7 min readDid you know that you can catch one of Britain’s most scenic bus routes from Bristol? The beloved 376 bus service connects the city to the beautiful Somerset countryside on its southern doorstep, and we've put together a list of the best things to do along the route!
Hop aboard the 376 at Bay 18 in Bristol Bus Station, based near Bristol Shopping Quarter in the city centre. For more information on purchasing tickets, alighting, and much more, check out our guide to taking the bus in and around Bristol.
If you’re able to, we’d recommend nabbing a seat on the top deck, where you’ll enjoy the best views of the surrounding countryside on the journey.
1. Savour classic British pub grub under the Pensford Viaduct
Lying just 7 miles outside Bristol city centre, the sleepy village of Pensford is nestled in one of the Mendip Hills’ numerous valleys. Alight at the Pensford Bridge stop, then make for popular local pub The Rising Sun, where you can sip on fabulous local ales and ciders, and tuck in to a tempting selection of classic British pub dishes. The pub boasts a cosy garden overlooking the remarkable Pensford Viaduct, which is the perfect spot for spending a couple of hours drinking or dining alfresco.
Image: Pensford, credit Zoe Sutton
2. Visit an ancient stone circle at Stanton Drew
From Pensford, follow the public footpath off Stanton Lane, which leads you underneath the viaduct and through two miles of open greenery to the neighbouring village of Stanton Drew. Here, you’ll find Somerset’s very own ancient stone circle, similar to those at Stonehenge and Avebury, and the UK's third largest complex of standing stones. Best of all, you can wander around all three of the site’s stone circles for just £1!
Image: Stanton Drew stone circle
3. Explore Wells
Wells, the UK’s second smallest city, is the first major stop on the 376 route. There’s plenty to fill a whole day out with here, but your first port of call has to be Wells Cathedral, once described as the 'most poetic of the English cathedrals.’ Walking around the building, it’s not hard to see why, with stunningly intricate Gothic architectural details inside and out, including the West Front, scissor arches, church clock, and more.
Once you’ve finished exploring the Cathedral, don’t miss a visit to the famed Vicars’ Close nearby, thought to be the oldest residential street in Europe. The 14th-century houses, complete with their distinctive chimneys, were originally built to house the ‘Vicars Choral,’ the Cathedral’s resident choir.
For more medieval splendour, head to The Bishop’s Palace & Gardens, based next door to the Cathedral. Home to the Bishops of Bath and Wells for over 800 years, the site is also now open to the public, so that everyone can enjoy the palace’s grand interiors and beautifully landscaped gardens.
Hot Fuzz fans will also recognise various locations across Wells featured in the film, from The Crown pub to St Cuthbert’s Church, plus many more.
Image: Wells Cathedral
4. Climb up Glastonbury Tor
After passing through Wells, the 376 route continues south to the quirky town of Glastonbury, famed for its iconic Tor, and legendary nearby music festival. A visit to the town isn't complete without a climb up the Tor, known as one of the UK's most spiritually significant sites, thanks to its association with Arthurian legends, powerful natural energies, and long history as a place of worship.
Alight at the stop on Glastonbury's High Street, then walk down Chilkwell Street to its junction with Wellhouse Lane, where you'll find a public footpath leading up to the Tor. After a short but steep climb, you'll reach the summit, marked by a 15th-century tower. After catching your breath, take some time to admire the unrivalled views over the surrounding landscape in every direction, including landmarks such as the Somerset Levels and Quantock Hills.
Back in the town centre, immerse yourself in Glastonbury's alternative culture and browse some of the High Street's quirky shops, which sell everything from crystals and incense, to occult books and more. If you're an art lover, there are plenty of galleries featuring work from local artists too.
Image: Glastonbury Tor, credit Iain Lewis
5. Visit the Somerset Rural Life Museum
While you're in Glastonbury, don't miss a chance to learn more about the area's rich history at the Somerset Rural Life Museum. Located in a former farmhouse and cowsheds on Chilkwell Street, the attraction gives visitors a detailed insight into the lives of those who have made the county their home over the last two centuries, alongside temporary exhibitions throughout the year. Step inside an learn all about Somerset residents' lives throughout the ages, including employment, farming, crafting, and much more.
There's even more to explore outside, including the 14th century Abbey Barn and orchards, plus the on-site Grain Store Cafe, if you fancy a bite to eat.
Image: Somerset Rural Life Museum
6. Treat yourself to a shopping spree at Clarks Village
Just one stop away from Glastonbury's Town Hall is the neighbouring village of Street, home to the popular Clarks Village outlet shopping mall. Named after the celebrated British shoe brand, founded by Cyrus Clark in the village in 1825, Clarks Village is built on the site of the former Clarks factory buildings. You'll find a wide range of high street and designer brands, with discounts of up to 60% compared to prices elsewhere. It's not all clothing - there's also luxury homewares, sweets, and beauty products, among many others!
Image: A 376 bus at Clarks Village, credit First Bus
7. Go for a pub crawl
With so many pretty towns and villages lining the 376's route, it's the perfect opportunity to enjoy an old British tradition, and head out on a countryside pub crawl. This not only provides an excuse to enjoy as many of the area's characterful pubs as possible (such as The Rising Sun in Pensford mentioned above), but also allows you to take in more of your sensational Somerset surroundings as you move between each one. There's nowhere better to savour a couple of pints of delicious West Country cider!
8. Venture out on a hike around the Mendip Hills
Thanks to its varied landscape, the Mendip Hills are awash with fabulous hiking routes to suit all skill levels, many of which are easily accessible from stops along the 376 route.
Hop off at the Rogers Close stop in the village of Clutton, then walk a short distance back up the road, cross over, and take a public footpath through fields on the left. This will lead you towards the peaceful oasis of Folly Farm Nature Reserve, a 250-acre area of unspoilt wildflower meadows and woodland teeming with rare wildlife. Find the full route here.
Just down the road in Farrington Gurney, alight at the Main Street stop, then follow this 7.5 mile route westwards to the scenic Litton Lakes and back. Alternatively, you can opt to take a left-hand turn after passing through Chewton Wood and head back out to the main A39 road, where you can catch the 376 back to Bristol from the Ston Easton Turn stop.
If you're feeling particularly adventurous, disembark at the Pen Hill stop near Wells, then follow this circular 10-mile hike encompassing the picturesque Ebbor Gorge Nature Reserve, the historic village of Priddy, and Wookey Hole. If you don't fancy doing the full circuit, there are plenty of ways to shorten the hike, thanks to the abundance of footpaths in the area.
Image: Mendip Hills, credit Visit Bristol
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