Bristol, Cider & Gorge-ous Cheddar

DAY 1

We arrive in Bristol where our hotel is conveniently situated a short walk from the railway station. You may wish to take a stroll around Temple Gardens ahead of dinner this evening in the hotel restaurant.

DAY 2

Today we take a private coach to the spectacular Cheddar Gorge. The Gorge boasts awe-inspiring cliffs, and we take time to walk to the extraordinary caves to see the stalagmites and stalactites plus where Cheddar Cheese is matured. Alternatively, you can visit the Museum of Prehistory to discover the story of how our ancestors survived the Ice Age before we visit the "Shop at the Gorge" where you can treat yourself to the superb Cheddar Cheese. On our way back to Bristol we stop at Myrtle Farm, home of Thatcher's Cider, for a guided tour and tasting.

DAY 3

This morning we explore Bristol's waterways as we board our boat tour discovering the fascinating history and contemporary culture of Bristol's Floating Harbour. We continue the maritime as we visit the Being Brunel Museum and the SS Great Britain, the ship that changed the way we travel forever, exploring the ship's story and the engineer behind it. This afternoon we make our way to the Avon Valley Railway where we enjoy a return journey from Bitton along the former Midland Railway branch line.

DAY 4

Today we experience 100 years of British aerospace industry as our coach takes us to Aerospace Bristol. We enjoy a guided tour and talk on the supersonic Concorde; the museum is home to the last of these iconic passenger jets to be built and flown. In the afternoon we transfer to the Grade I listed Clifton Suspension Bridge, spanning the beautiful Avon Gorge. Here we have a guided tour of the bridge and learn about its construction, completion, and how it is maintained to this day. The rest of the afternoon is free to explore the city or relax at the hotel.

DAY 5

We bid farewell to Bristol with its proud history and make our way home.

B=Breakfast, D=Dinner