1 Day Itinerary: East of Bath and Bradford-on-Avon

Historic Houses & Bradford-on-Avon

If you have your own transport there are some delightful attractions to visit just East of Bath. In this short guide we visit Great Chalfield Manor before popping into Bradford-on-Avon for some lunch followed by some exploration on-foot.

Great Chalfield Manor

Great Chalfield Manor (30 mins / 11 miles) is a stunning Tudor manor house set in beautiful gardens, located in the small village of Great Chalfield. It’s known for its rich history and impressive architecture and is a popular filming location. Typically open to the public on weekends during the spring and summer months, check the National Trust website for opening times. In the manor house explore the exquisite interiors that reflect Tudor architecture, including original furnishings and artwork. In the meticulously maintained gardens explore the formal layouts, herbaceous borders, and historical plants. There’s no café on-site, so visit in the morning before heading to Bradford-on-Avon for lunch (10 mins / 3 miles)

Lunch at Bradford-on-Avon

Bradford-on-Avon is a charming walkable town, known for its picturesque scenery, historic architecture, and the scenic River Avon. It’s perfect for a day trip, offering a mix of culture, history, and outdoor activities. There are a variety of restaurants and cafés to choose from for lunch. For a family friendly Italian, Il Fiume is right on the river, or for something more special head to The Bunch of Grapes on Silver Street. There are also a selection of reasonably priced pubs such as the Dandy Lion or head to one of the many cafés for a lighter bite.

Exploring Bradford-on-Avon

Having refuelled why not explore Bradford-on-Avon on foot. The Tithe Barn is a beautifully preserved 14th-century barn. Entry is free and can be combined with a walk along the nearby canal. For the adventurous kayaks are available to rent from The Lock Inn (phone ahead to book). St Laurence Church is worth a look for its stunning Saxon architecture and beautiful stained-glass windows or just wander through the quaint streets, with unique shops and historic buildings. Returning to Bath takes approximately 30 mins by car (9 miles).

Images: Visit Bath