South Cotswolds& Vale of Severn

Official Visitors Guide 2009

PAGE 2 Visitor Guide 2009

Co-ordinators: Antony Merritt 01454 864950 Sandra Richardson 01454 412103. Advertising: Pauline Bentley 0118 926 9120 The Ordnance Survey map included within this publication is provided by South Gloucestershire Council under licencefrom the Ordnance Survey in order to fulfil its public function to promote tourism in South Gloucestershire. Personsviewing this map should contact Ordnance Survey Copyright for advice where they wish to licence Ordnance Surveymaps for their own use. Whilst every effort has been made to provide accurate information, South GloucestershireCouncil, Thornbury Town Council and the publishers can accept no responsibility for any errors or omissions.

Copies of this brochure are available from Thornbury T.I.C. Tel: 01454 281638

ADVANCEPUBLICATIONS

Designed, published and produced for the South Gloucestershire Tourism Association and SouthGloucestershire Council by Advance Publications, PO Box 236, 1 Earley Gate, Whiteknights Rd, Reading RG6 6AT Tel: 0118 926 9120. Fax: 0118 926 9121.

sales@advancepublications.co.uk www.advancepublications.co.uk

Photography: Thank you tothe many contributors, inparticular Allan Burberry,South Glos. Council andThornbury Camera Club. martin.holehouse@virgin.net

THORNBURY TIC The Town Hall, High Street, Thornbury (01454) 281638 tourism@thornburytowncouncil.gov.uk CHIPPING SODBURY TIC, The Clock Tower, High Street, Chipping Sodbury (01454) 888686 WOTTON-UNDER-EDGE Information Point Heritage Centre, The Chipping, Wotton-under-Edge (01454) 521541TETBURY Tourist Information 33 Church Street, Tetbury GL8 8JG (01666) 503552BRISTOL TIC Explore at Bristol, Anchor Road, Harbourside, Bristol BS1 5DB (0845) 408 0474 www.visitbristol.co.ukNAILSWORTH TIC 4 The Old George, Fountain Street, Nailsworth GL6 0BL 01453 839222 www.nailsworthtown.co.ukDURSLEY Information www.dursleytowncouncil.gov.uk email: dursley.tc@btconnect.com

As a base for a weekend break or longer, theSevern Vale and South Cotswolds could hardly bebetter placed. With easy access from both the

M4 and M5, and with good rail links from Bristol, thearea is ideally situated for a variety of day trips. Theinternational city of Bristol with its exciting Harbour sidedevelopment, and the graceful curves of Bath’s regencycrescents offer chic shopping, theatres, and first classrestaurants and bars. The Mall at Cribbs Causeway andthe new Cabot Circus in Bristol offer spectacularshopping experiences. The Wye Valley and Forest of Deanprovide ideal territory for quiet rambles and picnics, asdo the Severn Way and the Cotswold Way which markthe west and east boundaries of this area. Best of all, thearea offers unsung treats right on the doorstep, such asunspoiled market towns, secretive Cotswold stonevillages and delectable cream teas.

4

Your guide to the SouthCotswolds & Vale of Severn

ContentsArea Map 2

Proud Heritage 4-5

Vibrant Communities 6-7

Walking & Cycling 8-9

Activities & Attractions 10-12

Days Out 15

6

Visitor Guide 2009 PAGE 3

Tourist Information

9

10

15

PAGE 4 Visitor Guide 2009 Visitor Guide 2009 PAGE 5

‘Heritage’ can invoke thoughts ofimpressive buildings, wealth and power,royalty and historic figures, landscapedcountry escapes and past events,discoveries or inventions that changedthe world in their time. The SouthCotswolds and Vale of Severn is astronghold of the nation’s heritage.

Arguably, Berkeley Castle epitomises‘heritage’. From its sumptuous upperfloors to its spooky dungeons, BerkeleyCastle close to the banks of the Severnis permeated by ‘heritage’.

Since the 12th century, the castle hasseen battles, royal visits, politicalintrigue and death within its walls –not least the murder of Edward II in1327.

The castle’s public rooms, full of rareand opulent furnishings from bygoneeras, reflect the wealth of the Berkeleyfamily who managed the estate overthe centuries. Local craftsmen built asaddleback ceiling in the Great Hall inthe 14th century.

The Berkeleys also had far reachingpower and influence. The castle bearstheir name but so does Katherine LadyBerkeley School in Wotton-under-Edge,Berkeley Square in London, andBerkeley University in America.

No visit to Berkeley Castle would becomplete without a stroll through itsterraced Elizabethan gardens and a tripto its butterfly farm.

While there, pop into the JennerMuseum, set in the 18th century homeof medical researcher Dr EdwardJenner, who discovered the smallpoxvaccine. Jenner’s Queen Anne-stylehome contains many original artefactsof this pioneer doctor-surgeon and liesclose to Berkeley Castle.

Jenner made his name in the medicalworld but other Severn Vale residentsbecame rich and famous throughindustrial acumen. Glass, brass, pottery,sugar-refining, chocolate and soap allhad manufacturing roots in thisproductive area.

And with their industry came wealth.

In the 18th century, WilliamChampion’s Brass Works at Warmleybrought local prosperity by making,among other things, brass pins.

However, if you want a real flavour ofSouth Gloucestershire’s heritage – youneed look no further than its industrialheritage.

Coal-mining was a major employerand the area is scarred with reminders.For example Coalpit Heath near Yateand The Dramway coal hauling routeto the Avon.

Local coal fired the furnaces of theperiod but religious zeal also firedmany workers’ hearts.

The abundance of chapels in theevidence the conversion work ofMethodist preachers George Whitfieldand John Wesley.

John Wesley preached in theKingswood area in the 1730s andparticularly at Hanham Mount which isnow a Methodist Heritage site.

During the 19th century, Brunel’sinnovations - not least the GreatWestern Railway – helpedtransportation and brought moreindustrial rewards.

The ‘industry’ of William Blathwaytduring the late 17th century resultedin the building of his magnificentBaroque home at Dyrham Park, southof Chipping Sodbury. Blathwayt was acivil servant and politician whoadministered colonies in NorthAmerica and established thegovernment’s War Office. Fittingly,Dyrham Park was used during WorldWar II to house evacuees and orphans.

Now owned by The National Trust,Dyrham Park ‘starred’ as a setting forthe 1993 Merchant Ivory film TheRemains of the Day.

For many, Dyrham’s backdrop ofDutch Masters, sumptuous rooms andfurnishings, formal garden and deerroaming its 263 parkland acres, quietly‘stole the show’.

Another National Trust property,Newark Park, also rose to ‘stardom’when it was recently featured in 'Tessof the D'Urbevilles'. An unusual andfashionable Georgian home inside anatmospheric Tudor hunting Lodge withan eclectic art collection. There is awild romantic garden perfect for walkswith uninterrupted views towards theMendips.

Like Dyrham, the beautifullyconserved Tudor building that is ActonCourt, at Iron Acton, offers a rareexample of 16th century royal stateapartments – a wing of the house wasbuilt for Henry VIII who stayed therewith Anne Boleyn in 1535. By virtue ofage, Acton Court, or Owlpen Manornear Dursley can claim greater‘heritage’ than Dyrham Park.

Owlpen estate is steeped in 900years of history, also has an industrialheritage. It is owned by Sir Nicholasand Lady Mander, whose ancestorsproduced world-famous paints,varnishes and inks.

Nestling in a picturesque woodedvalley this Tudor manor was last yearone of six finalists in Country Life andSavills’ search for ‘’England’s FavouriteManor House”. Owlpen Manor alsoboasts a medieval restaurant usingfresh produce from its working farm,and holiday accommodation in historicestate cottages.

Many people would argue thehorticultural merits of the topiariedprecision of the 16th century OwlpenManor garden, or the 600 Cotswoldacres of shrubs and trees atWestonbirt Arboretum on the A433towards Tetbury.

Berkeley Castle epitomises ‘heritage’Owlpen Manor Acton Court

Jenner Museum

Dyrham Park

Newark Park

Proud heritage within theheart of rural beautyProud heritage within theheart of rural beauty

PAGE 6 Visitor Guide 2009 Visitor Guide 2009 PAGE 7

Vibrant communities withcountry charm and character

Chipping Sodbury

Thriving market towns, a richindustrial heritage, rural charmand centuries of character filled

history – little wonder the Severn Valeis loved by both residents and visitors.

The charming town of Thornburyreveals many reasons for the area’stimeless appeal. Thornbury is a typicalEnglish market town with historicbuildings dating from the 15th century.It also has the only Tudor castle inEngland that is a hotel.

A bustling Farmers’ Market full oflocal produce is held in the towncentre on the first and third Thursdayof every month.

As a Britain-in-Bloom winner,Thornbury is a delight for summervisitors with its floral displays; whilethe conservation award-winning St. Mary’s Centre offers peacefulpedestrianised shopping amongstattractive modern stores and cottageshops

Thornbury held a key position forNeolithic, Bronze- Age, Roman andNorman cultures. By the 13th centuryit became a Borough in its own right, astatus it retained until 1883.

The 130ft parish church tower is aprominent landmark and a finemedieval architectural example. It isrumoured the tower sways six incheswhen its bells ring. Inside the church isone of the few medieval stone pulpitssurviving in England. NearbyThornbury Castle links with thechurch via a timber gallery, reputedlyused by Henry VIII, Anne Boleyn andMary Tudor.

South East of Thornbury liesChipping Sodbury.

Chipping Sodbury, with its ancienthigh street and market still retains itstraditional trading appeal. The word‘chipping’ means a market. ChippingSodbury was established as a newtown in the twelfth century andquickly prospered as local peopletraded in wool and cloth. The town’swide main street is edged by houseswith long gardens or ‘burgage’ plots togrow vegetables and keep animals. It isthought that the wide main streetoriginally had buildings in the middle.

Chipping Sodbury’s monthly

Thursday morning market can trace itsorigins to 1227, and its vibrant sceneof local produce and crafts beingvocally sold from colourful trestleladen stalls has changed little overtime. Home made and hand craftedgoods are a speciality, while the town’saward winning bakery always temptsthe taste buds.

The town still retains much of itsmedieval charm, not least in the sitingof St John’s Church, built in 1284 downa side alley, slotted between twoallotments. Space for market tradingrather than religious observanceappears to have been the medievalpriority!

Away from the bustling market, StJohn’s provides a cool, quiet haven with

the added surprise of a pulpit built intoa pillar.

Yate’s more recent pillars supportrooflines and covered walkways thatcounteract the threat of changeableBritish weather. Traffic free areas andone level shopping make Yate ideal forfamilies, the elderly and disabled; 1,400free parking spaces prevent hassle andthe wide range of shops providesexcellent choice. When shopping palls,the indoor swimming pool, leisurecentre, library and the interesting YateHeritage Centre are nearby.

Weaving one’s way northwards fromYate and Chipping Sodbury, discoverWotton Under Edge, the one timecloth making centre of the area. Until1830, Wotton was a weaving town inwhich over half the residents, includingchildren, were involved in making cloth.Wotton Under Edge lies on thedoorstep of the Cotswolds whosesheep provided the wool, local plantsand dyes, plentiful streams the waterand fuller’s earth the finishing agent forwoven fabrics.

St Katherine, the patron saint ofweavers who was cruelly martyred onthe infamous Catherine Wheel, looksdown from a stained glass window inthe Parish Church.

Finely embroidered kneelers in thechurch depict facets of the ancientcommunity of Wotton, which datesback to 940AD. Local wildlife too ishighlighted – Gloucestershire’s moths,butterflies, reptiles, and Wildfowl Trustbirds at nearby Slimbridge.

Like the towns around it, WottonUnder Edge today has a thriving centrewhere a variety of small family storesoffer personal service. Browsing is apleasure and a leisurely cream tea canbe enjoyed before a visit to Wotton’sown cinema

North-east out of Wotton lies theroad to Nailsworth, which nestles in awooded Cotswold valley. It’s a pleasantplace to visit for a meal at its award-winning restaurants, pubs and cafes, ora meander around its interesting arrayof shops selling goods ranging fromfresh local vegetables to antiques andcollectables. Then it’s off to explore,using the rural footpaths and 8-milecycleway converted from a formerrailway. South-east from Nailsworthacross the Cotswolds lies Tetburywhich many view as a jewel of theCostwolds.

Its elegant architecture is epitomisedby its 16th century Market House andthe Georgian Gothic parish church ofSt. Mary the Virgin, with one of thetallest spires in England. In earlyOctober, the town springs alive withthe sound of concerts performed byinternational musicians at TetburyMusic Festival. The town is alsorenowned for its antique shops, and novisitor should leave without ‘takingdown the particulars’ of the TetburyPolice Museum. Head west on theA4135 towards the Severn estuary andDursley hoves into view. Dursley isworld famous for its Lister-Petterengines, and you can enjoy Dursley as abase for walking – either circular walksthrough the surrounding woods andfields, or the town trail, or head offfurther afield using the Cotswold Way.Dursley was another Severn Valecentre for the woollen cloth trade, andits mediaeval market charter is upheldtoday with a weekly market andFarmers’ Market on every fourthSaturday.

Chipping Sodbury’smonthly Thursdaymorning market cantrace its origins to 1227...

Nailsworth

Wotton-under-Edge Tetbury

Acton Turville

Badminton

Thornbury

...centuriesof characterfilledhistory...

PAGE 8 Visitor Guide 2009 Visitor Guide 2009 PAGE 9

Thornbury, a busy little market town off the beaten track is adorned with flowers from Spring until Autumn earning it the title of “Best in the South West.” It is well worth a visit to see the inspirational floral displays. In winter it is brightened by its renowned Christmas lights throughout the town centre.This ancient market town with its picturesque conservation areasgives an ideal base for a touring holiday of the Cotswolds andSevern Vale. It is nestled near the banks of the River Severn andwithin easy reach of the M4 and M5 motorways leading to suchtowns as Bristol, Bath and Cheltenham.The town itself is steeped in history boasting the only Tudor Castlein the country that is an hotel. Adjacent to the Castle is the Parish

church with its magnificent illuminated tower.There are a variety of shops and a farmers market on the first and third Thursday of the month. Sportand leisure activities are also well catered for withfishing, swimming, windsurfing and golf to name a few. Within easy reach there is county cricket, first class rugby at Gloucester, Bristol and Bath, world class equestrian events at Badminton and

Gatcombe Park, horse racing at Cheltenham, Bath and Chepstowand motor sport at Castle Combe.

THORNBURYSouth West in Bloom Winner

2008

Thornbury Tourist OfficeTown Hall, High Street, Thornbury, Bristol BS35 2AR

Tel/Fax: 01454 281638www.thornburytowncouncil.gov.uk

both Severn bridges. A fewshort sections are on mainroads but the majority ofthe ride is on quiet countrylanes. Severndale: a 27 mileroute on quiet countrylanes around Thornbury.

To obtain a free copy ofthis cycle route maps pleasecontact:

Life Cycle UK Tel 0117929 0440

www.lifecycleuk.org.uk

Staple Hill Tunnel toMangotsfield, Warmley andBitton and traverses theopen countryside along theAvon Valley before reachingNewbridge in Bath. Theroute is ideal for families orfor those new to cycling. The Transport Trail is acircular ride of about 20miles between ChippingSodbury and Pucklechurchwith a theme of transportpast and present. The routetakes in ancient roads, oldrailway lines and industrialtramways. The Time Trail exploresthe edge of the CotswoldHills. Starting at ChippingSodbury the 20 mile routemeanders through OldSodbury, Horton,Hawkesbury, Horton andWickwar Pilning and SevernBeach: a leisurely 12 mileroute along the RiverSevern plain with views of

South Gloucestershire hasan extensive network ofcycle paths, some of whichlink to routes in the widerBristol and Bath area. Cycleroutes include : The Avon Cycleway: acircular 85 mile route thattakes in many picturesquevillages, historic landmarksand a variety of splendidlandscapes including AvonGorge, the Chew Valley andthe Severn Estuary. It largelyfollows narrow and lightlytrafficked country lanes andlinks with a number of looproutes. The Bristol and BathRailway Path is a 13 mileoff road route betweenBristol and Bath. The path isopen to walkers and cyclistsand provides access fordisabled users. From centralBristol the Railway Pathloops north towardsFishponds, passes through

Cycle Routes

Walking and cycling in South Gloucestershire

The CotswoldWay NationalTrail is one ofthe 15 NationalTrails of Englandand Wales.

Explore the delightful countrysideof the South Cotswolds, Vale ofSevern and the Avon Valley and

reap the benefits of being active. SouthGloucestershire Council(www.southglos.gov.uk) publish anumber of high quality, full colourwalks booklets containing easy tofollow maps, photographs and livelyand interesting information about theheritage and interest of the area. Thefollowing booklets are available: -Exploring the Cotswold WayNational Trail - Six Walks in SouthGloucestershire.

The Cotswold Way National Trail isone of the 15 National Trails ofEngland and Wales. The SouthGloucestershire Guide offers sixcircular walks that follow sections ofthe National Trail. Each route takesabout half a day to complete and takesthe walker through an ancientcountryside of villages, farms, hedges,dry stone walls, copses, bridging points,lanes and paths. Easy Access Trails: twenty circulartrails designed for easy walking within

twenty parishes of SouthGloucestershire. Barriers such as stileshave been replaced with kissing gatesand hand gates to allow more peopleto enjoy the countryside.The Severn Way: an atmospheric 12mile walk with vast, open skies and thesmell of the sea, exploring the estuaryand lower reaches of the Severn. Muchof the route is on top of the river bankwith wonderful wide open views overthe river to the Welsh hills and theForest of Dean. The Dramway: a 9 mile linear walkthat follows sections of the route of anineteenth century tramway whichcarried coal from Coalpit Heath in theBristol Coalfield to the River Avon. The Jubilee Way: a long distance (16miles) route from the banks of theSevern, over the fertile pastures andfields of the Severn Vale to thelimestone escarpment of theCotswolds. The Jubilee Way links twomajor long distance footpaths, theCotswolds Way and Offa’s Dyke Path. The Frome Valley Walkway: a 19mile river valley walk that follows the

River Frome from the centre of Bristolto the Cotswold Hills. The routepasses through a variety of attractivelandscapes including historic city parks,a secluded romantic gorge and opencountryside with riverside meadows.Five short loop walks offer theopportunity to explore areas ofinterest around the Frome Walkway. River Avon Trail: a 23 mile RiverAvon Trail between Pill and Bath thatalso offers five circular walks . Toobtain a free copy of any of the aboveguides please contact SouthGloucestershire Council on 01454863592.

Visitor Guide 2009 PAGE 11PAGE 10 Visitor Guide 2009

Acton CourtA beautifully conserved TudorHouse built by Nicholas Poyntzfor the pleasure of Henry VIII, atIron Acton, Bristol. Acton Courtwill open to the public from16 June to 23 August 2009,excluding Mondays. For moreinformation telephone:01454 228 224 Opening hoursare restricted www.actoncourt.com

Avon ValleyRailwayBitton Station, Willsbridge,Bristol 24hr TalkingTimetable - (0117) 932 7296.General Enquiries (0117)932 5538 (weekends). Conveniently located midwaybetween Bristol and Bath, theAvon Valley Railway offers anostalgic steam train journeyinto the scenic Avon Valley. Leavethe train at the railway’s ‘AvonRiverside, platform and enjoy theriverside walks. Alternatively,combine your train journey witha 40 minute river cruise. www.avonvalleyrailway.org

Berkeley CastleBerkeley (01453) 810332. Historic castle begun in 1117and still home to the same familywho gave their name to BerkeleySquare in London, BerkeleyHundred in Virginia and BerkeleyUniversity in California. StateApartments contain many rarepaintings, magnificent furnitureand tapestries and the famousfamily silver on view in theDining Room. TerracedElizabethan gardens, bowlinggreen and sweeping lawns.Butterfly farm in walled garden.Gift Shop. Tea Rooms. www.berkeley-castle.com

Boat TripsGlevum Boat Hire atSlimbridge Boat Station. Self hireon Gloucester & Sharpness Canal.Phone to book. 01453 899190www.slimbridgeboatstation.com

Bristol AeroCollectionSouth Gloucestershire’s Aviation

Heritage, Kemble Airfield,Gloucestershire – four mileswest of Cirencester. Telephone01285 771204. The collectionrecords the achievements andcontributions of to aerospace andengineering of the BristolAeroplane company and itssuccessors at Filton and Patchway.The majority of the collection’sartefacts and exhibits coverstrams, buses, civil and militaryaircraft, helicopters, guidedmissiles and space exploration. www.bristolaero.com

Bristol BlueGlassThe Bristol Blue Glass name isover 350 years old and it is onethat the company are very

privileged to carry forward intothe 21st Century, combining thebest of the tools, techniques andtraditions from the past with thequality, style, and professionalismwhich is synonymous withwww.bristol-glass.co.uk

Cabot CircusBristol’s newest shoppingexperience. Shops include Houseof Fraser, Harvey Nichols,Monsoon, Kurt Geiger.From fashion and homeware to books, music and toys, there’ssomething for everyone. Strolldown the picturesque avenuesand you’ll find an array of theUK’s most fashionable stores,many opening in Bristol for thefirst time. www.cabotcircus.com

Cattle CountryBerkeleyHave a fantastic fun-filled day outat Cattle Country. There isplenty to do both inside and outwith large adventure play areaswhere adults are encouraged tojoin in with their children. Aminiature train takes you to theAnimal Encounters area andnature trail takes you to a willowmaze. During the summer youcan enjoy special tractor andtrailer rides. Tel 01453 810510www.cattlecountry.co.uk

Concorde atFiltonThe West’s world-famous visitorattraction features Concorde216, which made her spectacularfinal flight home into Filton on26 November 2003. BritishAirways has loaned Concorde216 to Airbus UK, who invitedthe Bristol Aero Collection tomanage Concorde at Filtonthrough its team of enthusiasticand hard working volunteers.Concorde at Filton is open forpublic visits on Wednesdays toSundays inclusive with fourninety-minute tours departingdaily at 9.45am, 11.30am, 1.15pmand 3pm in summer and threeninety-minute tours departingdaily at 10.15am, 12 noon and1.45pm in winter. All visits arepre-booked - telephoneConcorde at Filton directly on0117 936 5485. www.concordeatfilton.org.uk

Dean ForestRailwayHave a nostalgic day out in thebeautiful and historic Forest ofDean. A magical 8 mile roundtrip to the village of Parkend

with steam and occasionalheritage diesel trains. Free carpark at Norchard Station onB4234 (near Lydney) plus a giftshop, museum and café. Telephone 01594 845840.www.deanforestrailway.co.uk

Dyrham ParkDyrham, nr Chippenham,(01179) 372501. National Trustproperty. 17th century housewith much of the originalfurnishings. Café and shop. 263acres of parkland and a formalgarden surrounding the house.Park open daily all year (exceptChristmas Day) 12-5.30 or duskif earlier. House and garden openend Mar-end Oct daily (exceptThur-Fri) 12-5.30 or dusk ifearlier. Admission charge, free to NTmembers. Coaches byappointment only. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-dyrhampark

Activities and Attractions

Forest of AvonPartnershipNear Chipping Sodbury, TheForest of Avon is not just abouttrees. It is about providing apositive local response toclimate change and helping toensure that new growth is wellplanned and sustainable. It isabout working with peoplewhere they live and helpingthem to keep active, developskills, gain understanding, andmost of all - enjoy making adifference. To find out moreabout what we do and how youcan contribute. Tel 0117 953 2141 www.forestofavon.org.uk

Jenner MuseumHigh Street, Berkeley, Gloucester.(01453) 810631. Housed inEdward Jenner’s old home andtells the story of this 18th-century doctor and scientistincluding his most significantwork, the discovery of avaccination against smallpox.Both Thornbury and Wotton-under-Edge have small museumshosting a variety of exhibitionsincluding much local history. www.jennermuseum.com

ABOVE: A Cotswold dawnINSET: Newark Park

Avon Valley Railway

Berkeley Castle

Visitor Guide 2009 PAGE 13PAGE 12 Visitor Guide 2009

A day out by the Gloucester & Sharpness CanalBOAT AND CYCLE HIRE.

LICENSED CAFE. OPEN ALL YEAR. CHANDLERY.Other services include:

Ice creams, drinks and convenience food store. Giftware. Fishing tackle. Fuel: diesel, gas, solid fuel, barbecue briquettes

Patch Bridge, Shepherds Patch, Slimbridge,Gloucestershire GL2 7BP

Tel: 01453 899190Email: colin.wattam@btopenworld.com

Website: www.slimbridgeboatstation.com

Home of Glevum Boat Hire

SlimbridgeBoat Station

The Friendly Family Farm

www.

staugustinesfarm.co.uk

Little SodburyManorChipping Sodbury, SouthGloucestershire. (01454)312232. Medieval house withfine great hall and Elizabethan,Jacobean and Queen Anneadditions. Guided tours andrefreshments on request. OpenApr-Sept 10-6. By appointmentonly.

Newark ParkOzleworth, Wotton-under-Edge,GL12 7PZ Discover an unusual andfashionable Georgian homeinside an atmospheric Tudorhunting Lodge with an eclecticart collection. There is a wildromantic garden perfect forwalks with uninterrupted viewstowards the Mendips. Recentlyfeatured in 'Tess D'Urbevilles'.Visit:www.nationaltrust.org.uk/newarkpark for further details.

OakhamTreasuresOakham Farm, PortburyLane, Portbury, Bristol BS20 7SP01275 375 236Oakham Treasures is one of thelargest privately owned museumsof retail and farming history in

the UK. Opened to the publicfor the very first time since July2008, it has already become amajor attraction, and guaranteesto give you an amazing anduplifting trip down memory lane.Whether you are 8 or 80, you'llbe fascinated by this vast andunique collection of memorabiliafrom the last century.www.oakhamtreasures.co.uk

Owlpen ManorOwlpen, nr Dursley, Tel: 01453 860261 Owlpen – animpressive historic manor house(1450-1616) in a wooded valley,has a magnificent Tudor Great Hall,a Jacobean solar wing, a fine

Wetmore NatureReserve(The Wildlife Trust) - LowerWoods covers approx. 750 acres,lies 10 miles north-east of Bristoland was designated as a Site ofSpecial Scientific Interest in 1966.It is one of the most extensiveareas of ancient woodland insouth west England. Much of thewoodland is of considerable agepreceding the Norman conquest.There is a wide range of habitattypes and the Bristol woodlandsare rich in plant life,invertebrates, birds andmammals.

Wildfowl &Wetlands TrustSlimbridge (01453) 891900.With an astounding array ofwildlife from water voles towaders, hares to dragonflies, thisbeautiful reserve has somethingto offer every season fromdowny duckling days in Spring tobreathtaking swan feeds inWinter.Take a canoe trail through ourgrounds or let the kids splash

and stomp in their wellies atWelly Boot Land. See our newotters and beavers in Back fromThe Brink in Summer 09.Enjoy the fabulous vistor’s centreand take a well deserved rest atThe Water’s Edge Restaurantthen pick up some fantasticsouveniers at the gift shop.Open daily except ChristmasDay. 9.30am 5pm (5.30pm April -Oct). www.wwt.org.uk/slimbridge

Willsbridge MillWillsbridge Hill, SouthGloucestershire (The WildlifeTrust) (0117) 932 6885. 19th Century corn mill housing‘hands on’ wildlife and historical

exhibition. Willsbridge ValleyNature Reserve - wildlife thrivingon the edge of the city. Open Apr-Sep, Weekdays during school term10-3, weekly during school holidays10-late afternoon, Suns BH 2-5.

Oakham Treasures

Cotswold Arts and Craftcollection, and unique painted clothwall-hangings in a room haunted byQueen Margaret of Anjou (whovisited in 1471). The 16th Centuryformal terraced garden has fineyew topiary and box parterres. Theestate is set in its own remote andpicturesque wooded valley. Houseand gardens open Tuesdays,Thursdays and Sundays betweenMay 1st and September 30thwww.owlpen.com

Severn BridgesVisitor Centrewww.severnbridges.comOpen weekends and bankholidays

St AugustinesFarmArlingham, Glos GL2 7JN01452 740277A real working organic dairyfarm in the Severn Vale, St Augustines is a typical dairyfarm of over 100 acres wherethe everyday farm life will go onaround you. Here you can watchthe cows being milked, feed thebaby calves and explore the farmand woodland trails.www. Staugustinesfarm.co.uk

ThornburyMuseumA Museum of the local and socialhistory of Thornbury and thelower Severn Vale. Telephone01454 857774. Open Tuesday toFriday 1.00pm to 4.00pm andSaturday 10.00am to 4.00pm.Closed Sunday, Monday andPublic holidayswww.thornburymuseum.org.uk

The MallVisit The Mall at Cribbs Causeway,where shopping is a joy. 135 topname stores, 7,000 free parkingspaces, consistent late nightopening and easy access combineto make The Mall a great place toshop, meet friends and relaxwww.mallcribbs.com

2 fantastic golf courses, 26 bay driving

range, pro shop, and much more...

Open to everyone, all day every day.

The Mall at Cribbs Causeway

Severn Estuary Second Severn Crossing

Slimbridge

PAGE 14 Visitor Guide 2009

The Tunnel House Inn, Coates, Cirencester, Glos, GL7 6PW01285 770 280. Email: bookings@tunnelhouse.com

www.tunnelhouse.com

The Tunnel House InnSet in a idyllic location just outside the historic town of Cirencester the Tunnel House Innis located between the villages of Coates and Tarlton. This traditional country pub withlocal real ales and traditional pub food isfull of character. Not only is it full ofwonderful memorabilia gathered over theyears, it is also positioned at the head ofthe tunnel that links the Thames andSevern Canal. Just a couple of fieldsaway from the source of the riverThames the pub has much to offer for afull day out. Children and dogs are welcome with plenty of space for both!

Heavens Above (set above Wild GarlicRestaurant) is a historic Cotswold stonebuilding, providing an ideal setting for amemorable stay. The three light spaciousrooms have sofas and feature either largebay windows overlooking the quietCossack Square or hand craftedstained glass windows. Offering peace and tranquillity, yet only a short walkfrom bustling Nailsworths town centre. Perfect to explore the Cotswolds, beingonly a short drive from the M5 and M4. Wild Garlic was recently featured veryfavourably, in the New York Times and has developed a strong following sinceopening in November 2007. Matthew's menus combine the very best locallysourced ingredients with simple flair, clean flavours and a touch of imagination.

Wild Garlic Restaurant & Heavens Above3 Cossack Square, Nailsworth GL6 0DB

01453 832615 www.wild-garlic.co.uk

&HEAVENS ABOVE

WILD GARLIC

“TWO SPRINGBANK” UPPER-CAM, Nr. DURSLEY , Glos.

• Pleasant situation with garden and patio• Cotswold Way within half a mile• Berkeley, Slimbridge and Westonbirt all

less than 10 miles• Gloucester and Cheltenham, Bristol,

Bath and Cirencester within 25 miles

Prices from £198–£276 per weekIncludes electricity, towels, bed-linen and cot

www.twospringbank.co.uk

VB ★★★ Sleeps 4 + Cot

Within this mid-terrace cottage an archway separates the sitting room from the dining area with its multi fuel stove.There is a fully fitted kitchen and utility with auto-washingmachine and tumble dryer. A panelled stairway with gatesleads to two bedrooms (1 double, 1 twin) and bathroom withbath and electric shower over. Cars are parked in village roadby the cottage. Off-peak short breaks are accepted but sorry!No pets or smoking. Contact Lionel and Freda Jones. Tel:01453 543047. Email: freedaj2sb37@btinternet.com or go to:

• Toilets • Showers • Elsan Disposal Point • Shaver Point • Electric Hook-up

• Golf nearby • Fishing local • Site shop with garden produce • Gas

• Children’s play area.The site is level and has excellent

access from M5 and A38. Set in open countryside, a truly rural site that has so

much to offer those who appreciate natural beauty. • Caravans to let on-site

• Dogs allowed under control.

Hogsdown FarmCaravan & Camping Park

Lower Wick, Nr. Dursley Tel: 01453 810224

Abbotts Way HouseAbbotts Way HouseH O L I D A Y A P A R T M E N T SFour converted barns set on 12 acres of farm-land with easy access to the A38. 5 mins fromthe Almondsbury interchange where the M5and M4 join. Easy access to Bristol /Gloucester and the Severn Crossing. Each barnhas 2 bedrooms with ensuite facitlities, theyare suitable for disabled users. All apartmentshave a well equipped kitchen with fantasticviews over the severn. Quiet location.

Tel: 01454 613134

Abbotts Way House, Gloucester Road, Almondsbury, Bristol BS32 4JB

www.abbottswayhouse.co.uk

An awe-inspiring place to visit.Discover the history and legends ofStonehenge with a complimentary audio tour in 10 languages.

T 0870 333 1181www.english-heritage.org.uk/stonehenge

Discover Stonehenge

BadmintonThe Badminton Horse Trials held every May on theBadminton Estate offer the chance to watch other people(and horses) burn up their energies as they compete in oneof the world’s toughest cross country events.www.badminton-horse.co.uk

BathThe magnificent city with Georgian skylines made famous bythe Romans who developed a number of bath houses overBritain’s’ only hot springs. Visit the Royal Crescent and tastethe Sally Lunn Bunwww.visitbath.co.uk

BristolBrunel’s suspension bridge spanning Clifton Gorge, thezoological gardens, city of great cultural and economicimportance with art galleries, theatres, restaurants and livemusic venues. www.visitbristol.co.uk

CirencesterMarket Town, Roman antiquities, Corinium museum, craftmarkets, Abbey Grounds, Saint John’s – one of England’slongest parish churches. www.cirencester.co.uk/

Forest of DeanVast area of woodlands, Royal Forest, favourite huntingground of early English monarchs, later famous for its coalwww.visitforestofdean.co.uk

Tetbury17th Century Market House used for wool trade, 18thcentury church, antiqueswww.visittetbury.co.uk

The Wye ValleyStunning scenery between Ross-on-Wye and Chepstowadjoining the River Severn.At Monmouth find thehaunting ruins of TinternAbbey.

WestonbirtArboretum World famous for collectionof trees and shrubs. Popularall year round, particularly Spring and Autumn. www.forestry.gov.uk/westonbirt

Visitor Guide 2009 PAGE 15

Days Out

The George Inn at Frocester, Peter Street, FrocesterStonehouse, Gloucestershire GL10 3TQ

01453 822302 www.georgeinn.co.uk

10 letting rooms with en suites. Large family, double & small rooms.All food home made and cooked using local produce. Walkers, bikers, visitors especially welcomed log fires real ales always available. C17th Coaching Inn in the heart of the Cotswolds.Atmosphere is our speciality.

The George Inn at FrocesterConference, catering & hotelfacilities. Specialists in smaller wedding receptions20 to 120, parties, anniversaries, special occasions with own bar.

Falfield, Glos, GL12 8DR

The perfect location for any occasion

Weddings, Conferences, PrivateDinners, Funeral Teas, FamilyGatherings, Accommodation,Traditional Sunday Lunches,

Restaurant & Lounge Bar Meals.

For further details and menusTelephone 01454 260550

www.parkhotelfalfield.co.uk

THE PARK HOTEL

Wotton-under-EdgeWotton-under-Edge nestles below the edge of the Cotswolds overlooking the Severn Valley and the

distant hills of Wales – situated only a few miles from junction 14 on the M5.

ShoppingThe Cotswold Way takes you through Wotton’smain streets which are packed with a pleasing

variety of family run businesses, a veritable‘department store in the Street’. Many are specialist shops, including local crafts, art

galleries, cafes, quality food shopping,jewellers, children’s clothing, books – old andnew, health foods, DIY and kitchenware, plus

fashion clothes and traditional menswear.There is a highly respected Auction Room

which has an antiques sale at the end of everymonth including ceramics, paintings, jewellery

and furniture.

SportFor the sportsman or woman, there is a

sports centre, with tennis courts and fitnesscentres, three golf courses local to the town,an outdoor swimming pool with retractable

cover (Summer only) plus various horse riding centres.

InformationWhen arriving in Wotton-under-Edge, park inone of our free car parking areas and visit

the ‘Heritage Centre’. This is run by the town’sHistorical Society and is open Tuesday -

Friday 10 - 1 and 2 - 4, Saturday 10-1 andsome Sunday afternoons. Here you will find aTourist Information Point, a Research Room

and a Museum. For more information onopening times please ring: 01453 521541. Forfurther information about the town see our

web site: http://wotton-under-edge.com

So let yourself in on our secret- Discover Wotton-under-Edge

HistoryThis charming ancient market town offerspicturesque historical buildings, including‘The Ram Inn’, ‘Sir Isaac Pitman’s House’,

‘The Tolsey Clock’ and a selection ofAlmshouses. A little way along the Cotswold

Edge is the ‘Tyndale Monument’ which sits onthe hill above North Nibley and can actually

be seen from the M5 motorway.

To the North the mysterious Woodchester Park, with its lakes andunfinished Gothic Mansion. In the East the Nailsworth Ladder leading to NationalTrust Common Land. Due South is the sce-nic route to Westonbirt,Badminton and Bath and there are breathtaking views of the Severn Valleyand Welsh Hills to the West.

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• Renowned for its award-winning restaurants, pubs,cafes and other food outlets, the town remains livelythroughout the day and evening• Small individual shops offer an amazing variety ofgoods – organic locally grown produce, first-class delicatessen products, fair-traded items from acrossthe globe, fascinating antiques and collectables• Accommodation ranges from a hotel in a converted millto a guesthouse or bed and breakfast tucked into a corner of the town or neighbouring hamlet• Criss-crossed by more than a hundred footpaths, passing picturesque cottages and handsome houses

• The largest number of working waterwheels per square mile in the country• An eight-mile Cycleway follows the old railway line from Nailsworth to Stonehouse

Nailsworth A Cotswold town full of surprises,nestling in a wooded valley

Make NAILSWORTH your base from which to explore the Cotswolds and the West Country.Contact NAILSWORTH INFORMATION CENTRE, 4 The Old George, Fountain Street, Nailsworth GL6 0BL. Tel: 01453 839222 E: nailsworthtic@btconnect.com www.nailsworthtown.co.uk