Swindon Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, see, eat and stay during your visit to Swindon, Wiltshire, England through our comprehensive travel guide.


Swindon Travel Guide: Explore the Wiltshire Town

Situated in the county of Wiltshire, Swindon town is an industrial hub that has transformed into a remarkable tourist attraction for travelers. This town has a rich history dating back to the Roman times, and there’s more to it than meets the eye. Discover the unexplored sights and memorable experiences that Swindon has to offer by following this comprehensive travel guide.

List of Places to Visit in Swindon

Swindon isn’t short of exciting tourist destinations. Here are the top attractions worth exploring:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Steam Museum: Discover the town’s railway heritage at the Steam Museum. The museum has an impressive collection of steam engines, cars, and other transport modes that will make you feel like you’ve taken a step back in time.

  2. Swindon Museum and Art Gallery: Here, you’ll find a collection of paintings by local artists and many other exhibitions showcasing the town’s history and culture. This museum is perfect for art enthusiasts.

  3. Lydiard Park: Explore the beautiful country house that dates back to the 18th century. Lydiard Park is a historical site known for its stunning architecture and scenic beauty. It’s surrounded by a 260-acre park that offers visitors ample space to hike, cycle and enjoy nature.

Natural Attractions of Swindon: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Cotswold Water Park: Enjoy a whole day of fun-filled activities like swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, and bird watching at the Cotswold Water Park. The park has 170 lakes that are perfect for nature lovers and those seeking an adventure-filled day.

  2. Barbury Castle: Located only a few miles from Swindon town, Barbury Castle is an ideal spot for a picnic, walk, or hike. It provides an extensive view of the Wiltshire countryside and is a great place to escape from the hustle and bustle of town.

  3. Coate Water Country Park: Coate Water Country Park is an excellent destination for families, as it provides ample opportunities for cycling, fishing, picnicking, and enjoying nature. It’s a great spot for taking a walk around the lake or having a BBQ with your loved ones.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Swindon

Swindon has many hiking and biking trails to explore. Here are the top routes worth checking out:

  1. The Ridgeway Trail: The Ridgeway Trail is an 85-mile path that runs through the North Wessex Downs and Chiltern Hills areas. It’s a great path for hiking in the beautiful countryside.

  2. The Thames Path: You’ll get a chance to walk along the River Thames, which offers a peaceful and tranquil experience. The route is an extensive 184 miles and is ideal for those who love long hikes.

Best Things to Do in Swindon: Activities and Tours

  1. Swindon Designer Outlet: Shop at the Swindon Designer Outlet, which has over 100 popular brands. This place is perfect for all shopping enthusiasts to grab and enjoy some bargains.

  2. Swindon and Cricklade Railway: Take a tour on the old-fashioned steam train at Swindon and Cricklade Railway. This journey provides the perfect opportunity to discover the town’s railway heritage.

  3. Bowood House and Gardens: Take a trip to Bowood House and Gardens, which is a beautiful Georgian villa that offers guided tours for visitors. The house is surrounded by a stunning park and gardens, making it a popular site for weddings.

Week-Long Itinerary for Swindon

If you have a week to spend in Swindon, then make sure to follow this itinerary:

Day Activity
1 Visit the Steam Museum and explore the local cafes
2 Take a tour on the old-fashioned steam train
3 Spend the day at Cotswold Water Park for an outdoor adventure
4 Explore the Swindon Museum and Art Gallery
5 Take a hike around the beautiful Barbury Castle
6 Visit Lydiard Park and the spectacular house and gardens
7 Shop for bargains at Swindon Designer Outlet

Food and Drink Scene of Swindon

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Wiltshire Ham: It’s a juicy and flavorful ham that’s traditionally baked with honey and mustard. You can try it in local cafes and restaurants around Swindon.

  2. Cream Tea: A local delicacy consisting of warm scones served with jam, clotted cream, and tea. You’ll find it in many local tea rooms in the area.

Local Beverages

  1. Wadworth 6X beer: It’s a local brew that you should definitely try during your visit to Swindon.

  2. Scrumpy cider: The cider is a local favorite and has a distinct flavor that’s sure to impress you.

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

Swindon has a range of options for accommodation, catering to all budgets. Here are the top options:

  1. Jurys Inn Swindon: Provides comfortable and clean rooms, making it a great option for those on a budget.

  2. The Crown Inn: A former South West Dining Pub of the Year winner and is perfect for those seeking a more luxurious stay.

  3. Swindon Marriott Hotel: The hotel is located in a prime city location and has a range of rooms to choose from.

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

Swindon has many memorable souvenirs and locally made products to take home. Here are some of the top options:

  1. Swindon Mud: It’s a special kind of mud that’s only found in Swindon and has many medicinal benefits.

  2. Wiltshire Village Candles: Handcrafted, soy-based candles, and come packed in eco-friendly materials.

Local Culture and Customs of Swindon

The locals of Swindon are friendly and welcoming to tourists. It’s essential to respect their culture and customs.

Best Time to Visit Swindon

The best time to visit Swindon is during the summer months (June to August) since this is the warmest and driest season, perfect for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Swindon

Do:

  1. Respect the cultural nuances of the locals.

  2. Try the local delicacies and products.

  3. Visit the museums and historical sites.

Don’t:

  1. Litter in public places.

  2. Leave your valuables in the car.

  3. Wear inappropriate clothing inside religious buildings.

Safety and Health

Safety in Swindon

Swindon is relatively safe, but it’s essential to be vigilant, especially in crowded areas.

Health in Swindon

Swindon has many hospitals and health clinics, ensuring that health services are widely available.

Getting to Swindon: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Swindon

The closest airports to Swindon are the Bristol Airport and Heathrow Airport, both just an hour away by car.

Bus Stations Near Swindon

National Express and Thamesdown Buses operate from Swindon town to other parts of the country.

Other Options

The Great Western Railway operates daily from Swindon station to London and other parts of the country.

How to Get Around in Swindon

Swindon has a comprehensive public transportation system, and visitors can use buses, taxis or hire cars to get around.

Where to Go Next from Swindon: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Swindon offers access to many nearby destinations and excursions, including:

  1. Bath: Explore the Roman Baths and the Jane Austen Centre.

  2. Cotswolds: Discover the picturesque villages and beautiful countryside of the Cotswolds.

Conclusion

Swindon is a must-visit destination that’s full of surprises. Whether you’re looking for historical sites, natural wonders, or delicious cuisine, you’ll find it all in Swindon. Follow this comprehensive guide to make your visit to Swindon an unforgettable experience.

Swindon town centre, viewed from Radnor Street Cemetery Swindon town centre, viewed from Radnor Street Cemetery The Magic Roundabout The Magic Roundabout Steam Museum - 4003 and 7821 Steam Museum - 4003 and 7821 M4 M4 A419 A419 A346 A346