The new annual edition of the Great West Way Travel Magazine is now available to download, providing a source inspiration for those wanting to explore England’s Great West Way from home and those planning a future trip.
The magazine includes new additions to the route such as eateries, accommodation providers and attractions, while themed features reveal the many unique destinations on the Great West Way. Experiences After Dark includes stargazing in Cranborne Chase – an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in Wiltshire which has plans to achieve Dark Sky Status. Hidden Gardens reveals some of the many gardens along the route, including the London Wetland Centre, an award-winning nature reserve that brings the countryside to London and ideal for relaxing walks through lakes and gardens.
Head of Marketing Fiona Errington said, “From the comfort of their homes, many people are making plans for future travel and taking the time to research. The new Great West Way Travel Magazine provides the perfect inspiration for virtual travellers. The Great West Way Travel Magazine offers just that, a useful guide full of recommendations for planning the perfect trip, but it is also an escape in itself. The Great West Way website is also a great resource for those that are wanting inspiration and are keen to learn more about the many ways you can travel the route, as well as what to see and do while you’re travelling.
“In the Travel Magazine, we reveal the finalists of the Capturing the Moment Photography Competition and ask for help picking the winner, who will receive a family ticket to a number of attractions on the route including The National Arboretum, Longleat and Cheddar Gorge & Caves, among others, plus a Bombay Sapphire Distillery Cocktail Masterclass experience for up to three guests.”
The digital magazine is part of a wider virtual marketing campaign being undertaken by Great West Way that includes new website content highlighting virtual experiences for would-be visitors to explore on its website and a new aerial video which offers a bird’s-eye view of many of the destinations on the route.
Virtual tours and activities along the Great West Way include:
WINDSOR CASTLE – take a tour of the royal residence, including the Crimson Drawing Room, and see how Windsor Castle prepares for a State Banquet.
THE ROMAN BATHS – explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site online, watch behind-the-scenes videos, or play Roman-themed online games.
SS GREAT BRITAIN – discover the story of one of the most important historic ships in the world, take a virtual tour, or play the interactive ship building game.
STONEHENGE – watch the sun rise and set amongst the historic stones through Stonehenge Skyscape, which offers a live stream of the stones 24 hours a day.
FASHION MUSEUM BATH – browse the Dress of the Year collection from the 1960 to the present day using the online gallery, take a 3D tour of the museum, or download some children’s activities including colouring sheets and finger knitting activities.
SALISBURY CATHEDRAL – take a virtual tour inside the cathedral and discover beautifully carved monuments, or look out for the peregrine falcons (including a female that laid a single egg on Mother’s Day) that have been making Salisbury Cathedral their home since 1864.
AEROSPACE BRISTOL – the industrial heritage museum and learning centre has a range of family-friendly activities and videos to enjoy from home.
WE THE CURIOUS – take a virtual tour of the science and arts centre in Bristol which includes over 300 exhibits.
LONGLEAT SAFARI PARK – enjoy family-friendly videos and discover fun facts about the animals that reside at the park.
WADWORTH BREWERY – the brewery has launched The Henry, a virtual pub named after fonder Henry Wadworth, featuring regular live music from local musicians, a weekly quiz, bingo, pub tricks and weekly store-cupboard cooking sessions.
WILTSHIRE MUSEUM – the museum’s At Home programme features DIY craft activities, learning resources for children, stories about intriguing objects from the collections and more.
NATIONAL TRUST – join the National Trust’s #BlossomWatch which emulates Hunami, the ancient Japanese tradition of viewing and celebrating blossoms as the first sign of Spring. Those who see a tree in bloom while out on their daily exercise are encouraged to share a picture on social media.
