| Magic and Romance |
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| Magical Ring | Romantic Road | The Grand Tour |
 | THE MAGICAL RING encircles an area filled with magic and mystery. The 'magical' healing properties of the waters at Bath have drawn visitors since their discovery in the ninth century BC, while the myth and mystery which surround neolithic sites of worship and burial have been extended with more recent tales of UFOs and crop circles. This route offers the visitor incredible variety- both in the sights highlighted along it and the types of road along which it runs. From the World Heritage Site of Bath to the peaceful scenery of the Vale of |
THE MAGICAL RING offers chances to go off the main roads to the area's prettiest and most unspoilt villages; to marvel at the fantastic monuments of ancient man; to sample the simple pleasures of outdoor activities on dramatic downlands; to visit some of the country's most beautiful stately homes and gardens; to experience the important industrial heritage of this part of the country; to note landmarks such as Wiltshire's White Horses; to take advantage of the hospitality of local people; to simply enjoy a day's driving in one of britain's most enchanting landscapes; or even to trade your car for a walking tour or a boat on attractive waterways. The route is designed to be completed in a day. However there is so much to see you may wish to take at least two days - and stay overnight at a suitable hostelry - as so many travellers have done in the past. The Magical Ring begins in Bath although it is, of course, possible to join the route from wherever you are staying and visit the city as you travel the Ring.
There are more than 16 museums and galleries in Bath, including the world famous Roman Baths & Pump Room, the Museum of Costume, the Royal Photographic Society, the Holburne Museum and No 1 Royal Crescent. Alongside such architectural masterpieces as Bath Abbey, the Circus and Pulteney Bridge, you can enjoy the parks and gardens, the wonderful shopping and excellent restaurants of one of Europe's most beautiful cities.
Combine the drive with a series of short walks
 | Two full day tours around the Cotswolds give you a taste of this beautiful area. Cheltenhamis a fine base where you can enjoy the elegant Regency buildings and parks. From here the hills beckon across the rooftops and you will soon be out amoungst the patchwork of fields, pasture, and woodland heading for the mellow stone villages, While the likes of Broadway, The Slaughters and Bibury are well known you will find a dozen others that will match them for their beauty. Small market towns such as Stow, Burford and Cirencester are lively places to break the journey with a good selection of refreshments and rich, fascinating histories. |
Combine the two short breaks above for a week long GRAND TOUR
Last Updated 19th January 2001