Winter Days Out Near Bristol

Fresh air, amazing food and plenty of new places to discover… try these ideas for days spent outside of the city this winter.

Cirencester market and an afternoon spent at The Stump Pub 

IMAGE: ISTOCK

Just over an hour from Bristol, you will find the town of Cirencester, nestled in the Cotswold countryside. Wander around the various markets that take place in the centre of town, under the shadow of Cirencester Abbey (check out the market timetable here). Head to Knead Bakery for the BEST almond croissants and coffee, or Sam and Jak’s restaurant for a more substantial brunch. 

Then continue on to Foss Cross where you will find plenty of public footpaths to wander and The Stump pub, a local favorite serving delicious pizza and pasta, great local beers, a roaring fire and pool table. Children and dog friendly, this is the perfect place to let a winter afternoon pass by. 

IMAGE: TRIPADVISOR

Westonbirt Arboretum walk and lunch in Tetbury

image: friends of westonbirt arboretum

Westonbirt Arboretum is home to 2,500 different species of trees from the far corners of the globe and 5 national tree collections. If you haven’t visited it, it’s a really amazing place and great for all ages. At this time of year they have the Enchanted Christmas light show where pre-booking tickets is essential. If the price tag of this puts you off, why not stop in Didmarton for a country walk instead? This quaint village is on the way from Bristol to Westonbirt and has beautiful walks through the Badminton Estate. 

Then carry on on the A433 to the historic market town of Tetbury where you will find gorgeous antique and lifestyle shops, as well as some great charity shops to hunt through! 

Call into Cafe 53 for coffee and cake in their bright and bustling cafe, get lost in Domestic Science homeware shop next door and then head for an early dinner at Lola and Co, Tetbury’s tapas and wine bar, offering Spanish, Mediterranean and English delights. 

iMAGE: ALAMY

Jolly Nice Farm Shop and walking on Minchinhampton Common

image: national trust images / nick meers

Just less than an hour from Bristol, Minchinhampton Common sits above the Stroud valleys and Severn estuary. Linked to Rodborough Common, the area totals almost 1000 acres of high open grassland and beautiful woods. Free to park and walk, this is a lovely day out of the city. 

After exploring the Common, head to Jolly Nice Farm Shop for a festive burst of local produce. Pick up some Christmas prezzies and a light lunch from the third generation farming family who founded the shop in 2013 and have watched it flourish ever since.