About Bradford on Avon ( self-catering accommodation in Bradford on Avon at the foot of the page)
Bradford-on-Avon is a medieval market town on the River Avon, on the edge of the Cotswolds. The name derives from the town that grew around the 'broad ford' in the river.
It has a charming old arched stone bridge spanning the river that dates back to the 13th century. There is a quaint building or lock-up on the bridge with a fish (gudgeon) on top of a weather vane. It's original purpose is thought to be that of a toll house or chapel but later was remployed as a prison to confine some of the misbehaving drunken and disorderly citizens of Bradford on Avon.
Those of you who have an interest in period buildings and all things historic will enjoy a wander around Bradford on Avon. There is a 14th century Tithe barn that stored taxes gathered from the community, narrow streets full of character and plentyof olde worlde things to look at. The original packhorse bridge that carried goods to the Tithe Barn is now part of the BartonFarm Country Park and is open to visitors. One of the oldest structures is St Laurence Saxon Church that dates back to around 700 AD.
Imposing stone buildings in the centre of town were built by prosperous wool and cloth merchants. Steep roads lead uphill to afford views of the spinners and weavers cottages that rise the hill in tiers. Much of the wealth of this area can be attributed to the wool trade of the 17th and 18th centuries. Spot old mills and riverside wharves that remain from that time.
If you can climb to the top of the hill and St. Mary's Tory Chapel you will be able to see as far as the Mendip Hills, the Westbury White Horse etched into hillside, and the Marlborough Downs.
There are plenty of good tea shops and restaurants in the town for a very pleasant day out.
Annual Events
A Raft Race takes place in May and is popular with local residents. It's good to still have some local traditions that have survived and add colour to a community.
Pancake Race on Shrove Tuesday when fancy-dress clad sporting members of the town prepare their frying pans for a dash across the bridge and back.
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