When the weather gets hotter and the summer holidays roll around, it can be nice to venture to somewhere with peaceful countryside, quaint village amenities and a stretch of water close by. While the likes of seaside destinations, such as Weston-super-Mare, will no doubt be packed full of families and groups from Bristol and beyond in the summer holidays, there's a large village just a 30-minute or so drive from Bristol that can boast some quality time - as well as beautiful scenery and plenty to do.
Saltford sits pretty much equidistance from both Bristol and Bath and treats locals and visitors alike to picnic spots, watersports and a plethora of places to eat and drink. Located on the River Avon, there's no shortage of riverside spots you can enjoy a break, picnic or even a spot of pub grub, too.
What's more, if you find yourself wishing to become a recurring visitor - and you love a river sport or two to sink your teeth into - the village houses the Avon County Rowing Club, which is available to all local age groups and is used by the University of Bristol for training. The club has competed at local and national level, including the Henley Royal Regatta and the British Rowing Championships.
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Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) lessons from Bath Paddleboard Centre take place in Saltford, and there's even a canoeing members' club, called Canoe Avon. And, if you know someone with a narrowboat, chances are they've taken a trip to Saltford Marina, which boasts 85 moorings and its own Members' Boating Club, which organises barbeques and other social events during the season.
Then, after a day of sporting activity, Saltford can serve up some delicious grub, or a cool drink or two, at one of its nearby pubs. The Bird In Hand is a traditional local with a proper pub grub menu, conservatory and garden situated on the High Street - there's even an area dedicated to young families.
Then there's The Jolly Sailor, located on Mead Lane, which has been around since 1726 and boasts an ivy-covered exterior as well as enviable views over the River Avon and the canal lock. There's even a beer garden to soak up some summer sunshine and the picturesque surroundings - plus dishes on the menu include steamed mussels, hand-cut ham, pie of the day and curries, so there's something for everyone (including local real ales and ciders and sometimes live music).
Other pubs include the Riverside Inn, boasting a large function room and several en-suite rooms (ideal for weddings and other celebrations) and The Crown, which is a more cosy space on Bath Road, offering a mix of traditional and modern cuisine and a pub garden which was entered into the awards for Best Pub Garden in Britain.
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Experience waves of happiness at this unique surfing destination
There are waves of fun for all the family at this unique inland surfing destination located on the edge of Bristol.
From developing water confidence in a ‘Play in the Bay’ session, to cruising on a bodyboard, or trying out a Beginner Surfing Lesson, smiles are guaranteed at The Wave.
Open seven days a week, The Wave brings the joy of water and waves to people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities. Everyone at The Wave firmly believes that the best surfer in the lake is the one having the most fun!
Read more here.
If you're an avid walker, Saltford is also filled with walking routes - some of which can take you around the village itself, along the Bristol and Bath Railway Path and River Avon, past listed buildings in Saltford's Conservation Area and even through woodlands. Manor Road Community Woodland is a local nature reserve which residents and visitors say is good for dog walking, full of open space and yet is still a place to get lost in the peace and quiet of the woodland surroundings.
The site boasts spectacular views over to the Cotswolds, in particular Kelston Round Hill, and the site is a haven for wildlife, too. In the village itself, you'll find shops and restaurants, cafes and more to explore, while nearby, families can enjoy a cycle along the Bristol to Bath Railway Path, train ride at Bitton Station, tea and cake at the Warmley Waiting Room cafe, or even a fun day out at Avon Valley Adventure & Wildlife Park.
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