Search Hotels in Bradford-on-Avon

The lowdown on Bradford on Avon

The Roman town of Bradford on Avon first came into its own as a centre for the textile trade. Its idyllic position on the River Avon, at the foothills of the Cotswolds, made it a booming industrial hub, while the scenic splendour of its surroundings made it a favourite autumn retreat of city dwellers. Today, the Medieval stone bridge at the town’s heart symbolises its status as one of England’s most historically fascinating and culturally rich holiday destinations; former mills have become chic hotels, while the cottages of former weavers have become trendy bed and breakfasts and homey private rentals. This innovative renewal, coupled with rolling hills and verdant farmland, have contributed to Bradford on Avon’s continuing status as the jewel of the Wiltshire countryside.

Hotels in Bradford on Avon

From no-frills hotels in Bradford on Avon’s town centre to lavish boutique brand names, there’s a choice for every mood and budget in Bradford on Avon. The 3-star Woolley Grange Hotel dates back to the 1600s and boasts fabulous spa facilities on site; you can opt for a variety of treatments, from facials, massages and pedicures to the use of a sauna or hammam, a traditional Turkish beauty bath. In general, hotels in Bradford on Avon represent the perfect fusion of the old and the new – historic buildings with original furnishings house stylish guestrooms with modern conveniences.

Bed and breakfasts offer the quintessential English countryside experience, so lovers of the great outdoors should use Expedia’s nifty filtering features to prioritise these properties. Cosy rooms retain old-school charm, while complimentary Wi-Fi and contemporary amenities add a splash of style to your stay. Best of all, though, is the world-famous ‘full English’, the perfect energy boost for a long day of sightseeing. The award-winning Beeches Farmhouse B&B is a particularly popular option thanks to its rustic farmland setting.

If you’re travelling with family or friends, or setting up for a longer stay, apart-hotels are a budget-friendly option. Fully equipped kitchens mean you can prepare your own meals, while the freedom and flexibility of private accommodation allow you to enjoy your itinerary on your terms. To broaden your horizons, you can also look further afield; the nearby town of Bath offers historic landmarks and convenient transport links to Bradford on Avon.

What to do during your stay in Bradford on Avon

One of the main attractions within the 15-hectare Barton Farm Country Park, between the River Avon and the Kennet and Avon canal, is the 14^th-century Tithe Barn. It was used by wealthy landowners to collect ‘tithes’ (taxes) from the residents, which were paid in the form of produce and livestock stored here. This history explains the huge size of the building and its door. The packhorse bridge was built around the same time to transport produce from the other side of the river. Tithe Barn has one of the largest stone roofs in Europe and features impressive timber beams.

Barton Farm Country Park, owned by Wiltshire Council, is perfect for activities such as walking, rowing, fishing or picnics by the river. It contains many historic buildings, crafts and tea shops.

For spectacular views of the town and the outlying countryside, climb the steep hill to the chapel of St Mary Tory (from the Anglo-Saxon word ‘Tor’, meaning high hill or tower), going through narrow passageways between rows of weavers’ cottages. It is sometimes called a pilgrim chapel because pilgrims stopped here on their way to Glastonbury. Another notable Saxon church in the centre of town is the charming Church of St Laurence, from around 700 AD, on the site of an old monastery. Both churches are still used as places of worship today.

Across the bridge, in Bridge Street, on the south side of the river, you’ll find the Bradford on Avon Museum, a small museum dedicated to local natural and historic heritage. The museum’s mocked-up old pharmacy shop is always very popular with visitors.

Just over 3 kilometres away, in the village of Westwood, you can visit Westwood Manor, a 15^th-century stone manor house with a curious topiary in the shape of a building, which belonged to a diplomat in the first half of the 20^th century. It’s a Grade I-listed National Trust building and opens on Tuesdays and Wednesdays in the summer only.

Just 2 kilometres to the west of Westwood Manor is Ilford Manor with its Italianate Peto Gardens, famous for its tranquil beauty. The property is Medieval in origin; its classical façade was added in the 18^th century. From midsummer to early August, the gardens and cloister host a series of opera performances and jazz concerts, as well as free concerts by amateur artists.

Feeling inspired to make your booking for a Bradford on Avon hotel and start planning your holiday? Don’t forget you can save money on Expedia if you book your hotel in Bradford on Avon and your flight together. Use the Expedia search tools to check out the best package deals to suit your needs.