A Photographic Guide to Bradford-on-Avon, on the Edge of the Cotswolds

Bradford-on-Avon is a stunning historic market town nestled in a valley, with the River Avon winding through its centre. Located on the edge of the Cotswolds and just outside the famous Regency city of Bath Spa, this charming town showcases classic honey-coloured stone cottages, grand Georgian properties, and iconic Victorian industrial heritage. The town's rich history is rooted in the wool trade, later transitioning its mills to rubber production.

Join me on a photographic tour showcasing the beauty of Bradford-on-Avon, a place I’ve focused on in my photography for the past few years.

Begin your journey at the town's main bridge with Westbury Gardens and the quintessentially English tea rooms on the south bank. As you cross the river, you’ll see a tiny prison built into the bridge before reaching the independent shops and eateries of Lamb Yard. Pass through the yard and bear left towards The Shambles, our version of the famous historic street in York. Continue past the Catholic Church to Church Street, home to the ancient, charming Saxon Church and the Holy Trinity Church.

Cross the river again, this time on the pedestrian McKeever Bridge, keeping an eye out for the abundant wildlife. Here you might spot kingfishers, swans, otters, beavers, and more. Turn right and follow the pedestrian path alongside the river, pausing to take in the iconic view of houses layered in tiers on the hillside.

Continue until you reach the Tithe Barn, a 14th-century monastic barn with a stunning timber roof, maintained by English Heritage. Look for the ‘witch marks,’ overlapping circles carved into the stone at the entrance, believed to ward off evil spirits. Nearby you will find the Packhorse Bridge, also known as Barton Bridge, an old medieval crossing that was probably built around the time of the barn. 

Follow the steps beside the barn up to the Kennet and Avon Canal and enjoy a stroll next to the characterful canal boats. Meander back towards town along the river, and take in the sight of Packhorse Bridge. The area in front of the bridge is popular for spotting kingfishers, swans, and various smaller birds.

Cross Packhorse Bridge and follow the footpath up to the railway tracks. Keep an eye out for steam trains that occasionally travel through town. Walk along Barton Orchard, admiring the weavers' cottages, and climb the steps up to Newtown. Continue up to Tory Place, named after the Tor it sits astride. Pause at St Mary Tory, part of the pilgrimage route from Glastonbury to Malmesbury. From here, enjoy views stretching as far as Wessex Downs. Spot the Westbury White Horse or the location of the Iron Age fort at Oliver’s Castle on Roundway Hill. 

Take in the former weavers' cottages and their terraced gardens, designed to catch the first rays of light. Climb up Conigre Hill and turn right to find an avenue of trees leading to the perfectly framed red door of Christ Church. In spring, Bradford-on-Avon is awash with wisteria, and one of my favourite spots to see this vibrant plant is at the converted Methodist church behind Christ Church.

Descend New Road and follow it to Woolley Street for a glimpse of The Hall, built in the 17th century. This road will bring you back to the centre of town.

If you're feeling adventurous, take an extended walk along the canal over the Avoncliff Aqueduct and around to the delightful hamlet of Turleigh, passing Belcombe Court on your way back. Alternatively, venture through the town's former golf course to see the tranquil setting of the sailing club.

The tourist office, situated in Westbury Gardens next to the main bridge, provides maps outlining these different routes. Enjoy exploring the visual treasure chest that is Bradford-on-Avon!