Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Charnwood to Bristol

There's more to driving from Charnwood to Bristol than simply taking the quickest route on the motorway. In fact, if you take a few extra minutes and explore the towns and countryside along the way, you might discover some hidden gems that you never knew existed. In this article, we'll be highlighting five unexpected places to stop on a drive from Charnwood to Bristol and why you should consider visiting them.

First, let's talk about the route itself. The journey from Charnwood to Bristol takes approximately two and a half hours (depending on the traffic), and covers a distance of roughly 120 miles. Along the way, you'll pass through some beautiful countryside, charming towns and villages, and some unexpected locations that are well worth a visit. The first milestone to mark the halfway point of the journey is the city of Worcester, located just over an hour from Charnwood.

#1 - Castle Donington, DBY

The first place to stop on your journey from Charnwood to Bristol is Castle Donington. This small town in Derbyshire has a lot to offer visitors, including the historic St. Edward's Church and the Donington Park Racing Circuit, which has hosted a number of high-profile racing events over the years. But perhaps the town's most famous attraction is the annual Download Festival, which attracts tens of thousands of music fans from all over the world.

If you're hungry when you arrive in Castle Donington, be sure to check out the Fish and Chip Bar on High Street. This local favorite has been serving up delicious fish and chips for over 20 years, and its reputation for quality and value is well-deserved.

#2 - Tewkesbury, GLS

The town of Tewkesbury in Gloucestershire is a picturesque spot that's well worth a visit. Its most famous attraction is the Tewkesbury Abbey, which dates back to the 12th century and is home to some stunning examples of medieval architecture. The town is also home to a number of interesting museums and galleries, including the John Moore Museum and the Tewkesbury Museum.

One dining option in Tewkesbury that's particularly recommended is the Royal Hop Pole, an 18th-century coaching inn that serves up classic British dishes and local ales. Its beer garden is a great place to stop for a pint on a warm day.

#3 - Glastonbury, SOM

Glastonbury is perhaps best known for its annual music festival (which, unfortunately, was cancelled in 2020 due to the pandemic) but there's plenty to see and do here beyond the festival grounds. The town is steeped in history and legend, with connections to King Arthur, the Holy Grail, and even the mystical Tor that looms over the landscape.

When it comes to food, the George and Pilgrim is a must-visit. This atmospheric pub dates back to the 15th century and has a reputation for serving up fantastic food made with local ingredients. The Sunday roast is particularly recommended.

#4 - Frome, SOM

Frome is a real hidden gem that's often overlooked by visitors to this part of the world. This historic market town in Somerset has a thriving arts scene, with galleries, artist studios, and events happening throughout the year. The town's independent shops are also well worth a browse, with everything from vintage clothing stores to artisan bakeries.

Food-wise, you can't go wrong with a visit to the Garden Cafe, a vegetarian cafe housed in a converted Georgian townhouse. The menu includes everything from hearty breakfasts to vegan cakes and pastries.

#5 - Bradford on Avon, WIL

Our final recommendation for an unexpected stop on your journey from Charnwood to Bristol is Bradford on Avon. This charming market town in Wiltshire is situated on the banks of the River Avon and is home to a number of historic buildings and landmarks, including the 14th-century Holy Trinity Church and the old Tithe Barn.

If you're feeling peckish, head to the Bridge Tea Rooms for a classic British afternoon tea complete with finger sandwiches, scones, and a variety of cakes and pastries.

Conclusion

If you're looking for a way to break up the journey between Charnwood and Bristol, or simply want to explore some of the lesser-known spots in this part of the country, consider stopping off at some of the towns and villages we've highlighted in this article. Each one offers something unique and special, from historic landmarks to great food and drink. By exploring these hidden gems, you might just uncover something unexpected and unforgettable.