Things to do in  South West England

One of the world’s most enigmatic tourist attractions, this UNESCO World Heritage Site consists of an inner and outer circle of gigantic stones built between the Neolithic era and the Bronze Age. The earliest part of the structure was just the outer bank and ditch, while the stones came later. Although Stonehenge’s original purpose remains unknown, onlookers gather to admire the sarsen stone circles and ponder their astronomical, spiritual, or even supernatural meaning.

The Roman Baths is one of Europe’s most visited Roman sites and is found in the city of Bath. Today, the well-preserved baths offer a glimpse into Roman life, allowing visitors to visualize how the ancient Romans idled away their leisure time. While you can explore independently, guided tours give the stories behind the site’s many features, including the Sacred Spring, the Roman Bath House, and the Roman Temple.

One of Bath’s most sought-after residential streets, Royal Crescent is a semicircular sweep of colonnaded Georgian terrace houses overlooking Royal Victoria Park. Of the 30 houses here, most are still privately owned though No. 1—restored to peak Georgian-era splendor—serves as a museum, showcasing upper-class life in 18th-century Bath.

At 404 feet (123 meters), Salisbury Cathedral boasts Britain’s highest church spire. In addition to the spire, the cathedral harbors the 1215 Magna Carta—a document that remains a cornerstone of British law—and wows with its 13th-century Gothic facade and elaborate stained-glass windows.

Dating from between 2900 and 2600 BC, Avebury is the world’s largest Neolithic stone circle. Originally composed of three stone circles—the largest of which comprised 98 standing stones (though only 27 now remain)—Avebury is truly immense. Though the function of Avebury is not fully understood, it was likely used for pagan ceremonies.

A museum dedicated to one of Britain’s best-loved authors, the Jane Austen Centre in Bath is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in the life and work of the 18th-century writer. Housed in an authentic period property, with actors in costume bringing the museum to life, the center immerses visitors in the days of the Regency era.

One of the largest prehistoric structures of its kind in Europe, the purpose of Silbury Hill—a man-made chalk mound which is comparable to the size of a small Egyptian pyramid—remains a mystery. Marvel over the 100-foot-high (30-meter-high) grassy slopes of Silbury Hill from a distance before continuing your exploration of Avebury.

World famous for its eponymous music festival, Glastonbury has a creative spirit that burns all year round. Steeped in history, the small town is known for its medieval abbey and links to King Arthur, as well as its lively markets, artisan boutiques, and thriving arts scene.

Among the loveliest and most historical enclaves in the Cotswolds—an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty located west of London—Lacock is also one of England’s oldest villages. Renowned for the 13th-century Lacock Abbey and 14th-century St. Cyriac’s Church, Lacock is celebrated for its classically English beauty.

Now permanently docked in Bristol, the SS Great Britain showcases the industrial prowess of 19th-century Britain. Designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel, this steamship was one of the largest vessels of the era at 321 feet (98 meters) long. It was also technologically trailblazing, drawing upon both steam and sail power simultaneously.

In the midst of the Wiltshire plains, this 29-acre (12-hectare Iron Age settlement stands as a testament to England’s long history of invasion, defense, and development. Explore the foundations of Salisbury’s first cathedral, soak up views from the hilltop castle, and learn about the Roman, Norman, and Saxon influence on the English culture and countryside.

The distinctive blue Bombay Sapphire bottle has been a staple of bar shelves since the gin was first produced more than 25 years ago. Since 2011, the company has based its production in this historic mill at the edge of the River Test, which has been transformed into a state-of-the-art production and visitor facility.

Poole Harbour serves as the gateway to Brownsea Island and the Jurassic Coast, home to Studland Bay and Old Harry Rocks. The natural harbor—one of Europe’s largest—is a hot spot for water sports such as windsurfing, kitesurfing, and stand-up paddleboarding, while Poole Quay is home to a promenade lined with shops, cafés, and restaurants.

Smoke & Mirrors offers a one-of-a-kind Bristol experience. Enjoy an evening of comedy and magic at this atmospheric pub and 1920s-style performance venue, which hosts a cast of house magicians performing masterful feats and illusions. With seating for only 44 people, the theater offers a cozy, intimate atmosphere.

The only natural, mineral-water thermal spa in the UK, the Thermae Bath Spa is located just steps from the ruins of the city’s Roman Baths, and draws from the same ancient water source. Visitors to the spa can paddle in those waters (including in its showstopper Rooftop Pool), book massages and other treatments, and relax in the multiroom Wellness Suite.