9 min readStaying a few days in Bristol? Take advantage of Bristol being the capital of the South West with a day trip to some of the impressive cities, historic towns, and seaside destinations nearby.
2025 marks the 200th anniversary of the modern railway, so what better way to celebrate than travelling by train? Great Western Railway (GWR) operates a wide range of routes across the South West, with ticket options to suit every need, helping you to get the best value for your money.
If you’re travelling in a group between 3 and 9 people, you’ll enjoy a third off your tickets with GroupSave. Or, extend a weekend exploring Bristol and its surrounding area and get 50% off return tickets with the Long Weekender. Check if you’re eligible for one of the UK’s national Railcards to enjoy up to a third off ticket prices.
1. Keynsham
Based halfway between Bristol and Bath, Keynsham is a pretty, independent market town that is home to riverside pubs, a steam railway and family attractions. Hopping on a train from Bristol Temple Meads to Keynsham takes just 6-7 minutes.
Once you've arrived, take a seat by the water at Lock Keeper. They’ve got a beautiful pub garden that overlooks the River Avon, a rustic interior dating from the 18th century, and a cracking pub menu of British classics.
For the ultimate pub walk, stretch your legs and follow one of Keynsham’s many riverside walking routes, from short circulars to longer hikes. You could even stop into Flourish Foodhall and Kitchen to pick up some snacks for a picnic if you're planning a longer walk. Follow the River Avon path west of Keynsham for half an hour to reach another scenic pub - the Chequers Inn in Hanham Lock.
Image - Lock Keeper
A Railway 200 itinerary wouldn't be complete without a visit to Avon Valley Railway, based 1.5 miles (or a half-hour walk) from Keynsham station. Step back in time on a steam train ride along a restored section of the former Midland Railway branch line, followed by an afternoon tea or cake at the station buffet. Avon Valley Railway also hosts special events throughout the year, from Murder Mystery nights to Footplate Rides, where you can stand up front in the cab with the crew!
If you’re visiting with family during school and bank holidays, head to Avon Valley Adventure Park for a fun-filled day out, from animal encounters to miniature train rides, multiple play areas and special events.
Image - Avon Valley Railway
2. Weston-super-Mare
Looking to mix up your city break with a trip to the seaside? The train will get you to Weston-super-Mare from Bristol Temple Meads in around 35 minutes.
Take a wander along Weston’s long sandy beaches, have a paddle or swim in the Marine Lake, and see the amazing street art from Weston Wallz artists. For a more classic seaside day out, head to The Grand Pier for arcade games, thrilling rides and family entertainment, or enjoy some fish and chips along the seafront.
Weston’s cultural calendar is packaged with events all year round, from GLOW Festival in February, to Weston Beach Race and Fireworks at Sea in October, and Weston Carnival in November. Check out Visit Weston’s website for a full list of what’s on, or SuperCulture’s website for a cultural event calendar.
Image - The Grand Pier
3. Bath
Just 12 minutes by train is the UNESCO World Heritage City of Bath. From the famous Roman Baths to award-winning thermal spas, marvellous museums, grand galleries, and stunning Georgian architecture, Bath has plenty to explore. You may also recognise the city from its appearances in the popular Netflix hit Bridgerton, where many of Bath's historic buildings were used as filming locations.
Bath is also a hotspot for shoppers, with its streets brimming with independent stores and high street brands. Check out Bath’s food scene: try both a Bath bun and a Sally Lunn bun to see which is your favourite, sample some locally-made Bath Gin, or follow in the footsteps of Jane Austen and enjoy afternoon tea at The Pump Room.
Image - Thermae Bath Spa
4. Bradford-on-Avon
Situated on the River Avon and Kennet & Avon Canal, Bradford-on-Avon is a great spot to explore the nearby countryside. It takes less than 35 minutes by train from Bristol Temple Meads.
Walk along the Kennet & Avon canal path and take in sights including the Medieval Tithe Barn and surrounding shops and cafes. For a longer walk, follow the path all the way to the nearby towns of Trowbridge (3 miles one way) and Devizes (over 12 miles one way), or explore the canal by boat and hire a canoe.
For a quintessentially British day out, order afternoon tea at the 16th century The Bridge Tea Rooms, where you'll be served by friendly staff in traditional costume.
Image - The Bridge Tea Rooms
5. Gloucester
Gloucester is a great destination for a day trip packed with history, culture, shopping, and food. Trains from Bristol Temple Meads to Gloucester take around 50 minutes.
Make sure to explore the historic Gloucester Docks (the most inland port in the country) with its Victorian warehouses, many bars and restaurants, and the nearby shopping centre Gloucester Quays.
Visit the stunning 15th century Gloucester Cathedral, which doubled as Hogwarts in the Harry Potter films. Find out about the Gloucestershire Regiment at the Soldiers of Gloucester Museum, or dive into local heritage at the Folk of Gloucester and the Museum of Gloucester. Rugby fans can also watch Gloucester Rugby at the Kingsholm Stadium.
If you'd like to see more of the surrounding countryside, explore the Gloucester and Sharpness Canal by bike, foot, or by boat, or plan a longer hike in the scenic Cotswolds nearby.
Image - Gloucester Cathedral, credit Jordan Chung
6. Cheltenham
Just 37 minutes by train from Bristol Temple Meads, Cheltenham is the perfect day trip for culture lovers, foodies, and festival-goers.
Known as the ‘Festival Town’ and the cultural heart of the Cotswolds, Cheltenham hosts over 35 major events a year - from world-class jazz and literature festivals to the iconic Cheltenham Gold Cup horse races in March.
Stroll through elegant Regency streets, relax in the beautiful Pittville Park and Imperial Gardens, or for unreal views of Cheltenham and Gloucester, walk up Leckhampton Hill. Browse shops at the Promenade, or head out for a game of competitive socialising at The Brewery Quarter.
Image - Pittville Pump Room
7. Frome
The cobbled streets of Frome are just under an hour from Bristol Temple Meads by train. Named as one of the coolest towns in Britain by the Times, the artsy town of Frome is home to a thriving arts scene, and is also well-known locally for its shops, cafes and restaurants.
One of the event calendar highlights is the Frome Independent Market, which occurs on the first Sunday of each month (from March – December) where you can expect to find stalls featuring the South West’s finest independent artisans, designers, and producers. For a 10-day celebration of arts, culture, food, and drink, don’t miss the Frome Festival in July.
Music lovers should also see what’s on at iconic gig venue The Cheese & Grain, which has hosted well-known names over the years, including Fatboy Slim, Joni Mitchell, Foo Fighters, Robert Plant, Frank Turner and Biffy Clyro.
Image - Catherine Hill in Frome
8. Cardiff
It takes just over 50 minutes from Bristol Temple Meads to get the Welsh capital by train.
Cardiff is packed with things to do, from the historic Cardiff Castle to rugby matches and concerts at the Principality Stadium. Take a wander around Cardiff Bay, or try white water rafting at Cardiff International White Water Centre.
Don’t miss a trip to Cardiff Central Market - an impressive Victorian structure where you can get everything from English breakfasts to Welsh cakes. Local foodie favourites include Hard Lines specialty coffee shop and Matsudai Ramen.
Image - Cardiff Bay
9. Salisbury
Trains from Bristol to the medieval town of Salisbury take around one hour and 10 minutes.
Begin your day by seeing Magna Carta at Salisbury Cathedral, then walk along the medieval streets and soak up the history and heritage. Hop on a shuttle bus to visit the World Heritage Site of Stonehenge. For a countryside stroll, walk along the Town Path, which connects Queen Elizabeth Gardens to the Harnham area of the city.
Pop to Salisbury Market Place, where you’ll find the regular Charter Market which runs every Tuesday and Saturday, and pay a visit to The Salisbury Museum for a superb archaeology gallery.
Image - Salisbury Cathedral
10. Oxford
Trains to the historic university city of Oxford take around 1 hour and 20 minutes from Bristol.
Seek out the University of Oxford colleges (some of which are free to visit) and explore the many fascinating museums. Take a leisurely punt along the River Cherwell, where you’ll pass the Victoria Arms and the lovely University parks and gardens. Learn about art and archaeology at The Ashmolean, Britain’s first public museum, and explore Harry Potter filming locations.
Image - The Radcliffe Camera building
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