5 of the best free days out in Bristol – Free activities in Bristol

5 Of The Best Days Out In Bristol That Won't Cost A Penny

They say the best things in life are free and there’s plenty of fun things to do in and around Bristol that won’t cost you a thing.

If it’s where you call home or if you’re planning a visit, we’ve rounded up some of the best free activities for a brilliant day out on a budget in the South West’s biggest city.

What is West Country Games?

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West Country Games embraces all the stereotypes of the West Country in one great day out, comprising of 9 totally hilarious games suitable for all sorts of groups.

If you have an upcoming, Stag do, Hen Weekend, Birthday Party or Team Building Day, then why not give us a try?

Find out more...

Top 5 Free Days Out In Bristol

Bristol Museum And Art Gallery

A billion-year journey around the world? Not bad for a free day out!

The museum is the perfect place to spend a rainy day and will certainly keep you busy as you walk with dinosaurs, travel through the land of the pharaohs and discover the age of aviation and beyond.

The museum also hosts touring collections of artwork and artefacts throughout the year so, even if you can’t fit the whole history of the world into one day, there’s always an excuse to go back!

Banksy Walking Tour

When you think of famous faces from Bristol, chances are you think of Banksy…even if nobody knows what he looks like.

The anonymous artist calls the city home and it’s where some of his first and most famous artworks have appeared.

Grab a map and your walking shoes make sure you’re eagle-eyed as you embark on a walking tour to find some of his earliest and most well-loved works. They’re hidden in various locations around the city and sometimes in places you’d least expect!

The Downs

Situated on the border of Clifton Village, Clifton and Redland, The Downs is made up of acres of picturesque, protected parklands that offer an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city centre.

They’re a fantastic place to explore and enjoy a relaxing stroll but are also home to a number of exciting events throughout the year.

The highlight of The Downs’ calendar is The Downs Festival which has grown into one of the biggest music events in the South West.

Arnolfini

Arnolfini is Bristol’s harbourside home of contemporary art. It has an ever-changing programme of performances, films, music and exhibitions that celebrate culture from both Bristol and the wider world.

This modern, award-winning venue is also part of the Plus Tate network, a programme that allows some of the most exciting exhibitions, curated by the Tate museums, to visit other UK cities.

Entry to the centre and main galleries is free although there is a small ticket charge for some exhibits or performances.

Clifton Suspension Bridge

Clifton Suspension Bridge has been an iconic part of Bristol’s landscape since it’s completion in 1864. Crossing by foot is free and it’s certainly worth the walk; there are brilliant, panoramic views of the city to be enjoyed from either side.

Our favourite is from Observatory Hill, just after dusk, when the bridge’s illuminations are lit. There’s a visitor centre nearby where you can learn about the history of the bridge and free guided tours from run from the Clifton Toll Booth every Saturday, Sunday and bank holiday Monday from Easter to October.

There’s plenty of attractions in Bristol to keep you entertained without breaking the bank or even needing to visit a cash machine at all.

In fact, there’s so many, why not challenge yourself to see the city on a shoestring and combine a few on our list to create a big day out?

Hen Do Fancy Dress Ideas

Hen Do Fancy Dress Ideas – The Best Hen Party Costumes

Everyone wants a great hen do before they embark on married life. Who doesn’t love a good time with their friends, getting a bit drunk and generally putting the world to rights? Where once you might have had a quiet evening in a local bar though, today it’s much more about cutting loose and sending the hen off in style. And what’s one of the best ways to do that? Grabbing some crazy hen do costumes and hitting the town, that’s how!

If you’re after some great hen do fancy dress ideas then you’re in the right place. We’ve pretty much seen it all at West Country Games, so we’re well-placed to give you some inspiration on hen do themes and help you plan the most epic weekend possible for the bride. If you’d like her to look classy then there are some good chic hen costumes available, but if you want to embarrass the life out of her then you’re in luck as that’s what the majority of hen do costumes are all about! We’ve put together our pick of the best.

What is West Country Games?

Play Video

West Country Games embraces all the stereotypes of the West Country in one great day out, comprising of 9 totally hilarious games suitable for all sorts of groups.

If you have an upcoming, Stag do, Hen Weekend, Birthday Party or Team Building Day, then why not give us a try?

Find out more...

The Great Tradition of Hen Do Fancy Dress

Go back 50 years and hen dos weren’t so much of a thing. While the men were out drinking to celebrate an impending marriage, women often stayed at home to prepare for the big day. Luckily that’s very much no longer the case! Having a hen do is an integral part of getting married, and hen do fancy dress ideas have got weird and wonderful.

Your weekend might be a low key chill out with friends or a mental weekend in the pubs and clubs, but nowadays it’s easy to find hen costumes for both. You can go as sedate or as crazy as you like...as long as the hen is a good sport!

Fancy dress to make the hen feel good…or embarrass them!

When you’re looking for some perfect hen do costumes you’ve got two options. If you’re feeling kind (and worried about what the bridesmaid dress might end up looking like!) then go for a flattering, sexy number like a slinky air hostess. The hen will be the centre of attention for all the right reasons, and will feel a million dollars. She’ll love it.

But what about if you’re feeling naughty and want to embarrass her instead? That’s OK too! She must love her husband-to-be, she is marrying him after all, so how about building the hen fancy dress around him? Have masks made from his face, dress everyone up like him and watch her squirm!

What can you get away with for hen fancy dress?

It might be hilarious to think of a million ways to embarrass the bride, but just be careful that you don’t go too far with your hen night costumes if you’re heading out in public. Dressing her up like a porn star is going to give all your mates a great laugh but it might not go down too well in a nice restaurant!

When choosing a hen do theme it’s also a good idea to keep the bride’s sense of humour in mind. A bride-to-be sobbing in the toilets is a sign you’ve gone too far! A bit embarrassing is normally OK, but totally horrifying generally isn’t. You still want to be invited to the wedding after all!

Our top 5 original hen do themes and costumes

We’ve put together our pick of the 5 best hen do fancy dress ideas to help you on your way. Read on to find our best naughty or nice outfits, suitable for activities, dinner or dance floor! Read on and choose your favourite, whichever resonates most for your lady of the hour!

5. The Shepherdess

First up is one of the classic hen do costumes: the shepherdess. Meek and demure yet a little bit risqué if you throw in a bit of cleavage, this is a good one for ladies who want to dress up and look glam.

If the rest of the hen party all want to dress up as sheep then so much the better!

4. Pub Golf

Next we have pub golf, which is not a typical hen costume but is a great choice because of the entertainment that comes alongside. Dress up as sexy golfers with pleated skirts and long socks, grab a scorecard here then hit the pubs to hit a round of cocktails and shots!

Plus don’t forget the amazing benefit of golf-related hen costumes- you get to wear trainers with your outfit. You’ll be thanking us at 4am!

3. Air Hostess

Hen fancy dress outfit number 3 is the super-sexy air hostess. This can be made as full-on as you want with some slinky outfits and tight-fitting shirts, or a bit classier if you go along the more buttoned-up route to turn it into a chic hen costume. Expect lots of attention from everyone else in town, and maybe a few generous offers to be your pilot!

2. Pink Ladies

At number 2 on our list of hen do fancy dress ideas it’s the ever-popular Pink Ladies from the film Grease. The film is a classic and the hen night costumes are too!

We’re talking tight black trousers, spike heels or trainers, shiny pink jackets and hair as crazy as you want. This one is a good choice for mixed groups as it allows everyone to design their own outfit.

1. Farmers

Topping our list as one of the best hen do costumes around, it’s that West Country classic of dressing up as farmers! You can go wild with this one. Want to channel your inner Wurzel? Go for it.

Or have the bride as the farmer and everyone else as the farm animals? That works too! Dungarees, denim, checked shirts and straw hats are all great accompaniments to a night out.

Where to purchase your hen do fancy dress

The final step in organising the perfect hen weekend is to turn your hen do fancy dress ideas into reality. Google is your best friend as it lets you search for local fancy dress shops which might have some bargain hen costumes on offer. Alternatively, lots of retailers have online shops so check out Amazon or eBay to see what you can find. Make sure you buy the right sizes though, there’s nothing worse than an ill-fitting shepherdess outfit!

Your Hen Fancy Dress Inspiration... Done

And that’s it! Now you know how to find the ultimate hen party fancy dress costumes, all you need to do is add prosecco and some good mates. Enjoy!

Bristol Harbour Festival – Host to Bristol Harbour festival 2018

Drinks, Music And Fun In The Sun At Bristol Harbour Festival

The Bristol Harbour Festival is one of the biggest events in the city’s calendar, and if you’re making a list of must-do Bristol activities then look no further.

Imagine the scene… Groups of friends sat on the harbour walls, sipping local cider and soaking up the afternoon sunshine. A flotilla of boats bobbing in the harbour and the sound of flags snapping in the breeze fills the air. Live music from the open-air stage drifts across the water and the atmosphere is relaxed and happy. Welcome to Bristol’s annual harbour festival!

This year’s festival will take place on the weekend of 20th – 22nd July and there’s plenty to get excited about. It’s long been one of the highlights in the local calendar and is the ideal focus for a Bristol hen weekend or a stag do and the best bit – it’s all totally free!

Here’s our run-down of the best that the festival has to offer, to help you make the most of a weekend packed full of Bristol Harbourside festival fun.

What is West Country Games?

Play Video

West Country Games embraces all the stereotypes of the West Country in one great day out, comprising of 9 totally hilarious games suitable for all sorts of groups.

If you have an upcoming, Stag do, Hen Weekend, Birthday Party or Team Building Day, then why not give us a try?

Find out more...

Bristol’s Harbour Festival

What’s The Deal?

The Bristol Harbour Festival was set up to celebrate Bristol’s proud naval heritage, and every year hundreds of boats converge on the floating harbour to moor up and join in the fun.

Famous ships like The Matthew make an appearance and there are water-based displays of everything from Newfoundland rescue dogs to the local fire service.

The city is taken over by music and dance and it’s a great showcase of the area for visitors, as well as being a great way to celebrate a hen, stag or birthday weekend.

The Best Music?

The Bristol Harbourside Festival starts on Friday night with a free, live music concert in the newly-revamped Lloyds Amphitheatre on the banks of the river.

Previous years have featured a concert orchestra providing the warm-up for UK rapper Roots Manuva so expect an eclectic mix!

There are eight different music stages at the Bristol Harbour Festival showcasing a range of music styles, so there’s something for everyone.

A trip to the famous floating nightclub the Thekla is at the top of the list of things to do that shouldn’t be missed; host to a stage in its own right, this is a unique chance to enjoy a bit of live music on board during daylight hours.

The Best Food?

Bristol is considered the culinary capital of the UK with a large host of great eating venues to indulge in. The Bristol Harbour Festival embraces this tradition and there is some top-quality food on offer over the festival weekend.

Many local places offer special deals for festival-goers and with three Michelin-starred restaurants in the centre of town you could certainly choose to push the boat out!

Don’t fancy a sit-down meal? There are a number of ‘Market’ areas where you can grab some food on the go featuring cuisines from all over the world.

The Best Drinks?

Drinking is also taken very seriously at the Bristol Harbour Festival, and if you’re a fan of craft ales and ciders then you’re in luck. Local producers take the chance to promote their best vintages and sinking a pint of Somerset cider outside the Arnolfini is a must-do, as well as any of Bristol’s best pubs.

No Bristol stag or hen weekend would be complete without a drink or two, and the festival doesn’t disappoint here either. Pop-up cocktail bars are normally found near Queens Square, or take some time out of your Bristol harbour festival experience to sample a couple of hand-crafted drinks in The Rummer on Corn Street.

It’s at the heart of the Bristol drinks scene and is well worth a visit.

The Best Activities?

If you’re organising a group trip to Bristol, then you’ll probably be interested in finding something unusual to entertain the gang at the harbour festival.

Head to Queens Square to the dance stage to try your hand at everything from Salsa to Bhangra, or try out the circus tent to see some gravity-defying performances.

There’s plenty to see on the water as well. Keep your eyes peeled for tall ships moving in and out of the harbour throughout the weekend- the sight of a traditional ship sailing down the river under the Suspension Bridge is not to be missed. Charge up the camera batteries, this is Bristol at its finest!

Fancy something a bit more active? Get involved in the Dragon Boat Racing display! It will get your pulse racing while giving you a great view of the city from the water.

If that seems like hard work then there are plenty of other traditional events on offer across the weekend, like morris-dancing and pirate walks.

Give In To Pier Pressure, And Enjoy!

The Bristol Harbour Festival is an unmissable blend of culture, music and fun. Bring your mates, bring the family, make it the centre of your weekend and enjoy the party. This is the West Country at its best!

Bristol & Bath’s LGBTQ+ Nightlife

Bristol & Bath's LGBTQ+ Nightlife

In the past, gay bars existed as a safe haven for the LGBT community; somewhere gay, bi and transgender men and women could enjoy a Saturday night without fear of persecution – and with the added bonus of potentially meeting someone. In today’s more accepting society (for the most part, at least), this isn’t such an issue. Anyone can walk into a bar, whatever their sexual orientation and order a drink with their partner (although again, sadly this might not be wise in some places). With increasingly progressive attitudes – and the power of online dating – the original requirements of specifically gay venues seem less salient. So why are gay bars and clubs still thriving?

Quite simply, because they’re awesome. LGBT nightlife sates all appetites – quite literally! From live cabaret and drag shows, to trendy cocktail bars and clubs, there’s something for every night owl. Here are a few of the finest LGBT venues in Bristol and Bath.

What is West Country Games?

Play Video

West Country Games embraces all the stereotypes of the West Country in one great day out, comprising of 9 totally hilarious games suitable for all sorts of groups.

If you have an upcoming, Stag do, Hen Weekend, Birthday Party or Team Building Day, then why not give us a try?

Find out more...

The Best LGBTQ+ Bars in Bristol and Bath

Queen’s Shilling, Bristol

The Queen’s Shilling is a favourite haunt on the Bristol scene. Conveniently located just off of Park Street, the venue has something on most days of the week. Karaoke competitions draw a fun and lively crowd – an excellent way to beat those Monday blues! The weekly drag-hosted competitions are hilariously entertaining and there’s ample opportunity to dance the night away with one of the resident DJs, every Friday and Saturday night.

Mandalyns, Bath

Intimate and welcoming, Mandalyns is Bath’s LGBT place to be, every Wednesday through to Sunday. With regular offers on drinks and tasty cocktail evenings, the place quickly fills to bursting with an eclectic mix of clientele who love to party (a great late night option for a gay or straight Bath stag weekend). Drag shows, Karaoke and themed evenings make Mandalyns a favourite for locals and visitors alike.

Bristol Pride

For 11 glorious days, Bristol sparkles and swells with pride, for its annual pride festival. Last year, 36,000 people came together to celebrate diversity across the city – and this year looks set to be even bigger and better.

Gender-equality talks, independent films, live music, comedy shows and theatre performances are just some examples of the events on offer. Pride climaxes at the weekend, with a parade, huge parties and live music throughout the city centre. Around the Harbourside area, there are numerous stages surrounded by foodstalls, where you can sit back, relax, or dance the day away.

OMG, Bristol

If you’re feeling fun, flirtatious and ready for a freakin’ awesome night out, don those dancing shoes and head over to OMG in Bristol. It’s sleek, chic and modern decor sets the tone for the freshest music sets – not surprising for the biggest gay venue in the South West. If you’re a student, make the most of the incredible Wednesday student night offer, or save the hangover for the weekend and enjoy the buzzing atmosphere on a Friday or Saturday night.

Old Market, Bristol

If you’re planning a Bristol stag weekend and want to try several of Bristol’s gay bars in one foul swoop, head to Old Market. There are a number of venues – gay and straight – in this area of the city, which is within walking distance of Temple Meads train station. The following venues are all located Old Market.

BBB (Bristol Bear Bar)

One for the bearded bloke lovers, Bristol Bear Bar is the place to go for a delicious pint and even tastier fellas! Situated in the Old Market area of Bristol, BBB welcomes everyone to come and enjoy a drink in their comfortable and modern surroundings.

Old Market Tavern

The Old Market Tavern is a classic pub with a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. Serving delicious food and tasty tipples, it welcomes everyone seven days a week, and the quaint beer garden is the perfect spot to enjoy a pint in the sun.

The Gin Palace

As the name suggests, this is one for the gin lovers. With a wide range of mother’s ruin on offer, it doesn’t disappoint. Of course, there are many other types of poison as well – all served with a smile by one of the friendly members of staff. The Palace also hosts regular cabaret evenings, as well as other events for the more ‘discerning’ dresser.

Bristol Harbourside – Things to see and do at Bristol Harbourside

Top 5 Things To Do At Bristol’s Harbourside

In recent years, Bristol harbourside has flourished as the up-and-coming place to be in the UK.

Surrounded by countryside and with great transport links to the capital, Bristol’s harbourside relaxed vibe has drawn people from all walks of life, bringing with them new appetites and expectations.

As such, Bristol harbourside can boast the same eclectic mix of facilities as any major thriving metropolis, but on a much more intimate scale.

As with many of the UK’s major cities, Bristol was founded by the river and as a result, there are a huge range of activities to enjoy by the water.

Here’s the top 5 things to do around Bristol’s beautiful Harbourside.

What is West Country Games?

Play Video

West Country Games embraces all the stereotypes of the West Country in one great day out, comprising of 9 totally hilarious games suitable for all sorts of groups.

If you have an upcoming, Stag do, Hen Weekend, Birthday Party or Team Building Day, then why not give us a try?

Find out more...

Bristol’s Harbourside

1) Cruise Along The Docks!

What better way to spend a few hours than cruising up and down the Bristol harbourside, enjoying the amazing sights Bristol has to offer from the water.

Whether you’re on a Bristol Stag Do, a Hen weekend or just visiting friends (there’s a wide range of Bristol group accommodation in close proximity) a cruise is a great option, with or without a bar on board!

You can enjoy the sights and sounds of Bristol’s Harbourside, or if you are feeling more adventurous, you can cruise up the river a bit towards Beese’s tea rooms.

2) SS Great Britain

Bristol harbourside’s number one attraction, the SS Great Britain is a spectacle not to be missed.

The brainchild of Bristol’s famous Isambard Kingdom Brunel, the ship was an imposing, colossal feat of maritime engineering. And it still is to this day. Visitors are invited to step aboard and step back in time, to experience life at sea, as it would have been on her maiden voyage in 1843.

3) Bristol Harbour Festival

Live bands, delicious street food and fun for all the family, the Bristol Harbour Festival is a must for any festival lover.

For three glorious days in July, the festival takes over the Harbour area of the city, drawing crowds from across the region. There’s something for everyone – from maritime activities to Morris dancing, music and even a circus zone.

And the best part? It’s free – but make sure you bring a few notes, as the food and drink can prove irresistible

4) We The Curious

Experience science like never before! We The Curious offers a hands-on approach to science education – whatever their age.

There are hundreds of exciting exhibits to explore and experiments to take part in.

And the permanent 3D planetarium gives visitors the chance to enjoy the night sky and learn more about space – it’s quite literally out of this world!

5) Pirate Walk

Step back in time and experience some Bristol’s lively (and sometimes harrowing) maritime history.

The perfect activity for pirate-loving land lubbers, the famous Pirate Walk is a great way to learn more about the city – and some of it’s world famous inhabitants.

The tour takes you around the Harbourside and lasts an hour. Wannabe buccaneers are welcome to don an eye patch or bandana and get involved.

still standing in the evening should wobble their way over to Thekla – the award-winning live music boat.

Bath’s Best Sunday Roasts – Our guide to the best Bath Roasts

Bath's Best Sunday Roasts - Our Guide To The Best Bath Sunday Roasts

If you’re looking for somewhere special to go with family and friends, feeling a bit fragile after a heavy night on the tiles or just want to have an easy day at the weekend, a Bath Sunday roast is always a winner.

A Bath Sunday roast is also the perfect activity if you are organising a Bath stag weekend or Bath hen weekend to perk everyone up before they head home.

The Sunday roast is held in such high esteem and seems to be the one meal that people are very particular about so an average one just won’t cut it.

From debates of whose Nan makes the best Yorkshire puddings to the politics of accompaniments and how well done meat should be, everyone seems to have an opinion.

Why not take the pressure off and leave the work to some of Bath’s finest. With a range of different pubs and restaurants I think we might have something here for everyone, whether you like a traditional Bath roast with all the trimmings or are in the market for a more contemporary twist on your meat and three veg

What is West Country Games?

Play Video

West Country Games embraces all the stereotypes of the West Country in one great day out, comprising of 9 totally hilarious games suitable for all sorts of groups.

If you have an upcoming, Stag do, Hen Weekend, Birthday Party or Team Building Day, then why not give us a try?

Find out more...

Here Is Our Guide To Bath's Best Sunday Roasts

The Chequers, 50 Rivers St, Bath BA1 2QA

The Chequers is no newcomer to the scene, with its proud history dating back to 1776.

As the 2015 and 2017 winner of the Bath Good Food Award for Sunday lunch, this cosy, welcoming restaurant has the perfect balance of fine dining and relaxed atmosphere.

With a gastropub and fine dining restaurant sourcing local seasonal produce and a good range local bevvies, The Chequers has it all. If sharing is your thing, they also do an amazing looking sharing roast for two.

The King William, 36 Thomas Street Bath BA1 5NN

This grade 2 listed Georgian building, like The Chequers, has a relaxed pub downstairs and upstairs dining rooms for a more formal and intimate setting.

Seasonal and local food and drink make up the daily changing menu with a selection of real ales from small local microbreweries. Sounds like a perfect recipe for a Bath Sunday roast.

Marlborough Tavern, 35 Marlborough Buildings, Bath BA1 2LY

Do you take the dog for a walk or relax in front of an open fire or in a sunny garden and enjoy a top class Sunday roast in Bath? Why not do both?

The Marlborough Tavern not only produces fine food but is dog and family friendly and being located near Victoria Park everyone is in for a great day.

The Pulteney Arms, 37 Daniel Street, Bath, BA2 6ND

Whether you’re in front of the log burner on a cold Winters day or sat in the courtyard in the Summer, The family run Pulteney Arms is in a beautiful setting and a great location to walk the Bath Skyline.

They are ale drinker friendly featuring in the CAMRA Good Beer Guide and are dog friendly too. Who sees the making of a perfect Sunday?!

Victoria Pub And Kitchen, Upper Bristol Road, Bath, BA1 3AT

A pub with plenty of outdoor space for those sunny Sunday roasts in Bath but a bright, airy spacious inside area too for those colder days. The Victoria Pub as the name suggests overlooks Victoria Park for a bit of a post lunch wander.

GPT Smokehouse, 44-45 Lower Bristol Road, Bath, BA2 3BD

If you like your meat cooked low and slow at an award winning restaurant

With high quality locally sourced ingredients cooked over a hickory wood fire smoker these two brothers have been awarded the Bath Good Food Award Best Sunday Lunch 2014 and were highly commended in 2015.

Bath Sunday Roast Pub Choice

Whatever floats your boat when it comes to a Bath Sunday roast, as long as you’re looking for high quality grub, these pubs and restaurants will not disappoint.

With great fresh, local produce being the order of the day, you can enjoy a top notch Sunday roast in Bath and explore what the city has to offer with family, friends and dogs too.

Wassailing this winter in the West Country

Wassailing This Winter In The West Country

Here in these ‘ere parts of the West Country, we think cider is gert lush – and we’ll go to great lengths to make sure there’s a bumper crop of apples so there’s no shortage of our favourite tipple when yer Wassailing in the West Country!

What is West Country Games?

Play Video

West Country Games embraces all the stereotypes of the West Country in one great day out, comprising of 9 totally hilarious games suitable for all sorts of groups.

If you have an upcoming, Stag do, Hen Weekend, Birthday Party or Team Building Day, then why not give us a try?

Find out more...

Noisy Orchard-Wassailing Revelry

If you’re lucky enough to find yourself here early in the new year, and your ear drums are up to the challenge, you could join in some noisy orchard-wassailing revelry.

This wonderfully weird, age-old good luck custom involves blessing our beloved apple trees in the hope this will help secure a healthy apple harvest – and a plentiful supply of cider.

It’s an ancient tradition that appears to be growing in popularity over recent years – and, since it usually ends up as a fairly lively and raucous affair, it can offer just the antidote we need to brighten a cold, damp January evening.

Singing To The Trees, And Generally Making A Racket

If you still need any further persuading that it’s a good idea to spend a chilly winter’s evening in a West Country orchard, be assured that you’ll also often find there’s some hearty West Country grub being served up to help you soak up all the cider.

The word “wassail” is said to derive from a Saxon expression, ‘Waes hael’, meaning good health. Traditionally, the apple orchard custom involved reciting incantations, singing to the trees, and generally making a racket – sometimes even firing shotguns into the bare wintry branches – all in a bid to frighten away evil spirits that might get in the way of a bountiful harvest.

The “Apple Tree Man”

Ceremonies vary from one place to the next, but they usually share a few important elements. A wassail King and Queen are crowned to lead the songs and ceremonies, for example, and the procession usually moves towards the largest, finest or oldest tree in the orchard, which is chosen to represent all the other trees.

The “Apple Tree Man” is regarded as the spirit of this tree, and to appease him the Queen places a cider-soaked piece of toast up in the bough of the tree, and pours more cider around its base. The crowd then recite an incantation:

Here’s to thee, old apple tree,
That blooms well, bears well.
Hats full, caps full,
Three bushel bags full,
An’ all under one tree.
Hurrah! Hurrah!

According To Legend

Traditional wassailing songs end with a loud “Hurrah!”, and the whole event is a noisy affair, with loud gunshots and pot- and bucket-banging, just to make completely sure the spirits have got the message loud and clear.

According to legend, this is not only to scare off any evil ones who might ruin the coming harvest, but also to awaken the sleeping trees so that they bring a good supply of apples.

Meanwhile, present-day revellers enjoy the spectacle whilst tucking into traditional West Country food such as apple cake, washed down with a tankard or three of warming mulled cider – and the fun continues later into the evening with folk music, more cider, and plenty of laughter!

Our Top Tip...

The majority of wassailing events take place after Christmas, in January and February, with a peak in activity between 10-18th January.

Our friends down at Wilkins Cider throw on an annual Wassailing party, if you can handle yer cider then take up the challenge and get yourselves down there!

Bristol’s Best Sunday Roasts

Bristol Best Sunday Roast Guide

It’s hard to beat the iconic Sunday roast while away your Stag or Hen weekend. You’re feeling a little fragile after a big night on the Saturday, you want to catch up with friends or family, you need refuelling after a hearty walk in the countryside, what’s the answer? It’s always going to be a Sunday roast and Sunday roasts in Bristol are some of the best.

When you’re up against everyone’s mum’s who make the best roast ever or Auntie Mavis who’s roast tatties are legendary, it can be a hard act to follow but we think the Bristol Good Food Awards shortlist always has some great contenders. Voted for by the people of Bristol and judged by food experts, the awards ceremony is at the end of February every year.

Time to get sampling what some of the past nominees have to offer so you can find your award winner too. If you’re not local to Bristol we’ve got you covered too as there’s Somerset cottage accommodation for you to make a break of it and sample Sunday roasts in Bristol.

What is West Country Games?

Play Video

West Country Games embraces all the stereotypes of the West Country in one great day out, comprising of 9 totally hilarious games suitable for all sorts of groups.

If you have an upcoming, Stag do, Hen Weekend, Birthday Party or Team Building Day, then why not give us a try?

Find out more...

Best Sunday Roast In Bristol

Here is our run down of the best Sunday roasts in town. Get those taste buds watering and read on to discover where to book your next slap up dinner!

The Bank Tavern, 8 John Street, Bristol, BS1 2HR

So for the ultimate Bristol Sunday roast let’s start with the highly commended in 2015, The Bank Tavern.

An unassuming traditional pub tucked away in the city centre serving traditional and more contemporary dishes and most importantly, an amazing roast. All you need to go with it is some award winning ales and cider and yes, you’ve got it, they can provide that too.

Broken Dock, Millennium Promenade, Bristol, BS1 5SY

Broken Dock is a relative newcomer to the Bristol Sunday roast scene as they reopened in May 2017 with new everything; new name, staff and menus. If you’re going to open a restaurant, bagging a Bristol Good Food nomination within your first year is a great way to do it.

Browns, 38 Queens Road, Clifton, Bristol, BS8 1RE

Browns definitely have the first impressions covered. You can’t help but appreciate the sense of grandeur as you walk up the steps towards the building which was modelled on the Doge’s Palace in Venice.

As you might imagine, the inside of the building doesn’t disappoint wither and is a stunning location to enjoy your Bristol Sunday roast.

Cowshed, 44-46 Whiteladies Road, Clifton, Bristol, BS8 2NH

Although Cowshed is renowned for meat, their focus is fresh, locally sourced, seasonal produce. With big tables, this would be an ideal place to go with a group of friends or family for a Sunday roast in Bristol. They were highly commended for their Sunday roast in 2012

Nettle & Rye, 16 Kings Road, Bristol, BS8 4AB

If you find yourself in Clifton on a Sunday lunchtime, Nettle and Rye might be the place for you. With a sun trap outsides and a relaxed feel inside, maybe it’s time to take advice from the Bristol Good Food Award and visit this 2016 highly commended eatery.

Rose Of Denmark, 6 Dowry Place, Bristol, BS8 4QL

For a traditional roast of good portions, The Rose of Denmark is a great shout. Being close to the harbourside, you’re in the right place to go for a walk after your Sunday roast. No stranger to the Bristol Good Food award best Sunday lunch, The Rose of Denmark was highly commended in 2013 and 2014.

Victoria Park, 66 Raymend Rd, Bristol BS3 4QW ·

Yurt Lush, Clock Tower Yard, Temple Meads, BS1 6QH

I bet you’ve been thinking that the list feels incomplete, like I’ve forgotten a classic major category in the Bristol Sunday roast eateries. We’ve covered restaurants and pubs but that’s it, no mention of Mongolian yurts, well here it is.

Nestled in next to Temple Meads, Yurt Lush has the wow factor and is a great place if you are looking for something a bit different to impress people. It definitely isn’t just a place to go for the novelty factor as the fresh flavours and sustainably sourced ingredients speak for themselves, so does the Bristol Good Food Award for the best Sunday roast for 2016.

Best Pubs for Bristol Sunday Roast

Bristol is at the forefront of exquisite cuisine and as these nominees demonstrate, there is great variety and something for everyone, everyone who appreciates amazing Sunday roasts in Bristol that is.

Whether you live in Bristol or are visiting for the weekend, these contenders for the Bristol Good Food Award for the best Sunday roast are well spread around the city so there’s no excuse to not see what they have to offer. If so much talk of Sunday roasts in Bristol has piqued your interest but you’re not lucky enough to live in the area, why not book a weekend with friends at Bristol group accommodation and get sampling.

Things To Do in Bath: Our Top 10 Things To Do in Bath

Things to do in Bath – Our Top 10 Things to do in Bath

Bath is the largest city in Somerset, and perhaps unsurprisingly with its name, is best known for… it’s Roman baths! Probably Britain’s best-known spa town, Bath is a popular tourist destination for those within the UK and those further afield.

If you’re planning a trip to the city and are looking for things to do in Bath to keep you and/or your group occupied, then you’ve come to the right place – because we love Bath and can fill you in on all the must-dos while you’re there!

Please note that dependent on the time of year of your trip, you may find some of our suggested things to do in Bath are open for limited hours or different days of the week. We can give you all of our hints and tips but be sure to check online before you travel to avoid any disappointment. After all, you want your Bath trip to be memorable for all the right reasons.

Bath was the centre of fashionable life back in the 18^th century and it continues to offer lots today too. While you’re there, be sure to try Bath Olivers and Bath Buns… we promise you won’t be disappointed in the beauty of the town and its brilliant local sweet cuisine!

What is West Country Games?

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West Country Games embraces all the stereotypes of the West Country in one great day out, comprising of 9 totally hilarious games suitable for all sorts of groups.

If you have an upcoming, Stag do, Hen Weekend, Birthday Party or Team Building Day, then why not give us a try?

Find out more...

Our Top 10 Picks of Fun Things to do in Bath

Bath is brimming with things to do, from the historical to the active and everything in between. The choice can be overwhelming so we've put together our top ten picks of fun things to do when you're visiting the city.

1. Get involved at the West Country Games

The West Country Games are Bath’s answer to the Olympics… only a little less athletic and a lot more fun; with no training required! A favoured activity amongst stag, hen, birthday and corporate parties, the West Country Games best suit groups and can be adapted to fit all abilities, ages and appetites.

All games are countryside themed and are more novelty than they are sporty. It takes up at least an afternoon, if not a whole day, and transfers to the countryside site for the Games can be arranged!

2. Pamper yourself at the Roman Baths and Spa

As much a history lesson as a pamper session (honest!), Bath’s Roman Baths offer a variety of spa packages. One of the most popular things to do in Bath for tourists, it’s definitely worth packing your cozzie for a dip and if you have time, enjoying afternoon tea and some extra treatments while you’re there!

The Roman Baths are the ideal venue for relaxing after more active trips and activities… and they may even cure your hangover… but we can’t guarantee anything!

3. Test gins at the Canary Bar

Gin is the new black, and you can truly experience local at the Canary Bar. Run by the local Bath Distillery, this quirky little bar is a favourite amongst gin lovers and is the home of the ‘Gin Austen’ cocktail; infamous in the town!

Challenge the mixologists behind the bar to create something bespoke for you and enjoy gin cocktails straight from a teapot. The Canary Bar is very popular on the lists of things to do in Bath at night, so book a table in advance to ensure you all fit in.

4. Shop Local at the Bath Christmas Market

Obviously only around for November and December, the Bath Christmas Market is top of our list of things to do in Bath for free!

Over 150 chalets of festive shops (mostly European themed, but lots of local retailers and brands are present too) line Bath’s beautiful Georgian streets and make for a really picturesque Christmas scene. Get snap happy for Instagram and make a start on your Christmas list… win win!

5. Set Sail on the Avon with a River Cruise

Take a different view on the spa town of Bath by admiring it from the river and cruising up and down the River Avon.

Bath isn’t as busy as its neighbour Bristol when it comes to river trips, but you’ll still find some choice of firms, so have a check online to find the trip that works best for you in length and in route. Consider adding this to your itinerary of things to do in Bath at night too; it’ll give you a unique look at the town and is a nice chilled way to spend an evening.

6. Lunch on the Lawn at the Royal Crescent

One of Bath’s most impressive landmarks, the stunning Royal Crescent looks over the beautifully kept Royal Victoria Park. Now a five-star hotel and spa with a museum of Georgian life in the town, the park is the ideal place to picnic.

You can either pack your own or have the hotel’s restaurant put something more luxurious together for you, so there’s options for all budgets. If you’re not looking to spend much, nip to the supermarket and eat what you fancy on the lawn – it’s one of the most popular things to do in Bath for free and can be enjoyed year-round (although you may need to pack blankets!).

7. Catch the Rugby at Bath Stadium

Bath Rugby Union Club is one of the most popular clubs in the country and they play at The Recreation Ground Stadium (affectionately known as ‘The Rec’), right on the River Avon.

During Rugby season, the Club have exclusive use of the stadium and through the summer, its used for cricket matches. You can book tickets in advance fairly cheaply and packages are available to include meals and drinks.

8. Go Beer Tasting at the Electric Bear Brewing Co

Not far from Bath town centre you’ll find local brewers Electric Bear Brewing Co. The taproom on their Bath brewery is a favourite amongst beer fans and those who don’t like hops as much as fruit and it’s the only place you can try Electric Bear’s full range of brews!

From IPAs to stouts, there’s something for everyone and the expert staff at the taproom can advise you on different types of beers and brews in a way you won’t ever find in a usual high street bar.

9. Take Afternoon Tea at the Pump Rooms

Built in the 1790s, the Bath Pump Rooms are one of the town’s oldest attractions. Adjacent to the Roman Baths, it serves a variety of food and drinks – including water directly from Bath’s springs!

It’s a Bath institution and the afternoon tea served at the Pump Rooms is considered the best in the west country! Dietary requirements can be catered for if advised ahead of time, and tables for groups will need to be booked in advance to avoid disappointment.

The Pump Rooms is busiest around Mother’s Day and throughout December, so phone ahead.

10. Walk off your hangover in Prior Park

OK, so it’s been a few days of intense activities during your trip to the spa town, and now you need something relaxing and easy to do to rejuvenate yourself again!

One of the easiest and most accessible things to do in Bath for free is to walk around Prior Park and blow out the cobwebs. A full park as well as landscaped gardens and a house, part of the Park is owned by the National Trust, so you have the option to pay and explore the whole property if you’d like to.

Booking up your Bath Itinerary

Bath isn’t the country’s busiest tourist destination, but it’s growing in popularity and is particularly popular amongst hen, stag, birthday and occasion groups.

A quick google will bring up lots of lists of suggested things to do in Bath at night, for big parties, on a shoestring and for overseas guests… there’s no shortage of hints and tips out there, so it won’t surprise you to hear that you may find attractions and sights busy when you visit.

In order to best enjoy your trip to Bath, we recommend that you put together an itinerary of activities day by day and allow your group’s guests to pick and choose what they’d like to and what they’re able to attend. Bath is particularly busy in November and December, for Christmas shoppers, as well as between April-June before wedding season as hen parties descend upon the town.

Regardless of what time of the year you’re visiting, it’s always recommended to book ahead on activities and to make requests in advance for dietary, access or special requirements. Working under the UK discrimination legislation, Bath’s businesses will make all reasonable adjustments that they can to accommodate whoever for whatever, and most will have lots of experience in doing exactly that.

Never fear asking – go ahead, be bold and get what works best for you and your group!

Why Visit Bath?

One thing’s for sure with your trip to Bath – we just know you’re going to love the town. A picturesque Georgian street sits around every corner and with the fantastic hospitality on offer from Bath’s many businesses and locals, it will make the perfect destination for a memorable and enjoyable trip away.

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