Maiden Bradley lies in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty which comprises Cranborne Chase and the West Wiltshire Downs and is near to the southern margin of the Cotswolds and Bath. The village is surrounded by large areas of woodland and agricultural land which we always enjoy showing to our visitors as we walk or drive through them.

There are so many beautiful places and buildings within easy reach of Maiden Bradley which are of interest that it would take more than one week to see them all. Our outline itinerary shows that we ensure visits to important sights like Stonehenge, our two wonderful Cathedrals at Salisbury and Wells, Longleat House and the many attractions in Bath - Abbey, Roman Baths, elegant Georgian architecture and an Antiques Market - but also include places that the independent traveller might not discover.

In addition we always try to find out the main interests of our guests before they arrive so that the final itinerary may be planned to suit them if at all possible. However, because it is important to us that our guests are not overtired by their holiday, we arrange no drives that take longer than an hour and we are also pleased to include time out for rest and reflection!

The origin of Maiden Bradley’s unusual name and its history, as well as its four hundred year connection with the Dukes of Somerset, are just some of the things that you will find out when you meet its residents. You will also experience a warmth of welcome which is always mentioned by our Parish Holiday friends as the main ingredient of a truly memorable and rewarding holiday. The great joy for us is that we have made so many lasting friendships over the years.

Wednesday - Travel to Maiden Bradley.

Thursday - Meet other guests and stroll in one of the Duke of Somerset’s Woods with a forester/ornithologist. After lunch a local drive to Longleat House. Welcome supper in the village.

Friday - Drive to Salisbury via Stonehenge & Heale Garden. Tour the Cathedral with our former Vicar, an experienced guide. Supper with a village family.

Saturday - Visit the old Saxon town of Bruton with its Williamsburg connections, then to Wells and its Cathedral. Evening concert.

Sunday - Family Communion at All Saints’ Church, Maiden Bradley then a tour of Bradley House, for many years home to the Dukes of Somerset. Choice afternoon but possibly a visit to Stourhead House and Gardens. Evening Barbecue. (see photo above).

Monday - A conducted tour of Bath on an Open-top Bus then time to see the Roman Baths, Abbey and more. Supper & skittles at The Somerset Arms.

Tuesday - Visit the mediaeval town of Bradford-on-Avon and its ancient tithe barn and Saxon Church. Supper with a village family.

Wednesday - Tour of farms in the Parish, including sheepdog demonstration. Farewell supper.

Thursday - Depart.

Note:   There are now regular scheduled flights from Newark, New Jersey to Bristol, where we would be able to meet any guest who can take advantage of this route.