Thornbury Travel Guide

Discover the best attractions, outdoor adventures, food, accommodation, and culture in Thornbury, a charming town in Gloucestershire, England.


Introduction to Thornbury

Nestled in the heart of Gloucestershire, Thornbury is a charming town that boasts a rich history, stunning natural beauty, and a vibrant community. With its picturesque lanes, traditional buildings, and colorful gardens, this town has something to offer to visitors of all ages.

In this guide, we’ll take you on a journey to explore the best attractions and activities in Thornbury. From culturally important museums and historical places to scenic outdoor adventures, we’ll cover everything you need to know to plan your trip to this beautiful town.

List of Places to Visit in Thornbury

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Thornbury Castle: Dating back to the 16th century, this magnificent castle was once the home of King Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn. Today, it’s a luxurious hotel where visitors can immerse themselves in history and enjoy fine dining.

  • The Museum: Situated in the town hall, the museum includes a collection of artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of Thornbury’s past. Discover local history, including the town’s medieval market, historic buildings, and key historic events.

  • St Mary’s Church: This stunning church dates back to the 12th century and features impressive stained-glass windows, intricate stone carvings, and a peaceful courtyard. It’s a must-see for anyone interested in architecture and history.

Natural Attractions of Thornbury: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Thornbury Castle Gardens: Take a stroll through the castle gardens and enjoy the scent of blooming flowers and the rustle of leaves as you explore the magnificent grounds.

  • The River Severn: Take a boat tour on the River Severn and witness the beauty of Thornbury’s countryside from the water.

  • The Cotswolds Way: Hike along the Cotswolds Way and discover the stunning natural landscapes of Thornbury and the surrounding villages.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Thornbury

  • Jubilee Way: This walk takes you through the heart of Thornbury’s countryside. The trail is approximately 4.5 miles long and is perfect for both hiking and biking.

  • Tytherington to Wotton under Edge: This route will take you on a journey through the beautiful countryside and charming villages of Thornbury to Wotton-under-Edge, a market town in Gloucestershire. The total distance is about 12 miles.

Best Things to Do in Thornbury: Activities and Tours

  • Thornbury Farmers Market: Every first and third Thursday of the month, the farmers’ market takes place in the city centre. Here, visitors can purchase fresh produce, locally made crafts, and meet local producers.

  • Thornbury Castle Wine Tasting: Immerse yourself in a leisurely wine tasting and an accompanied tour of the vineyard with experienced guides. It’s the perfect way to spend a lazy afternoon.

  • Thornbury Golf Centre: If you’re a golf lover, there’s no better place to hit the links than Thornbury Golf Centre, nestled in the heart of the South West of England. With four distinct golf courses, the centre offers golfers of all levels an exceptional experience.

Week-Long Itinerary for Thornbury

Day Activity
Day 1 Discover Thornbury Castle
Day 2 Explore the Museum and St Mary’s Church
Day 3 Hike the Cotswold Way
Day 4 Visit the River Severn
Day 5 Go Wine tasting at Thornbury Castle
Day 6 Play Golf at Thornbury Golf Centre
Day 7 Shop at the Thornbury Farmers Market

Food and Drink Scene of Thornbury

Must-Try Dishes

  • Gloucestershire Old Spot Pork: Sample this tasty local specialty, a type of pork from a rare breed of pigs that are reared in Gloucestershire.

  • Severn and Wye Smoked Salmon: Enjoy a fresh, locally-sourced dish, made with Scottish salmon smoked over oak and beech chips on the banks of the Severn.

Local Beverages

  • Cotswold Gin: Sample a glass of this local gin, made with a blend of botanicals from the Cotswold countryside.

  • Wiper and True Beer: Relax with a refreshing pint of locally made beer from Wiper and True.

Where to Stay in Thornbury: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Thornbury Castle: This luxurious hotel makes a great base for exploring Thornbury and its surroundings. With its stunning location, comfortable rooms, and excellent service, guests can immerse themselves in history and indulge in fine dining.

  • The Swan hotel: This charming hotel in the centre of Thornbury boasts comfortable, clean rooms and easy access to the town’s attractions.

What to Buy in Thornbury: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Cotswold Cheese: Bring home a taste of Thornbury and the Cotswolds with a mouth-watering selection of cheeses made by local farmers.

  • Local Crafts: There are a wide variety of handmade crafts and artworks created by local artists available in Thornbury’s shops and galleries.

Local Culture and Customs of Thornbury

Thornbury is known for its friendly people, picturesque gardens, and rich history. English is the primary language, and the currency is the British Pound Sterling, which is widely accepted in shops and restaurants.

Best Time to Visit Thornbury

The best time to visit Thornbury is during the spring and summer months, from May to August. During this time, you’ll get to see the town’s beautiful gardens in full bloom and enjoy warm, sunny weather.

Do’s and Don’ts of Thornbury

Do:

  • Do take the time to explore the town’s historic landmarks.

  • Do try the local cuisine and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter.

  • Don’t disturb the peace and quiet of the town with loud/anti-social behaviour.

Safety and Health

Safety in Thornbury

Thornbury is a safe town to visit. Crime rates are low, and visitors can explore the town without any concerns. However, it is still important to exercise basic safety precautions like locking your doors and keeping valuables safe.

Health in Thornbury

There are several medical centres and hospitals in Thornbury, so visitors can rest assured that they can access medical attention if required.

Getting to Thornbury: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Thornbury

Thornbury is conveniently located close to Bristol Airport, which is about 22 miles away. Visitors can take a taxi or train from the airport to Thornbury.

Bus Stations Near Thornbury

Visitors can reach Thornbury by bus, with regular services from Bristol and other nearby towns.

Other Options

There are plenty of other transport options for getting to Thornbury, including trains, taxis, and private cars.

How to Get Around in Thornbury

The town is relatively small and easy to walk around. Taxis can also be hailed for tourists without a car. Visitors can also rent bicycles to explore the beautiful surroundings.

Where to Go Next from Thornbury: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Bristol: Just a short drive from Thornbury lies Bristol, a vibrant city with a rich history and plenty of attractions.

  • Cotswold: Drive to the beautiful Cotswold countryside for a day excursion.

Conclusion

Thornbury is a wonderful destination, offering visitors a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and delicious local cuisine. With so much to see and do, Thornbury is the perfect destination for a short getaway or an extended vacation. We hope this guide has helped you plan your trip to this beautiful town and that you’ll enjoy exploring everything Thornbury has to offer!

Thornbury castle, the town's most prominent landmark. Thornbury castle, the town's most prominent landmark. St Mary's Church, Thornbury St Mary's Church, Thornbury Part of Thornbury's High Street Part of Thornbury's High Street M4 M4