Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Basingstoke and Deane, England to Gloucester, England
Basingstoke and Deane, located in southern England, and Gloucester, situated in the southwest, offer a plethora of captivating destinations for a road trip. Traveling through picturesque landscapes and vibrant cities, road trippers can immerse themselves in history, culture, and natural wonders. The journey covers approximately 97 miles and takes around 2 hours, with the halfway point being the charming town of Swindon, SWD. Here are the top five must-visit attractions along this exhilarating route.
1. Cotswolds: Exploring England's Timeless Countryside
Nestled within the heart of England, the Cotswolds offers a captivating glimpse of the nation's timeless countryside. With its quaint villages, rolling hills, and charming stone cottages, this designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty presents an idyllic setting for road trip enthusiasts. Travelers can meander through the towns of Burford and Bibury, marvel at the picturesque landscapes of Bourton-on-the-Water, and savor cream teas in charming tearooms.
Interesting fact: The Cotswolds is situated on Jurassic limestone, resulting in a vast network of caves that have been inhabited by humans for thousands of years.
2. Bath: A Soak in History
Bath, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is renowned for its stunning Georgian architecture and its ancient Roman Baths. Visitors can delve into the city's rich history by exploring the well-preserved Roman Baths, which date back to the 1st century AD. Additionally, the magnificent Bath Abbey, Pulteney Bridge, and the Royal Crescent offer fantastic architectural marvels to admire. To add an extra touch of relaxation to the trip, one can enjoy a leisurely soak in the Thermae Bath Spa's natural thermal waters.
Interesting fact: The thermal waters in the Roman Baths contain over 43 different minerals and continue to flow at a rate of 275,000 gallons per day.
3. Avebury: Mysteries of the Stone Circle
Avebury, a small village in Wiltshire, is home to one of Europe's most impressive prehistoric stone circles. Exploring the Avebury Stone Circle allows travelers to connect with ancient history and ponder its mysterious purpose. The village itself boasts traditional thatched cottages and cozy pubs, providing a quintessential English countryside experience. Visitors can also explore the nearby West Kennet Long Barrow, a 5,000-year-old Neolithic burial mound.
Interesting fact: The Avebury Stone Circle is older and larger than its more renowned counterpart, Stonehenge.
4. Westbury White Horse: A Majestic Landmark
Rising above the Wiltshire landscape, the Westbury White Horse is an iconic chalk figure carved into the hillside. Dating back to the late 1600s, this awe-inspiring landmark offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely hike to the horse or simply appreciate its grandeur from afar. The area also offers a plethora of walking and cycling trails, inviting nature enthusiasts to explore the picturesque downs.
Interesting fact: The Westbury White Horse is the oldest chalk horse carving in Wiltshire and measures an impressive 180 feet in length.
5. Gloucester Docks: History on the Waterfront
A visit to Gloucester Docks takes travelers on a journey back to the city's maritime past. With a history spanning over two thousand years, Gloucester played a significant role in Britain's industrial revolution. The revitalized docks offer a vibrant mix of historical architecture, museums, shops, and restaurants. Visitors can explore the impressive Gloucester Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece that has stood since the 11th century, or take a boat trip along the idyllic Gloucester and Sharpness Canal.
Interesting fact: Gloucester Docks, once a bustling inland port, is often used as a filming location, including for scenes in the popular Harry Potter films.
In conclusion, embarking on a road trip from Basingstoke and Deane to Gloucester offers an array of enchanting experiences, taking travelers through the timeless countryside of the Cotswolds, the rich history of Bath, the ancient mysteries of Avebury, the natural wonders of the Westbury White Horse, and the maritime past of Gloucester Docks. The journey, covering approximately 97 miles, can be completed in around 2 hours. This road trip route promises a delightful fusion of history, culture, and breathtaking scenery, making it a perfect adventure for all travel enthusiasts.