Swindon on a Shoestring: 5 Days of Fun!
Discover Swindon's charm without breaking the bank.
21 June 2023
Lucie Collins
UK Travel Writer
Swindon is a great destination for budget travelers looking to experience the rich culture and history of the United Kingdom. With its numerous parks, museums, and historical landmarks, there are plenty of affordable options for sightseeing and entertainment. Budget-friendly accommodations, such as hostels and guesthouses, are also widely available in the area.
Travel plan
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- Start the day with a full English breakfast at Bills Restaurant.
- Visit STEAM Museum to learn about Swindon's railway history.
- Head to the Wyvern Theatre for a matinee show.
- Explore the Swindon Art Gallery and Museum.
- Finish off the day with a pint and traditional pub food at The Beehive.
- Enjoy a hearty breakfast at The Garden Cafe.
- Take a walk around Lydiard Park and visit the beautiful Lydiard House.
- Visit the nearby Cotswold Water Park for a picnic and paddle boat ride.
- Have dinner at The Tuppenny, a cozy gastropub known for their vegan dishes.
- Catch a movie at the Empire Cinema.
- Grab a coffee and a pastry at WildSwan.
- Hit the shops at the McArthurGlen Designer Outlet, with over 90 stores.
- Visit the Debenhams department store for more shopping.
- Stop by the Swindon Designer Market for unique crafts and gifts.
- Have dinner at Mamma Mia, Swindon's best Italian restaurant.
- Drive to the nearby Avebury to visit the ancient stone circle and village.
- Stop for lunch at the Red Lion Pub, known for their delicious Sunday roasts.
- Visit the village of Marlborough and explore the High Street shops.
- Take a stroll through the Savernake Forest.
- Finish off with a pint at The Bear Hotel in Marlborough.
- Start with brunch at The Harvester.
- Visit the Wyvern Theatre for an evening show.
- Enjoy cocktails and live music at The Vic.
- Check out the Oasis Leisure Centre for bowling and arcade games.
- End the night with a late-night kebab from Gino's Kebabs.
- Accommodation: Stay at the Holiday Inn Express Swindon City Centre for a comfortable and budget-friendly stay, with free breakfast and Wi-Fi.
Length of stay
Type of trip
How to get there
Plane
The best way to get to Swindon by plane is to fly into Bristol Airport and then take the train to Swindon.
Car
The best way to get to Swindon by car is to take the M4 motorway and exit at Junction 16 for Swindon.
Train
The best way to get to Swindon by train is to take the Great Western Railway from London Paddington station to Swindon station.
Boat
There is no way to get to Swindon by boat as it is a landlocked city.
Bus
The best way to get to Swindon by bus is to take the National Express coach from London Victoria Coach station to Swindon bus station.