Editor: Alicia Queiro travel@ epigram.org.uk
Make the most of the South West
© Google Maps, 2012
Bristol is handily located amongst some fantastic places for a day out. So, once that hangover’s worn off, the freshers’ flu cured and you begin to explore the world outside of Clifton, Redland and Stoke Bishop, why not broaden your horizons. Just a hop, skip and a jump away, here are Olivia Lace-Evans’ favourite South West spots...
Style
You
Flickr: blackcealt
Making waves in
r: Te
mpu
Flickr: Lauren Tucker
Bath
! e r he
This is the obvious place to start if you want to get out of Bristol. Only a 10-20 minute train ride away from Temple Meads lies the magnificent UNESCO world heritage city. Bath is one of the UK’s most beautiful places, with elegant Georgian architecture scattered throughout, such as the stunning Royal Crescent. Try the famous Roman Spas if you fancy a relaxing soak., whilst literary enthusiasts can enjoy the Jane Austen Centre. If that doesn’t float your boat there are also a number of boutiques and cafes where you can sit back, relax and watch the world go by.
h Bat
lls e W
Weston-superMare
Flick
are
n o t s We
© Google Maps, 2012
When Bristol is so close to the sea, it seems a shame to miss out on a good old beach trip, assuming the British weather doesn’t put a dampener on plans. With the wide sandy beaches and the classic fish’n’chip shops peppered along the shore, Weston is the perfect place to enjoy the British seaside. svola
t
w
Marvelling at medieval
Wells
The cathedral in Wells is described as ‘one of the most beautiful in Britain’ and when you see pictures of it it is difficult to disagree. This medieval city is a hidden gem, with other architectural and historical marvels such as the Bishops Palace and Vicar’s Close. There is also a local market place on Wednesdays and Saturdays and gardens for those who just want to take a relaxing stroll. For those seeking a bit more of an adrenaline rush, the picturesque Cheddar Gorge is nearby for caving. What’s more, Wells is easily accessible; simply take the 376 bus service directly there from Temple Meads.
Flickr: Joe Dunckerley
Getting back to nature in the Cotswolds
‘Croeso’ to cosmopolitan
For those with a car, the area of the Cotswolds offers a great way to get out of the city and explore the historic and natural beauty of the South West. With attractions like the imposing Berkeley Castle and Blenheim Palace, Gloucester with its beautiful Cathedral and winding streets, the tranquil Bourton-on-Water with its traditional perfumerie and pretty walks, as well as the huge number of gardens around the area, there is more than enough to occupy you for a weekend away.
Cardiff
Cardiff is a great city to start exploring Wales. A 40-50 minute train ride will place you right in the centre of the bustling cosmopolitan city, where there is something for everyone to enjoy. Sightseers can enjoy the extravagant mock-Gothic Cardiff Castle and sports fans can come during the rugby season to watch a match or even just see the magnificent Millennium Stadium. For those who are interested in sci-fi, there is a new Dr Who tour around the newly regenerated Cardiff Bay which takes you around the sites used for filming the BBC series. Flickr: Yo Ghurt
Travel
lds o w s t Co
Let’s go to... iff d r Ca
Bathing in
Flickr: UGArdener
Living
@e2Travel
Deputy: Alex Bradbrook deputytravel@ epigram.org.uk