lots of different trams running. Parked up and had breakfast at Colyton, pretty station and great food.

Mark T — Google review

Really loved our trip on the tram. Explorer ticket gives you the opportunity to stop off at each stop for a wonder.Every 20 minutes back so really good.Helpful, knowledgeable staff.

Elaina D — Google review

Brilliant day had by all.Fun & educational.Lots of trams to choose from & lots of stops offering different sights and activities (great bird hides etc)

Shaheda ( — Google review

We spent a lovely few hours here, riding the tram both ways and a little explore along the way. Would love to return in the summer when it's warmer to explore the wetlands. Dog friendly.

Lisa C — Google review

We enjoyed our ride to the end of the line, where we had lunch. The cafe staff all seemed a little bit clueless, but were pleasant enough. We all enjoyed the food and the ride back. The walks around the wetland area looks likely to be our next trip. Great fun.

John H — Google review

Delightful tram trip up the river, even on a wet day. Coyton was lovely to walk around and the church was beautiful inside.All the staff on the trams were very friendly and knowledgeable.

Tim C — Google review

We enjoyed our visit and ride on the tramway. Staff were friendly and polite. We travelled to the end of the line to explore the small town of Colyton (Not alot to explore at Colyton to be honest) Trams were every 20 minutes when we visited. Wrap up warm the winds blow cold over the wetlands. Definitely recommend a visit but, try to get there early because it's a popular attraction and does get busy.

David A — Google review

Interesting attraction, the driver provided a good amount of information. The journey would be more pleasant with warmer weather, or on the more closed carriage. Important notice: the trams differ and sometimes it is better to wait a little and choose the carriage which would fit you better.

Andrzej L — Google review

Fantastic attraction, one for all the family to experience. A gentle tram ride takes you to Colyton for a relaxing drink and cake or a hot meal in a modern dining area. On the way back you can hop off (with an adventure ticket) and explore the Seaton Wetlands, a relaxing idle for children and adults alike, I recommend some cloud gazing!

Robert — Google review

Really fun little activity to do in the area. The staff were all really friendly, and the conductors gave little commentaries about the places we were stopping at, which was fun. The trams were a lot smaller than I expected, and the stairs up to the top were teeny tiny, so it might not be great for people with mobility issues. We didn't find that much to do at Colyton, unless you like looking round little independent shops. The station at Colyton was good though, with a cafe, shop and toilet. Definitely worth doing 😀

Hannah M — Google review

4.7

(3704)40 Best Stops Between Sidmouth and Swansea (10)

4.5

(2726)40 Best Stops Between Sidmouth and Swansea (11)

Tramway, Harbour Rd, Seaton EX12 2WD, United Kingdom

+44 1297 20375

4

The Donkey Sanctuary

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Animal rescue service

Nature & Parks

The Donkey Sanctuary in Sidmouth relies on donations from visitors to provide the best possible care for 500 donkeys and mules. The animals are kept indoors and out of the wind, and visitors can stroke, pet and even hug the friendly creatures. Kids learn about the importance of donkey conservation while visiting this animal rescue service.

Well worth a visit. Much more than my expectations. It is FREE, so I expected something small and possibly a bit run down. There is such a lot of land to walk around and see so many donkeys being highly cared for. There is a very big and lovely cafe all very modern with a reasonable menu. Everywhere is nicely planted and very pretty with several gardens and a hedge maze. Amazing free day out for families.

Andy G — Google review

This place was recommended, so we visited on a Sunday as it's open 365 days a year. There is a variety of donkeys to see around a large area of several filads and shelters. The well maintained grounds and pathways are a pleasant walk, and the modern building houses a nice restaurant, souvenir shop, and facilities. There is even a small maze to try. We stopped for food and had the Kitchen Burger with chips and a Pepsi. The burger was outstanding. The staff were friendly. We were unable to purchase a gift from the shop though, as the card machine was down. Unfortunately the weather wasn't on our side this time. Reccomend walking boots at minimum and take hand sanitizer

Philip S — Google review

What better way to spend a day than walking through beautiful scenery and having a love with some donkeys? A lovely place where the donkeys are very obviously well cared for with good paths to walk on too. The restaurant is lovely as well and the staff are very efficient, polite and pleasant even when it’s busy. Food is very good and you can watch the donkeys whilst you eat too (if you’re in the right place) dog friendly as well.

Jenni E — Google review

Just love this place.Seeing the darling little donkeys get such great care is heart warming.The restaurant is lovely too.We all enjoyed a full English breakfast.£14.95 for large and £10.95 for small, which really wasn't!!, including tea or coffee. All profits go towards to care of the donkeys.Lovely gift shop , although I would have liked to have seen a few more expensive items for presents, which also sells plants.They've really nailed it here it's gorgeous!!

Anne C — Google review

A wonderful sanctuary for donkeys & mules. There is no charge to visit, but donations gratefully received. There's plenty of chance to spend in the gift shop or the superb cafe. The volunteers know each donkey & their character. A lovely peaceful place to wander around.

Barry S — Google review

Lovely well kept place doing an extremely worthwhile job.Donkeys were lovely and I was impressed how well kept it was.It's free entry and there is, apart from loads of donkeys, a lot for the kids to do.I'd recommend a visit but spend some money there as it all goes to a worthwhile cause.Highly recommended overall.

Mark L — Google review

We had a lovely couple of hours at the donkey sanctuary. It was so nice to see the donkeys looking happy and healthy. Together in their large paddocks. They are so well looked after, and the staff work very hard, doing an amazing job. The sanctuary is well worth a visit. You can adopt a donkey, too. They also have a very nice cafe, which over looks the donkey paddocks.

Diane G — Google review

A wonderful place to visit. Caring staff, wonderful cafe and star of the show are the Donkeys. Free entry and parking. Although donations are welcome, made easy by a card machine. Spent a lovely couple of hours in a relaxing, well maintained setting. Great for families.

Elaine W — Google review

Such a lovely place!! Especially as it’s free to get in and to park.Donkeys are so cute and we loved stroking them. There are so many of them too so it’s takes time to go around.Good place for kids to play and you could definitely spend a day there.Cafe was so good! We had lunch and it was really yummy and reasonably priced. Cakes were good too.Would 100% come back. I recommend🫶🏼

Evie N — Google review

Such a lovely day out! We had a great time visiting today! Very friendly staff and very happy friendly donkeys!!Cafe and gift shop prices are really reasonable and all our food was delicious! Would definitely be back again soon!

Abi B — Google review

What a fantastic place!They have the carrot trail for children to explore with fab prizes at the end, a large well maintained site and incredibly helpful staff.The maze was really good - lots of fun running round and round. Lovely play park and plenty of outdoor seating to enjoy the amazing food here if you don’t want to sit inside.Recommend to all!

Ian O — Google review

This sanctuary is one of very few that I have visited where I feel happy and comfortable because of the excellent care delivered to animals. It is very clear that these Donkeys are well looked after and happy by the staff and volunteers. We expected a couple of small fields with a few donkeys in however when we turned up we were shocked to see the sheer amount of land and animals at the sanctuary. Would recommend visiting :)

Sky M — Google review

Well worth a visit to the donkey sanctuary, free to enter so we donated, there were so many donkeys, so good to see them being well looked after! Lots of information about them as well. Great cafe/restaurant lots of lunch options and cakes.

Jeannette G — Google review

What an amazing place. So clean, well maintained and wonderful to see how rescued donkeys thrive here. They rely on donations, so please give generously if you can or adopt a donkey for just £3 a month. It's really worth it and their work is so important. The donkeys have a wonderful habitat here and are clearly happy and well cared for.

Cloud — Google review

This is an absolute gem of a place, what’s more, it’s free to enter.Donkeys are gentle creatures and there are hundreds(?) of them here.Visitors can wander round the extensive grounds and many buildings and at most points see donkeys that range in size from tiny to substantial.The donkeys are divided up so that older and more infirm animals have their own spaces.Some of the staff give talks about the sanctuary, its work and history, and about the nature of donkeys.The sanctuary has a cafe, that we didn’t use, picnic areas, a shop and lots of hand washing facilities.The car park is substantial.The sanctuary is free to visit, but does ask for donations. If they are made electronically, they can be gift aided.This is well worth a visit.There are

Peter M — Google review

Every day is a great day at the donkey sanctuary. Beautiful location. The donkeys are so well cared for. A lovely place to walk round for a few hours including the maze and gardens. Plenty of benches dotted around the sanctuary to sit and enjoy the views. The cafe is a must for refreshments, delicious food, well prepared. The cakes are amazing. Free to enter so put a few pounds in the donation boxes around the sanctuary to keep this place running, doing brilliant work protecting these wonderful animals.

Ben M — Google review

Went here because I had tons of recommendations for the locals while on holiday, and it was really good!The work they are doing is excellent and you can see the donkeys are cared for extremely well. It's a peaceful place to visit and walking around the site was a treat.At the end we stopped in the cafe and the vegan Jaffacake cake was amazing, highly recommend that.

Jack — Google review

Lovely place. Plenty of parking. Free entry. Big cafe/restaurant. Very educational. Donkey’s have lots of room in various different fields and can roam around. Will come over for a stroke and fuss. Lots of wash stations. Suitable for all ages and dig friendly. Can visit for half an hour or all day, if you have good, visit the maze, play area etc.

Tom D — Google review

We visited the Donkey Sanctuary the second week of May.We had a wonderful few hours exploring the grounds, fussing over the donkeys and learning all about them.Unfortunately we didn’t get to use the cafe, due to long queues. We expected that it would be busy, due to the warm sunny weather and the cafe being so popular (with very good online reviews)The gift shop is well stocked, and we brought a few souvenirs for ourselves and family. It was would be nice if the shop sold a few snacks (especially with the cafe being so busy)We will definitely be back on our next visit to Devon.

Didley D — Google review

Absolutely fantastic day out. Great, long or short walks. The toilets were spotlessly clean. Lovely gift shop. Cafe facilities and plenty of places to eat a picnic. There were fields of donkeys, most of them appreciated a good scratch or a gentle nose stroke. Plenty of car park spaces. Recommended place to visit, and of course it was all free.

Janice N — Google review

4.8

(7138)40 Best Stops Between Sidmouth and Swansea (17)

4.5

(3748)40 Best Stops Between Sidmouth and Swansea (18)

Slade House Farm, Weston, Sidmouth EX10 0NU, United Kingdom

+44 1395 578222

5

Paignton Zoo Environmental Park

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Zoo

Outdoor Activities

Paignton Zoo is a large zoological park in Devon, England. It has a wide range of animals, including many endangered or critically-endangered species. The zoo also features a variety of exhibits and activities for visitors to enjoy.

A wonderful zoo. It is so clear that the animals get treated with the love and care they need. We went back twice within one week and it was just as magical the second time around.We pre-booked about visit but it seemed to be a very easy process to purchase tickets on the day.

Isabel — Google review

It was a nice day out however we were slightly disappointed by the lack of animals. A few of the enclosures were empty with no sign of why, whilst others were empty with signs stating that work was being done. This was fine.The fact that the park is so big and hard to navigate made the day slightly more frustrating. The guide (map) was £3.50 on the way in which is a clear money making scheme and there were no maps on the way around to see where we were or where we were going. We ended up walking up dead ends, away from all the animals and this was extremely frustrating as someone who is 8 months pregnant trying to make the most of the school holidays with her children. We missed a number of animals simply because we couldn't find our way to them. Yes we could have bought a guide, but £3.50 for something you throw away when you get home, on top of the price of food and tickets, was unreasonable to me. Other zoos I have attended provide these free on the way in and provide maps whilst navigating the area.Ice cream was overpriced, but to be expected for an attraction area such as this.Gift shop is located on the way in and way out, another clear money making scheme however the items in the gift shop are nice and have a good range.There is a lot of walking included in the visit and a very small amount of it is flat, this is something people should be aware of if walking or in mobility scooters as the land is sometimes uneven.I'm very unsure if I'll be attending this zoo again as I have found others that are more beneficial and animal focused.

Jasmine M — Google review

Great Zoo! My disabled wife, teenage son , teenage daughter and I visited the zoo on 23rd October and discovered Paignton Zoo really cares about their animals and their customers.We booked tickets online as requested and arrived at 12.30pm there was plenty of free parking but be advised the Zoo is on the side of a steep valley which if you have a self propelled wheelchair, like us, is going to be challenge.When booking online and providing you supply proof, one carer can be submitted free of charge, which I thought very generous.We entered the Zoo and discovered really helpful staff who offered us the opportunity to rent an off-road electric scooter for just £20 for the duration of our visit. We also had to pay a £20 deposit which would be refunded when we returned the scooter undamaged. We were in two minds whether to take this offer but this turned out to be a great investment as the hills were steep and the paths were long.They also provided us with a map marking out the routes and attractions available via scooter or buggies. There was a real focus on making disabled customers and families with buggies/prams welcome in all areas of the zoo.Toilets and refreshment stalls were dotted around the zoo keeping kids happy and the animals and attractions were accessible for all to see. Even though maintenance was taking place all animals were accessible, bar the giraffes. Apparently, they had a wild time the night previous and just couldn't face dealing with the public with hangovers.. we've all been there!The zoo wasn't over crowded, there was no waiting in-line for anything even though it was quite busy. Food was lovely and we all had a really good time. We would definitely recommend a visit and don't forget to leave a donation as they get no financial support from the Government.

Mark B — Google review

Lovely place to visit, plenty of play parks for the younger children and beautiful areas of interest. Plenty of food places, stops and picnic areas. Unfortunately the animals weren't playing ball, due to the weather, so couldn't see the rhino, tiger & a few others... All I'd suggest is better lookout areas. Other wise enjoyable day out

Kelly R — Google review

Visited numerous times as a member. Great if you want to do something for a few hours or spend a whole day. Staff are always friendly and helpful and zoo keepers are very knowledgeable. Worth getting the membership if your are local.

Nina G — Google review

Spent a great five hours here with so much to see, both creatures and plants. The enclosures are well kept and the keepers seem enthusiastic and knowledgeable. Lots of conservation work going on by using this historic zoo. Visited many times as a child when I lived in the area and it has moved with the times in animal welfare whist still giving much to see.

Karen F — Google review

Ok we went for my daughter's birthday, not my 1st choice for a trip as I don't like the idea of Zoos. But I accept they are a necessary service for the animals and humans alike.There's a walk down from the car park to the entrance to the zoo. I believe however, disabled can drive down and be dropped off.Just remembered to save some energy after a long walk round, to be able to climb the hill to get back to the car park! Although for the most part it's not a difficult walk and quite a pretty pathway.Warning it is expensive to enter, about £26 an adult to walk through the gates. Currently you get a free visit back, if you're still in the area to see more you may have missed.So with the slightly dour start done, let's move on to the fantastic bit...The park is very clean and quite spacious, the food in the restaurant is very good for this type of venue, disabled access is very good overall.Gluten free is just about doable although choices are very limited. So bring your own if allergies are a concern, but catering staff are helpful over such matters.The important thing for me was the animals are looked after very well. There's enough room for them to exercise which is good and sleeping areas are clean. It's good to see the employees attending the animals throughout the day and feeding times are well coordinated.My daughter loves the big cats and they were on show that day, last time they hid away, so don't expect to see every animal. We never saw the rhinos at all, but they must be there somewhere!As with the rest of the zoo the cats were very chilled and seemed relaxed and unstressed, which is a great sign. A testament to the care of the keepers.There are loads of ice cream shops as you walk around and there are a few slopes to climb, so on a hot day and ice cream is a welcome break. There's also a great climbing area for the kids right near an outdoor cafe, a brilliant idea.Young people seemed to love the zoo and adults were overall captivated by the closeness of the animals hence the 5 stars.Apart from the cost of entry, the whole place is well maintained and animals seem content, I guess you get what you pay for.The shop is full of cuddly toys and key rings - great for kids, but not much for adults to take away as a memory.Overall a good day out for a family, if the cost was £15 to enter, then I'd be happier to pay it, as it would represent value for money. Although I guess the animals need their upkeep costs paid and it can't be cheap.Definitely worth a visit, the family enjoyed the trip and walk round and great to see such a wide variety of creatures in a days walkabout.Well done Paignton Zoo!

Paul — Google review

Pretty good zoo, staff are really welcoming lots of parking, restaurant is fine and well priced. Spent 4 hours in the zoo so it was great value.

Jeremy B — Google review

Lovely afternoon at the zoo, the rangers giving talks were so kind and friendly, answering all kinds of questions (even unrelated ones!). The zoo is clean and tidy, there's so much space to roam around.The restaurant was clean and tidy, all of the self-serve areas were well stocked. Staff were happy and helpful despite looking like they were melting in the heat.Another fab day at Paignton Zoo!

Victoria C — Google review

My partner and I had a lovely time seeing the animals at the wildlife park.Some of the enclosures were fantastic for the animals and they seemed to enjoying themselves :). I’m not a big fan of zoos but you could tell that this one was trying to do the best for the animals.It’s a hilly route around the park but a very beautiful one.

A V — Google review

Excellent day out. Nice size zoo but some of the enclosures are large and you may miss seeing one or two but you can't fault the zoo for that really. We missed the wallabies and the mained wolf but all the others came out.

Weasel ! — Google review

Paignton Zoo offers an unforgettable experience for all ages, with a diverse collection of animals, engaging exhibits, and a strong focus on conservation. From majestic big cats to playful primates, every visit is both educational and entertaining. With its beautiful grounds and friendly staff, Paignton Zoo is the perfect destination for a fun-filled day out that makes a positive impact on wildlife conservation.

Mattia 9 — Google review

What a zoo so much has changed since I was last there many many years ago.The restaurant was clean and tidy and the staff were very helpful. The toilets were clean. The animals are really look after .Everyone who works there are doing a really good job.

Dot — Google review

We got our tickets online and the booking was very easy. There’s a bus right to the zoo and a lot of parking onsite too. Even with some of the enclosures under construction it did not effect our visit and it was a lovely day out with food available on site and also other options within walking distance from the zoo.

Sarah W — Google review

Keepers lovely and very attentive. However, zoo unkempt re foliage, unlike a few years ago. However, very clean. Sign of the times, I suppose. Too many seagulls. Be aware they will steal your food, as they did with us!! Expensive, but animals appear healthy. Shame elephants no longer there, but most of the animals are endangered species, so not surprised. Overall, nice visit.

Kaye ( — Google review

The best zoo in my opinion to visit. The staff are always around either cleaning enclosures, checking on the animals or walking to their next duty. I came with my husband for a honeymoom day out before continuing further to our accomodation and we were not dissapointed, a few empty paddocks due to improvements which we can't wait to see and the enclosures were so appropriate for the animals. We came near opening time so most of the animals were visible but not active and we came again on Tuesday nearer the afternoon (3pm) where most animals were walking around.Fab place to go and my 3 kids aged 1, 5 and 6 loved it too! Definitely recommend and will be returning!

Caitlin W — Google review

Went to the Zoo with my work. Easy to park and get in. Lots of facilities, food places, and exhibits. Lovely helpful staff. Animals look well cared for, staff were everywhere keeping the enclosures tidy. Only complaint would be that due to natural wild growing, it is harder to see the animals in larger enclosures. Even various primates were hard to see.Will return in my own time and take a more leisurely wander.

Ali M — Google review

We have a family pass so we can go as many times in 12 months which is amazing. The facilities for kids are great such as the soft play area that is broken down into areas for age groups. The animal enclosures are well maintained and it is clear they invest in the animals and the site as a whole.

Josh W — Google review

We visited during easter. The zoo has plenty of parking. Unfortunately it was a rainy day when we visited, however the staff had set up arts and crafts in sheltered places to occupy the children while everyone got out of the rain.When we visited we converted to an annual pass, so although it is dear, if you were local you would get your money's worth back.We were fortunate enough to see most of the animals so it was a successful visit in spite of the weather.I think it's a lovely zoo with a layout which means you are not on top of each other with other visitors.We went to the canteen when it was pouring at some point and though not gourmet, the portions are generous and reasonably priced.What we didn't do well was plan our trip aligned to some of the feeding times and talks. I would advise finding out about these in advance as they are worth it.Would definitely say it's a good day out for the family. I only wish you better weather.Would not hesitate to return given the chance in the next 12 months.

Melinda ( — Google review

Great zoo to visit. Hadn’t been since I was a kid and it was still great. Hard to see some animals as they weren’t being social due to the weather. The animals are clearly looked after well and they are improving the place all the time. The place is quite hilly so be prepared to walk. Book online before you go to save a bit of money.

Dean H — Google review

4.5

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4.5

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Totnes Rd, Paignton, TQ4 7EU, United Kingdom

+44 1803 697500

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6

Babbacombe Model Village

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Water & Amusement Parks

Garden

Babbacombe Model Village is a model village with 4 acres of miniature buildings, vehicles and people. It has a castle and a fiery dragon.

Amazing place to spend a few hours looking at miniature stuff. Fantastic place you have pay for parking but not alot. I thought it was very expensive to go in but actually it is worth the cost. All miniatures were so detailed. We spent 3 hours here. Great for children. So much to see.

Jonathan C — Google review

I hadn't visited this model village for around 20 years. Wow childhood memories and so great to see it still going strong. The selection of buildings are just fab and to see it modernising as times move on was good. I'm sure the wind turbine will create some conversation. Keep up the amazing work !

Ewan G — Google review

Warning: visiting Babbacombe Model Village will make all other model villages seem pathetic by comparison. Now, although I am a bit of a nut for models and miniatures, this attraction absolutely blew me away. My impression of model villages was that they often look tired, small, and a bit too quaint. This took me totally by surprise. The whole place oozes passion, everything is clean and well looked after. The small team here clearly loves the work they do; everything is constantly maintained, the greenery is exceedingly pruned to perfection, and not one ounce of scenery seemed in need of TLC. All of the sets are finely detailed, and there are plenty of little things to notice about each scene if you take your time appreciating the craftsmanship. Keep an eye out for puns galore on all the business names, and the amusing antics of the model villagers. Halfway around, there is a fun crazy golf course (included in the entry price) to break up the monotony of walking, and to let younger guests let off some steam. The newest installation, the indoor "Mythical" section, is a testament to attention-to-detail and painstaking model-making. I cannot stress how interesting this attraction is! The café serves hot food until about 3pm, plus nice coffee. I will say, the menu is a bit lacking, and the pizza is just (as far as I can tell) supermarket-bought Chicago Town, but there are paninis and sandwiches available too.P.S., book your tickets in advance to receive a small discount, and remember that you pay on the door, not via the website. Also, the entire site is card only, so don't come with cash.

Thomas R — Google review

Nice scenes which have some interesting detailed elements in it. Appreciate lot of work spent to create this.GBP 67.80 for two adults and two teenagers is quite some money.Okay, it includes 9 hole Mini Golf.

Michi S — Google review

Went in a family group of eight, spent the afternoon there, the crazy golf was fun (which is included in the entrance fee). Everywhere seems clean and well kept and if you take your time you'll see more than you first notice. The cream tea in a box was tasty. Really enjoyed our time here, I recommend a visit.

Kathy H — Google review

Where do I start! Hidden in a little valley is a well crafted model village! Different sections have different buildings which are crafted to perfection. The added touch of interactivity within the little village along with the crazy golf included within the ticket price!! Well worth the visit and the money. Real hidden gem of the UK. Must visit attraction 🙂

C R — Google review

Lovely little model village with a (very) mini golf course for the kids to entertain themselves. The highlight has to be when the sun goes down and the lights come on, so make sure to go when they open later especially when visiting in the summer.

Mr C — Google review

Not having visited for about 50 years thought visit was long overdue and was not disappointed ! Loved the attention to detail and the witticisms 😍. Crazy golf was included in the admission fee which we also really enjoyed and had a great 'nearly 3 hrs' there. Totally recommend ♥️

Hazel C — Google review

Really nice visit. The site is situated on a large hill, so would not be suitable for wheelchairs. There are hand rails but it is very steep in areas.The displays are lovely and suitable for all ages.The price was a bit steep in our opinion. As a grown up couple we were there less than an hour, so £19 each felt expensive, however if you had kids it would be a good half day out.

Claire P — Google review

Lovely model village. For young and old, it’s a great place to visit. So many wonderful models to enjoy and a funny play on words with some of the signs.Recommend you go here when you’re visiting the area .Get the 22 bus from Torquay it’s about half hour ride.

Nigel J — Google review

We loved it here!!! Such a lovely little place! We visited on one of the special evening’s events when the village is all lit up. I loved the comic value here so not only had a good time but a really good giggle along the way.You can play crazy golf half way round which is included in the price and great fun for the whole family. Once the sun starts to set this village comes into its own and the lights make this a really special place.

Karen F — Google review

Possibly the biggest Model Village I have ever visited (ironically!) - very steep hills at the start and end though!Clever little details like a lot of Model Villages, challenging mini golf included in the price which was good along with a few other displays in addition to the main village.Fairly limited choice of food in the cafe, but all staff we interacted with were pleasant and welcoming.Quite expensive parking though, but that is the local council, not the Model Village that sets that - they should lobby for lower charges to increase footfall.Nice place to visit for a couple of hours! (the kids enjoyed getting the dragon to breath fire too!)

Dave D — Google review

Fantastic laid back place. Well maintained and plenty to see. About 2.5 to 3 hrs the average but your tickets last a week if you ask them for it. Go back for the night visit and its a whole differnt place. Highly recommend.

Ian D — Google review

Great place to visit. We went during the day on a Sunday then back for the evening on the Thursday evening for the illuminated display (tuesday is the other late opening evening) . The return visit,within 7 days, is in with the initial price. Good value for money in that sense. The only thing that let it down was the prices in the cafe,recommended to take your own food and drink which you can consume in the outside area which gives a fantastic panoramic view of the model village. Brilliant model village though, the work and effort put into the place is fantastic.

Rob H — Google review

Recommend booking online for a discount.We were an hour early and the gentleman still allowed us with no issues.Beautiful scenery even in bad weather.Models are clearly well crafted with a brilliant sense of humour in mind for adults while children can marvel at the creations.There are indoor models and of course outdoor ones. (Indoor has heating)Nice that they have mini golf to break up the routine.Overall, an amazing experience!

Don — Google review

A must see. Amazing designs and ingenius figures depicting UK life throughout then decades.Adult ticket is £18.95 (this include a free return visit within 7 days of initial visit). Souvenirs booklet is £2.50(optional). We went back later thr same evening to experience the luminous effect.There is a café for drinks, pizza, cakes, cream tea - reasonably priced. Parking fees payable.

Charm L — Google review

+ It’s well maintained and aimed at a younger audience. The mini golf was fun. The gardening is done very well!- It felt a little dated and the younger audience will not understand much of the humour and play on brands and events. It’s also quite expensive for what it offers.! There is a parking but we choose to use bus 22 and that worked well. It can get busy at times - while you can't book a ticket through the website, you can reserve a time slot it and get a small discount when you present the reservation.

Danny — Google review

A really excellent collection of displays that are far more interesting, well thought out and original than expected. I can imagine that this place is very weather dependant and you wouldn’t want to go when raining even though ponchos are sold on site. Overall very expensive so value for money prevents this getting 5/5

James T — Google review

I was a little hesitant when I saw the price to visit the model village. But with the offer of a free return and open evenings with the village lit up, we decided to give it a go. Not disappointed in the slightest. You can spend HOURS at this model village. My kids (and me) absolutely loved it here. The attention to detail and the obvious love and hard work that goes into making it all is clear to see. We couldn't wait to use our free return and come back in the evening to see it all lit up. Definitely worth every penny.

Sam D — Google review

This was amazing definitely worth the visitand especially at night when it's all lit up. They keep all the models so well maintained and it's all clean. They have a small shop and cafè too, along with mini golf.

Bec — Google review

4.7

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4.5

(4624)40 Best Stops Between Sidmouth and Swansea (39)

Hampton Ave, Babbacombe, Torquay TQ1 3LA, United Kingdom

7

Bath Abbey

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Abbey

Sights & Landmarks

Bath Abbey is a late Medieval church with a Victorian Gothic interior designed by Sir George Gilbert Scott. The site has been a place of worship for over 1,000 years and boasts spectacular features such as the decorative ladders of angels on the West Front, inspired by Bishop Oliver King's dream. The magnificent Victorian Gothic interior, including the soaring vaulted stone ceiling above the nave, was added by Scott in the 1860s.

Amazing, beautiful in the inside. Spectacular history and great welcoming environment within. We did the tower tour, 100% worth it. The history of the bells and the clock is fascinating. The views from atop the tower is incredible, best view in bath.

Dominic S — Google review

Amazing experience,Best to buy the towe tour ticket for 15£ go all the way up with great guides who explains all about the history of the cathedral and the Bells,Spectacular views from the top and an awsome piece of history,Included is a multi entry day ticket, and access to underground church museum.In house wash rooms available and decent gift shop.One of the most artistic and beautiful cathedrals in UK

Bhanuka V — Google review

Beautiful place with big history. I like the fact that there is always something going on the place is alive there are some events and they make you feel welcomed.

005lenka — Google review

I recently visited Bath and had an amazing time exploring this historic city. Our day started with a stroll through the beautiful Parade Gardens, where we enjoyed stunning views of Pulteney Bridge and the River Avon. The gardens were filled with vibrant flowers, and it was a peaceful spot to relax.Unfortunately, we couldn’t visit the Roman Baths as we missed booking tickets online, but we still admired the impressive site from the outside. The architecture alone was stunning, and it gave us a sense of the city's rich history. If you’re planning a visit, I highly recommend booking your tickets online in advance to ensure you don’t miss out.We also visited Bath Abbey, a magnificent building with stunning stained glass windows. If you have time, consider climbing the Abbey tower for panoramic views of the city. Afterward, we wandered around the historic streets, stopping by the Royal Crescent and The Circus to admire the beautiful Georgian architecture.One tip for getting the most out of your visit is to start early. Many of the popular sites can get crowded, so arriving when they open helps avoid long waits. Also, booking tickets online for key attractions like the Roman Baths can help you fast-track the queues and make the most of your day in Bath.Overall, Bath is a city full of history, beauty, and charm, and it's easy to see why it’s such a popular destination!

Neha S — Google review

Gorgeous!! 80% of the walls are windows! Beautiful stained glass, telling stories from the Bible. The floors and walls are detailed, and there are informative boards inside too.

Karla R — Google review

Amazing experience. I had a ticket to visit Bath Abbey and the Tower, and the ticket was £15. It's worth every penny.The view from the Tower was breathtaking.Anna and Jess were the tour guides. They explained everything, and their customer service was above and beyond. They were very kind and knowledgeable.

Roxana B — Google review

My review is direct quote from a book I checked at the Abbey’s Shop. This excerpt is a captivating Welcome message by the Rector of Bath Abbey which resonates perfectly with my experience.“Rectors welcome‘We shape our buildings, and ever after they shape us’Our forebears designed this church with extraordinary skill, deliberately to inspire the shaping of human hearts.By design, the moment you and I set foot in this holy place, we cannot but look up.Exquisite fan-vaulting catches up our gaze, irresistibly to the heavens.Every major line in this building is staggeringly vertical - precisely to shoot vision skyward, and to raise up our hopes.By design also, streaming light urges us to "Lift up your hearts". Here we peer into no gloom; rather double tiers of glass shine" all around, softening calloused and weary souls in every generation.By design once again, Bath Abbey is built in the shape of Christ's cross.It is supremely a place to explore the meaning of his life, laid down in love and raised in victory. May the pages which follow inspire that exploration indeed may they shine the same divine light and hope, to shape our hearts anew.”~The Revd. Prebendary Guy BridgewaterRector of Bath Abbey

P. A — Google review

We got tickets the day before so the entrance was a breeze. You can still buy it at the door and it is just as easy too. The Abbey has a tower, a shop and a museum as well. We loved exploring the museum which had exhibits related to bath and especially the abbey. There was a lot to learn! The abbey itself is magnificent with so much history and artistic items. A must visit if you’re in Bath

Milan T — Google review

Bath Abbey, an architectural gem in the heart of Bath, is a stunning example of Gothic Perpendicular architecture. The abbey's intricate fan vaulting, magnificent stained glass windows, and impressive tower offer breathtaking views of the city. Its rich history, dating back to the 7th century, adds depth to the visitor experience. The staff are knowledgeable and welcoming, enhancing the overall visit. Regular services and concerts provide a spiritual and cultural dimension, making Bath Abbey not just a tourist attraction, but a vibrant community hub. A visit to Bath Abbey is a must for history enthusiasts and architecture lovers alike.

Apekshit S — Google review

It was very iteresting. I recommend taking a tour. It takes you on the roof of the abbey, from where you can see all Bath. It's incredible. And Bath Abbey itself has a rich and fascinating history so the tour isn't boring.

Liepa V — Google review

A must see in Bath. It’s a beautiful Abbey with a tremendous history. The square immediately next to it usually has some great musicians playing and you have the Roman Baths only 20ft away. The inside of the abbey is also stunning as shown in these photos and they sometimes host events and classical concerts there - a wonderful setting!

Mark F — Google review

Be sure not to miss a visit to the Bath Abbey. Admission used to be free. But now is GBP 7.50 but it's still worth it. The two opposite colored glass windows inside were built in different years. Don't miss the the museum in the basement, which give a lot of information with explanation in details.It is very spectacular both inside and outside. Outside the square , there are many benches where you can rest and at the same time to enjoy some performances by the musicians..

Ani — Google review

A beautiful abbey. Steeped in so much history. Wheelchair friendly. There is a lift down to the exhibition so everyone can enjoy this lovely place.

Mark P — Google review

Went for a Rutter concert rather than for the abbey itself this time but the place is beautiful, wonderful atmosphere. The acoustic is not brilliant but it's an old cathedral, so what to expect? (It was also a fantastic concert)

E T — Google review

Bath Abbey’s stunning Perpendicular Gothic architecture, with its intricate fan-vaulted ceiling and towering stained glass windows, is truly breathtaking. Although we didn’t get a chance to climb the tower, the Abbey’s beauty and rich history more than made up for it. Its origins as a Benedictine monastery and evolution into a parish church and cultural venue add layers of significance to its serene atmosphere.

Highway V — Google review

We did go inside the church, but from the outside, the gothic architecture is simply stunning. One evening we just sat outside the church and enjoyed some dessert as we watched the sun go down.

Matt G — Google review

Bath Abbey is a stunning piece of history and architecture. The intricate stained glass windows and soaring ceilings create a serene and awe-inspiring atmosphere. The staff were welcoming and knowledgeable, offering fascinating insights into the Abbey’s rich history. Climbing the tower for a panoramic view of Bath is a must-do. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or simply looking for a peaceful place to reflect, Bath Abbey is a beautiful stop in the heart of the city. Highly recommend!

Solmaz D — Google review

This is simply an awesome place to be, situated in the heart of everything, but at the same time, when you go in for evensong, it is quiet, calm, and refreshing. Being right next to the main baths, it is a perfect way to polish off your day, though I would recommend at least a couple of hours to appreciate the place.Wheelchair accessible via the front entrance once both doors are opened, it's spacious, lovely, and inviting. Take the time to appreciate it!

Allen W — Google review

My visit to Bath Abbey was truly enchanting. Stepping into this magnificent place of worship, I was immediately struck by the awe-inspiring architecture and the peaceful atmosphere that enveloped me. The intricate stained glass windows, the towering vaulted ceilings, and the elaborate stone carvings all spoke of centuries of history and craftsmanship

Chamila L — Google review

We did not expect to love this as much as we did! Highly recommend booking the tour. Our tour guide was Rob and he was so knowledgable and friendly and his enthusiasm for the Abbey really rubbed off on us! Felt like a mini adventure and we learned a lot in the process. Thanks Rob for a great afternoon!

Kay M — Google review

4.6

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4.5

(8850)40 Best Stops Between Sidmouth and Swansea (48)

Bath, BA1 1LT, United Kingdom

+44 1225 422462

8

The Roman Baths

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Museum

Historic Sites

History Museums

The Roman Baths in Bath, England, offer a unique experience for visitors of all ages. The site features a bathhouse and temple with spring water, as well as a museum and the Pump Room restaurant. Families can enjoy interactive activities such as age-specific trails and a children's audio tour narrated by Michael Rosen. The admission price includes these family-friendly activities, making it an ideal destination for a trip back in time.

Such a great experience! I have been wanting to visit for a while and it did not disappoint. The way they have preserved the baths to allow visitors to get a full experience of what it would have been like is brilliant. I'd recommend getting the audio guide which was easy to use and full of interesting information!

Hannah S — Google review

This is a real nice place and one of the United Nations educational and scientific trust heritage sites. There’s something for everyone. There’s such a grand history and so many details to understand. It is definitely worth the visit. Bring your children along and they can feed the pigeons in the square. That are life musicians, playing amazing music. Restaurants and eateries all throughout with great shopping also

Farmer A — Google review

This was my first visit and I can say that it didn't disappoint.There was a lot more to see than I'd anticipated, and plenty of photo opportunities.There was plenty of information about the history of the baths, and in some areas the screens brought it all to life.It was very well done.You can even taste the warm, mineral-rich spa water at the end of your visit.The only downside, because they let so many people in at a time, is that in some areas it was very crowded.

Carole A — Google review

Amazing experience taking 2000 years back in history to the Roman occupation of Britannia, this is one of the few ancient experiences in the whole world where historical context is superimposed over the remaining ruins in such a way that you tend to live in the ancient times.The ticket gives a free audio guide which in my opinion is one of the best well scripted and accurate audio-visual guides of all times,After you are through, one is left with a profound sense of understanding on Roman culture, the 2000 years ago in Bath, and how what and when of the whole story.Must go location worth every penny.

Bhanuka V — Google review

Had an amazing time walking through the baths and museums. Brilliant conservation work taking place and the exhibits are in great condition. Had a great time! Plenty to see and do. The guided audio tour is definitely worth it!

Jenny A — Google review

I loved to see and learn about the baths. Interesting from start to finish, highly recommended!The only downside were the 'headphone-zombies' (doing the audio tour) who seemed to have a rare talent for getting in the way and blocking showcases etc. for the rest of us.

Cora L — Google review

Truly the highlight of our trip to Bath. The whole reason for this town to exist!Well preserved Roman bath house e complex, so much to see and learn.Very good guided tour, highly recommend this tour as you will understand what you are seeing so much better

Barry S — Google review

Informative place, lots of things to see and learn about. It is helpful to have the handheld device (given for free upon entry) for verbal information while walking around but then everyone ends up looking like they are on the phone. It would be nice to see more interactive things in place. There was one touch board about curses which was interesting, I’d love to see more of that, maybe you could take a quiz beforehand to see what kind of Roman character you would be and how that would work when walking round? Otherwise, a beautiful historical place which is a must visit in Bath.

Bex — Google review

Bath is another most visited places in the UK. Besides its beauty, most tour buses drop everyone off near the Roman Baths and provide tickets to see them. It may be well-preserved and historic, but we ended up spending almost all our time there instead of exploring the rest of Bath. Our tour guide was great, but everything was on a tight schedule. Kind of rushed all around the trips. It is better to get the ticket in advance as they have timed entry!!!!

Mohamed R — Google review

Absolutely loved this place! It's so much more than just the main bath. Definitely a must see. We had a brilliant time. Bought tickets on the door and didn't have to queue but we did go on a Tuesday. If you're interested in history then it's definitely worth the entry fee and there is an audio device you can use without paying more to explain things along the way. Very simple to use.

Tom B — Google review

Great place! Beautifully preserved baths, built around a geothermal spring. Be sure to take a tour, our guide was great and you will hear surprising things. If you do, spend an hour exploring the museum first and then take the tour.Be sure to buy tickets in advance. There is a time slot, it is less busy in the morning.

Frans W — Google review

An interesting triple experience. First, a Roman bath, then a Victorian overlay celebrating it, and finally a modern tourist anchor.As a historical site it is somewhat one note but interesting enough for short or long visits depending on personal interest.Like apparently every museum in England the gift shops are run by the same people and have a samey selection of items personalized to Bath.

D W — Google review

Absolutely spectacular experience! The history, the exhibition, the views. Highly recommended - give yourself at least 1.5hrs for the museum walk through if you want to do it right and another hour for the guided tour.

Allyssa-Kirstel M — Google review

Brilliant Roman history. The exhibitions really bring it to life and the free audio guide provides good insights.Visit on a weekday, I paid £26 on a weekend which is extortionate (student price!). On a weekday the price is worth it I would say at about £24 for anyone.

Christopher H — Google review

Bath: A stunning Georgian city with a rich Roman history. Explore beautiful architecture, soak in natural thermal waters, indulge in world-class shopping and dining. Perfect for a relaxing getaway

Noel D — Google review

Just plain amazing! Not only was this wheelchair accessible, but the shear amount of beautiful, interesting, and curious things about these baths made one be in awe of what the Romans and the local people made here. I would definitely allow for at least a half a day just to start to appreciate this place. There’s so much to see, hear, and experience in this multi level system of baths. Yes, there can be a lot of people in the place at various times, but they keep a pretty tight rein on the number of people flowing through. So make sure to get your tickets ahead of time!One of the nice things about the baths was their close proximity to our hotel, so that no only were we able to see the baths, but a number of places around the baths. I'll be describing our experiences in subsequent entries.

Allen W — Google review

Ticket 27 pounds per person. a bit ruush but the place itself is managed and preserved so perfectly. the art, the history is too amazing. it was worth the money.

RAJAN G — Google review

Historic Roman Bath is a must-do activity if you plan to visit the west of England. Not only you would be face to face with 2000+ years of history but also appreciate the modern efforts of archeologists to restore and represent that lost history with such precision. I really loved the juxtaposition of the remnants with digital media (to fill the missing links) and narrate the whole stories behind the historical prominence of the place. Awestruck after visiting this site. Must-do!!!

Vikrant V — Google review

Very interesting visit. The museum was very well done but it was also way much bigger than we expected. We only had an hour and in the end we had to go a bit faster trough some of the last sections, make sure to have enough time to visit. Also make sure to visit the Pump Room next to it.

Iñaki G — Google review

Great history walk-about. With ticket purchase you get an audio tour. This provided fun details of life, hygiene processes, some info on the regilion of the time and the Roman empire. I enjoyed the walk through quite a bit. They even had an audio bit for kids- Best for those from 5 to 13.

Jennifer T — Google review

4.6

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4.5

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Abbey Churchyard, Bath, BA1 1LZ, United Kingdom

+44 1225 477785

9

Pulteney Bridge

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Bridge

Sights & Landmarks

Flea & Street Markets

Pulteney Bridge, constructed in 1774, is a historic landmark in Bath known for its remarkable architecture and rows of shops adorning both sides. Designed by Robert Adam, it offers picturesque views from Parade Bridge, Parade Gardens, and the weir. During autumn, the surrounding trees shed their leaves, creating a stunning backdrop for photos. The bridge spans the River Avon and features a unique U-shaped staircase weir.

Beautiful place. There is really nice cafe on the bridge where can you have a coffee and a delicious cake and enjoy the view to the river. Park around is great for a walk, so you can see the bridge from different angles.

Ma?gorzata D — Google review

Couple of minutes walk from City Centre and Bath Abbey. Absolutely blissful sight to view and walk on the banks. The bridge is still standing on Georgian architecture, the bridge has shops, eatery on it which was unique for me. Walkable distance from city centre. Paid Parking available nearby and drive by parking on the road is also available

Sachin D — Google review

Very picturesque, especially on a sunny day and just round the corner from the Abbey and Baths, so it’s easy to make a quick 5 minute detour. Lots of restaurants and cafes nearby and an opportunity for a boat tour on the other side

N M — Google review

For me the prettiest sight in all of Bath. However, once you’re on the bridge you don’t fell like being on a bridge anymore because there are building on the bridge on both sides.

Florian F — Google review

I went to Pulteney Bridge in Bath, and it was amazing! The bridge looks really special because it has shops built right on it, which is pretty unique.Walking across the bridge was really fun because I could stop and look at all the shops. They had everything from cute little boutiques to cozy cafes.The best part was the view of the river. It was so pretty, especially with the old buildings reflected in the water. I took lots of pictures!One thing to note is that it can get busy, especially on weekends when lots of people visit. But even with the crowds, it's still a really cool place to see.I'd definitely recommend checking out Pulteney Bridge if you're in Bath.It's a great spot for a leisurely stroll and to take in some beautiful views.

Priyal S — Google review

Gorgeous place to visit, so many shops and restaurants. So much to explore and see, park and ride to get into the city centre, makes it so easy to visit. Plenty of nice hotels to stay and explore another day

Aiden B — Google review

Pulteney Bridge in Bath is a stunning example of Georgian architecture, spanning the River Avon with shops built into its structure. It offers picturesque views and a charming ambiance with nearby shops and cafes. A must-see for history buffs and visitors exploring Bath's beautiful city center.

Fatema — Google review

Commonly bridges are meant to take you from place A to B, with nothing on them. There’s not a lot of them where businesses thrive and people live. But it truly brings another meaning to a bridge. It does that while also being beautiful.

Daniel A — Google review

Great looking bridge with nice restaurants around it. The pictures you can really on the walk here are stunning. Stop by if you're in Bath, for sure.

Khiem N — Google review

Best place to visit. Loads to explore loved it so much, beautiful buildings, lots of cafes, shops and food. We Hope to visit this beautiful city again next year.

Thansinee H — Google review

This bridge looks great. Got some good night shots from there too. There are some good bars / pubs around it that have a friendly atmosphere. Prices are fairly high so be warned. You can go down some steps in one of the pubs and get down to the riverside walk for some excellent views of the bridge and river. There is plenty of seating down there too.

T G — Google review

A nice bridge to walk across and see the River Avon. A number of cafes to sit in and enjoy cream tea or lunch. You can also enjoy a relaxing boat ride along the river. A pleasant experience.

Rubeena P — Google review

Stunning scenes and a great history behind of the Grade I listed building.We visited Stonehenge, then Pulteney Bridge in Bath and Clifton Suspension Bridge in Bristol in one go (a bit hurry as we booked a night in Bristol and British summer time as well).Most of the places in Bath are quite close to train station, and it is easy to drive there but not park. Even though there are some car parks around but you need to be early or have some luck as car park spaces were quite limited.We definitely deserved a luxury English afternoon tea and you maybe attracted by some well-known landmarks nearby.

Wendell L — Google review

One of the few remaining bridges in Europe with buildings on top. Fantastic area to walk around. You can also go down to the small park. Lovely place.

Erwin Z — Google review

An absolute must see if you come to Bath - we were lucky enough to capture this hot air balloon flying over at the right time. I could look at the river below for hours, it's amazing. There's a cute range of shops on board the bridge, from fancy cake shops to antique maps and stamps.

Scott R — Google review

A lovely place to sit and relax or have lunch. There are some cafe’s in the street above before you down the steps, also a Thai take away and a bar.You can either sit on one of the benches or go for a stroll along the river side.

Paul W — Google review

Enjoy the area and views, everything is placed perfectly were it should be to offer you a great scene.

Javier G — Google review

Really enjoy this beautiful old bridge with quaint stores above the river Avon. Picturesque city with many activities. Easy to take a train to/ from London.

D Z — Google review

Beautiful area and certainly a pretty spot to check out if you’re in Bath. It’s not an activity in that you’re going to stay for a long time or do anything, but it has architectural significance and looks beautiful from the side overlooking the river. There are some nice cafes and shops on the bridge itself and you also get a grand view of Great Pulteney street and Holborn Museum.

Mark F — Google review

Nice experience, the best way is walking triught the River, by boat could be quite boring. But is a good experience anyway, is not super expensive, only 12 pounds for adult and 6 for children and they have many different options of hot and cold drinks available for an affordable price either.

Winicius G — Google review

4.6

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4.5

(4049)40 Best Stops Between Sidmouth and Swansea (66)

Bridge St, Bath, BA2 4AT, United Kingdom

10

Wells Cathedral

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Cathedral

Sights & Landmarks

The cathedral of Wells is one of the most famous in England, and was built over a period of 300 years between 1176 and 1508. It features richly carved Gothic Revival architecture, with a distinctive west front that measures 46 metres across. The cathedrals beguiling west facade is home to more than 300 finely sculpted figures, making it an iconic landmark in the city.

Fabulous visit to Wells Cathedral and enjoyed the High Places tour (not too many stone spiral steps, I managed well). The building is beautiful and it's almost unbelievable it was built so long ago with just simple hand tools- well done to the carpenters and stone masons of 1175!

Jilly D — Google review

My husband and I visited twice and still didn't see everything. We've seen several cathedrals but this one is absolutely stunning. The building is beautiful with detailed architecture. Visitors can join one of the tours or wander at your leisure. There is a lot of history to the cathedral, and the tour guides each provide additional information about different features such as the carvings, stained glass windows and the oldest working clock (with a face) in the world.Being such an old building, there are some spaces that do not have disabled access. However, where it is possible, there are ramps, automatic doors, and wide level areas.It is £14 per adult or £8 for reduced hours. Free entry for under 18s, local residents, and those only attending services. There is also a joint ticket (£20) that includes entry to the Bishop's Palace. Tickets are valid for a year.It is hard to put into words just how beautiful this building is. It's definitely worth a visit.

Rebecca H — Google review

Brilliant and quite awe inspiring cathedral. Parts were closed due to a private wedding however the areas we had access to were great. It’s amazing to see the level of maintenance that has been involved in keeping the cathedral in tip top condition.One interesting (and quite incredible fact) was daily the running costs. You can find this as you reach the shop on exit.Very much recommended, especially if you then also head into the town centre and bishop’s palace for more history and amazing gardens.

Darren V — Google review

Beautiful place to visit. Has a fabulous old street to walk up and back down, which at first I thought was a Harry Potter set called ‘Vicars Close’, absolutely stunning and well worth a visit.The Cathedral was so peaceful and felt homely, there’s beautiful architecture all round and stunning statues and many features within, definitely lots to see. There is a tour of the cathedral or you can mosey round yourself and take it all in.I definitely recommend going as you won’t be disappointed.

Sally M — Google review

Beautiful and uplifting Evensong. The clergy were very hospitable, doing a splendid job of welcoming, explaining the service, explaining the feast day beingobserved. The choir from Virginia sang beautifully to the glory of God.

Matt R — Google review

Absolutely stunning! We arrived just before the 1st tour and were greeted at the ticket desk by a lovely gentleman called Michael, who immediately started sharing information about the cathedral he knew I'd be interested in. Took the 1 hour tour which was extremely interesting and informative. An absolutely amazing building. One of the most beautiful cathedrals I've ever seen! Well worth the admission fee, especially if you buy the joint ticket for the bishop's palace and make a day of it.

David P — Google review

At £14 entry fee , it had to be good and it didn't dissapoint . Architecturally stunning , this gothic cathedral is particularly renowned for its wonderful crossing arches that support the tower. This style can be seen in the ruins of Glastonbury abbey and is particularly striking. Everywhere you look on this cathedral there are architectural gems and flourishes, great tombs and windows. There's also a chained library upstairs and the fan vaulting in the chapter house is superb, whereas the light through the windows in the lady chapel seems to be almost celestial. If you are in the area , do go , you won't be dissapointed.

Kevin M — Google review

I really enjoyed visiting Wells Cathedral. Lots to see and do, along with 14 acres of Cathedral grounds and moat. Wonderful and interesting architecture in the Cathedral. The Cathedral is located just off the market Square with a number of cafe's restaurants, shops and beautiful buildings and architecture. Well worth a visit.

Sarah M — Google review

Would have been more stars if it weren’t for the sarcastic and quote obnoxious comment from one of the front desk staff when we arrived. Made a complaint to the Cathedral but not real response as yet. Not a great first impression at all!Cathedral itself is amazing, quiet and serene (even with the organ testing!)

Vikki W — Google review

I recommend visiting. The cathedral is a work of art. I spent a long time looking at the architecture of the cathedral both inside and outside. The library carries the energy of those times, a room with a piece of Ukraine, where the icon of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker stands. The cathedral is beautiful. Impressive. We paid £40 for entry for 2 adults, children under 18 were free. You had to pay extra at the entrance for children to the palace and adjacent gardens, if I'm not mistaken it was £6. The palace is worth attention, but I honestly expected better gardens. Overall, we had a great day and I definitely recommend visiting.

Viktoriia I — Google review

Wheelchair accessible - apart from the chapter house. Beautiful cathedral. Quite a few disabled parking bays on Cathedral Green. Accessible loos and lift to the cafe. Free ticket for an essential companion. Nearby Vicar's Close is beautiful if your chair can cope with cobble stones.

Victoria C — Google review

The visit was incredibly interesting. Don’t be put off by the price, as the audioguides are extremely well done. Additionally, we were fortunate to visit while art galleries were being displayed in the cathedral. This blend of art and history made the experience even more enriching. The volunteers present are lovely and very attentive to visitors. I highly recommend this visit.

Olivier D — Google review

One the largest cathedrals in the UK with many unique elements. Paid entry, but worth a visit. The cathedral has a cafe, shop and toilet facilties. Some parts can be uneven, as you'd expect.

Tom ( — Google review

A gorgeous place! Had no idea about the 2nd oldest clock! Took us a while to work out how to get out lol as it said you could get out in towards the entrance then the sign said go back into the cathedral itself might of been an accident in the sign placing that day though! Staff in the actual cathedral were lovely and even though we didn’t do the guided tour the gentleman happily answered a couple of our questions

Emilia H — Google review

Absolutely stunning from the outside. Unfortunately we had our dog with us so were unable to go in. But what a site to see from the outside. Wells is a beautiful little City. Would definitely go back without the dog to explore the insideEditing as we weren't aware that Dogs are allowed in. Anyway we went back for the day to explore and found the signs inside that it's dog friendly. Glad we went back. Absolutely beautiful. And the chained library where parts of Harry Potter were filmed.

Sophie P — Google review

Impressive cathedral, one of the best I've ever visited. Every corner inside and outside has details and welcomes you to keep discovering. A piece of art.

Javier G — Google review

This cathedral is beautiful and massive, in such a lovely area. So much to see, including an ancient library including christian books/history books all the way from the 1600s. The cathedral houses the second oldest clock in the world, and the oldest working of its kind. It strikes every quarter of an hour. The atmosphere of the cathedral is lovely and quite homely. Private chapel areas open to the public, as well as the charter house. Make sure to check the website for services occurring as some parts of the building may not be accessible eg during worship times. Only one small complaint, we arrived thinking that it would be free to visit as it has been in the past but were not made aware that there is a £8 per person fee, rising to £14 in mid april. A bit of a shock as it did not state on the website nor on google maps. They say those are the recommended prices but the staff seem to urge you into having to pay, not sure if the price we paid was voluntary or required. However overall we had a lovely visit. Includes toilets and a gift shop. May not be suitable for very young children.

Daisy Y — Google review

Absolutely stunning cathedral amazing architecture and stained glass. The clock striking 12 is well worth seeing. I found the volunteers extremely nice and knowledgeable. The cathedral is massive and has a lovely garden. Entry was by donations when we visited but there will be a set fee at the end of the month and I can totally understand why. There is a cafe (but we didn't use it ) and nice clean toilets. A very enjoyable day

Steve G — Google review

Cathedral with a amazing collection of objects, architecture and art. Especially loved the old clock, the medieval stained glass and the wonky stairs. Volunteers very helpful and friendly. Very cool that dogs are allowed in!

Rebecca T — Google review

We bought a combined ticket for the Bishop Palace and the cathedral, which was £20 saving £11.50. This is only valid for the day of purchase. The cathedral is beautiful and well worth a visit. The Palace grounds are really nice, but the interior of the Palace was not as good as I thought it would be.

Julie P — Google review

4.8

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5.0

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Cathedral Grn, Wells, BA5 2UE, United Kingdom

+44 1749 674483

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11

Wookey Hole Caves

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Water & Amusement Parks

Theme Parks

The Wookey Hole Caves are a series of limestone caverns located in the village of Wookey Hole in Somerset, England. The caves are popular with tourists for their aesthetic value and because they offer interesting scientific features.

Fantastic day out. The caves are amazing and they decorated them beautifully for Christmas. Just mind your head in some places. The paper making experience was fantastic as well as the 4 D show. The food was welcome on the very cold day we went and reasonably priced.

Jamie S — Google review

Went with my 9 and 13 year old and mother in law. We all had the best time. Far exceeded our expectations. Started off with the tour around the caves. There was a small wait for the cave tour but I was glad as they didn't have too many people on each tour. After the caves you could then go to the 4D cinema, Museum, circus and mini golf. Food was also reasonably priced. Thoroughly recommend for a day out.

Laura S — Google review

We spent our Saturday here with my husband and we had an amazing time. At our surprise it was decorated for Halloween which made us happy. We started the visit with a tour of the caves with a guide. She was very nice and funny. The tour was amazing and the caves impressive. I was a bit scared that it would be different to walk around but it was quite easy. There wasn’t much steps! Then we visited the park with the dinosaurs, the 4D theatre, the show and the Victorian arcade. It’s a very nice place and very well themed too. We had a great time! We brought a picnic with us and there was few area with picnic tables. Unfortunately we didn’t have the opportunity to try the gold which was included in the tickets. There was to many people!

Melanie M — Google review

What an amazing place to visit I have not been here for over 20 years , so it was like a new experience for me .There is so much to see and do here . The caves are amazing, and it was lovely to have a real guide, not just an audio tour that most places offer these days . The guide was very informative and answered all the questions people asked him . The dinosaur collection was a real hit with children and adults , who were all posing for photos, and the giant gorilla was fascinating . The displays and the museum were very interesting . The paper mill was a nice distraction, and the 4d cinema was amazing. The circus was fantastic, the magic and acrobatics were very entertaining. Plus the penny arcade the hall of mirrors everything was brilliant plus the mill cafe served a nice variety of food at reasonable prices . We spent approximately 5 hours there I would highly recommend going early and having a fun filled day .

Ann P — Google review

Incredible time at Wookey Hole caves. My partner and I took her kids there over the Easter holidays and I think it's safe to say, we were all blown away. The guide was brilliant, the caves were spectacular, the golf was very fun, the 4D cinema was amazing, the circus was incredible and everything else was fantastic. The two hour trip we took was well worth it!!

David S — Google review

We went as 4 adults and it is definitely worth doing as it’s fascinating! There are things after the caves but it’s aimed more towards kids which makes it a bit short for the adults! Would have liked a little more time just to have a look in each chamber but understand that just might not be possible! I think our tour guides name was Emma (short brown hair and was training someone new) she’s was 10/10 so funny and informative

Emilia H — Google review

Brilliant day out. Used our Clubcard points which was well worth it. Even if we paid the price is worth the admission.Caves are beautiful and the tour guide was was great answering plenty of questions and was really enthusiastic throughout.Mini golf was fun, but wish it was 18 holes.Penny arcade and Mirror Maze are a good distraction for the little ones and provided simple entertainment.Wild West show was amazing. The performers did fantastic even with a couple of minor mistakes, but was captivated throughout. Even my son (who thought the idea of going to a circus show was cringe) admitted that it was 'alright' after we left which is high praise from him.Paper making talk was informative and my partner enjoyed making a piece of paper.The only negative was the 4D Cinema. The first room had a nice bit of story involving the Witch of Wookey, but the show itself was an animated short about a couple of mice at a theme park and didn't fit the theme of Wookey Hole at all. It came across as very out of place, especially with the preview including the Witch.Overall a great day out and highly recommended. Now trying to convince my son he wants to try Wild Wookey when he is a bit older.

Tom F — Google review

Love Wookey Hole Caves. Was amazed since we've last been they've opened up another chamber. We did the 4D experience which was fun. The old one penny games are good fun. Great experience for all. Watch out for the Witch!

Sophie P — Google review

Nice experience touring the caves. Takes around 35 minutes going in groups with the tour guide who is very knowledgeable. If you are 14+ you can go "Wild Wookey" for an additional charge & do the abseiling & other activities on offer. Caves aren't really suitable for disabled or elderly folk as the ground is slippery, wet and uneven. Lots of bending down as well getting into different caves. We really enjoyed our visit. There is also mini golf, circus, 4d cinema & prehistoric dinosaurs in the park plus an indoor play area where food & drink can be purchased at reasonable prices.

Brian C — Google review

We had a great time with the family in the caves.Our parents were a bit tired with the many steps, but also loved everything.The guide Pip was very entertaining and funny. We loved the stories and the interaction with the group.We'll definitely recommend to our friends.

Joao V — Google review

Someone told me not to expect much. I disagree; I loved this place. Our guide was funny and informative and the caves were great. I was dreading alot of cheesy stuff (women dressed as stereotypical witches, etc), but the caves themselves were interesting without being overdeveloped. It is a natural environment, so the ground is uneven in places and you have to crouch in some parts. Once you come out of the caves, yes, there is a dinosaur park, 4D cinema, cave diving exhibition and paper- making museum, but they need to appeal to a wide range of audiences. In the final part with the gift shop, there is a soft play, cafe, seaside amusement arcade machines (most a bit dark for children) and a really good mirror maze that melted my brain! For cheese connoisseurs, in the actual caves they age cheddar (you get to see this, there's even a web cam you can watch from home!); you can buy some in the gift shop. Well worth a visit!

Jenny B — Google review

We had a fantastic time here. The kids want to come again. The caves were excellent, the tour guide was really good. The 4D cinema is well worth a look, adventure golf was fun and the circus performed by local kids was brilliant. The penny arcade and hall of mirrors was also a delightful extra treat. Well worth a visit.

Steve B — Google review

Really enjoyed our visit here this week.Planned so it was just before the school holidays so not too busy.As a couple, a lot of the attractions are aimed at children so not for us but looked great for kids all the same.We came for the cave tour and paper mill and were not disappointed.Our small tour group was taken round by Craig - what a fantastic chap he is; so knowledgeable and passionate about the place, he really made the trip worthwhile.The caves themselves are awesome - fascinating how they have been explored and made suitable for tourism over the years.The paper mill/museum was also fascinating and the vintage amusement arcade with the old penny slots really took me back. A great place to visit.

Terry B — Google review

A magical day and worth every penny! So much to do we spent a whole day there and amazed at how much was included in the ticket ... stunning caves with a fantastic tour guide, dinosaurs, 4d cinema, museum, circus, penny arcades, mirror maze and crazy golf. The only thing we paid extra for was £2 for panning for gold and some old pennies in the arcades. There's also soft play for younger ones. No demos today in the paper mill which was a shame, but the Easter egg hunt was very good and every child got a Cadburys Easter egg as a prize. The restaurant was excellent value for money with a huge choice of hot and cold food, and all the staff throughout were so friendly. Special mention to the wizard greeting everyone at the ticket booth, he was hilarious! The circus was a group of youngsters who attend a circus school and they were incredible. Would highly recommend for all ages and will definitely return.

Sue B — Google review

An interesting place in many respects. First, the cave is amazing—wet, claustrophobic at times, and beautiful. It has a unique charm and a very interesting history, from prehistoric times through the early modern period, the Roman era, and medieval witchcraft superstitions to the present day. The guides are top-notch. Second, it's located close to Wells, Glastonbury, and Street. Third, after exiting the cave, you find yourself in a small area with attractions for children like dinosaur exhibits. You can then head to a 4D cinema, a divers' museum (the cave is long, and full exploration takes 10 hours), a paper museum, and a soft play area. Fourth, there’s a theater where children are involved in the performances, which is a great feature and shows local community involvement. Fifth, there's mini-golf at the very end.Now, the downsides: £85 for a family of four is extortionate, especially considering the cave tour lasts only 40 minutes. There are very few dinosaurs. The 4D cinema is the same as in any other place in the UK. Museums are the last thing kids are interested in, and adults will die of boredom—it's a PAPER museum!!! The soft play area is not something you want to pay £85 for. As for the theater, this might be controversial, but if the children are practicing three times a week, they should be doing more than twirling hula hoops, juggling three balls, or hanging from ropes. In any respectable mini circus across Europe (let alone in Asia), if kids decide to perform circus tricks, by the age of 10, 11, or 12, they are doing it at a high level. Here, it's just cute entertainment, nothing more. Mini-golf with its nine holes should be a pleasant end to the day, but it’s not. The simple reason is the lack of an organized system for letting people in. You stand in line and wait for those ahead of you to finish—introduce time limits and let families in every 10 minutes, and problem solved. For now, it’s more of a hassle than a pleasure.In summary, it’s a one-time visit because I guarantee your kids will be slightly disappointed when they realize that the brochures are wildly different from reality.

Robert M — Google review

We had a fantastic visit here.There's so much to do. The caves are wonderful but be warned if you don't like heights there are catwalk areas over caves with long drops.The kids will love the valley and the penny arcade and mirror maze is good for all the family.If you've got kids this can easily take up the whole day, with the three of us adults we took about 3 hours to do all of the adult suitable activities.All in all this was well worth the entry fee.

Chris S — Google review

Absolutely a full day out. So much to do. Visit to caves, walk through the dinosaur land, soft play, circus performance, good panning and adventure golf. Lovely cafe in site too and refreshments areas.

Helen B — Google review

Came here as part of the wookey hole hotel package. The place itself was great with a fantastic dinosaur park and play area. The only reason for 4 stars is my kids were under 10 and while the tour guide did an excellent job, standing in 1 place for so long listening to them talking had the kids tugging all the time to leave. Maybe an idea to have digital signage or posters of the history with a tour guide as an option.Overall, with the play area and 4d show. Kids had a blast.

The M — Google review

I haven't been here since I came on a school trip (46years). I'm fascinated by rock formation and folklore. A bit more commercial now but still fascinating and interesting. Worth a visit

Sally J — Google review

We visited this place and I didn't expect how beautiful it is there! Nice attractions for children, but the cave... The guide was very friendly. The views, it is impossible to describe them. I highly recommend visiting this place. Ask in advance at the ticket window what time is the last entrance to the cave.

3011paulinka — Google review

4.3

(8125)40 Best Stops Between Sidmouth and Swansea (85)

3.5

(5924)40 Best Stops Between Sidmouth and Swansea (86)

The Mill, High St, Wookey Hole, Wells BA5 1BA, United Kingdom

+44 1749 672243

12

Hestercombe House & Gardens

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Garden

Nature & Parks

The gardens at Hestercombe House & Gardens are a stunning mix of Victorian, Georgian and Edwardian features. The garden is home to some beautiful buildings by notable landscape designers Gertrude Jekyll and Sir Edward Lutyens, as well as fascinating planting and views.

Review- Garden only: There are two parts to Hestercombe, a woodland walk to the North and the formal gardens attached to the house. The woodland walk follows the stream and the 4 lakes and is just over a mile round trip. There is plenty to see, a waterfall and numerous temples and monuments etc. I noticed on the way around that with the ducks and swans children seemed to really enjoy this walk.Attached to the house there are Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian gardens. From the South side you look down onto the main garden which has a great sense of scale. This garden is flanked by two water gardens and a beautiful pergola at the bottom. The Dutch garden is an absolute gem, super soft cool colours. All staff and gardeners are wonderfully polite and welcoming, the service at the Stables restaurant is impeccable and they serve the best lamb burger I have ever tasted.Put Hestercombe on your list of visits, these gardens really are lovely, easily five stars.

Alan K — Google review

If you love visiting gardens then this is well worth a trip. Beautifully designed with lovely trails to follow (Good map provided). The main gardens are just amazing too with a great variety of plants.The house has a shop and also a second hand book shop.By the entrance is a nice cafe, which serves the usual teas, coffees, cakes & snacks. Overall a great day out and definitely will be visiting again.

Andy O — Google review

I attended a wedding there, it is a lovely venue with beautiful grounds.Catering was excellent.We had a very enjoyable day.The Victorian gardens are lovely.

HELEN T — Google review

Great day out for a long ramble. Lots of beautiful places to stop and picnic, ramble about and explore.Witchy huts, secluded woods, old barrack buildings and temple style buildings. Several large ponds and a waterfall, ponds with lots of ducks and a resident swan too. (You can get bags of duck/fish food from reception)Some of the pathways are very steep and unsuitable for people with limited walking function, but these paths are clearly marked. Plenty of meadows and winding pathways to explore for the dogs, and a small play area at the start of Hestercombe. (There were dog water bowls placed about the grounds too)There are toilets at the start, the restaurant area, and the building with the old farm machinery by the duck ponds and in the main house. There's a good selection of hot foods and cakes from the restaurant with plenty of indoor and outdoor seating. Lots of benches are scattered throughout the grounds for regular rest stops. The more formal gardens are beautiful with their flower beds and walkways, overall a very enjoyable day out.

Serena — Google review

It was wet and windy. Still we had a lovely time. Afternoon tea was a bit cake heavy, scones we're really nice. Would have preferred a bit more savory but that's personal choice. We also went for a walk. Got the last 16 minutes in the bee education centre which was fun. Even for us adults. Event in the wet and the rain it was a lovely walk. Even fed the ducks up close and personal

Clare H — Google review

Very beautiful gardens. Lots of colour and well laid out. Wonderful views across the countryside too. Delicious breakfast seated in a covered, outside area, with a lovely fountain in the centre ⛲ Well worth a visit.

Donna M — Google review

One of the best Christmas lights and sounds spectacular I have seen so far. Pre-booked tickets were affordable. A nice effortless walk around and the mild weather made it to be so special for us.

T S — Google review

Beautiful walled gardens of roses and various flowers. The aroma of roses is delicious as you go through each garden area. Well cared for by the staff.The cafe has a variety of cakes to have with tea/coffee sit in or outside. Relax on a deckchair and enjoy the sunshine.

Gail S — Google review

Lovely return visit for the Christmas Market and stroll around the grounds. Well marked out paths around the lake and places to explore with great views. Did the evening light show last year, well worth a visit this year.

Donna S — Google review

Beautiful grounds and gardens. Maintained to a high standard. Plants available to purchase and a lovely cafe and restaurant too, serving healthy, clean, meals and drinks. Good access for disabilities too and dogs (on a lead) are welcome. Highly reccomended. Easy location to access.

Ashley 7 — Google review

Fantastic place to visit for a lovely walk around the beautiful gardens and through the trees and across waters, with opportunities for spectacular views for miles. Gift shops had a range of quality handmade items, whilst the art gallery had unique works on display in large historic building with original decor. I also found the watermill really fascinating, being able to see the old machinery on display. The cafeteria offered a very delicious afternoon tea for us, definitely worth the money. Phoned and booked in advance. All staff on site were very welcoming and friendly. Will probably return especially for the illuminate light show at night which I’ve heard good things about. Overall definitely recommended and offers good value for money for a good few hours visiting.

Luke — Google review

A really grand day out - interesting location with fantastic formal gardens and wider grounds that provide opportunities for x decent walk. The cafe was good value. Even better if - i think more could have been made of the great contribution made by the Fire Brigade made in the development of the gardens - the house gave opportunity for that - maybe a future venue for a fire brigade museum in the future. Oh and the plant centre was really well priced with great stock. We certainly will return.

Roland S — Google review

Lovely formal gardens with different garden levels and different planting. Nice woodland walk around the estate up to the Georgian landscape garden lots of different buildings to see there are some steep slopes up there.There is a lovely cafe back by reception to have something to eat, the scones were delicious but the cream tea with 2 scones come with tea for 1 not 2 people

Rose H — Google review

We went to Hestercombe today using our Gardeners world 2 for 1 card. Entry for adults is £16.90 with gift aid or £15.30 without. There are plenty of loos dotted around with disabled facilities. There is a "Tramper mobility scooter" available if required but you must pre-book by email in advance. We went off on the many woodland paths and walked around the whole 50 acre site. Accessible paths are marked on the available map. We saw numerous buildings en route, many with fine viewpoints - Sibyl's temple, The witch house, etc. There is a cafe there but we brought our own lunch whilst sitting in the Rustic seat overlooking the Great cascade. There are numerous lakes, streams and cascades around the garden. In the lower part there is the Edwardian formal gardens a Victorian terrace and the house. That was a disappointment with nothing left inside as it had been used as Somerset fire brigades offices for decades previously. There are a few paintings in there plus the bookshop and gift shop.Overall we were a bit underwhelmed as we expected much more colour and plants in the formal gardens. There are currently Delphiniums, Irises, Pansies in flower. Maybe if we returned in a couple of weeks then the Roses and Peonies will be in bloom. Even in the woodlands there was not much wild flowers and Rhododendrons and Azaleas were only few in number. Dogs on leads are allowed and there is a picnic area. There is also a nice plant sales area.

Michael K — Google review

Haven't visited for some years and was rather disappointed with this visit. There is very little to see in the house and most rooms are mainly empty. The formal gardens are lovely, certainly worth a look, but are rather lacking in 'colour' and the Orangery was empty. The upper gardens/walks/ponds are nice for a stroll but are overgrown in places and seem to have been left to their own devices. The £16 entrance fee does seem rather excessive.

Chris K — Google review

Victorian garden is reasonably well maintained with some nice flowers, but the overall grounds are a little disappointing and overrun with weeds. Occasional ornaments to see on the walk but not worth the entrance price.Sadly the house has been stripped off all the original furniture having been used by the local fire brigade as a station house for many years and is in some need of restoration.Restaurant service is ok.

Doug W — Google review

We had a tasty lunch, and there was a beautiful metal tree sculpture in the restaurant courtyard. We then walked around the grounds. The woodland walk was lovely, with lakes, buildings, and many birds. House was interesting with an art exhibition and an excellent second-hand book shop.

Christine T — Google review

Fab day out with our 2 dogs. The gardens were beautiful and staff friendly and helpful. The plants in the shop were excellent.

Bridget P — Google review

Beautiful peaceful gardens and walks. Fantastic restaurant with very friendly and helpful staff. Well stocked secondhand book shop, gift shop and plant shop.

Lynne D — Google review

The gardens were amazing! So beautiful. It's a shame there was not any furniture in the house. But the 2nd hand bookshop was great.

Marie J — Google review

4.5

(2064)40 Best Stops Between Sidmouth and Swansea (91)

4.0

(1126)40 Best Stops Between Sidmouth and Swansea (92)

Hestercombe, Taunton, TA2 8LG, United Kingdom

+44 1823 413923

13

Exeter Cathedral

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Cathedral

Sights & Landmarks

This beautiful cathedral is over 900 years old and famous for its vaulted ceiling and astronomical clock. It has tours where you can see the best views of the city from the roof. The library contains many historical documents which is a must see for anyone visiting Exeter or staying in a cottage nearby.

Visited Exeter Cathedral first thing on a Saturday morning. The cathedral was almost empty and got to walk around on my own. Was haunting in its beauty and made for some really awe-inspiring moments. Although not the biggest cathedral, it is beautiful and really inspiring in its proportions. The carvings and images are really beautiful and delightful in their intensity. A lovely place to visit, you can sit and have a moment or a picnic on the cathedral green and it is a very short walk to get to the shops and into town. Accessibility is very good. The staff were all very kind and polite and even moved out of the way so that I could take some photographs. Spent over an hour in there and thoroughly enjoyed it. So peaceful and pleasant way to spend a Saturday morning.

James V — Google review

Stunning cathedral. The people inside were so friendly. One of the volunteers (I didn’t catch his name) was so eager to share some really interesting facts. He was so kind. The place is just stunning.

Erman J — Google review

As everywhere, the National Trust is responsible for the maintenance and care and, as everywhere, this has also been successful here. A beautiful and well-kept cathedral. Is currently under renovation, but you could see a lot. The outdoor area is also well-kept and invites you to stay here.

Sarina A — Google review

"I visited Exeter Cathedral today and took the rooftop tour. The tour guide was excellent, providing insightful information throughout, and I enjoyed some spectacular views from the north tower. Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed the tour and felt it offered great value for money. Highly recommended!"

Nicholas R — Google review

An absolute gem of a cathedral which has a very holistic and calming feeling inside. Excellent architecture which is awe inspiring when you consider the work and effort that went into it. It was great to be able to light a candle and spend quiet time in prayer and reflection. My visit was especially special as my great great grandfather's brother had the honour of having his funeral service held here in 1905.

Antony D — Google review

Stunning place of history, engineering, and beauty . Is under heavy restoration, but u can still visit. @7 £ admission fee.Car park next to the cathedral 2£/h.Toilet next to the cathedral FREE and very clean. U will need a code, which is posted at the cathedral exit.

Florin D — Google review

I did the roof tour, including getting to the top of one of the towers. It was interesting and spectacular, guides very knowledgeable and charismatic. No under 8s, no bags, as there are some difficult and narrow spiral staircases and the like

M J — Google review

This building is a piece of Art work. The large scales of the building and small intricate designs made in a time with no tool like we have are incredible. Exeter is so lucky to have this fabulous building. They have a great little gift shop and you do have to pay to get in but it’s soo worth it.

Joe B — Google review

This was the best architectural work I have ever seen in my entire life. The dates are amazing! The welcome and tours conducted by the staff was very enriching. At least I had a bit of the church history in England. I am sure I will go back again. This is a very rich heritage.

Nyakambah N — Google review

Exeter Cathedral is definitely worth a visit if you are in Exeter, internally there were some areas closed where renovations are taking place but most of the cathedral is open.The roof and stained glass windows are impressive, well highlighted and restored.The entry cost was £14.95 adults with Children free, our visit was around an hour, such a peaceful place to visit.The coffee van is a great addition.

James F — Google review

A really fascinating and free visit.This is a massive cathedral with some truly ancient parts and sights to see and read about. For anyone into history, religious or not, this is a very interesting visit.It is a beautiful site and worth the time to walk around.

Paul W — Google review

Very detailed design from outside. We didn’t go in as running out of time. But I think there can be more information introducing the history on the square outside of the church to make it more visitor friendly

Catherine Y — Google review

At the moment during January, entry is free but of course they appreciate voluntary donations which you can do by card or cash. They do offer free guided tours or you can have an audio guide but that waffles on a bit. We were lucky to meet one of the guides with free time and he was interesting. The original part was built in Norman times (1114) and the rest was added 1270-1328.There are numerous memorials with a high proportion of Devon soldiers. Numerous historic items can be found with the original mechanics of the large clock above the gift shop on view. The organ pipes are enormous being over 10mtrs tall. Well worth a visit. For only the next couple of days there is a light show on in the evenings.

Michael K — Google review

Exeter Cathedral stands as a magnificent testament to centuries of history and architectural splendor. Its towering spires and intricate facade captivate visitors from afar, drawing them closer to explore its grandeur. As a tourist, viewing the cathedral from outside unveils a breathtaking sight, showcasing its impressive Gothic design and intricate stone carvings. Whether admiring its facade bathed in sunlight or illuminated against the evening sky, the cathedral's exterior exudes a sense of awe and wonder, making it a must-see attraction in Exeter.

Master J — Google review

What a stunning piece of history and Engineering to wander around and marvelette for an hour or two when you visit the town of Exeter. So much history and so much Beauty it really does have to be seen to be believed. Some nice local offerings in the shop and the volunteer staff for all friendly and Keen to help.

Lachlan B — Google review

What a magnificent and magical cathedral and while visiting we had the pleasure to listen to the heavenly voices of a choir group and the cathedral organ practicing in preparation for Easter Sunday.Definitely add this wonderful place to your itinerary if you are visiting the city of Exeter.

Zak T — Google review

Amazing architecture, beautiful design, and friendly staff who offered to explain about the magnificent designs. Loved it here.

Aria I — Google review

Great for the architectural buffs, the stone vaulted ceiling is amazing, how they achieved this back in their day, was incredible.

David B — Google review

This is equal to Ely Cathedral, amazing architecture and history, blessed to visit and worship in this cathedral, you can spend 1-2 hrs reading through the various writings on the walls, must visit when in Exeter

Alfie D — Google review

Great surroundings at this Cathedral, you can sit and have a coffee on a nice day on the grass lawns all around. Stunning inside the Cathedral itself, it has the longest, unbroken stone vaulted ceiling in the world! Gorgeous! 😮The organ also is awesome 👌 there is an astromical clock also! £7.50 entry fee and worth it. Little gift shop inside.

Lornna D — Google review

4.6

(5084)40 Best Stops Between Sidmouth and Swansea (99)

4.5

(3087)40 Best Stops Between Sidmouth and Swansea (100)

1 The Cloisters, Exeter, EX1 1HS, United Kingdom

+44 1392 255573

14

Clifton Suspension Bridge

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Bridge

Sights & Landmarks

Observation deck

The Clifton Suspension Bridge, a 414 meter long, Grade 1 listed structure across the Avon Gorge in Bristol, England, is one of the city's most iconic attractions. The bridge links Ashton Gate in North Somerset with Clifton Down and has stunning views on either side. It can be crossed by car, bike and foot with pathways on both sides.

Fabulous views, interesting historical facts and stories. Free visitors centre. £1.00 toll to cross the bridge. All upkeep of the bridge is paid for from the tolls. The gorge is also home to many specific plants. The Bristol White beam being found no where else on earth.

Sandra T — Google review

A Spectacular Sight in BristolI visited the Clifton Suspension Bridge recently, and it was truly breathtaking! The views from the bridge are absolutely stunning, offering a perfect panorama of the Avon Gorge. The bridge’s impressive design and historic charm make it a must-see landmark. Walking across it was an exhilarating experience, and the surrounding area is lovely for a leisurely stroll. If you’re in Bristol, don’t miss this iconic and picturesque spot!

Natraj M — Google review

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐I visited Clifton Suspension Bridge on a Saturday evening when the weather was pleasantly cloudy, and the experience was nothing short of spectacular. The bridge itself is an architectural marvel, stretching between two cliffs with a river flowing beneath, creating a breathtaking view. Standing there, you can’t help but feel a sense of awe at the sheer scale and design of the structure. Walking across the bridge is a thrilling experience—it really gives you chills!There is a sign indicating the bridge's condition, and it’s clear that strengthening works are underway, but that doesn’t take away from its beauty. There’s a £1 toll for vehicles, which seems reasonable for maintaining such an iconic piece of history. Nearby, there’s a lovely park and a scenic picnic spot that offers fantastic views of the bridge. Definitely worth a visit!

Vignesh G — Google review

I mean... Really scary to look downward 😅 But the toll (for vehicles to cross the bridge) is keeping it well maintained I guess ? Not sure.Historic and iconic place to visit in Bristol. There's nothing to review as such sorry 🥲

Vaishnudebi D — Google review

This place is very beautiful, there is a restaurant at the top of the hill where you have access to the cave and also to the dark room that films everything outside just using physics.

Michel V — Google review

Stunning historical bridge built by Brunel almost 200 years ago. Great views of the gorge. Free for pedestrians and £1 for cars.

Tim H — Google review

If you're walking up from the river level it's a tough climb with really steep roads but definitely the best way to approach the bridge. Breathtaking views of the bridge on. Your way up and breathtaking views over the city and beyond from the bridge. There's a visitors centre on the Somerset side of the bridge which has toilets. Climb a little further to the observatory for even more spectacular views.

David R — Google review

Well, it's definitely worth the visit to see a beautiful piece of history and engineering. We caught the train to Clifton Down train station as it looked like the closest one, and the Clifton suspension bridge was about a 15-minute easy walk from there. There aren't many places you can park up and all the roads close by were so busy with the traffic to go over the bridge. The walk over the bridge is free and it is a nice easy walk and the veiw is lovely. There is also a nice viewpoint to the side, so it's worth the walk-up there for a great photo.

Louise — Google review

Absoultely phenomenal piece of civil engineering. To think that the bridge is 160 years old is mindblowing. Visitor's centre was excellent, and presented a very thorough history of the bridge. The views from the bridge itself as well as the surrounds are breathtaking, but be sure you're not afraid of heights!

Simon K — Google review

Amazing bridge in terms of both view and engineering. It's a structure which is quite unique with connection by steel chain. Also it has the best view to look down to the valley and Bristol.

Jacky L — Google review

Beautiful view from the top of the hill. I also walked down the hill and walked across the bridge to the other side. If you drive through the bridge, it will cost you £1 each way. I would advise you to be there early due to limited parking spaces especially on Saturday and Sunday( street parking) at the bottom of the hill.

John L — Google review

Amazing bridge from the mid 1800's, designed by Brunel. There is a visitor center that explains the history and significance. You can walk across for free, or drive across for €1 fee, paid by card.

Beth — Google review

Brilliant attraction in Bristol. Great engineering story behind. Separate pedestrian passages on either side with great scenery for photographs.Very beautiful at night with lights. Needs to pay 1£ at the barriers to drive on the bridge ,can pay with contact cards. Off street pay and display parking available in near by roads with free parking for 30 minutes. Great place to bring kids,very safe on the bridge.

SDS — Google review

One of the eyeconic locations in Bristol. As well as the 19th century bridge is a symbol for Bristol county. It's really good to spend an evening at the observatory

Tyson S — Google review

There a visitor centre next to the bridge, definitely worth a visit if you interested in the history of the bridge. It's free as well.

Kashif N — Google review

A Birthday Bash to Remember at Bristol's Iconic Suspension Bridge! 🌉🎉We wanted something truly Bristolian for our daughter’s 12th birthday in May, our last one before our family moves abroad. What could be more memorable than celebrating with fantastic people at Bristol's most famous landmark: the Bristol Suspension Bridge? This architectural marvel, designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel and a city icon since 1835, was the perfect backdrop for a unique birthday party. 🎈🌟A huge thank you to Ethan, the Learning Officer, for orchestrating this exceptional event—our daughter’s first ever party in the vaults! We were thrilled with the exclusive behind-the-scenes access to Brunel’s hidden vaults, all thanks to the "Private Underground Vaults visit with the lantern like a Victorian" experience. 🔦🔍From the initial planning and flexible scheduling to the day of the event, everything went off without a hitch. Ethan and Pippa, another fantastic guide from the Learning Facilitators Team, were incredibly knowledgeable and engaging. They led us through the bridge’s rich history and the fascinating discovery of the chamber, making every detail of the event memorable—from the birthday pin at the start of the tour to the tiny piece of an incredible stalactite. 🏰💎The experience was magical. The girls and even some lucky parents declared it as “the most amazing time,” “the best party ever,” and “a wonderful day.” 🎉👑We’re incredibly grateful for this unforgettable birthday celebration and highly recommend it. Thank you, Ethan and Pippa, for making our daughter’s 12th birthday so special. This will be a cherished memory as we bid farewell to Bristol! 🌟🎂✨#CliftonSuspensionBridge #BirthdayBash #UniqueExperience #BrunelMagic #FamilyMemories #ThankYouEthanAndPippa

Ngoc-Ha R — Google review

Amazing example of Brunel's brilliant engineering career. Took trip over bridge for £1 toll. Observatory area was also quite good although camera obscure- less so.

Keith F — Google review

Impressive structure. Sadly, at time of writing only one side was open for walking across.Good Visitor Centre.

Alun E — Google review

The structure is having some much needed TLC, and there was only the one footpath open to pedestrians. Still in awe at the incredible engineering feat 👌. Free to cross for cyclists and pedestrians, and £1 for motorists and motorbikes.

Stephen L — Google review

The museum is wonderful… I talked to the staff several times before I visited and they were very helpful. The books, the history, the geography, the architecture - walking across the bridge. Everything was perfect - thank you all. I wrote about Brunel in one of my geography books and so this was extra special for me.

Joseph K — Google review

4.8

(17055)40 Best Stops Between Sidmouth and Swansea (108)

4.5

(7843)40 Best Stops Between Sidmouth and Swansea (109)

Bristol, BS3 2JX, United Kingdom

+44 117 974 4664

15

Bristol Zoo Gardens

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Zoo

Zoos & Aquariums

Garden

Bristol Zoo Gardens is a world-renowned zoo that houses a variety of exotic and endangered animals from across the globe. It's well-known for its fantastic gardens and unique animal experiences, which make it one of the UK's favorite zoos.

Big fan of penguins so this place is a favourite local spot. The Gorillas currently have young too! Most importantly the animals are well looked after and part of a conservation initiative.

Pelle S — Google review

A lovely, medium sized zoo. Animals in good condition and seem contented. Lots of information dotted around for learning opportunities. Super helpful staff - all so cheerful and considerate! Food outlets are on the expensive side but you could just as easily take a picnic as there are outdoor and indoor seating areas.Seeing the eggs in the reptile house was a winner with my son after he had watched some YouTube videos about hatcheries. Daughter was completely engaged with the underwater sea lion viewing that had loads of space. Good disabled access throughout. Very wheelchair friendly. Staff were extremely understanding of my son's additional needs and catered for him really well. Good day out for old and young. We spent a total of 4 hours there. Arrive early because 11am onwards may be difficult for parking at peak times.

Hollie B — Google review

Had a brilliant time, much bigger than we expected, really well laid out design. Animals were brilliant to see, all looked in great condition with immaculate enclosures. Loads of info about each species too. Cafe was nice, but a little pricey. Apart from that, highly recommended x

Alison R — Google review

We love Bristol Zoo, our son had a great day. We went early on a week day so it was nice and quiet. The staff & keepers are really friendly and told us fun facts about the animals when we saw them. I'm sad it's closing later this year so would recommend a visit before this happens.

Melissa S — Google review

Great selection of animals..very enjoyable experience. All the animals look happy and relaxed so I'm certain they're treated well. Great time to see the animals in their daily routine. I understand people's reservations on animals on captivity but a lot of the animals here are in danger of extinction so I'm glad to see their breeding program to help restore the population. Overall a wonderful experience

Tom R — Google review

A very Small but quirky zoo, if you're a zoo lover it's worth a visit. Really enjoyed the Tree Kangeroos and Bats. The staff were friendly and welcoming and the gift shop prices were reasonable for a zoo. You can see it's age in places but I feel it really adds to its charm.

Jade H — Google review

The zoo itself was awesome, the exhibits were diverse and especially the aquarium and reptile house were really well scaped! Saw a lot of animals I haven't seen before and caught some great animal behaviours. Sad to see it closing but looking forward to my first visit to Wild Place later this year! Deducted one star for it taking 30 minutes to park, but that won't be a problem when they move out of the city 💜

Sarah M — Google review

Many animals absent or not in viewing areas when visiting, which I guess can’t be helped to a certain degree. No comms regarding enclosure timings / closures info regarding feeding times / talks on a sandwich board at entry only.Took over an hour to find a parking space after finding out when getting to the zoo the car park was full and the entrance barred. The limited on street parking around the zoo all has a 3 hr max stay which isn’t helpful. On trying to ring the zoo to find out if we are still allowed to attend outside of our half hour slot, nobody was answering the phones so wasn’t sure either way.Heading towards the not well advertised overflow car park which was managed by luck it wasn’t apparent if it was full or not but there appeared to be no entrance. That is to say save for an area where 2 individuals in hi-vis sat away from the road, one rolling a joint the other playing on their phone.Eventually finding a spot to park on street that wasn’t limited to a 3hr window, on walking past the zoo car park it became evident there wasn’t any active management of the car parks as despite still being closed there were numerous empty spaces available.The penguins were a highlight though these days there are few and trying to see them at feeding time is awkward due to the crowd. The best for me was the seal feeding and talk as despite the crowd I was able to see due to the animals being clearly much larger than penguins. The fruit bats able to walk around overhead was also an enjoyable experience.Witnessed and area of concern when I was exiting through the gift shop, where an employee was weaving a stack of boxes through the busy crowds above her head height balanced on a wheelchair of all things?! I doubt that was on the risk assessment.

Rich W — Google review

Took my 2 yr old grandson yesterday, the first time for him. Car park was full but was lucky enough to find a space to park in the street around the corner. All the animals were so lovely and well cared for. The staff around the park, all very friendly and helpful. Didn't get to see any penguins, otters or gorilla. The aquarium section was excellent, the fish are huge, totally amazed us. Nice little play park for the children. A lovely day out. Gift shop very expensive tho.

Linda P — Google review

Follow the Bristol Zoo sign with an Elephant. When you arrive, there's no Elephant! Overall a great attraction, especially for youngsters. Plenty to see and a lovely walk throughout too. I only dropped a star as at least 5 attractions were empty or undergoing maintainance. This has been the case on previous visits too. The restaurant inside is well spaced, clean and tidy, good service from the staff too. My only reservation was the high prices (as to be expected at the type of attractions). The array of wildlife is good, I particularly recommended trying to coordinate with certain feeding times for a more enhanced visit. After lunch, we tried 4 vending machines for ice-cream, all were out of order. This was a slight disappointment to my daughter (not my pocket!). Overall a good day out. Advisable to book your tickets online to avoid disappointment. I would certainly recommend this attraction. Less than an hour journey from Cardiff.

Mark S — Google review

Amazing zoo! The exhibits were great and the animals were easy to see. There was a lot of things to do with kids. We spent about 4 hours here with our 3 kids and could have spent more time. We brought our buggy and it was easy to get around everywhere.

Makena H — Google review

Lots to see and great for children, especially if not wanting/expecting to see large animals as don't have rhino's, elephants, giraffes, tigers etc. The lions and gorillas are the largest they have so manage small children's expectations! They have a fantastic reptile house, butterfly garden and lots more.

Jessica T — Google review

Can't wait for the Zoo to move to a larger location (at Wildplace Project).It's an amazing zoo, theres lots to see and the animals seem happy & well looked after.It can be expensive for larger families, but the annual membership is a good investment if you are planning to go 5 or more times in a year.

Jim A — Google review

Whilst social distancing restrictions were still in place at the time of visiting it was still well worth it. Some indoor exhibits are closed but there is still so much to see. Some enclosed areas required masks to be worn if you are not exempt. There were also markings on the ground to help social distance while queuing, though larger families tended to ignore this.There are large grass areas to sit and have picnics. Almost all of the food places were closed, the only place opened had hot and cold drinks, ice cream and some food. But was quite expensive. There are plenty of vending machines around the zoo and bins!Out of the many animals to still see our favourite was the seals. We spent quite some time watching them swim around.There is a nice gift shop at the end, items are quite expensive. But you'll probably still buy something regardless!

Lloyd ( — Google review

A fantastic day out for the family. A wide variety of wildlife from flamingos to lions. All the obvious attractions you’d expect. The restaurant was spacious and the good was good. Plenty of baby changing facilities. Parking was easy and in close proximity to the Zoo. At £4 unlimited the parking was a very reasonable price. I would highly recommended this attraction for a fun day out. My only negative was that pushchair access was not easy st times and wheel chair users may struggle as none of the doors were extra wide or powered. Other than that a brilliant day out. We will be back again soon

Matt B — Google review

Highly recommended. My kids loved it. So much to watch. Restaurant facilities available onside. Few from many to watch as follows: Penguins, lion, gorillas, snakes, butterfly is must watch as it involves kids to spot rare blue morphos, flamingos, monkeys and .unhealthy much more. The only thing I was disappointed was parking charges which wasn't included in tickets fee and end up paying £5 for whole day.

Andy S — Google review

Very beautiful place to visit for kids and adults. We spent 3hour walking around, but if you have time you can stay all day in there. There are several feeding times, meanwhile you can enjoy interesting stories about animals as well as look how they eat. If you cycle to the Bristol zoo, you can get 33% discount for your entrance ticket.

Kristina — Google review

4.4

(9922)40 Best Stops Between Sidmouth and Swansea (111)

4.0

(3469)40 Best Stops Between Sidmouth and Swansea (112)

College Rd, Clifton, Bristol BS8 3HA, United Kingdom

+44 117 428 5300

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16

Knightshayes Court

40 Best Stops Between Sidmouth and Swansea (120)40 Best Stops Between Sidmouth and Swansea (121)

40 Best Stops Between Sidmouth and Swansea (122)40 Best Stops Between Sidmouth and Swansea (123)

Mentioned on

8 lists

Building

Sights & Landmarks

Historic Sites

Knightshayes Court is a Victorian mansion located in Bolham, one mile east of Tiverton. This impressive country house was designed by the highly eccentric architect William Burges for John Heathcoat Mallory, an MP from Tiverton, in 1869. The building features an array of stone curlicues, ornate mantles and carved figurines reflective of Burges' obsession with the Middle Ages, as well as lavish Victorian decoration.

4.5

(1087)40 Best Stops Between Sidmouth and Swansea (124)

Tiverton, EX16 7RG, UK

17

The Grand Pier

Mentioned on

2 lists

Amusement park

Water & Amusement Parks

Piers & Boardwalks

Theme Parks

The Grand Pier in Weston-super-Mare is a pier with an amusement park on it. The amusement park features rides, arcade machines, candy floss, ice cream and a tearoom. It has been rebuilt after being destroyed by fire multiple times.

Really impressed with the Grand Pier.£1 each to walk along the pier, younger kids are free.We didnt use the main attractions as we were there later on a Sunday afternoon but had we been there all day, the wristbands would be well worth a purchase. They also offer free carers if needed.At the end of the pier is the main attraction which includes a huge arcade. It was really wonderful to be in we spent a few hours playing everything from 2p machines to ball drops and 4 player shooting games.There are plenty of staff around to help too which is really fab.The arcade offers cash and card payments as well as physical and digital tickets to win prizes from a well set up shop on the top floor.The top floor is accessed by escalator, on this occasion the lift was out of service

Kyrsty A — Google review

Had Afternoon Tea in Tiffany's at the end of the grand pier! Really good atmosphere and very enjoyable Afternoon tea! Very atmospheric and very good staff. Inside the pavilion great assortment of rides. And games, just remember £1entrance fee to get on the pier, pity it closes at 5pm,

Graeme D — Google review

Day visit to the area. I love visiting the pier. Lots of facilities and food choices. Cream tea demolished at the restaurant at the back of the pier. Toilets could've been cleaner, but I think it was more due to previous users. Was disappointed it was closing at 4.30pm as we could've stayed longer.

Chrissey J — Google review

Grand Pier The Grand Pier in Weston - super - Mare offers all - weather seaside fun for everyone - from the arcade machines and thrilling rides , to a relaxing traditional afternoon tea in elegant surroundings - as well as being a unique wedding venue , flexible event space and offering state - of - the - art conferencing facilities. £1 enter.

Sebastian Z — Google review

I would give 3 stars, but my 11 year old boy loved it and had a very enjoyable time. We visited on the first Saturday since the schools broke up for the 6 weeks holiday and it was very, very wet outside. It was quiet when we got there (around 11:30) and it was really busy by the time we left (around 15:30). I purchased the big kids' wristband for my son, but lots of the rides were not running. He more than got his moneys worth on the rides that were open, though. We didn't purchase any food and only used the toilets to wash our hands. All the cleaning measures from COVID are long gone, and my hands got very dirty, very quickly. The floor staff were not very visible and not particularly approachable/friendly, as we had to point out a few rides had run out of tickets. The ladies' toilets were clean and well maintained.

Danielle C — Google review

Had a good time here. £1 to enter the pier. Great choice of amusements and arcades. My older son enjoyed the go karts and my youngest the rides.

Lyndse G — Google review

It cost £1 to enter. Lovely stroll up the peir, but it's ashame you cannot walk right around it but there are gorgeous views

Masha T — Google review

We think the pier at Weston looks great. It looks up to date clean and with lots of fun things to do we have not visited for a while from Penarth but from all the lovely photos we have viewed today , we cannot wait to pay a visit again .we intend to spend the whole day here as soon as we have some nice weather forecast .

Susanne ( — Google review

Been here a few times with kids and just me and a mate...would definitely suggested buying the unlimited band as would save you alot if money specially with kids !Always alot to do throughout the day and it's in doors so quite nice when the weather is a bit pants !!2p and arcades machines a plenty which is nice when you have done all the rides and activitiesNormally spend a good two/three hours here and the go Karts are good fun !Don't forget the £1 to get across the pier though and parking is very close and really good price considering how close it is to town and the beach ⛱️

Tiffany S — Google review

A lovely retro walk with arcades and cafés.You have to pay £1 per person to walk on the pier (cards accepted) - your call if that is worth it, but I will say there are free to use toilets whereas every other toilet on the promenade are 20p per person. I also noticed how spotlessly clean the pier was so your money is going somewhere.It's only a short walk, perhaps 10 minutes from one end to the other. The far end has a great viewpoint with useful signs telling you what you are looking at across the water. There's a large arcade with the usual machines and games, plus cafes and restaurants for ice cream, fish and chips, all the usual seaside treats. Plus nice benches dotted along the way, and a covered walkway for when the weather turns.

Gary F — Google review

Excellent place to take children. It cost £1 to get in, but for small children, they can get infor free. There is a height measurement near the turnstile, so it's easy to check.The pier has many locations to exchange your money in order to play the arcade machines.I would recommend that you get the card and top up money electronically, as this is easier than carrying cash in a pot.For adults, there is a cafe on the ground floor and also a pub inside. On the upper floor, there is another cafe near the crystal maze.Some games are height restricted to small children and can not play.Overall, it was a great day out, and it was nice to visit the beach too.

Sadiq M — Google review

The Pier was a trip down memory lane for me, all the things I remembered for my youth. Great views, arcades, novelty foods and even bumper cars and other rides.Access via the turnstiles for a Pound.

Bagpuss — Google review

My recent visit to Weston-super-Mare Grand Pier was an absolute delight! The pier, perched on the sea, offered a refreshing breeze that was both cool and invigorating. We explored the shops and stumbled upon a treasure trove of personalized teddy bears, choosing one adorned with my daughter and her friends' names, a delightful memento of our day. Equipped with a bucket adorned with various shapes, my daughter eagerly crafted sandcastles by the beachside, despite the slight chill in the air, the experience was thoroughly enjoyable.Inside the Grand Pier, a world of entertainment awaited. With an array of coin-operated games, we indulged in motorbike races and countless other thrilling adventures. The atmosphere was electric, brimming with laughter and excitement, captivating both adults and children alike. The weather, remarkably favorable, added to the charm of the day, allowing us to fully appreciate the panoramic views from the sky deck, encompassing the sprawling beach below.Despite the nominal gate fee of £1 per person, the memories we created were priceless, making every penny worthwhile. Weston-super-Mare Grand Pier undoubtedly promises a return visit, beckoning with its irresistible blend of seaside charm and endless amusement.

Judith A — Google review

It was a lot of fun visiting the Grand Pier with my husband. It had a lot of arcade games and fun rides. Unfortunately a two of the main rides / attractions weren’t working: the ghost train and the bumper cars which was very disappointing. It also only opened at 12:00 noon which is weird. Despite that, we had a good time. We’ll be returning.

Belinda — Google review

Absolutely fantastic day out at The Grand Pier today. 7 kids aged between 5 and 12. Something for everyone. Olders raced go karts whilst the little ones golfed. And an excellent mix of rides that little and big can do together (Free Fall is just amazing). Perfect on a rainy day (covered walkway meant we didn't even notice the rain). Staff lovely and friendly. And it feels like a safe space (kids off in different directions at most times but they can only go so far!).We were there for 5 hours and didn't do everything we wanted. Will definitely come again. Wristbands are excellent value for money. Fish and chips freshly cooked and kept us all happy.Toilets were absolutely pristine which should be a given for most venues but isn't in my experience. Can't fault the Pier. 5 stars.

Alix M — Google review

Ordered drinks and food. The drinks came reasonably quickly,but then there weren't many in the restaurant. The food however took 20 minutes and only after we had finished our drinks and gone to the counter to enquire as to the whereabouts of said food. We got told it was because one of the orders was pancakes and that's why it was taking so long. On arrival of food, the sausage sandwich was edible, the bacon and pancakes just about although the bacon wasn't very nice and got mainly left, the avocados and egg on toast wasn't edible, with the eggs hard boiled and the avocado off. We made our complaint to the staff and were offered a replacement,but the taste of the first,had put us off the idea. We were then offered a complementary cream tea, to which we did except,but only the scone cream and jam arriving, no tea. This then along with another scone cream and jam arrived, with a Oh you've already got it. When we came to pay, the cream tea had been put on the bill, to which we had to point out it had been offered in compensation for the bad avacardo and was complimentary. It was eventually removed from the bill. For an establishment that likes to make you wait to be shown to a table, the food and service are more akin to a bad roadside kebab van and we won't be making the same mistake of returning.

John — Google review

It's a pier (currently) with free entry after 630.Seems clean and well maintained, new (2010) pavillion on the end, with chips shop, cafe, restaurants and arcade.A pleasant enough way to spend an hour or so..

Chris M — Google review

Nice pier with amusement arcade and cafe. £1 entry fee. Plenty of games to keep kids entertained but have plenty of £1 coins ready!

David C — Google review

Really lovely pier - with all the usual seaside attractions and actually some reasonable pricing for rides, food and “niknaks” - we found the staff really friendly and helpful at all times, from arcade attendants to the lady at the gate making sure everyone had re-entry stamps. The children’s packages for the arcade rides etc are really great value for money and there’s a huge variety of games to play - something for all ages and most rides were £1, with 2p machines full to bursting with treats so lots of excited wins from people all around us. Prize shop was well stocked with a good variety and not too extortionate. Most machines in good working order. Pier itself has an undercover walkway which is great in bad weather. Benches all along to sit and enjoy the sunshine too.

The M — Google review

What a crazy hub of activity!! There is so much to do here from slot machines and arcade games to electric karting and mini rides. Plenty of shops and places to eat. Bordering of overwhelming but fun. Lovely to walk on and look out to sea too.

Sara — Google review

4.1

(12493)40 Best Stops Between Sidmouth and Swansea (125)

3.5

(3762)40 Best Stops Between Sidmouth and Swansea (126)

Grand Pier (Stop P, Weston-super-Mare, BS23 1AL, United Kingdom

+44 1934 620238

18

Tintern Abbey

40 Best Stops Between Sidmouth and Swansea (127)40 Best Stops Between Sidmouth and Swansea (128)

40 Best Stops Between Sidmouth and Swansea (129)40 Best Stops Between Sidmouth and Swansea (130)

Mentioned on

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Abbey

Sights & Landmarks

Tintern Abbey or Abaty Tyndryn is a historical landmark founded in 1131 by the Cistercian order that was later abandoned and left to picturesque ruin after Henry VIII expelled the monks in 1536. The Gothic West Front of this sprawling monastic complex stands on the riverside and has been an inspiration for poets and artists like William Wordsworth and JMW Turner. Although some parts are closed during winter, visitors can still appreciate its majestic beauty through its floor plan.

Truly majestic and beautiful.I’m so glad I took some time out to visit and appreciate the old ruins, they are well worth it. Paying the fee allows you in all day, but you can go through all areas and read all signs easily within 2 hours.They have benches dotted around if you want to sit and enjoy the view.Parking is 3 pound- you need coins as the machine doesn’t support card , or have an app on mobile. If you go to the visitor centre or pub they can give you change.When you pay for an abbey ticket (£6) they refund the parking fee , so it only costs £3 in total.As historical sites go I enjoyed it!

Paul M — Google review

Visited the Historic Abbey whilst on short break with forest Holidays. It is a ruin. So just old remains left, you can imagine what it looked like in its hey day, work on going to keep it healthy enough to last, so lots of scaffolding around it. Nice gift shop good amount of cheap parking in a stunning area

Paulfastbikes — Google review

Lovely romantic ruined abbey, even on a wet day. Parking outside is £8.70 for whole day, but you get £5 off entry to abbey. Lovely to walk around, information boards to read. Currently preparing for some restoration work, so some areas cordoned off and will be for years I think. Scaffolding going up in places. Still pretty though.

Heidi P — Google review

We love a good Abbey, and they don't come much better than this. Such a picturesque location next to the river. Amazing to see the structures that remain and learn about the water management that the monks set in place. The weather was awful, welcome to Wales, but it didn't tarnish our visit. Well worth your time, and as English Heritage members, we got in free. Parking is £5 for the day, you can get this back by purchasing items at the pub or Abbey shop.

Wild S — Google review

Magnificent! The ruins and the restoration are captivating. I felt at peace touring the open parts of the abbey.The raptor show was fun, the gift shop a delight, but my favorite amenity was the pub, along with a great restaurant, ice cream shop and picnic tables.A must-see!!

Rita G — Google review

Tintern Abby is the one childhood memory I always come back to. I could write about how beautiful the structure is and the historical significance, but besides that it is the awe and wonder of how such a beautiful church was constructed. Be prepared to spend a couple of hours touring the Abby as the tour is more than the Abby itself, but also the buildings that housed the Monks.On a side note we didn’t get to see the full Abby as there is restoration going on to preserve this wonderful piece of history.There is a gift shop and toilets as well, plus the town has a few places to stop and have a bite to eat.

Justine Y — Google review

Lovely Abbey ruin with stunning views. Some areas were having conservation work being carried out so parts had scaffolding around them. Car park charges £5 but that's refundable when buying tickets to enter the Abbey. We went on a Monday but the mill and shops nearby are closed Mondays and Tuesdays

Lynn P — Google review

Beautiful ruined abbey of, originally, truly enormous proportions and set in glorious countryside. Refreshment and toilet facilities on site as is a gift shop. Reasonably spacious car park means you should have little trouble parking. Well worth a visit.

Allan — Google review

Tintern Abbey is one of the most beautiful places we’ve ever seen. Arrive early, even when they open (you can purchase tickets when you arrive), and you might be lucky enough to stroll through the grounds ancient grounds before anyone else arrives.We loved our visit (including the Anchor Inn) and will definitely return one day.Travel:We took Bus 69 from Chepstow Bus Station.

Ray D — Google review

Absolutely stunning. Beautiful location. A good amount of information about the areas & there is a water bottle station & toilets as well as a gift shop. Lovely friendly staff. 5⭐️

SpiritofCher — Google review

A site of haunting beauty and historical significance. The abbey, founded in 1131, stands as one of the most iconic ruins in the UK, offering visitors a glimpse into the grandeur of medieval monastic life.Even in its ruined state, Tintern Abbey is breathtaking. A perfect destination for those interested in history, architecture, or simply seeking a moment of peace in a stunning natural setting.We went on a public holiday, there was some group of people dressed up with medieval coats and war equipments. They were very knowledgeable and helped us to understand the history, even demonstrated the war.

Jyoti M — Google review

Lovely and so very clean! We went there on a works team building to pick litter etc and couldn't find anything!!Brilliant walks up around and plenty of cute pubs and shops in the village.

Hannah O — Google review

The Ruins of this Cistercian abbey situated in the stunning Wye valley are an absolute delight to behold.I must have a full day here to wander around the ruins and learn its history and also around the valley and river wye. These are just a few pictures from passing by on a couple of occasions.

Gav P — Google review

Stunning place , it was our second visit. First, I think 2019. Part of the Abbey it's closed for renovation but it's still majestic and beautiful. We were lucky to meet 3 musicians on the grounds so pur visit was accompanied by a beautiful Welsh music.

Marta S — Google review

This a a tricky one to review as the Abbey is very pretty even with it mostly being ruins, the drive over and the approach to the Abbey is lovely. However, I do wish we had just settled with viewing the outside, it was about £10 each to enter, they do allow dogs too which is great but it took us probably all of 10-15 minutes to walk around as really there is not a lot of information to read around the site and you don't get an information leaflet or anything with your entrance fee so even though I understand the fee is part of upkeep but it seems extortionate for what you are getting in return especially when it really would have been good enough to view the Abbey from the outside. Afterwards we did the walk to Devil's Pulpit, which was a fairly tough incline but you get a great view of the river and Abbey from up high so would recommend doing that instead.

Emily — Google review

It is an ideal place to visit for those who are interested in such historical ruins and to absorb and appreciate the richness of the past. Not that expensive to visit, a beautiful location and a great cafe close to it.

TeGee — Google review

What a beautiful place in the lovely village of Tintern in the gorgeous and picturesque Wye valley . This is a beautiful ruin towering upwards in the valley , it is quite a large site and well worth a visit . It is undergoing vital restoration and preservation work at the moment but that does not detract from it's beauty. It is in a lovely location surrounded by hills and trees . It has many information boards dotted around the grounds and a children's quest book for them to solve all the clues hidden around the site ,which the children I spotted seeming to enjoy their quest . This must have been a truly awe inspiring abbey when it was in its prime . It also has a lovely on site shop staffed by very helpful and knowledgeable staff , who were genuinely proud of where they worked . There is a lovely pub and several cafes near by. To enjoy after your visit to the abbey . This is looked after by Cadw the Welsh version of English heritage and I must say they are doing a great job . History and beautiful architecture should be saved for future generations.

Ann P — Google review

Beautiful location! Ruins are incredible. Lots of green space 4 a picnic(or use the wood tables). Tho under construction currently to keep it safe for people to explore in the future. So some parts are fenced off. Still a cool place to go!

Zach K — Google review

This is a magnificent Abbey which is well worth seeing although if you are in a hurry you will not see too much more by paying to enter the grounds. On my visit there was an enormous amount of scaffolding in place which limits the access. Local parking is £5 but includes £5 voucher to spend eg in the Pub.

Paul H — Google review

A stunning location, well maintained and plenty of benches to eat a spot of lunch! Dogs welcome too. Worth walking around, and reading the well constructed and articulate boards describing the history, how it was used etc. all accessible to young kids also

Mark A — Google review

4.6

(5971)40 Best Stops Between Sidmouth and Swansea (132)

4.5

(1733)40 Best Stops Between Sidmouth and Swansea (133)

Tintern, NP16 6SE, United Kingdom

+44 1291 689251

19

The International Centre for Birds of Prey

Mentioned on

4 lists

Permanently closed

Animal park

Outdoor Activities

Zoo

Educational sites

The International Centre for Birds of Prey is a countryside complex located 2 miles southwest of Newent that offers visitors the chance to watch raptors fly and dive in three daily sessions. The aviaries house over 70 species of owls, eagles, falcons, hawks and other birds of prey from around the world. Experience days are also available for those wanting a hands-on interaction with specific types of birds.

Thoroughly enjoyed a day out here. The place isn’t brilliantly signposted to get to but once you’re there it’s brilliant. The place is kept up together really nicely, there’s a little cafe which does a great selection of food. The staff all around the site are extremely friendly and knowledgeable. I’d say the flight displays are a must!!! You get to see some of the birds in action but I won’t tell you too much otherwise I’ll spoil it. Highly recommend a visit to here, you must book ahead online.

Jordan D — Google review

What a great place! We had a fantastic day...1130am until 4pm. Flying displays at 12noon and 3pm were just amazing, so informative and fun with real close up experience with a variety of birds...different for each time. The birds in their aviaries are plentiful, varied and seem content. The information available is very interesting. We had coffee, lunch and tea in the cafe...all very good. Definitely recommend visiting...not sure it would hold the interest of young children but teens/adults most definitely. We're now looking forward to the owl evening 😀

Kay H — Google review

This place is amazing!! Cannot rate it highly enough! The best day out we've had in a very long time..... Even without the Covid induced lack of days out! 😂The staff are very knowledgeable and clearly have a deep affection for all the birds in their care. There were 3 flying displays throughout our day and we didn't see the same bird fly twice. We spent all day there and honestly, it felt like we'd only been there for a short time despite being there all day. Really didn't want to leave! Will definitely be returning as soon as we can.

Jo P — Google review

This place is fantastic! Thoroughly enjoyed our visit today with 2 teenagers who are not normally bird fans. The setting is beautiful, lovely trees and gardens, great facilities (vegan food options, thank you!) and the aviaries were clean & well kept. Had reservations about paying to see captive birds but learning more about the work done here to help endangered species made us happy to support the work. Flying displays were the best we've seen, so entertaining and very informative. Moved through the display at a good rate so not boring for kids and handlers were really knowledgeable and professional. Sound system actually worked so you could hear every word! Thoroughly recommended visiting and would go again.

Mark H — Google review

Incredible place doing some fantastic conservation work. Myself and my children enjoyed our visit, the displays are worth waiting around for. I used to visit when I was a child so it's lovely to bring my family back to enjoy the huge variety of birds. We took a picnic as there's lots of areas to sit, the cafe is well stocked too as we had a peak and bought a coffee. The gift shop was small but stocked with lots of goodies to choose at the end of our visit. Jemima and the team are so knowledgeable and you can tell how much care is gone into the birds enclosures, displays and the gardens are beautiful. Highly recommend you pay a visit, I also donate on my birthday each year as I know the funds are well used. Can't wait to go back.

Laura P — Google review

Had a fantastic time at the International Centre for birds of Prey! Really great value for money, great flying demonstrations and great facilities. We took our 8 month old who loved looking at the flying demonstrations. There is great pram access and baby changing facilities. Really looking forward to going back, and definitely considering becoming a member. This facility does great work around the world. Highly recommend a visit.

Greenbeangirl “ — Google review

Highly recommended! Very suitable to all age groups. Good value for money. Lots of birds are available to view and the demonstration is absolutely fun to watch. A lot to learn. The dogs are also a bonus. If you come across this, please visit and support them.

Yaran L — Google review

A must visit for anyone interested in nature and conservation. The centre provides a safe haven for over a hundred Birds of Prey from all around the World.The staff are knowledgeable and totally dedicated to educating us as to the birds essential role in the planets ecosystem.The three daily flying sessions were both informative and entertaining showing the individuality of these majestic creatures.

Brizzol G — Google review

I've always had an interest in birds of prey, my favourite being the Peregrine falcon and I've been to another site but this one in Newent is near my doorstep. I've got to say I was impressed, from the helpful staff on site to being able to view all the birds 🦉🦅There were three shows featuring at least 4 to 5 birds. The trainers were very good with the birds explaining where they're native to and about the character of the bird which in some cases was funny.Because of Covid restrictions the establishment have done well with directional arrows for a one way system which also made it easy to see all the birdsThis was bought for me as a present but I'd say it's an inexpensive experience to be had, I'll be going again.

Barry H — Google review

4.8

(1310)40 Best Stops Between Sidmouth and Swansea (134)

5.0

(1168)40 Best Stops Between Sidmouth and Swansea (135)

Boulsdon House, Newent, GL18 1JJ, United Kingdom

+44 1531 820286

20

National Trust - Dunster Castle and Watermill

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Castle

Dunster Castle, a National Trust property in Jacobean house and former 12th-century castle, is located on a wooded hillside above Dunster village in Exmoor. The enchanting grounds include the parkland, The River Garden, The South Terrace, and The Keep. Dogs are welcome in the grounds but not inside the castle itself.

This is an extensive and interesting National Trust property with the castle, gardens and a working water mill to see. It can fill a day and there's a couple of cafés to visit for a break.The castle is impressive inside and out and there are interactive elements like dressing up costumes for the kids.The watermill is a great attraction- you can see the waterwheel power the working flour mill and flour is available to buy directly from the mill.The grounds are well kept and there's a pleasant walk through woodland and over a small river as you go towards the mill.Parts of the route to the castle are steep but there's a minibus available for those with mobility issues.The directly adjacent village of Dunster is lovely and worth a walk around too.

Tim J — Google review

Very well kept house and gardens. You could spend a day here. The gardens and grounds were beautiful with safe, dry paths. It was quite hilly so those with limited mobility may find it hard to walk down to the water mill, however there is a lot to see on ground level. There are 2 restaurants one neat the house and the other down at the water mill. Like all National Trust properties the the food menu didn't disappoint.

Pat S — Google review

Gorgeous place. Really beautiful gardens and stunning castle. Lots of history and nice staff. Was a beautiful May Day and the sun shone so this made it even better. Quite expensive but worth it. Car Park needs paying too.

Kate F — Google review

Absolutely fantastic location. The castle is easily accessible and very interesting to look around. The views from the top are spectacular. I was lucky enough to catch a steam train passing by. Lots of parking, easy access to Dunster village below. Cafe and seating. Highly recommended day out.

Adam P — Google review

Built on a steep hillside so be prepared. Courtesy bus available. Gardens at very top , middle and bottom. Castle huge and fascinating, impressive inside and out. Great views all around. So much to see and appreciate. Tea shop in gatehouse and cafe by mill at bottom, loos at both too.

Warren H — Google review

Lovely walk around the castle grounds but couldn't go inside as we had our dog with us. She enjoyed a splash in the river. Had a lovely drink at the watermill cafe but unfortunately no dog ice cream unlike most other NT cafes we go to.

Sandrah H — Google review

Beautiful surroundings, lovely "pocket" castle with fantastic views. You get a real feeling of it as a home, with the way it's been opened up. The grounds are gorgeous, the staff wonderful and welcoming, with plenty laid on to keep young children happy. Charming neck of the woods, and a stones throw from the beach if you want a picnic after. Thoroughly recommend.

Edwin M — Google review

Amazing day out at Dunster Castle. Can easily spend a whole day here. Highlight of our trip to Minehead and thoroughly recommend a visit.The history, the upkeep, the volunteers, the amenities, the sights to visit, the gardens, everything was great. Very impressed and National Trust delivered with this one.

Cezar-Eduard D — Google review

Absolutely stunning place! We were limited time wise, only had 4 hrs, so focused on the castle and the mill. Both outstanding! I loved the little booklets we were given in the castle. With the map and history of the rooms to guide you through. We will be back to see everything else and to spend more time in the village too.

Patricia S — Google review

An unexpected unplanned stop here at the castle today which was brilliant!The best castle we have ever visited with the amazing views and the castle itself both inside and out is an absolute must see!We made it in time to watch the musket demonstration also which was fun to watch. Everyone who works here was super friendly helpful and full of interesting facts!We visited the tea room on the bottom bath for breakfast cake and coffee which was really good quality and great value for money!Highly recommend!

Kirsty H — Google review

The volunteer we met doing his rounds in several rooms was really knowledgeable and engaging. All the volunteers were very welcoming. A really interesting building to visit that reflects how it was constantly being changed to suit the family living there. Dog friendly garden and cafes at the Castle. The gardens and views are spectacular. We spent 3 hours there and could have explored for longer. The castle was a great family visit. We visited in early June and it was busy, but not crowded. I would imagine in high summer it will be crammed, so go early or late.The village itself shut up shop promptly at 5pm on Saturday and there was definitely some shopkeeper grumpiness towards customers going on at the deli. The cafe we stopped at next door was very expensive even compared to Oxford independents. Charming to look at, but not so charming a visitor experience in the village.

Gwen D — Google review

Fantastic castle with so much history. I didn’t realise about most of it until I visited.I was in a bit of a rush as I had to catch the steam train but I recommend more time exploring the gardens. Whilst hereI had a private group tour of the Victorian kitchens, it was very informative and great to have a look behind the scenes where the public do not usually go.

Justyn B — Google review

What a great place. A lot of houses and national trust properties you don't see many rooms. Here we saw a wide variety. It is very steep and alot of hills and steps outside, but worth the walking. The watermill was in a very nice setting.

KATHRYN J — Google review

Upper car park tends to fill quite quickly in the morning but patrons with reduced mobility can ask to get a space near the ticket office rather than have to walk all the way from the lower car park. Similarly the National Trust have a request shuttle that can take visitors up to the Castle from the ticket office.There is a nice walk through the arboretum and over Lover's Bridge to the Watermill to the left of the Castle hill which takes you to the National Trust tearoom. If you want you can extend this to the Gallox Bridge further up the valley.Once you get up to the Castle level there is a second, less busy tearoom in the Gatehouse.Inside the castle it's generally a one way route. The formal dining room and the quirky kitchen were my favourites. As with any National Trust property talking to the guides is always a good idea and we were lucky to have spoken to a friendly and knowledgeable volunteer in the library. She was able to point out the portraits of the previous owners and explain the family history of the Castle.The Castle closes at 3.45pm and I got the impression that the tearooms closed at the same time.The free shuttle runs down from the Castle entrance back to the ticket office but finishes before the gardens officially close at 4.00pm.If you want to finish your afternoon with a cake or drink then it's best to move the car as gates are locked at 6pm.

I T — Google review

Whole day of fun to be had. The castle is amazing inside and out so much to see. The gardens are stunning. There the a secret pixie well to be found, not easy but a lot of fun 😊. King Charles room is breathtaking and full of history. Dogs allowed outside. Pop into the village for beautiful cafes with cream teas. Kids will enjoy it too.

Boschick B — Google review

Far, Far to long!!The last time I visited was between 2007/2009 when the Castle was re‐roofed.I'd forgotten how breathtakingly beautiful it was!!With tropical like gardens & stunning rooms with the most amazing views.One of the rooms was dedicated to making every visitor feel entwined with there surroundings. A room where you were invited to sit on all the settee's & chairs & soak up the ambiance, atmosphere & history of this incredible building.The riverside walks & the working water mill its charm just kept on giving.Thank you to the lovely stuard, who ozzed the charisma & magic of this wonderful place, as we chatted!!My next visit certainly WON'T be of such a lengthy time!!My photos do not give the justice deserved.

Di B — Google review

The perfect way to spend a day with the grandchildren! There's always some sort of trail on during the school holidays, they really enjoy searching for everything. It's a great way to get them out in the fresh air! As a bonus, the grounds are lovely... well kept and full of colour. There are a couple of steep places but nothing too demanding.

Jackie P — Google review

Spent several hours enjoying wandering round the extensive gardens with my dog, so much, with virtually no areas out of bounds. Also had a chance to visit inside the castle whilst my partner waited with the dog outside. You are given a fantastic booklet with just the right amount of information about each room, returning them at the end.

Ros M — Google review

What a beautiful place to visit and a very interesting Alexander the Great lady volunteer in the library. 😁The leather hangings are amazing.We last visited in the wintertime as they were closing up so were not able to tour the upstairs. We are so glad we made a return visit.All of the volunteers were happy to pass on their information, thank you so much for enhancing our visit.

Janice L — Google review

Fabulous place to learn about the history of the area and learn about a fascinating building and grounds ! I recommend going in the kitchen tour as it’s so interesting learning about the additions that was built onto the castle and the grounds. The staff were all very friendly and happy to help and it’s was a very good trip and experience. The walking there is very steep as it’s a fortified castle so bare that in mind if you struggle with steep inclines!

Chloe W — Google review

4.7

(7654)40 Best Stops Between Sidmouth and Swansea (142)

4.5

(2761)40 Best Stops Between Sidmouth and Swansea (143)

Dunster, Minehead, TA24 6NY, United Kingdom

+44 1643 821314

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21

W Somerset Railway

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Tours

Scenic Railroads

W Somerset Railway is the longest heritage railway in England, providing picturesque journeys on classic steam trains. Instead of hiking, visitors can enjoy a leisurely ride along the 20-mile route from Bishops Lydeard to Minehead, taking in stunning coastal and countryside views. With various ticket options available, passengers have the flexibility to hop on and off throughout the week for an extended exploration of the area.

4.5

(2743)40 Best Stops Between Sidmouth and Swansea (152)

Minehead, TA24 5BG, UK

22

Principality Stadium

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Stadium

Sights & Landmarks

The Millennium Stadium, in Cardiff, is the national stadium of Wales and is often used for rugby matches and concerts. It was built to host the 1999 Rugby World Cup.

The Millennium Stadium is an epic and great venue for sports and music events alike!I was proud to come here for a Six Nations game, the atmosphere was electrifying!There are plenty of facilities located here, all of which are clean.

Samuel ( — Google review

Booked a lovely behind the scenes tour for my partners birthday which we very much enjoyed!Was so fascinating to see the difference between the locker rooms and to set foot in the Presidents box and hear about all the history and heritage & we completely agree this is indeed the best stadium ever 😁

Jessie S — Google review

I went to watch the Rugby , WALES V's ENGLAND . The roof was closed. But the atmosphere was through the Roof. I Love going to the Principality Stadium in Cardiff . Its a great place to take family or go with ur friends. Everything available - food , soft drinks & alcohol , and of course toilets. You will definitely enjoy your day out at the Stadium . If its sports or music , Rugby or Concerts. . ....YOU WILL ENJOY .

Jason J — Google review

Well organised, and a smooth entry into the stadium. On this occasion I was in a hospitality box which had impeccable service. Staff all very polite and extremely mindful of everyone and trying to ensure no-one was left wanting for anything. The food was absolutely superb and super delicious. I couldn't fault my experience whatsoever. If you get the opportunity to go in a hospitality box I would definitely recommend giving it a go at least once. Very comfortable and lots of space to move around.The mess at the end of the gig was unreal and I was so impressed at the speed and efficiency at which they cleaned it up. Brilliant staff, all working very hard.

Elizabeth E — Google review

Our first time at Principality and I can honestly say it was probably the best stadium experience I've ever had. The fact that we live within walking distance is the first plus, but mostly the organization of it all. We were given a gate number and stairwell number which lead directly to the section our seat were located. And that's just the stadium! Our seats for the Rugby match (although pretty high up) were perfect, had a great vantage point, the atmosphere was fabulous, loved every minute.

Nicola R — Google review

The Principality Stadium is one of very high quality. This stadium contains 74,500 seats which is perfect to fit a large majority of rugby fans to watch a match. The atmosphere in this stadium while Wales are playing and they’re singing the national anthem or have scored a try is heart warming and beautiful, and the Welsh anthem it’s self i consider one of the best in the world. However, not only do they host Wales’s rugby matches, they also host tournament games for secondary schools which is thoughtful. The only bad thing about the stadium is the price of the food, but apart from that the best stadium in the world.

Olivia P — Google review

What a fabulous stadium. Easy to access, perfectly situated in the heart of the City. Wonderful, friendly staff. Fantastic example of an inside (outside) venue with the roof closed the rain was kept at Bay.The only negative was with the roof closed the acoustic at the gig I attended were poor.

Clive A — Google review

We have booked a stadium tour during our stay in Cardiff and it was a fantastic experience. Our guide Gareth was great and gave us a lot of interesting information about every aspect of the stadium. We visited all levels including lounges and changing rooms. Be aware that the field might be covered (for concerts or such), but this was no big issue for us. We are not even that much into Rugby, but the tour is impressing even if you are not mich of a Rugby insider! For me a must see when staying in Cardiff.

Der W — Google review

I went to see a Taylor Swift Concert and was sat in the second semi circle (180) from the stage and pretty much all of the video screen was blocked by two massive light installations and that would be the same for the folk opposite two. I’ve sat in similar places in other stadiums around the UK and NOT had my vision of the big screen blocked.Basically it’s not worth the money unless you get seats in the first semi circle from the stage not anywhere near gate 6 or 7!

Freya G — Google review

Fantastic venue! Easy to find! Transport organised for major events and concerts (big green coach), which is fantastic value and keeps people moving. Stewards work very hard to keep everyone safe, point you in the right direction promptly and there are lots of them. Before going to the event, check which gate you need to be at, as some gates are a bit of a walk.

Nina V — Google review

Went to the Principality Stadium to see Taylor Swift (hospitality tickets). First time I've ever had hospitality tickets and the Principality made it really special for us.We felt like royalty. Staff were helpful, kind and lovely.The whole event was very well organised from my experience. Hospitality here really does feel special, meal, drinks, INCREDIBLE seats. Taylor Swift was also incredible, it's a night I will forever remember 💖 thank you to all the staff that made our night so special and stress free. Seated in (m30)

Dani S — Google review

Visited with my family recently to watch the Monster Jam show and was extremely disappointed by the stadium and the majority of its staff.TLDR: Accessibility is a joke. Accessible seating is ridiculous. Majority of staff aren't helpful. Security was lacking. Stadium is tired and old. Do not go here if you need accessible seating!As the father of a disabled son who requires the use of a wheelchair and the ease with which we were able to book accessible seating, we were hopeful for this stadium's accessibility. However, within minutes of arriving it became very clear that this stadium is simply unfit to cater to disabled users compared to other stadium experiences we have had.For starters, the majority of the staff seemed uninterested or unable to help us which is bad enough but when you have to be escorted to use the lift it makes everything that much harder. So much so that we actually ended up dragging the wheel chair down some stairs when a lift wasn't forthcoming. To rub salt in the wound we met an accessibility steward coming the other direction carrying somebodies wheelchair and just got a nod of acknowledgment so clearly this is just an accepted thing to do.Secondly and perhaps worst of all was the accessible seating. Basically a platform with a row of seats at the back. This poses a few issues. If you are with a disabled child then your child and their wheel chair are supposed to sit about a metre in front of your allocated seat which doesn't make for a great experience and is impossible for parents of autistic children who need their parents sat next to them!It also makes the gross assumption that the disabled person is the one who wants to watch the event and is not in fact the parent. Something which a father on the same platform as us experienced as he was told how people should be seated on these types of seats with him at the front and his children behind on the actual chairs. Needless to say that both his children and myself spent a long show kneeling, crouching and just being generally uncomfortable on the concrete floor.Finally and by no means least. Security was concerningly lax. We arrived and followed another disabled family up the disabled gate access. Our tickets were scanned but our large but necessary bag was NOT searched at all. It might have just been an oversight but coming from Manchester I feel far better when I know I and everyone else has been properly searched before being allowed in.There are far more things I could add but this review is long enough and these were the main points I wanted to make. Just avoid this stadium if you can. It is tired and old and needs knocking down or having some massive cash injection put into it as it isn't fit for purpose.

Thomas B — Google review

We attended the Principality Stadium recently. 09 August 2024. This was to attend the Billy Joel concert who was amazing I must say. He was supported by Chris Isaak who I thought was out of this world. I've since rediscovered his music after a period of absence.Now back onto the venue. I have to say that this is one of the best stadium/arena concert venues I have visited. This year alone we have been to AO Arena (Rick Astley) in Manchester. Co-op Live Arena again in Manchester (Peter Kay) and Also Wembley Stadium more recently (Bruce Springsteen). Gaining access to the arena was an absolute breeze. We got there around 20 minutes after the gates had opened and we were in our assigned areas within no more than 10 minutes. Some of this was waiting for bags to be checked and wrist bands. We did have some issues gaining access to the arena floor due to my daughter's age. With her not long turning 14 we were asked when she received her wrist band and then again on our way down to the floor.We walked around the arena for a few minutes trying to find the best place to stand and decided to have a bathroom break and get some snacks whilst waiting for the show to start. On our way back down to the arena floor we were then stopped again by someone new. They again queried our daughters age and were refusing to allow us onto the arena floor. I had explained that this was the 3rd time we had been stopped and no one was refusing us access previously. I even showed some photos we had taken from the arena floor. The chap didn't seem to care as he mentioned that he was only doing his job which I get but why were we allowed onto the arena floor literally 10 minutes prior to meeting them.He explained that it was only 16+ allowed. I explained that the promoter website that the tickets were purchased from stated 14+ otherwise we'd have bought different tickets. Our daughter had been to the concerts above and previous venues also and we always buy age appropriate tickets.He then called over a lady who explained to us that the floor tickets were for 12 plus which again met the criteria for the tickets we had purchased. The chap still wasn't happy to allow us onto the floor and it took very much to and fro until he eventually agreed that we could stay where we were. My daughter had become very upset by this as she thought that should miss the concert and this was her favourite artist.The venue itself plus the show deserve 5 stars as it is in a great location and it has 2 amazing artists play but due to the staff I had to mark it down

Steve H — Google review

Amazing venue to see live music. Walking distance from the City Centre, which as you can imagine before the event was extremely busy. Getting in and out was easy enough, although give yourself plenty of time as queues were significant. Post event trains were well marshalled although not enough of them with packed platforms. Bruce Springsteen was awesome

Lee W — Google review

What a wonderful visit to the Principality Stadium. It started so easily with helpful stewards to ease us in. Very helpful upstairs too. Great facilities and a great view to see Billy Joel. We found it easy to exit because we were atthe extreme end of the Stadium so not a massive crowd leaving on our stairwell. Thanks to everyone for an amazing visit

Simmo ( — Google review

The Stadium was a huge building!After all these of seeing the rugby on the TV, it was kind of strange now to be sat watching a concert and people appear and mass congregate in front of us!It was very organised on entry to the stadium, lots of staff to help you out.Lots of staircases to climb, to get you up here!We came in when it wasn't busy, think it would be overpowering in crowds, trying to navigate all the stairs!The food and drink areas were huge and you got served very quickly.We were here to see the Foo Fighters in concert, they were absolutely fantastic!We really enjoyed our time here.

Gary ( — Google review

Fantastic stadium, came here for the Billy Joel concert, which was ace.Plenty of food and drink available at various stands.We felt it was an easier and more enjoyable experience than trekking into London to the O2 for example.

James — Google review

Great venue , friendly people ..as always across the border ...Didn't get full appreciation as roof was on, but shows brilliance of structure for all weather event venue. Great acoustics and sound. Easiest venue to get to and get out of , compared to nightmare of London 02 . I'd def return there .

Claire A — Google review

Fantastic venue for sport and music concerts.Acoustics great especially with roof closed.Excellent facilities.Saw Billy Joel concert- absolutely superb- what a brilliant songwriter and showman!

Andy S — Google review

Great atmosphere, easy to get around and plenty of seating options. There is some good catering options on site with good vans just outside and fast food section inside for you to grab a quick bite.The quality of the sound was amazing and there was great views from pretty much anywhere. Shame about the weather though as there was meant to be fireworks, but they had to close the roof. Didn’t ruin the night though. Will be back again.

Richie P — Google review

4.7

(14602)40 Best Stops Between Sidmouth and Swansea (159)

4.5

(4185)40 Best Stops Between Sidmouth and Swansea (160)

Westgate St, Cardiff, CF10 1NS, United Kingdom

+44 29 2082 2432

23

Cardiff Castle

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Castle

Sights & Landmarks

The Cardiff Castle is a beautiful medieval ruin which is the former home of the Welsh Royal Family. It is one of the most frequently visited tourist attractions in Wales and features an elegant Banquet Hall, captivating Chapel & clock tower, and impressive hall centerpiece with its extravagant fireplace.

An amazing castle and visiting the grounds was a treat. Full of history and going through the surroundings, it wasn't repetitive and not boring at all. I absolutely loved it and it's was very interesting. I love the Arab Room and the war shelters.Reasonable priced tickets compared to the Royal castle prices.I highly recommend this visit for all ages.The staff were friendly and helpful.I love Cardiff. It's so refreshing compared to London.

Have H — Google review

Was great seeing history. The main castle has alot of steep narrow steps so be careful. Loved the mural on the wall it took several years to complete but worth a gander. The military museum was great to see and the inside walls set up showing shelters during the blitz.

Kerri H — Google review

Good cafe with happy friendly staff. Coffee was good and well priced. Plenty of seating inside and out. All areas were clean and tidy.Castle itself wasn't cheap, you only see half the house, you have to pay extra to see extra rooms !!!Some areas were cordoned off and a large stage was being erected during our visit, which reduced the area somewhat.

Peter H — Google review

Cardiff Castle is spectacular.Walkable from my hotel.I enjoyed the view and the weather was great! Very historical place.I would love to visit again in future.I was impressed with the structure and the location of the castle is perfect.Recommendable to visit if you are in Cardiff, Wales. Please include it in your itinerary.

Jel — Google review

Great castle with lots of local history! So much to explore. The WW2 shelters were definitely a little spooky but feel it was actually represented. Price of the tickets is good for what you get. There is a military exhibition and the animal wall outside which is free to see

Katie D — Google review

The view was breathtaking. We spent a lot of time for walking around. Some places have steep steps so be cautious for elders or toddlers.There is also an area for children to play. My daughter had a joyful time in the playground and enjoyed Cardiff Castle very much.

Man W — Google review

Pretty place, we took great pictures in there, on the entrance you can easily spend 30min taking pictures and making videos for free,you can visit inside of the castle, we did not have the time for it though, maybe another time we'll explore inside and outside more. Really enjoyed the visit, the weather was not great but next time will be visiting on summer. Kids will love it.

Felipe C — Google review

Cardiff castle was quite nice to visit however there was setup happening for a function on the day we went so it detracted from seeing the castle in its entirety. Some areas were closed off and inaccessible. The wall was really cool with different animals on and the size was impressive. The gardens around the castle are really pretty.

Claire K — Google review

Incredible! Lots to see. There for many hours. Well worth paying for the tour! Even my 10yr old loved it! Learnt loads!Good coffee too!Great exhibits!

Donna S — Google review

This is a stunning historic landmark that offers a fascinating glimpse into the city's past.The blend of medieval architecture with the lavish Victorian interiors creates a unique and captivating atmosphere.The castle grounds are well-maintained, providing plenty of space for exploration, and the views from the battlements are impressive.The guided tours are informative, offering rich insights into the history of the castle and its significance.Additionally, the castle frequently hosts events and exhibitions that add to the experience.While admission can be a bit pricey, the experience is well worth it for history enthusiasts and visitors looking to immerse themselves in Cardiff’s heritage.

Manjudarsh — Google review

The staff were very friendly and we came just on time before they closed the area down for the Depot event that was happening that day. It was £15.50 per adult and I believe it was an extra £4.50 for a guided tour. Because we were on a bit of a time crunch, they said it’d be more valuable of our time if we went by ourselves. In some areas, the stairs are narrow and steep and there were signs to let us know. It wasn’t too bad getting up and down the stairs, just be careful and take your time. There were plenty of information boards and it was very interesting learning about the history of this castle. The decor was absolutely breathtaking and had a great time exploring Cardiff Castle.

Cathy P — Google review

Very interesting place, such great history. Impressive views from the castle keep which has some steep stairs up to the top. Good to go into the areas used in the war and the main house has some stunning rooms.Close to the principality stadium with some good bars and restaurants across the road.

Tim H — Google review

Awesome that this castle is right in the town. The Keep on the hill is quite impressive from the outside, though empty inside. Enjoyed the elaborate banquet hall and the extensive war collections of the museum. If all you're after is a cool castle photo, you can enter to the public garden and get photos of the Keep for free.

Munro S — Google review

I had a great time exploring the castle and it was the highlight of my Cardiff trip!I definitely recommend taking the tour. The guide was really friendly and funny. He explained the history of the Castle as well as its former owners really well and included lots of funny facts at the side.Sadly, the castle grounds were also used for a festival which did destroy a little bit of the beautiful view inside of the castle walls.Overall though, I definitely recommend to explore this place.

Kim — Google review

Loved our visit. We happened, coincidentally, to be there when a 21 gun salute and ceremony was taking place but still, a great place to visit and the organised tours are great value, and very Informative, too.

Paul E — Google review

I recently visited Cardiff Castle and had a wonderful experience, deserving of a solid 4-star review. The castle is a remarkable journey through history, right in the heart of the city. From the ancient Roman walls to the beautifully restored Victorian Gothic interiors, there’s something for everyone who appreciates history. The informative exhibits and guided tours provide a fascinating insight into the castle’s past, making it a great destination for history buffs.What stood out to me, however, was how wheelchair-friendly the site is. Accessibility can often be an issue at historical sites, but Cardiff Castle has gone the extra mile to ensure that everyone can enjoy its grandeur. Many of the key areas are easily accessible by ramps or lifts, and the staff were incredibly helpful, making sure visitors with mobility needs were well taken care of. There is even an accessible route that allows you to explore the stunning grounds and castle keep without missing out.Although some areas, like the higher towers, are understandably not fully accessible due to the nature of the historic structure, the castle still offers plenty to see and enjoy for those with mobility concerns. A visit to Cardiff Castle is an unforgettable experience, balancing rich historical significance with thoughtful modern inclusivity. Highly recommended for anyone, especially those looking for a wheelchair-friendly day out!

Bencent X — Google review

Such an amazing castle nestled in the heart of Cardiff. Whether you're exploring Wales or the UK, put this on your list of castles to visit. It may not be the most impressive castle in terms of stone mass, but it is very unique and well worth the time to explore. I would recommend giving yourself a couple hours to leisurely wonder around the large area, definitely a highlight of Cardiff!!

Nate — Google review

Very nice castle! It doesn’t take long to see some of the rooms inside and we can walk around inside the wall and on top. There’s an exhibition about the world war along the wall called “Firing Line Cardiff”.From the top of the Norman Keep you can see for of Wales.

Daniela Z — Google review

The location is quite fascinating, boasting a rich history. The castle keep offers breathtaking views, although the ascent to the top involves climbing steep stairs. Exploring the war zones is enlightening, and the main house showcases some truly remarkable rooms. Conveniently situated near the principality stadium, there are also excellent bars and restaurants just across the road.

MOBIN M — Google review

A large portion of the castle is free to walk through and attached to a huge big city park. Beautiful place and great visit. There is a section you do need tickets for.

Kindness A — Google review

4.6

(20161)40 Best Stops Between Sidmouth and Swansea (168)

4.5

(6845)40 Best Stops Between Sidmouth and Swansea (169)

Castle St, Cardiff, CF10 3RB, United Kingdom

+44 29 2087 8100

24

St. Fagans National Museum of History

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History museum

Museums

The St. Fagans National Museum of History is an open-air attraction located in the west of Cardiff, Wales that contains costumed characters demonstrating traditional skills and crafts from throughout Welsh history. Highlights include tours of various original and reproduction buildings, as well as demonstrations of old machinery found at the museum. The museum is considered one of the best tourist attractions in the United Kingdom, and is perfect for those who are interested in learning more about Wales' rich history.

I was there on a bank holiday, and it is lush! Recommended as a fantastic family day out. The main drawback was the dining hall, which had a limited selection of food, was pricey, and did not have food that looked particularly appetizing. It had a mixture of history, gorgeous walks, and a great play area. Dogs are welcome, and admission is free. Please avoid buses 17 and 18, they are the wrong ones to take! The correct bus to take to get back to Cardiff's downtown was number 32.

Nadine M — Google review

Amazing experience, loads to see and be part of. The volunteers were fantastic, full of enthusiasm and knowledge. There were some lovely places to eat that didn't break the bank either. Definitely will come back!

Jacqueline B — Google review

Amazing historical items and shops, a good day out with kids and dog friendly. The only concern is that there are wasp infestations in most of the bins. We really enjoyed the beautiful nature,and castles the park holds. 👍

Ethan R — Google review

Hiden gem! Beautiful place to visit and explore the history. Great for a picnic. Cafe/ restaurant service lunch. You can easily spend all day here.! Good for all age group.Free entry, great facilities, child and disability friendly

Alina K — Google review

Extensive site with exhibitions designed to entertain children as well as adults. The houses have been rebuilt and furnished to give a proper flavour of the era they represent . There's a decent place to eat, a souvenir shop as well as demonstrations of artisan crafts. The gardens were exceptional when we visited at the end of July.

Matthew H — Google review

This is an amazing place! It doesn't matter if you are young or old St Fagans has something for everyone.There is so much history here and I learned something new every visit and I have been here many times.The buildings are stunning and the staff are so knowledgeable and friendly. Well worth a visit 😁👍🏼

Richard P — Google review

I loved this museum so much! Such a great day out and so much to see I'd recommend a good few hours. However some of the shops were shut due to lack of staff or something, which was a shame. Afterwards we went for a walk along the trail to Ely.Absolutely interesting history about the land and the things that have been moved onto it

Charlotte P — Google review

August 2024. To enter is free but the cat park free for a car is £7.00 for the day. We enjoyed the visit, it has changed so much since our last visit. There's a lot to see, The next time we go there I will invest in a map of the grounds. We probably missed more than half of the things to see. Be prepared to walk a fair distance as everything is spread out over quite a large area. The guides that are stationed at various properties are full of information and some of them quite funny, There are a couple of cafés. We used the food hall in the main entrance building and found the food and drinks to be tasty and at a fair price, the service from the staff was friendly and helpful and the facilities are good. There's a" High ropes " course for the adventures with various obstacles to get around while wearing a safety harness.

Mark E — Google review

Really nice atmosphere. This place is a whole lot bigger than what I have expected. One of the most fun walks I've ever been on. Would recommend you check the weather before having a trip here as you'll be spending a good few hours out door

Udomkarn B — Google review

Brilliant day out for the family.Lots of places to go in and explore about the past.My only complaint (and it's a small one) they seem to take advantage of the fact they control everything in the area and the prices for items are up there. For example, a can of pop was £2.20. Again not really that bothered as the higher pricing most likely helps pay the wages since it is free entry (that's if you don't class the parking fee as a entry fee)A few photos where family wasn't in them have been added

Tony — Google review

I have visited twice so far and will definitely visit again in the future as I still haven't seen everything.It's the perfect spot for a stroll, there's enough benches and tables for a quick rest and all the bathrooms I've encountered were clean.The only thing I didn't enjoy was the quality and pricing of the drinks we had and think there's definitely room for improvement there.

Bettina G — Google review

Always enjoy a trip to St Fagans, lots to do and see, really nice people working there who are very knowledgeable. Plenty of places to enjoy a picnic or grab a bit to eat and fun for the whole family. Would have given 5 stars if it wasn't for the parking so if the weather is nice leave early or you will need to park in the overflow field. Also take care as there are a few wasps around this time of year.

Martyn O — Google review

A great place to visit, the massive site can be done in a day but we prefer to spend a few hours just wondering around half of it. Its worth buying some bread from the bakery and there is a fish & chop shop which is quite new but wasn't open when we visited on a Friday. There is a pub now which is still under reconstruction and looks like it will be finished soon.The cafe in the main building does very nice food.

Gareth W — Google review

We didn't have time to do the gallery, Castle and other bits as we travelled by by bus. Beware- last bus leaves the museum for city centre at 2.59pm! There's lots of seating on the way round to have a rest 😊 Loved being able to buy fresh baked fruit scones with jam from the old bakehouse. We took these to the cafe to have with a cup of tea before leaving. There are two cafes and a fish and chip shop. Two different play areas for children as well 😊 Could easily spend all day here.

Lorraine H — Google review

Great day out, child and dog friendly. Beautiful grounds and walks. Due to cuts in government funding some of the properties were not open to view, which was disappointing. However, highly recommend. Lots of areas to have a picnic and play areas for children.

Jo L — Google review

Really lovely place to visit. Some lovely quaint little places for children to see.There is a great indoor gallery museum too, I would suggest to take a picnic as lots of green area and benches to sit and eat.There is guides in most of the houses/cottages they are so helpful and have ubundant of knowledge, very happy and takes the time to find out where you have come from.They have a bakery there and you can buy just made bread, it is delicious.It's free to get in but they take donations.

Kristy — Google review

We went to Cardiff with the purpose of visiting this park. Some of the houses are really lovely, and well worth a visit. Quite a lot of them were closed, even the ones that had not been marked as close. The people working there (especially Inger) were very warm and friendly, willing to share their knowledge about the place. We especially liked a kinda row house, were each house was decorated in the stile of a different period.

Ditte K — Google review

Brilliant family day out. Bring your walking shoes as its bigger than you think. Lots of people take their dogs too. History, culture, fresh air, exercise, and a couple of cafes for refuelling the family. Oh and it's free!!!

Matt L — Google review

It's an amazing outdoors museum. BUT my only regret is spending some time on the right side in the gardens. The castle was good though and it's not that the garden is bad, it's just not the reason I went here. Other than that, they have old an old fun fair, loved it, spent some£ and time there, loved the row of old houses that go from oldest to newest, the pre fabricated tin house was amazing. An old chapel. I can't really name everything, but it all amazed me. Nearly all houses/ places of interest have a member of staff ready for your questions. spent 5 hours there and probably could have had one not hour. Absolutely loved the left wing of the museum. Did I say it's free?

Ondra V — Google review

I visited St. Fagans National Museum of History with my family, initially expecting just a short walk, but I was absolutely blown away by how much there is to see and do. The museum is free to enter, and although parking was £7 on the day of my visit, it was worth every penny. If you want a paper map, it's available for just 50p.I wish I lived closer to this museum, as I would visit often, especially on sunny days. It's a fantastic place for children and pets to explore and play.The museum lacks a multi faith room, hope they add a small room in the future. However, the staff were incredibly helpful and accomodating. I really appreciate that they found me quite room to pray.I highly recommend visiting this museum multiple times, especially if you're a lucky local!

Salim M — Google review

4.7

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4.5

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Cardiff, CF5 6XB, United Kingdom

+44 300 111 2333

25

Hereford Cathedral

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Cathedral

Sights & Landmarks

Hereford Cathedral, a historic church in the CofE, was rebuilt by the Normans after being destroyed by Welsh attackers. Over time, it underwent various architectural changes. The main attraction is the Mappa Mundi, a remarkable 13th-century map on calfskin vellum that depicts an imaginative understanding of the world. It is housed in a wing that also contains Europe's largest chained library, where ancient manuscripts are secured to the shelves.

A beautiful Cathedral, also known as Cathedral Church of St. Mary the Virgin and St. Ethelbert the King with the most stunning examples of stained glass windows. There is no entrance free but donation areas are there as a small encouragement but no pressure. Built by the Normans from red sandstone, it is an impressive structure that it’s in a large area of landscaped gardens where you can sit and relax. Missed the mappa mundi and chained library today so am already planning a return visit to take this tour and hopefully the tower tour.

Rosslyn R — Google review

First visit, especially went to see the SAS stained glass window which stands out as soon as you enter.What a lovely Cathedral with so much detail and things to look at.The shop was great, we spent a bit in there, and there is a cafe to.

Joanne S — Google review

A wonderful cathedral and full of beauty and history. I highly recommend a visit to the small chapel with the Traherne windows by Denny. A visit here fills with awe.

Dt. H — Google review

We always appreciate good architecture whenever we go away and the cathedral definitely didn't disappoint. We're not religious but there's something spiritual and sombre about the place and the history is fascinating. The level of detail throughout the building is breathtaking. Can't wait to return.

Sian L — Google review

Visited Hereford Cathedral today and was pleasantly surprised by the free admission! The atmosphere was majestic and serene, perfect for soaking in the rich history of this ancient site. Highlights include the fascinating Mappa Mundi and the impressive chained library. The mix of Norman and Gothic architecture adds to the charm. Definitely worth a visit, especially on a sunny day!

Alek L — Google review

We were in Hereford on holiday and visited the cathedral. Chatted to a priest who was very helpful. The cathedral is beautiful and full of historical interest. Sadly I couldn’t get downstair but family members could and said it was interesting. It was free to visit but we put some money in the donation box.

Buffy W — Google review

Beautiful building, well worth a visit. Nice to sit and look around and admire the pictures in the glass windows, the ceiling, plus take in the magnificent of the building. If the choir is singing that's a major plus.

Teresa — Google review

I recently had the pleasure of visiting Hereford Cathedral, and it was a truly enriching experience. The cathedral, steeped in history, offers a fascinating journey through centuries of heritage and architecture. Here are a few highlights that made my visit memorable:Historical RichnessHereford Cathedral is a treasure trove of historical facts and artifacts. As you wander through its majestic halls, you can feel the weight of history in every corner. The cathedral houses the famous Mappa Mundi, a medieval map of the world dating back to the 13th century. This artifact alone is worth the visit, offering a unique glimpse into the medieval worldview.Architectural BeautyThe cathedral's architecture is simply breathtaking. The blend of Norman and Gothic styles creates a stunning visual experience. The intricate stonework and towering spires are a testament to the craftsmanship of the past. The stained glass windows, particularly the large west window, are masterpieces of art that bathe the interior in a kaleidoscope of colors.Tranquil AtmosphereDespite its grandeur, Hereford Cathedral maintains a serene and peaceful atmosphere. The tranquil cloisters and the beautifully maintained gardens provide a perfect setting for reflection and relaxation. It's a place where you can escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and find a moment of peace.Informative DisplaysThroughout the cathedral, there are numerous displays and information boards that provide detailed insights into its history and significance. These informative pieces enhance the visitor experience by offering context and background to the various elements of the cathedral.Overall, Hereford Cathedral is a must-visit for anyone interested in history, architecture, or simply looking for a beautiful and serene place to explore. The combination of its historical significance, architectural beauty, and welcoming atmosphere makes it a standout destination.Hereford Cathedral truly offers a window into the past, allowing visitors to connect with history in a profound way. I highly recommend a visit to anyone traveling through the UK.

Isabelle S — Google review

so so so so so gorgeous, i was visiting mostly for the Mappa Mundi but this was such a beautiful building, i wish i could go back just to take in every single detail, if you are anywhere near Hereford you MUST visit this Cathedral AND the Mappa Mundi, it costs £6 to visit the section of the building with the Mappa Mundi and all of its information but everywhere else is free in the Cathedral, there’s also a lovely little cafe in another section

Malachi — Google review

Amazing place to visit. If your lucky you can also climb the tower. Which will take you out on the roof. Beautiful views

Kevin S — Google review

This is a nice cathedral with free entry to the main cathedral. If you want to see the Mappa Mundi and Chained Library you can pay the entry fee for them once you arrive at that part.

Karen B — Google review

Historical and beautiful cathedral with an incredible interior. Mappa Mundi and the chain library are accessible for 6 GBP per person through the gift shop and cafe.

Pak-Ming W — Google review

Hereford Cathedral is an amazing place, a history of the building and rebuilding of the cathedral with features from each era make it fascinating and beautiful.Apart from that the Chained Library and of course the Mappa Mundi are worth a visit in their own right.

Ian S — Google review

Hereford is one of the most impressive cathedral in the UK, being thru massive restoration as well as many others, and it looks beutyfull .FREE ENTRY, still.Home of Mappa Mundi.7.50£ entry.

Florin D — Google review

A really lovely cathedral, full of medival and more modern artifacts, well worth spending time here

Andrew O — Google review

I always visit this Cathedral to light a candle, Today I had the pleasure of visiting the gardens ( normally closed to the public) Today is an open day ( please check the cathedral website for further details) The gardens are stunning and maintained by a wonderful group of volunteers

JDR6270 S — Google review

Free admission, which was a nice surprise. A really historic and interesting cathedral that is accessible and full of information. However, the old world map was overpriced for our liking, so we passed on that. Disregarding that, though, a great and interesting cathedral, even for non-religious people like ourselves.

Kevin R — Google review

Well worth a visit to see this beautiful cathedral.The tower tour is worth the climb of 200+ steps for the fantastic views across the Herefordshire countryside.The tour guide was very knowledgeable and well worth the £8.

Mark D — Google review

Beautiful Cathedral. Well worth a visit. Either for a service or to view the incredible chained library.

Christina S — Google review

Highly recommend a visit here.There is an incredible amount to see and learn if you've the slightest interest in history.If I was to start on about it, you'd be reading pages, so just go !! 👌

Andrew C — Google review

4.7

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4.5

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5 College Cloisters, Cathedral Close, Hereford HR1 2NG, United Kingdom

+44 1432 374200

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26

Big Pit National Coal Museum

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Historical place museum

Museums

The Big Pit National Coal Museum is a former colliery that offers interactive displays on mining life and underground tours guided by ex-miners. The museum allows visitors to explore the tunnels and coalfaces of a real coal mine, providing insight into what life was like for miners from 1880 to 1980. Various colliery buildings above ground, including the 1939 pithead baths, are also open for exploration with displays showcasing the history of the industry.

Absolutely fantastic experience. The trip down the coal mine is definitely worth the wait (try and book tickets more than a day in advance). Steve, our collier guide, was amazing and very funny. Loved it all.

Daisy R — Google review

An absolutely fantastic, fun and educational day out for all ages!This is such an amazing experience that is an absolute must if you're living in / visiting the area. Even if you're not a huge fan of history or museums, this is a completely unique, fun and interesting experience.I would highly recommend booking the 'Job-A-Knock' tickets in advance for the underground tour.The staff / volunteers are really friendly and helpful. We absolutely loved hearing their stories and learning more about the mines.There's food available from the on-site café and there's toilets on site, too. The gift shop has some fab items to take home with you, including souvenirs, gifts, food and drink. Much of the items are Welsh, which I love!There is disabled parking on site, which is free for blue badge holders. There is disabled access for much of the grounds - there is ramp access - however the whole site is on a very steep hill. Obviously the underground tour is not suitable for disabled visitors.

Saskia — Google review

This was great - very informative staff & place. A walk around the site, seeing how the pit ran, really opened my eyes to what miners & their families had to endure to supply the countries coal back in the day.You can go down into the pit 90M via the lift for a tour with a guide. Note that there are some low places in the tunnel you have to walk through, so it can get tough on the legs & back. I'm 55 & 6ft3" but managed it & glad I did. A real eye opener would definitely recommend.

Ian Y — Google review

Wow! What a place! And what an amazing tour! We had Andre take us down and he was great. The whole place is an incredible experience! We paid for the tour, and I was told they have only just started charging as a trial. This place could charge for entry and the tour, and people will still pay. Because its free we actually popped there twice as the kids loved it!

Thomas P — Google review

Brilliant. The best place to visit to experience the mineshafts,lifts & outbuildings, went down the mine via the old lift & did the underground tour with an ex miner as our guide.Cafe was keenly priced too.Would highly recommend to anyone & it’s all free - but you can make a donation.

Gary G — Google review

A great place to visit, very interesting and the guide we had was brilliant. The day we went, it was raining, so it was slightly slippy down in the pit, so you have to be careful, but I would highly recommend it.

Lisa M — Google review

Absolutely amazing and worthwhile experience. The guides are really cool, the coal feels spacious inside (okay if you are not a huge fan of closed places). So awesome! They also have a packed lunch area which is really cool. Good for a rainy day alternative.

Valy A — Google review

Interesting history and great guides. Some of the floors are a bit uneven and the hills steep but was doable for my son's manual wheelchair. Would recommend the trip down the mine.

Mike V — Google review

Brilliant museum and free! The underground tour was fascinating and gave a taster of life working in the mines, although we were assured work was much tougher in some other mines! Our tour guide had spent most of his life working in mines and now was part of the miners rescue service so gave so much insight from personal experience. The exhibition was fantastic too.

Kat B — Google review

Excellent experience. My 3rd visit over the last 20 years. Every visit offers new and unique insight into the life of a South Wales miner as well as their daily issues and risks.

Nathan C — Google review

Cannot recommend this experience more! Emma our tour guide was phenomenalSo much passion and love can be seen for the place even as the last tour of the daySo much history on the site and the underground tour was just the start!Also with beautiful views

Amy D — Google review

It is a fascinating and fabulous way to get children to experience living history in a fun way.Our guide, Mike, was funny and very informative as well as engaging the children on our tour fully.There is a 1m height restriction, but no age restriction.We had an elderly but sprightly 77 yr old with us, and he managed the underground tour very well in spite of it being uneven to walk in places.A short wait for the next tour to begin, roughly 10 minutes first thing in the morning on a Saturday.Outdoors, there are further attractions all to fo with mining, fabulous views, and a great little coffee shop and gift shop.It even snowed as we came out of the underground tour!Parking is £5 for the day, free for disabled users.There is no entrance fee, but you can give donations.5* experience

Daisy D — Google review

Absolutely fantastic experienceGo 300 feet below ground in a mineshaft and wander around a small part of the 27 miles of tunnels, guided by an experienced miner.Awesome!Highly recommend

Lisa M — Google review

What an absolutely fantastic place to visit! So interesting and informative. I went on the underground tour, which was led by an ex miner who gave great insight into working in the mines. My initial interest was in the early days as my ancestors worked in the Somerset and Rhondda mines, and the tour as well as the information and artefacts in the old bath house really helped in getting across what life was like... very humbling! So much respect for anyone who worked the mines and their families, who endured so much as well

Karen W — Google review

Fantastic experience of mining 90m underground. Also lots to see in different buildings around. 2 cafes on site. Paid parking and paid entrance to underground mines, each £5. We had great funny guide Rhys. Children under 1metre or dogs cannot go underground.

Hana W — Google review

A great place. Unfortunately we didn't have time go underground but the above side attraction was brilliant and we could take dogs round. Also it was free. Just the 20 min mine simulation that dogs weren't allowed, and the cafe. Food was simple, but nice. Really want to return to see what we missed.

Emily P — Google review

An amazing experience, a good day out even if the weather is poor, plenty to see. The car park costs £5 and then it is free entry. It costs £5 per person to go on an underground tour that is actually very interesting and the guides know a lot of information. The person who took ours was a young bloke who knew so much and you could tell he was very interested in questions from the group... After the tour there was plenty to see... We had 4 hot drinks in the cafe they were good for under £10.. the gift shop had plenty.

Alex L — Google review

A fabulous experience . Did the underground tour and museum. Informative guide with great stories about working as a miner . You get to wear a helmet and light to add to the experience . The photos around the site show what a hard , dirty and dangerous job mining was in the Welsh valleys for many years. Recommended day out .

Adrian J — Google review

Visited here many years ago but never got the opportunity to go underground. What an awesome experience. Our guide (lady sorry I forgot her name) Was very knowledgeable and informative. I would highly recommend it and will definitely return soon. So much has improved since I last visited I hope it continues to improve as it's a really great place to visit

Mal D — Google review

I adored this place because unlike some museums they appear to have kept the majority of it preserved minimal restoration. Alot of the history you'll see here is set in time, unaltered. They do underground tours too! Highly recommend anyone a visit. Lots of people on hand to help.

Saffron H — Google review

4.8

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5.0

(2951)40 Best Stops Between Sidmouth and Swansea (198)

Pontypool, NP4 9XP, United Kingdom

+44 300 111 2333

27

Lynton & Lynmouth Cliff Railway

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Tours

Scenic Railroads

Historical & Heritage Tours

If youre looking for a adrenaline-pumping adventure, the Cliff Railway in Lynton & Lynmouth is the perfect place to go. It's a famous railway that runs between the two towns, and it's fully water-powered so it requires no external power sources. The railway rises over 500 ft (152 m) along 862 ft (262 m) of track making it the highest and steepest railway in the world.

The children loved it. Very exciting and novel experience, really friendly staff and incredible views. Fast and good value. I should imagine it gets very busy in peak times but it's well worth the wait. No booking required.

Joanna M — Google review

Love this! Hadn't been on since I was a kid ( I seem to remember the water used to flow down the track when released from the top?)My dog enjoyed the ride too 🐾

Paul G — Google review

Nice view and quick ride. May be 1-2 hours are sufficient for this attraction. If you go early morning no issue for car park and queue at cliff railway. You cannot buy return ticket, after coming down you have to pay again. I believe it was £3.50 for adult and £2.50 kids and £1 for dogs.

Mahesh P — Google review

Very picturesque and features a fantastic piece of engineering. A hill side railway lift operated by water, a hydro lift. A must visit Cafe not far from the top is Charlie Fridays award winning and really quirky. The cakes and Ginger/ beetroot smoothie was amazing.

Andrew O — Google review

The railway itself is short and expensive for what it is, but very much worth it in my opinion. The engineering that goes into the set up is incredible, the views are spectacular and the staff were amazing. One bloke on our trip left his wallet behind at the tourist info centre, and the operator waited a good 5 minutes for him to return. Fantastic customer service.

Adam E — Google review

Fabulous town!! Beautiful & picturesque. Stunning sea front guest houses & hotels, lovely coastal walks and great fish n chips!! Lots of independent shops selling quality items. Looking forward to visiting again.

Princess — Google review

Great piece of engineering. The driver was very knowledgeable of the local area and really friendly with our dog and baby. Great experience. £3.50 per adult is a bargain seeing as you a riding on a historic cliff railway and the money goes back into maintaining it and keeping it running for years to come!At the top we went into the cafe and had cream teas, the best we've had. Freshly baked scones 👍As others have mentioned, we parked at the valley of rocks and then took the coastal path.

Jon — Google review

Great place to visit. The railway was a hit! Well priced. Queue was pretty small when we arrived but much busier later. However moves quite fast. Definitely recommend a trip if visiting

Amy P — Google review

Always enjoyed using the cliff railway when holidaying in the area over the last 20 years. Spectacular views and amazing staff who are always great with visitors.Unfortunately since the pandemic they no longer have return fares and have shorter opening hours and no longer take cash ( including the cafe) which has lovely cream teas. Well worth a visit and we will be back every time we visit the area

David C — Google review

Lovely historic cliff railway, we were lucky and came on a quiet day so managed to park right on the street in front. We got the train up, which for a family of 3 was around £9 and then walked down the zigzag path through the trees, enjoying the views on the way downLittle cafe at the top serves the biggest scones I've ever seen

David M — Google review

Lovely experience on our road trip around Cornwall. £3.50 per person and £1 per dog. We enjoyed it all, and the view from the top was nice. The walk down was pleasant as well. Must try! #travelwithtentbox

Martina ( — Google review

A truly iconic place. Friendly people, incredible views. A lot of people moaning about the cost but it's not expensive for the chance to ride on something so special. We are lucky to have this. The views from the top are breathtaking and the ice cream shop at the exit from lynton is also spectacular.I came here with my parents probably about 30 years ago. It's magnificent to be able to come here again and relive the memories. Thank you

DashCam U — Google review

Beautiful scenery from cliff railway. You can go up and walk down. Lovely shops. Food shops in abundance. Choice of everything. Cider, ice cream etc.

Michael F — Google review

Lovely trip into Lynton & Lynmouth again, been many times, but not on the cliff railway. Throughly enjoyed our rides down from top, even Obi enjoyed his ride, not a bad price either. Dogs are free if they can sit on your lap, but he is a bit big for that so cost a £1. So good got the train back up as well.

Chelle B — Google review

We parked at Valley of rocks, walked along the beautiful scenic route to Lynton. Amazing views and definitely worth doing. We walked from Lynton down a little path to Lynmouth as we figured walking down the hill and getting the train back up was better than the other way round 😂We had a lovely walk around Lynmouth and grabbed some lunch for the kids at Meat Hub. Once we were ready we walked back to the station and queued for a while for the train, I guess everyone else had the same idea as us.Yes we had to wait a while in the queue but it was a lovely day and we spoke to various people while waiting. Everyone was really friendly.Rode on the train back up the hill and grabbed a giant scone at the cafe at the top, very tasty 😋The train was very reasonable and a lovely thing to do. The dog seemed to enjoy it too. Would definitely recommend doing it, lovely views from the train.

Claire S — Google review

We arrived 10.00am on a, bank holiday Sunday. Probably the best time on a bank holiday. Wonderful views and a lovely experience. Nice friendly helpful staff too

Victoria G — Google review

One of the most beautiful & interesting railways in the country. Absolutely stunning 😍 I grew up in Lynton & Lynmouth & used to ride the railway to school in Lynton. Always had a special place in my heart & hope to return to live there again sometime soon.

T C — Google review

Pretty cool how it works (uses water) and good value (£3.50) to be able to ascend or descend the cliff in just a few minutes. Was a long queue initially because of a technical fault, but once fixed queue moves quite fast.

Luke — Google review

Really nice ride with views. Great bit of history. Staff were friendly. Very clean. Saves a lot of leg work going from Lynton to Lynmouth. Only complaint would be the tickets could be cheaper or have deals for families / return tickets.

MrJsquires86 — Google review

I had a wonderful experience riding the Cliff Railway. The views from the top were amazing, and it wasn't crowded. We took the railway up and walked down. There are shops and cafés at the top.

Jain — Google review

4.7

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4.5

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The Esplanade, Lynmouth, EX35 6EQ, United Kingdom

+44 1598 753486

28

Public Art: Verity

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Sculpture

Sights & Landmarks

Monuments & Statues

Damien Hirst's public sculpture, Verity, is a 20.25-meter tall stainless steel and bronze statue of a pregnant Amazonian figure with a sword. The sculpture overlooks the historic harbour of Ilfracombe in Devon, England. It has received mixed reviews from art critics for its uncompromising nature and resemblance to the Statue of Liberty.

Absolutely stunning piece of artwork by Damien Hirst. Parking (payable) available right next to her, but do walk around the harbour and admire her from afar too.

Tara S — Google review

Wroth visiting for the wonderful piece of art! Love the story behind it and what she represents. I highly recommend visiting if you are into looking at art installations!

Chloe W — Google review

Really beautiful sculpture, amazing detailPairing right next to it

Izzy W — Google review

Just beautiful, especially when you realise what this sculpture represents. I love Verity and have visited her everytime I've come to Ilfracombe.

Nic W — Google review

What an amazing statue. Standing so tall and strong. It's beautiful and gross at the same time but when you really look at it it's amazing.

Lynn B — Google review

The stature looks awesome! It's cool to see the baby inside her belly. I like that she symbolises truth and justice cause it fits. The scale in her hand shows justice and the torn skin the truth (cause you can see everything (literally!))Also the cliffs there are stunning and you can make a historic tour on a lifeboat! And a parking area is there too.

Greenapple A — Google review

Beautiful sculpture. If you walk around the bay and pick the coastal walk heading towards Hele Bay you will be rewarded with a spectacular view of the harbour and Verity herself.

Karla B — Google review

This is a piece of public opinion dividing art!..stunning large sculpture of Verity in the harbour looking out to sea. Thought provoking and debate making work by Damien Hurst. I can imagine how much this could have caused some concern when erected by the local people as some would feel the sculpture rather graphic. Personally I really enjoyed seeing her set against the sea with a church on the cliff top to the left of the harbour bringing further reason for conversation. Parking in the harbour area and several other tourist information signs for other parking with views of the sculpture. Outside attraction so except for the parking charge free to view. Disability access throughout and public toilets in the harbour car park with disabled access.

Her I — Google review

Very impressive sculpture but a bit weird.When stood below, the size of the sculpture is insanely beautiful. Stretching up into the sky above you. However its a bit weird in terma of subject matter and shows the inside of a pregnant woman. I know its art but I think its a bit weird.However from this point the views of the harbour are stunning and not to be missed.

Phoebe H — Google review

A beautiful statue one of the best I've seen in the world. And a great place for it with the sea in the background I imagine it looks even better in stormy weather

Stephen W — Google review

Visited Ilfracombe yesterday and came across the sculpture of Verity, quite a thought provoking statue, I had to look at it from all angles, such an amazing piece of work ❤️ I can't wait to look up the background into the statue, thank you Damian Hirst for such an amazing piece of art

Vivian B — Google review

Well worth a visit verity is wonderful. Make sure to view it from all sides.

Terry D — Google review

We visited 'Verity' on a holiday in North Devon. It is a somewhat controversial statue liked by some people, disliked by others and thought about by others. It is a pregnant woman standing on a pile of legal tomes holding the scales of justice by her side and a sword aloft. It is constructed using stainless steel and bronze with a polymer strengthened glass fibre sword. To many people seeing the statue from one side is too much, you can see a foetus inside the body as the skin has not been included. Damien Hirst, the sculptor describes it as an allegory of truth and justice. It made me think, and that is a good thing, in my view statues should be more that a pretty object.

Gerard H — Google review

4.4

(274)40 Best Stops Between Sidmouth and Swansea (210)

4.0

(2687)40 Best Stops Between Sidmouth and Swansea (211)

Ilfracombe, EX34 9EQ, United Kingdom

29

LC Swansea

Mentioned on

12 lists

Leisure centre

Water & Amusement Parks

Gym

Water Parks

The LC Swansea leisure centre in the heart of Swansea City Centre boasts Wales' largest indoor waterpark complete with pools, slides and waves. In addition to the waterpark, there is a gym and spa as well as an indoor climbing wall and sports hall. The facility is open 7 days a week during school holidays with varying opening times and prices which can be found on their website. The staff are friendly and efficient managing to keep the facility clean despite its popularity.

Came to the LC2 to attend the Swansea Comic Con.It was well laid out with plenty of space to walk around, but it did seem smaller than the previous year.It was a nice atmosphere and great turn out for the event itself.The leisure centre seemed busy with its own guests attending the pool and other facilities.From the outside the pool are look great fun with its slides and there is a Costa and play area for young ones as you enter. The reception staff were polite and helpful.

Christopher J — Google review

Wave runner has never worked even though on the leaflet it specifically says 'the surf's always up at the LC!', the locker rooms are dirty and cramped, but other than that quite good and fun. Great slides, wave machine is quite fun, lazy river is relaxing with a nice Jacuzzi in the middle, and a lovely warm hot tub. (although going back into the pool from hot tub is quite cold!) Would recommend for people who don't mind dirty cramped places and weren't thinking of going on the wave runner. Would NOT reccomend for people with claustrophobia, people who don't like dirty places (like my daughter) or people who wanted to try surfing. Just go to the beach on a day with lots of good waves and bring a surfboard!

Daddy S — Google review

My daughter's love coming here with the waves, and lots to do in the pool. Wish the water was a little warmer for my 1yr old as she does shiver coming out and the toddler pool is even colder brr...but would highly recommend

Sian D — Google review

A fun few hours frolicking in the pool.We had a great time on all the water slides and playing in the wave pool and rapids. The changing rooms are big with plenty of cubicles. The pool temperature is cooler than expected. The cafe looks good with a nice choice of food and drink.

Sascha H — Google review

I joined the gym. Wahay! I committed to a year too, so no excuse.The facilities are excellent. The gym is very well equipped with some hi tech equipment, and the classes are great too. To top it all, you can swim in the pool as part of the membership, as well as enjoy three hours free parking.A really good venue with lots to do.

Jason W — Google review

Adorable and fun, losds of different activities here not just swimming. Unfortunately the swimming changing rooms are mixed. The slide here is acc so fun to go on defo recommend.Closes at 7 pm@ AfterHoursCupping

After C — Google review

We come here every school holiday. The chutes are brilliant (bit of a queue). We love the lazy river. And the atmosphere during the wave machine countdown makes it feel like we're on holiday.Water was lovely and warm.Lots of parking nearby (can be expensive for the day).

Natlee G — Google review

This was a fantastic venue for swimming, with a large entrance area that staff checked me in promptly at! Twisting slides are included and one where you are seated that goes on an up and down journey, hot tub is epic too. Waves machine brings excitement and lazy river was fun, not getting too dragged away!

K. P — Google review

Well haven't been here in 35 years. Absolutely brilliant. Busy half term day but that was to be expected. Staff at poolside were brilliant. Not afraid to enforce where young lads were messing about. Great to see strictness at all times. Will defo be back.

Deborah N — Google review

Booked this as part of a random day out with my nephew, what a great pick.Could easily spend the day here between softplay area and the water park.Would definitely no park the the multi storey next, go across the road to St Davies car park is so much cheaper

Sasha E — Google review

Spa facilities great, and Hannah who does the treatments is excellent. Shame swimming pool not available at all times overall clean and well maintained. Every staff member helpful, polite and friendly. Easy to locate but they could advertise better externally and also at the centre itself so you can. Know more about what you can do there and how much it will cost to do things.

Christie S — Google review

Visited yesterday with my son, overall good experience. Four stars because the lifeguards were on a bit of a power trip and quite aggressive with the whistles. I'm all for public safety but pacing back and fore with the whistle hanging out of your mouth looking for a kid to target was a bit much. They're on string for a reason, you don't need to keep it in your mouth when not in use (refer to instructions if unsure). Bit overcrowded in the pool, and the toilets stunk. Wave machine and lazy river were fun.

Emma — Google review

2 (fairly naff) slides, a tube ring coaster that you'll be lucky to ride once in your 90 mins slot and an extremely lazy river. Not great really!On the plus side, the changing and shower facilities are quite good and the lifeguards are helpful and plentiful but we all had more fun (despite the chill!) swimming in Oxwich Bay and unless you have very young children, I'd suggest you do likewise.

John H — Google review

Visited for the soft play. Lovely soft play, plenty for the kids to do, my only gripe would be that you only get an hour. It should be an hour and a half in my opinion, most other soft plays are. The hour goes so quick, once you've gotten a seat, taken shoes off etc. Will definitely come back, but an increase in session time would be better.

NiaC90 — Google review

Love the LC2 always go swimming here have about 3 slides, do have cues a lot but never too long.Also has a wave pool that comes on every 20/30 minutes and a lazy river too.There a hot tub/jacuzzi which you can use also and a surf machine for an extra £5 booked separately that you can go on.Also has a cafe where you can get a bite and some coffee etc, a gym and climbing wall all able to be booked, think it also has a kids play gym.Overall great value for money and a good couple of hours out in Swansea centre close enough to other places too!

Chloe — Google review

Good would be even better if you could set up an account with credit visible..

Michael K — Google review

I couldn’t take lots of pictures as much as I wanted to because it’s not allowed which is understandable.It’s a water park and also has other area where kids can play.I had an awesome experience here, I booked online a day before which cost 8:80 GBP for adults.Each session lasts for 1hr 45 mins. It has a lovely pool that gives waves like a real beach and water tubes. It’s my first time participating in such and it’s so lovely. There’s a changing room and a locker where you can keep your belongings safe.Children will definitely have fun too. There’s an area where you can buy snacks and drinks. I recommend!!!!!!!!

Dada K — Google review

My kids had a great time, although my youngest turned blue from the cold. It seems either they're cutting costs by not heating the toddler pool or the heater isn't working. The water was ice-cold, which is particularly concerning since this pool is meant for babies. Heating it should be a priority. Additionally, many of the lockers are broken and need fixing. Aside from these issues, the kids enjoyed themselves, but the long queues were a downside.Don't forget to factor in the cost of parking, which was £6. Personally, parking should be free or subsidised if you're using the pool.

P J — Google review

Unable to comment on all of the facilities. Just go there for children's soft play area which is very good (during school hours).Adequate cafe for tea / coffee and basic snacks. Extortionate parking charge in neighbouring Arena car park. Find somewhere else to park!

Douglas M — Google review

Convinced this is the best waterpark in the UK..or at least best I've been to.My daughter and I just had our 2nd visit about 5 years apart and it's still load of fun,well ran by the staff and clean.Excellent!

Duncan D — Google review

4.4

(1803)40 Best Stops Between Sidmouth and Swansea (212)

4.0

(1803)40 Best Stops Between Sidmouth and Swansea (213)

Oystermouth Rd, Maritime Quarter, Swansea, SA1 3ST, United Kingdom

+44 1792 466500

30

National Showcaves Centre for Wales

40 Best Stops Between Sidmouth and Swansea (214)40 Best Stops Between Sidmouth and Swansea (215)

40 Best Stops Between Sidmouth and Swansea (216)40 Best Stops Between Sidmouth and Swansea (217)

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Visitor center

Nature & Parks

The National Showcaves Centre for Wales, located in the picturesque Brecon Beacons, is a renowned attraction offering an array of experiences. Visitors can explore three distinct caves - Dan-yr-Ogof, Cathedral Cave, and Bone Cave - each with its own unique features such as vast caverns and stunning waterfalls. In addition to cave exploration, the center boasts a dinosaur park, museum, Iron Age farm, and a play area for kids.

Well-worth a visit, very well maintained and managed caves. No mouldy smell inside, very well lit & very helpful and friendly staff. The pictures don't do much justice as the real deal... Sincerely suggest a visit, especially if you have kids who would like caves & dinosaur stories. The view from the top is beautiful ❤️

Explorer — Google review

We had a fantastic day at the national showcaves. Well worth the money you definitely get your money's worth. The first 2 caves where great, the cathedral cave was the best, that was our favourite. If we had one negative it would be the bone cave. You have to wear a hard hat, which is fine but they absolutely stunk of sweat from previous people. The walk up to the bone cave is via a steep hill under a very low canopy ( hence the hard hat) then when you finally reach the cave it is so small and you can't actually see very much we didn't feel it was worth having to crouch down all the way up the hill to see it. But as I said that's the only negative.The dinosaur park was more than expected, plenty to look at. We also went to the shire horse/farm which we enjoyed, the animals are so friendly especially the goats. We had some lunch in the cafe the food tasted great and it was freshly made. We didn't feel like it was badly priced either. Would absolutely recommend doing this if your in the area we drove an hour from where are staying and it was still worth it.

Rebecca T — Google review

Amazing place to visit with kids. Whole day can be spent easily. 3 caves to visit and the Cathedral is the best and most beautiful. The dinosaur park which lead you to the two additional caves help you to climb up to the mountain which gives you a beautiful view for the surrounding mountains. Highly recommend! It worth its price and under 3s can go free. Helpful staff and well looked after place.

László L — Google review

This adventure was enjoyable for me and my family. The caves were a wonderful experience, especially the inside waterfall in the second cave.The dinosaurs were good too. A couple also made my 2 year old daughter jump and hide away a little, which was rather amusing 😅The animals are friendly, and they are more than happy for visitor's to approach them for some love and attention.A very good visit, very pleased and some lovely memories to cherish.

Andrew H — Google review

Pictures don't do this place justice. The caves are quite spectacular, in my opinion. AMAZING views inside, and outside, of the caves with lots of other things to see and do around the farm and play area.Well worth a visit. 👍

Stephen R — Google review

Excellent to visit in a few hours.Family trip, couples etc. Need to buy tickets in advance.There is a farm, a little train to take you up to the caves.The walk is steep when you start going up. Caves are amazing to visit. The bone cave is a challenge to get into to, not necessarily worth it. The rest of the attractions are super. If you are into dinosaurs as well, that is the place to be. Lovely views from the top of the hill. 10/10 experience

Teodora A — Google review

Amazing experience, took the kids on a rainy day on holiday and had great fun exploring the caves. Also an incredible amount of model dinosaurs! Didn’t spend long in the farm due to the weather but otherwise a great place to go on a wet day…take layers though as the caves are a bit chilly.

Simon B — Google review

Amazing place!have a jumper as its cold inside and book online before coming. Dog friendly too. Best caves so far (we have visited one near Cornwall). Definitely get your moneys worth. So it turned out to be 3 different caves! First one was pretty long and if you take your time, you can spend 1hr there easily or more. After this one, you walk through dinosaur park to get to another cave system. Well, I am not a kid, but loved those dinos! Some automated, lots of speakers around for different noise they make, it's fun to just try spot them as they spaced out across forest area. Second cave was stunning and third one you need safety hats as its low walk to it and cave is tiny, but different from the rest. It's quite steep walk at some points inside caves and outside.

Jovita L — Google review

We were staying at the Brecon Beacons Resort, so the caves and dinosaur land was just next door. On arrival to the main entrance you will be greeted by dinosaurs that have been designed with great attention to detail. The dinosaur park is great if you like us you love to see what once was. There are moving ones which is nice to see. There are various boards of information about the ancient animals but this not the only thing that awaits you here. There are three caves to explore, starting with a huge one, then the cathedral cave and the last one - the cave of bones - where you even have to crouch and mind your head as hence why you are only allowed in with a helmet. This is a good place to visit if the hot summer temperatures are high as the caves are refreshing. Various rock layers and structures are worth marveling at. There is also a small bronze age village explaining life back then.Also included in the price is the entrance to the farm - it's not everyday you see sheep, Lama's and Emus in the same field 😁Overall my family of five and our pet dog ( dogs not allowed in the stones/farm area) thoroughly enjoyed the few hours we strolled around the place.

Beaker882002 — Google review

Absolutely loved this attracttion, the caves were amazing, the dinosaurs were brilliant. Bit steep when walking around, but manageable. We spent about 3 hours there all in all. Brought our tickets online before hand, and it was a self lead walk so no mad rush to get round. The restaurant was OK, though we only had a coffee, toilets were clean and maintained.My only gripe, the lady in front of us had a dog who decided to crap in the cave as soon as we walked in there, I know you cannot time when these things are going to happen, but this place is historic, it wasn't a great situation

Jo D — Google review

Really lovely day out, easily fill a day. The caves are really good, a pretty good path but wet so wear sensible shoes. The waterfalls are worth seeing and then do the loop walk to the cathedral and bone caves it was a pretty walk and pushchair able most of the way with a bit of a workout. Lots of interesting animals to see at the barn and very tame, it was pleasurable how happy and healthy they looked. Cafe was nice, bit expensive. Toilets were only thing that were not good, tatty and not clean enough considering all the younger clientele and animals petting. We thought it was a good value day and would certainly recommend

Alison H — Google review

A great day out.Lots to see for all ages.Some of the caves require climbing steep hills, or walking along small/low gangways.Most of the site is NOT suitable for wheelchairs or push chairs, but the entry/museum/shop, play park, and shire pony sanctuary are fairly accessible.

Morgan B — Google review

I love this place. The caves are excellent,especially the one with the waterfalls.The dinosaur park and the train ride up to the entrance makes this excellent for children. We took our 3 year old and he loved it, especially the train ride!

Kirsty T — Google review

Visited after the school holiday rush so was nice and quiet. Attraction was clean with polite staff. Really nice day out with the kids who got to see how caving has changed over the years followed by a dinosaur walk. Definitely recommend the Welsh cake ice cream afterwards. Cafe food was very reasonably priced with good portions.

Mark C — Google review

This place is awesome for a family day out! I didn't know what to expect, but it was way better than I thought. Totally worth the money. It's a beautiful place with loads of space. We spent a few hours there, and everyone, both adults and kids, had a great time.

Aleksandra P — Google review

A very nice simple place which is perfect for kids 12 years or younger.Some animatronic dinosaurs among the fixed plastic ones, small farm and farming exhibit. Indoor play areas.Caves are not really friendly for those with limited movement or wheelchair .Three caves of which the cathedral is the most impressive .Food and toilets only at the top near the caves.Free road train to take you from car park and farm to the caves up the hill.

Matthew C — Google review

Great place to visit, some really interesting caves with a lot of history. Good place to bring children as they will enjoy the many dinosaurs.Tours are self guided but there is audio and video playing as you go around all 3 caves. There is a lot of walking, the caves are quite narrow and shallow in places, especially the bones cave, you have to walk through a walkway that is about 5ft tall and narrow to pass and you must wear a hard hat. As with most caves I don't recommend if you are mobility challenged, there are some stairs in the first two caves. The outside areas are quite steep in places.There is a cafe and toilets on site and benches if you bring a picnic. There's also a museum and gift shop although this is nothing special, just your usual Nik nak stuff. Parking is free onsite.

Phil — Google review

Great place to take the kids, lots to see and down with all the dinosaurs everywhere. The caves are well kept and have some very nice surprises inside.

Adam B — Google review

Loved the caves, great place to visit and fun if you have kids. Large caves to explore and has a little farm down the bottom. Plenty of activities for kids but plenty for adults to see, with a nice Caffe. The place was lacking toilets though, only ones are in the cafe at the start, so long walk down if you suddenly need a wee.

Aiden B — Google review

We visited on Wednesday morning (11092024) with our 3 year old grandson, having booked tickets online prior to visiting.After looking at the dinosaurs at the entrance, we went to the ticket office and headed directly to Dan Yr Ogof caves. The caves were well lit, with background narration. There are lots of interesting formations to see.We then visited the dinosaur park - our grandson loved it. There were lots of different types of dinosaurs with information about each one.From the dinosaurs, we walked to the Cathedral Cave. This was spectacular. Again, very well lit with Pachebel's Canon playing in the background to add to the atmosphere.After completing the dinosaurs park and a meal in the cafe/restaurant, we wandered down to see the Shire horses and other animals.The whole experience was self guided, which was helped by the abundance of good direction and information signs. Overall, it was an excellent experience, and we all had a great time. The dinosaur park would particularly appeal to younger visitors.

Mark M — Google review

4.7

(4595)40 Best Stops Between Sidmouth and Swansea (218)

4.5

(1540)40 Best Stops Between Sidmouth and Swansea (219)

Abercraf, Swansea, SA9 1GJ, United Kingdom

+44 1639 730284

40 Best Stops Between Sidmouth and Swansea (2024)
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