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8 Best Day Trips From Bristol in 2023

Bristol is a thriving city, full of culture and history. It’s also extremely well-placed in southwest England for some excellent day trips. In this guide, we’ll look at some of the most beautiful places you can visit in the region and some super fun activities you can try out. So grab your bags and get ready to explore as we look at the best day trips from Bristol.

Bath

Visit historic Bath as a day trip from Bristol

Visit historic Bath as a day trip from Bristol

Bath was famously the home of Jane Austen, but even if you’re not a fan of literature, you’ll still get something out of a trip to this charming town.

One of the biggest landmarks in Bath is the roman baths where you can find the ruins of a public bathing and socialising complex used by the Romans over 2,000 years ago. There’s an onsite museum to give you more information about the archaeological site and you can also take an audio tour.

If you want to try out some bathing for yourself, head to the nearby Thermae Bath Spa, England’s only thermal spa where the natural hot waters can work wonders for your health.

You can get to Bath by train several times throughout the day, including direct trains that will get you there in no time. While you’re there, don’t forget to stop at one of the many chic coffee shops or visit the Jane Austen Center.

Cardiff

Cardiff Castle

Cardiff Castle

It takes less than an hour to get from Bristol to Cardiff, making it a perfect day trip from Bristol. As the capital of Wales, it’s full of great activities to fill your day.

First on your agenda should be the National Museum Cardiff, a free museum and art gallery all about Wales, including botany, zoology, and geology.

You should also visit Cardiff Castle, a medieval castle that sits at the heart of the city. Inside, you can explore the castle towers, visit the inner keep, and explore the courtyards.

Before heading back to Bristol, finish the day off with a little trip down to Cardiff Bay where you’ll find a huge range of bars and restaurants overlooking the marina as well as the millennium centre where you can catch an evening show.

Cheddar Gorge

Cliff Road in the Cheddar Gorge

Cliff Road in the Cheddar Gorge

Cheddar Gorge is located about 30 kilometres from Bristol and makes an excellent day trip, it was voted the second greatest natural wonder in Britain (source).

If you love history, wildlife, or nature – or you simply have a sense of adventure – you should plan to spend a few hours here the next time you’re in the area.

It is a natural landmark where you can view gorgeous caves and cliffs, but it also includes exhibits to help you learn about long-ago ancestors.

Even better, you can go rock climbing or explore the caves on your own if you’d like to spend a little more time there.

Weston-super-Mare

If you’re looking for one of the best day trips from Bristol using public transport, you can take the train from Temple Meads to Weston-super-Mare in about 30 minutes.

This lovely seaside town is one you won’t forget, in part because it offers something for everyone. Included in the perks of visiting the town are quiet walks over Sand Bay, lively Punch and Judy shows, and a nostalgic pier.

You can also visit their impressive helicopter museum for lovers of flight, and don’t miss the Weston Sand Sculpture Festival if you’re there during the summertime.

Weston-super-Mare is home to a playhouse, theatre, several museums, and beautiful gardens. It also offers attractions such as arcades, fudge factories, eateries, and a go-kart track, making this a very fun place to visit.

Tintern Abbey

Tintern Abbey in the beautiful Wye Valley, perfect for a day trip from Bristol

Tintern Abbey in the beautiful Wye Valley, perfect for a day trip from Bristol

Located just over the border from Bristol in Wales, you can get to Tintern Abbey in around 30 minutes if you drive, or in roughly 2.5 hours by bus or train. Visiting the Abbey as well as the Wye Valley is one of the most beautiful day trips from Bristol.

The abbey was founded in the early 1100s and since then, it has changed a bit. Even from afar, the structure is nothing short of extraordinary, and as long as you wish to see something interesting, you can walk on the grounds and experience something new. The natural beauty it offers never fades, and it’s especially fun for people who love history.

The odd thing is that Tintern Abbey wasn’t really regularly tended to until the early 1900s, but since then it has been well taken care of and therefore, you can enjoy its magnificence today whenever you visit. Just the sheer size of the structure will surprise you.

Salisbury

Salisbury Cathedral

Salisbury Cathedral

In just over an hour by direct train, you can take a day trip from Bristol to the nearby city of Salisbury.

The city is home to Salisbury Cathedral which is famous for holding the best-preserved copy of the Magna Carta, attracting tens of thousands of visitors each year.

And make sure you spend some time wandering the old city centre where you’ll find quaint little buildings and a mixture of architecture dating as far back as the middle ages.

Longleat Safari Park

Longleat is a drive-through safari park located just an hour away from Bristol so it makes for a perfect family day trip.

It opened in 1966 when it was the first park of its kind outside of Africa. Here, you’ll have the chance to see tons of safari animals, including giraffes, tortoises, lemurs, sheep, ostriches, zebras, and so many others. You can enjoy a boat cruise around Half Mile Lake or visit the monkey temple, which is nothing short of extraordinary.

Even better, you can stop and have a snack, buy souvenirs, or even schedule a wedding or other special event on the grounds. In other words, you won’t just be driving around looking at animals up close if you visit this attraction. There is a lot more to do.

The Cotswolds

The Cotswolds town of Lower Slaughter

The Cotswolds town of Lower Slaughter

The Cotswolds are only 50 miles from Bristol and can be reached in around an hour on a good day. It is an area located in Central South-West England known for its stone-built towns and villages made with iconic Cotswolds stone.

Some of the best places to visit in the Cotswolds are Chipping Campden, Broadway, and Cirencester.

Of course, you can get out and enjoy the rolling countryside too where you’ll find wildlife walks and manor houses dotted among beautiful landscapes.

Day Trips from Bristol – Final Thoughts

Whether you live in Bristol or are just visiting, it’s well worth exploring off the beaten path with one of these many day trips from Bristol. From countryside towns to natural wonders, there is plenty to discover!

How to Avoid Roaming Charges in the EU: A Guide for Brits

With the cost of everything soaring, the last thing anyone needs when they’re backpacking around Europe is to be hit with hefty data roaming charges that can leave a big hole in your wallet. But many Brits are still unaware that they’re racking up huge mobile bills when abroad, leaving them outraged when they get back home and discover they’ve been unknowingly clocking up data charges as they travelled.

Since Britain left the European Union, most mobile networks stopped providing free roaming in EU countries, which allow their citizens to make calls and use mobile data at no additional cost while in member states. But Brits may not know that when they’re in an EU nation and using data for such things as maps and messaging that they’re incurring charges that could add up to large sums.

According to a survey commissioned by mobile network Lebara UK, some Brits are paying up to £1,000 in roaming charges while on holiday in the EU. As many as one-third of British people holidaying in places like France, Spain and Italy were paying such enormous bills that were mostly made up of roaming charges, the survey found.

Other destinations where Brits were holidaying when they were being charged for mobile data roaming included Germany, Greece and Croatia. Respondents to the survey, carried out by OnePoll in early August and involving 2,000 people, also visited the Netherlands, Poland and Portugal.

What’s All the Roaming About?

When you’re backpacking around Europe, in towns and cities you don’t know, the most essential tool is right there in your pocket — allowing you to easily find hotels, bars, restaurants and clubs, and snap all the sights as you go. Sharing picturesque images with pals on social media is another must-do while abroad, making them green with envy that you’re on your travels in exciting places while they’re stuck at home.

So it’s no surprise that almost half of survey respondents (44%) said they used mobile data for social media use in EU countries — posting pics to Instagram, TikTok and other online platforms to keep their followers updated. A total of 42% of those who took part in the poll said they used mobile data for maps, so they could quickly locate the places they wanted to be. Others (28%) streamed music on their mobile devices; 20% used mobile data for gaming; and 16% were looking for love while abroad — not in pubs and clubs but via dating apps.

Avoiding Big Roaming Charges in the EU

Before you head overseas on your next big trip, check with your mobile network provider to see if free roaming in the EU is included in your package, or if there are extra charges. Even if you have to pay more, small sums can quickly add up when you’re downloading, streaming, scrolling or searching on your phone.

For those unlucky enough to have no free EU roaming, they may want to consider getting a SIM-only deal before they head away. These are available in the UK from networks like Lebara and they don’t tie you into any contracts and provide the amount of EU data roaming you’re likely to need.

So when you get to your destination, swap out your usual SIM for your new one, giving you the freedom to roam like home. You can then enjoy your holiday without the worry of clocking up data charges as you travel and being landed with a massive bill when you get back that would certainly ruin the happy memories of those carefree European days.

How to find free accommodation in exchange for work in Europe

Have you always wanted to visit Europe but don’t have the budget for accommodation costs? Not to worry, you may want to consider applying for jobs that offer free accommodation in exchange for work across Europe

There are plenty of options to find a steady job along with safe and clean digs in various parts of Europe. To help you understand more about the process, here are examples of how to work in exchange for free accommodation in Europe. 

Become a Petsitter

Combine your love of animals with your love of travel and become a Trusted Housesitter.

Combine your love of animals with your love of travel and become a Trusted Housesitter.

All across Europe, there are plenty of people looking for trustworthy housesitters to watch their pets in exchange for staying at their homes for free. Trusted Housesitters is the pet-sitting network for animal lovers who are responsible, reliable, and looking for a fantastic way to travel around Europe while staying for free.

You can find everything, from a chic apartment in Barcelona to a beach house in Portugal. A basic petsitter account costs just $129 for unlimited housesits anywhere in the world, and considering how expensive accommodation can be in Europe, it’s well worth it.

Work on an Organic Farm

Spend the grape harvest season on a vineyard in Europe

Spend the grape harvest season on a vineyard in Europe

If you love the outdoors, this is the perfect opportunity for you. Work on various agricultural projects in exchange for accommodation with World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms (WWOOF).

On the organization’s website, you will find plenty of volunteer roles across Europe. You could be fruit picking in Spain, or working on an organic vineyard in Italy, and getting room and board for free.

Work in Hospitality

Get free accommodation in exchange for working in hospitality

Get free accommodation in exchange for working in the hospitality sector in Europe

Another great way to earn and live while traveling in Europe is to find a job in the hospitality sector. Europe’s hospitality sector is a huge industry, so you’re bound to find a role that suits you. Popular tourist hospitality jobs include housekeepers, bar staff, waitresses/waiters, chefs, and more. This could include working in a hostel as a live-in staff member who takes on the role of a receptionist or even a hostel manager. 

Especially in the spring and summer months in Europe, there are a variety of seaside and lake and holiday camps that hire seasonal workers. These jobs typically offer fair pay along with free accommodation in a cosy cabin or even a quirky tepee. 

Become a Nanny or Au Pair

Get free accommodation in exchange for working in childcare

Get free accommodation in exchange for working in childcare

Another popular way to enjoy Europe without worrying about accommodation costs is by becoming a nanny or au pair. Most nanny jobs are live-in, which means you may end up staying in a lavish penthouse in Paris or even a villa in Italy and get a taste for the rich lifestyle.

As a nanny or Au Pair working in Europe, you may also be offered a wage that you can use to fund the rest of your travels. You may also be given a daily allowance typically put towards food and other miscellaneous costs for both you and the children you are caring for. Your main responsibilities will happen during the week, leaving your weekends free to explore Europe.

Other ways to get free accommodation in Europe

We’ve outlined just a few of the main ways that people can find free accommodation in exchange for working in Europe. If you’re still searching for that great opportunity, you can look through the opportunities listed on Worldpackers. 

You’ll find everything from childcare jobs, to personal assistant jobs, to charitable volunteer opportunities. A membership is a one-time cost of $49 giving you access to tons of opportunities to work in exchange for free accommodation. Worldpackers is great for solo travelers in Europe because of their host verification process, insurance policy, and huge community network. Use my promo code BACKPACKING10 for 10% off your membership fee.

Getting a visa to work in Europe for free accommodation

When applying for any of these positions, remember to consider your visa eligibility. Before entering Europe or staying for an extended period of time, you may need a B-1 or J-1 Visa, even if you are not paid for your services. Before completing your application, you should speak with a visa specialist or the program leaders.

Are you ready to get down in the dirt at an Italian winery? Or become a nanny to a generous Parisian family? Without breaking the bank, you can have the time of your life no matter what venture you choose. So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to start researching and preparing for your Europe trip!

Planning A Trip To France? How To Craft The Perfect Break For You

Being able to travel and see different countries is an amazing experience. You can learn so much about culture and people by going on holiday and exploring the cities.

One popular place to visit is France as the country is so diverse and offers so many different holiday opportunities. Before you visit a country for the first time, it is always a good idea to do some research and find out a little bit about the country. This gives you a good guideline to work with and it can help you make the most out of your experience.

In this article, we are going to be talking specifically about France, so if you are planning to visit the country soon, then keep on reading to find out our top tips.

Be Prepared

One of the first things you should do before you travel to France is to make a plan. Now, this doesn’t mean you need to make a detailed itinerary or have your whole holiday meticulously planned, but it would be a good idea to have a basic guideline of the things you would like to do.

France is a place that has so much to offer, so depending on what sort of holiday you are after, there are different places to visit. If you are wanting a sunny, beach holiday, then we recommend visiting the south of France as it offers such a wide variety of beaches that you can relax on.

However, if a beach holiday isn’t something you are after, then you can always go for a city break in Paris, or embrace the slopes and go skiing, which we will discuss below.

Go Skiing

As mentioned above, if you are travelling to France for your holidays, then going skiing could be a great opportunity to make the most of your holiday. If you are an adrenaline junkie, then a skiing holiday in France is definitely the right option for you.

In terms of where to ski in France, you have a few options available. Chamonix, Avoriaz, and La Tania are all great places to go whether you are a beginner skier or advanced. If you have never skied before but have always wanted to try it, then France would be a good place to go as you can enjoy some gorgeous views while you ski down the mountain. All resorts in France will offer you induction courses too, so you can learn the basics before you start.

Live Like A Local

Mingle with the locals at a French market

Mingle with the locals at a French market

Another good way to make the most of your holiday in France is to simply live like a local. Being a tourist anywhere in the world can be a little daunting, so the best way to enjoy your holiday is to embrace the culture and live like a local.

This is why it is so important to do your research before you go to France as this will help you learn a bit more about the culture and the customs. Different countries will have different ways of living, so if you want to properly fit in and feel comfortable in the country, then you will need to take some time and do some research to find out how you can live like a local.

Learn Some Language Basics

When visiting any country, it is a good idea if you learn some language basics beforehand. While English is spoken all over France, it would still be polite if you knew some basic words and phrases, so that you can ask for things or respond to people in a polite manner.

No one will expect you to be fluent in the language, but it can make a huge difference if you can ask for a drink in French or just simply say ‘please’ and ‘thank-you’. The great thing about learning a language in the modern age, is that there are so many helpful apps available that can teach you the basics beforehand. A lot of the apps may have translators too, so you can use the app while you are exploring.

Explore The History

Explore the history of France with interesting sites like the Catacombs

Explore the history of France with interesting sites like the Catacombs

France is a country that is rich in history, so if you are planning to travel there and you enjoy learning about history, then you should take the time to explore some of its most historic sites. The catacombs in Paris are one of the most popular historical sites to visit as there is still so much mystery surrounding them.

If you want to get the full experience, you can book a 45-minute tour that shows you all of the gruesome and grisly details of the catacombs. This tour is definitely not for the faint-hearted, but if you are into to the macabre, then it could be the perfect way to spend an afternoon in Paris.

Europe’s Best-Kept Camping Secrets

Europe’s best camping spots that are off the beaten path

If you’re looking for a truly unique camping experience, you’ll want to check out some of these hidden gems in Europe. From secluded mountain retreats to idyllic coastal spots, these locations offer everything you need for a relaxing and memorable trip. So, if you’re ready to explore some of Europe’s best kept camping secrets, read on!

Norway’s Lofoten Islands

Camping in Norway's Lofoten Islands

Camping in Norway’s Lofoten Islands

If you’re looking for breathtaking scenery and incredible hiking opportunities, the Lofoten Islands in Norway are the perfect place for you. This archipelago is known for its dramatic landscapes, with towering mountains, pristine lakes, and picturesque coastline. There are also plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife, including seals, eagles, and even whales.

Italy’s Cinque Terre

Discover Italy's Cinque Terre while camping in Europe

Discover Italy’s Cinque Terre while camping in Europe

The Cinque Terre is a stunning stretch of coastline in Italy that is made up of five picturesque villages. This is the perfect spot for a relaxing camping trip, as you can spend your days swimming in the crystal-clear waters, exploring the charming villages, and indulging in delicious Italian cuisine.

The Isle of Skye in Scotland

The stunning landscape of Isle of Skye - best discovered by camping

The stunning landscape of Isle of Skye – best discovered by camping

The Isle of Skye is one of Scotland’s most scenic and popular tourist destinations. With its rugged coastline, towering mountains, and lush green landscapes, it’s easy to see why. There are also plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and kayaking. And if you’re lucky, you might even spot some dolphins or whales offshore.

Slovenia’s Lake Bled

Gorgeous Lake Bled is the perfect place to go camping in Europe

Gorgeous Lake Bled is the perfect place to go camping in Europe

Lake Bled is a beautiful glacial lake in Slovenia that is surrounded by forests and mountains. It’s the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and enjoy some peace and quiet. There are also plenty of activities to keep you busy, such as hiking, swimming, boating, and horseback riding.

Why you should go camping in Europe

If you love spending time outdoors and enjoying nature, then camping in Europe is definitely for you. The continent is home to some of the most beautiful camping spots in the world, and there are plenty of hidden gems to be discovered. Here are just a few reasons why you should go camping in Europe:

  1. There are so many different types of scenery to explore. Whether you want to camp in the mountains, by the sea, or in a forest, Europe has it all. And with so many different countries to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect spot for your next camping adventure.
  2. You can find campsites that suit all budgets. Whether you’re looking for a luxury camping experience or something more basic, there are plenty of options available across Europe. There are also a number of free campsites if you’re on a tight budget.
  3. The weather is usually pretty good. Of course, the weather can never be guaranteed but in general, the climate in Europe is ideal for camping. In the summer months, you can enjoy long days and warm nights, perfect for spending time outside. And in the winter, there are plenty of opportunities for winter camping if that’s what you’re after.
  4. There’s a huge range of activities on offer. From hiking and cycling to swimming and fishing, there’s no shortage of things to do when camping in Europe. And with so much natural beauty to explore, you’ll never get bored.
  5. You can meet new people and make lifelong friends. One of the best things about camping is the sense of community that comes with it. You’ll meet like-minded people from all over the world and form friendships that will last a lifetime.

The best time to go camping in Europe

In Europe the climate can vary a lot from country to country so the best time to go camping here will depend a lot on your destination.

For example, in Spain, the best time to go camping is in the springtime. The weather is perfect for spending time outdoors, and the flowers are in bloom. Camping in the Pyrenees is a must-do for any nature lover.

In Italy, it is ideal to go camping in autumn. The weather is still warm enough to enjoy the outdoors, but the crowds have thinned out since summer. Plus, you’ll get to see the leaves changing color in all of their autumnal glory.

In Norway, it is much better to go camping in summer. The days are long and there’s plenty of daylight to enjoy all that Norway has to offer.

Summer is the best time to go camping in Norway

Summer is the best time to go camping in Norway

No matter what time of year you choose to go camping in Europe, you’re sure to have an incredible experience. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today!

How to plan a camping trip in Europe

Make sure to pack everything you need – and then some!

No matter where you’re camping in Europe, it’s always a good idea to come prepared. This means packing all of the essentials like a tent, sleeping bag, food, and water, as well as some extra items just in case. A first-aid kit, flashlight, and multi-purpose tool are always a good idea, and don’t forget any medications you might need.

Choose your campsite carefully

When it comes to camping in Europe, not all campsites are created equal. Do your research in advance to find a spot that suits your needs, whether that’s close to hiking trails or near a lake for swimming. You’ll also want to make sure the campsite has all the amenities you need, such as toilets and showers.

Hire a campervan

If you’re planning on doing a lot of camping, it might be worth hiring a campervan. To do find a suitable campervan to rent out, it can be useful to consult online booking and price comparison sites such as www.campstar.com.

Hiring a campervan will allow you to have your own space and all the amenities you need while still being able to explore different parts of Europe. Just make sure you’re aware of the restrictions on where you can park.

Be respectful of nature

This one goes without saying, but it’s important to remember that you’re camping in nature and should treat it with respect. This means leaving no trace behind when you leave, picking up any litter you see, and being considerate of other campers

Don’t make these mistakes when camping in Europe

  1. Don’t forget to pack your passport! While most European countries are part of the Schengen Area and don’t require passports for travel, there are a few exceptions.
  2. Don’t forget to research the local laws and customs before you go camping. In some countries, like Germany, there are strict rules about where you can and can’t camp.
  3. Don’t forget your travel insurance! This is especially important if you’re going to be camping in a remote or wilderness area.
  4. Don’t leave your trash behind. Remember to take all your trash with you when you leave, and to leave no trace of your stay.

Camping in Europe: An experience you’ll never forget…

Camping in Europe is a great way to explore the continent and collect unforgettable memories. You will discover new cultures and meet new people while enjoying the great outdoors and nature. All in all, camping in Europe is an experience you’ll never forget!

 

Europe's Best-Kept Camping Secrets

Pin Europe’s Best-Kept Camping Secrets