WE are now fully in the swing of summer and, while the weather this year has been unpredictable at best, we should (hopefully) see some warmer, dryer days ahead.
The school holidays are getting underway, and readers who have yet to book a holiday but are still eager to relax or have some adventures – whether that’s connecting with nature, or soaking up some art – are in luck.
In order to get a dose of wholesome fun, you really don’t need to go, well, anywhere.
For when it comes to our summer holidays, there really is no place like home.
Who knew that the solitude of the West of England could help recharge all our batteries?
Who realised that we could all feel reinvigorated by strolling through the gorgeous hills of our picturesque countryside – a walker’s paradise – where you can see for miles?
And who appreciated that from nationally-acclaimed galleries and museums to festivals and sporting activities – think of those regular summer fixtures at Gloucestershire Cricket Club, and Bath City FC – all the family can have a healthy dose of fun, right here in the West?
Well, the secret is out! The West of England is consistently rated as a top staycation destination, and for good reason.
From play and learning at family-friendly favourites like We The Curious, which I am delighted has now reopened after two long years, to hidden gems such as Saltford Brass Mill or Kingswood Museum – who I am backing through my mayoral fund to help smaller tourist sites – this incredible region is jam-packed with top places to explore and enjoy.
That’s why I am encouraging all of you to once again make the most of our fantastic local attractions and sites, and get behind them this summer.
My Explore Local campaign has already helped bring thousands of tourists back to our great region, but there is a way to go.
Tourism numbers have gone up by nearly 10% since I launched the campaign, but are still down slightly versus before the pandemic.
So if this is the summer of the great British ‘staycation’, let’s take full advantage by visiting the truly amazing attractions we have locally.
We are so lucky to live in such a brilliant part of the world. Let’s all get out there, soak in the atmosphere (and sun, fingers crossed!) and enjoy a proper local staycation.
A big bonus of keeping it local and travelling less far is we can save some cash during the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, which I know is still tough on residents, and help save the planet too.
Wherever you go, I hope you all get a great holiday.