7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Bristol

Digital nomads living in Bristol have the unique advantage of being based in a vibrant city that's not only full of its own attractions but also conveniently located for a variety of weekend getaways. Whether you're looking for popular tourist spots or hidden gems off the beaten path, the surrounding areas offer something for everyone. From the rolling hills of the Cotswolds to the quirky charm of small coastal towns, here are seven destinations that are perfect for a short break from your remote work life.

Bath

Just a short journey from Bristol, Bath is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning Georgian architecture and ancient Roman Baths. Spend your weekend exploring the historic streets, visiting the Bath Abbey, and relaxing in the Thermae Bath Spa, which offers rooftop pool views of the city. For a touch of culture, check out the Jane Austen Centre or the various art galleries scattered around town.

How to Get There: Bath is easily accessible from Bristol by train, with a journey time of around 15 minutes from Bristol Temple Meads station. Regular services run throughout the day.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to try a Sally Lunn Bun, a local delicacy, at the oldest house in Bath, Sally Lunn's Historic Eating House & Museum.

Where to Stay: The Gainsborough Bath Spa offers luxurious accommodations with access to natural thermal waters, while The Abbey Hotel has a prime central location.

Where to Eat: For a memorable dining experience, visit The Pump Room Restaurant, where you can enjoy a meal accompanied by live classical music in a grand setting.

The Cotswolds

The Cotswolds are synonymous with the English countryside, offering rolling hills, picturesque villages, and plenty of walking trails. Digital nomads can disconnect and recharge by exploring the quaint streets of towns like Chipping Campden or Bourton-on-the-Water. The area is also great for antique shopping and enjoying traditional English pubs.

How to Get There: The Cotswolds can be reached by train from Bristol to Moreton-in-Marsh, with a journey time of about 1.5 hours, followed by a short bus ride into the heart of the Cotswolds.

Travel Tip: Visit the Cotswold Lavender Farm near Snowshill when the lavender is in bloom for a stunning and fragrant experience.

Where to Stay: The Manor House Hotel in Moreton-in-Marsh offers charming rooms and an award-winning restaurant, while The Slaughters Country Inn in Lower Slaughter is perfect for a cozy stay.

Where to Eat: The Wild Rabbit in Kingham is a modern British inn with a focus on organic and locally sourced ingredients.

Glastonbury

Glastonbury is not just famous for its music festival; it's also steeped in history and myth. The town is a hub for spirituality and alternative cultures, with the Glastonbury Tor and the Chalice Well being must-visit spots. The quirky shops and cafes in the town center also make for an interesting browse.

How to Get There: The best way to get to Glastonbury from Bristol is by bus, with a journey time of around 1.5 hours.

Travel Tip: Climb the Glastonbury Tor for panoramic views of the Somerset Levels, especially magical at sunrise or sunset.

Where to Stay: Middlewick Holiday Cottages offer a range of accommodations with stunning views of the Tor, and some even have eco-friendly options.

Where to Eat: The Hundred Monkeys Cafe offers a great selection of vegetarian and vegan dishes in a relaxed atmosphere.

Cardiff

The capital of Wales, Cardiff, is a vibrant city with a mix of modern and historical attractions. Digital nomads can explore Cardiff Castle, stroll through Bute Park, or visit the Wales Millennium Centre for a show. The city also boasts a lively waterfront area at Cardiff Bay, with plenty of dining and entertainment options.

How to Get There: Cardiff is just an hour away by train from Bristol, with frequent services running from Bristol Temple Meads station.

Travel Tip: Check out the Doctor Who Experience for an interactive journey through the world of the famous TV show, which is filmed in Cardiff.

Where to Stay: The voco St. David's Cardiff offers luxury with stunning views over Cardiff Bay, while The Angel Hotel provides historic charm near the city center.

Where to Eat: For a taste of Wales, visit Madame Fromage, which specializes in Welsh cheeses and other local produce.

Exmoor National Park

For those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure, Exmoor National Park offers rugged landscapes, dark skies for stargazing, and the chance to spot wild ponies. Hiking, horse riding, and cycling are popular activities here, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area.

How to Get There: The best way to reach Exmoor is by car, which takes around 2 hours from Bristol. Public transport options are limited, but buses do run to towns on the park's fringes.

Travel Tip: Visit the Valley of Rocks for dramatic coastal scenery and unique rock formations. It's a perfect spot for photographers and nature lovers.

Where to Stay: The Luttrell Arms in Dunster offers historic accommodations with a touch of luxury, and some rooms have views of the medieval village.

Where to Eat: The Culbone near Porlock is a great spot for locally sourced food with views over the moor.

Avebury

Avebury is less well-known than its neighbor Stonehenge but is equally fascinating. This Neolithic henge monument features the largest stone circle in Europe, which you can walk among. The village of Avebury is charming, and the surrounding countryside offers plenty of walking trails, including the Ridgeway, an ancient trackway.

How to Get There: Avebury is best reached by car from Bristol, taking around 1 hour and 15 minutes. Public transport involves a train to Swindon and then a bus to Avebury.

Travel Tip: Visit the Alexander Keiller Museum to learn more about the history and archaeology of Avebury and its surroundings.

Where to Stay: The Red Lion Inn is a cozy pub with rooms right in the heart of Avebury, offering a unique experience to stay within the stone circle.

Where to Eat: The Avebury Manor Tea-room is perfect for a traditional cream tea in a picturesque setting.

Wye Valley

The Wye Valley, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, straddles the border between England and Wales. It's a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for canoeing, hiking, and rock climbing. The stunning Tintern Abbey ruins are a highlight, as are the quaint towns and villages like Monmouth and Chepstow.

How to Get There: The Wye Valley is accessible by car from Bristol in about an hour. Public transport options include trains to Chepstow and then local buses into the valley.

Travel Tip: Take a leisurely canoe trip down the River Wye to see the valley from a different perspective.

Where to Stay: The Speech House Hotel is a former hunting lodge with comfortable rooms and is ideally situated for exploring the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley.

Where to Eat: The Whitebrook, a Michelin-starred restaurant near Monmouth, offers exquisite dishes made with locally foraged ingredients.