It may be well-known for its magic roundabout but Swindon in Wiltshire has plenty more to offer group visitors.
We look at some of the attractions and activities for your itineraries:
1. STEAM – Museum of the Great British Railway
No trip to Swindon would be complete without going to STEAM, the Museum of the Great British Railway. At the heart of the town’s growth is its railway history and the museum’s exhibits tell the story of the railway community that led to Swindon becoming the town it is today. Wander among famous locomotives, have a go at driving the train yourself on the realistic simulator, or work the signals in the interactive GWR signal box.
Groups of 15 plus will receive discounted admission rates and free entry for the group organiser and coach driver.
2. Museum of Computing
With 70 years of technology on display, visitors to the Museum of Computing will find themselves embarking on a journey through time as they gaze upon everything from arcade games to Apple Macs.
The hands-on exhibits further the experience by encouraging visitors to step back in time to play old fashioned games such as Sonic the Hedgehog, Space Invader and Pong.
Group visits are welcome, for more information visit www.museumofcomputing.org.uk/visiting-us.
3. Wyvern Theatre
Dive straight into Swindon’s vibrant arts scene with a visit to Wyvern Theatre. There’s a varied programme of concerts, comedies, dance, drama and local amateur productions.
Groups can benefit from special rates and discounts, no booking fees and flexible reservation periods.
Pictured: Lydiard House (photo credit: Visit Wiltshire).
4. Lydiard House and Park
If it’s gardens that you’re looking for then a visit to Lydiard House and Park is a must. Open all year round, the historic estate is situated just outside of Swindon and is a delight for anyone visiting the area.
With 260-acres of country park, a church and a picturesque walled garden to explore, it may be easy to forget that you’re so close to a bustling town. Lydiard House and Park also plays host to a programme of events throughout the year including the upcoming Festive Wreath Making workshop (1st December-12th December) and the Santa Fun Run (2nd December).
Groups can benefit from discounted admission, free admission for the driver or group leader and guided tours.
5. McArthur Glen’s Swindon Designer Outlet
Housed in the Grade II listed buildings of the Great Western Railway works and sitting adjacent to the STEAM museum, is the McArthurGlen’s Swindon Designer Outlet. Famed for being one of the largest covered designer outlets in Europe, there are a number of dining and café options on offer for visitors.
Groups visiting the designer outlet can benefit from special privileges, including a 10% reduction in all Fashion Passport participating stores.
6. Swindon Festival of Literature
The Festival of Literature is one of Swindon’s annual highlights (7th May-19th May). With daily events, and authors aplenty, the festival is said to celebrate all things “well-thought, well-written, and well-said” (Matt Holland, festival director).
For more information on things to see and do in the area visit www.visitswindon.org.uk and www.visitwiltshire.co.uk.
Main image: STEAM Museum (photo credit: Visit Wiltshire).
