Swindon Travel Guide: Things to Do and See

Swindon is a vibrant town in the southwest of England, and is well-known for its diverse attractions and flourishing culinary scene. Situated in the stunning county of Wiltshire, there are plenty of things to do in Swindon for visitors and residents alike. From exploring historical landmarks and museums to indulging in delicious cuisine at the many Vegan restaurants in Swindon. This town has something for everyone. 

Swindon has gained recognition for its abundance of Vegan restaurants, catering to the growing demand for plant-based dining options. So whether you're a history enthusiast, a food lover, or both, Swindon promises a delightful experience with plenty of attractions and delectable Vegan culinary delights to discover.

Things to do in Swindon

Read on for some of the best sights and places to visit in Swindon. 

Explore the town's fascinating history at the Steam Museum of the Great Western Railway, or, for a dose of nature, take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful Lydiard Park. Swindon offers an abundance of things to do that will leave you with lasting memories.

Steam Museum

The Steam Museum of the Great Western Railway details its rich history, including the extraordinary things achieved by ordinary men and women during the time. Get up close to GWR locomotives, and experience hands-on exhibits and interactive displays. You can book museum admission tickets online in advance or on the day of your visit. 

Designer outlet

The Designer outlet in Swindon will certainly deliver retail therapy for those needing it! Conveniently located for easy access from the M4 motorway at junction 16, the outlet boasts stores such as Adidas, BOSS, Levi’s, Tommy Hilfiger, Converse, and more at up to 60% less - all year round.  

Come along to our Vegan Fair

A trip to Swindon is not complete without stopping by our Vegan Fair in Swindon. Whether you’re vegan already or just v-curious, Swindon Vegan Fair has something for everyone. Showcasing a number of independent businesses ranging from food, drink, cruelty-free skincare to sustainable fashion, crafts and more. Sample everything our local fair has to offer and find out about a more sustainable, compassionate way of living.

Photo Credit: Alex Tyler - taken at one of our Vegan Fairs

Coate Water Park

Coate Water is a country park just 5 km southeast of central Swindon. Open all year round, 24 hours a day, you’ll find several walks in and around the park - many of which are level and surfaced, so they’re suitable for wheelchair users. 

Lydiard Park

Lydiard Park is a beautiful, historic estate on the western edge of Swindon, with the Palladian House, Church, Walled Garden, Hotel and Events Centre set in 260 acres of parkland. Children’s play area, cafe & tea room, events and education programmes make Lydiard Park a great destination for a family day out. Dogs are allowed in the grounds and the park is a lovely destination for a walk, run or bike ride.

Pixal-Rose Hair Design

Treat yourself to a pamper day at this Vegan-founded salon. Boasting a solid reputation as Swindon’s first Vegan hair salon, the friendly team are trained to cut and colour all hair types. 

Places to visit near Swindon

Swindon is situated along the M4 motorway, which is a major route connecting London to South Wales. This provides convenient road access for travelling from Swindon in all directions. The town’s central location and close proximity to popular destinations make it an ideal base for travelling to other nearby areas.

Rail Connections: Swindon is served by a major railway station, Swindon (Wilts)

Let’s take a look at some lovely locations to check out near Swindon:

North Wessex Downs 

Swindon is nestled on the edge of the North Wessex Downs - an area of outstanding natural beauty. From remote, rolling downland to picture postcard villages, the North Wessex Downs are truly special. In total, there are 479 Scheduled Monuments in the North Wessex Downs AONB – one of the densest concentrations in the country.

Nearby Vegan Fairs

Did you know that we also have Vegan Fairs in nearby Cirencester, and also across the entire South West and Wales? Explore all of our Vegan Fair upcoming events. 

Cotswolds

The Cotswolds, a picturesque region located in the heart of England, is known for its idyllic countryside, charming villages, and quintessential English charm. This stunning area is just 25-30 miles from Swindon by car, and you’re in a region perfect for hikers and nature enthusiasts alike.  

Cotswold Sculpture Park is known as “The great outdoors at the heart of the Cotswolds''. Open from 1 April until 30 September, admission is reasonably priced for the wonderful sculptures you’ll see amongst ten acres of lush, forested land. This lovely park even has its own little fully vegan restaurant! 

The best vegan eats in Swindon

As we mentioned, Swindon boasts a plentiful number of vegan options. Here are our top vegan eats in Swindon. 

  • The Veeg Shack - 100% Vegan street food, dog-friendly, and you can even bring your own booze for a small corkage fee. 

  • The Little Gem - 100% Vegan bistro offering nibbles, small bites, and big eats - as well as a great range of hot and cold drinks. 

  • The Core - This Veggie restaurant certainly caters for smoothie and juice lovers with a glorious range on offer. You can also choose from healthy smoothie bowls and power salads.

  • The Little Picnic Shop in Castle Combe - Not 100% Vegan, this shop does the most amazing Vegan picnics, and, with the beautiful surroundings of Castle Combe, is a great place to visit! Make sure you pre-order your picnic in advance to avoid disappointment.

  • The Hot Box - Situated in Brunel Shopping Centre, the Hot Box specialises in Vegetarian and Vegan food with plenty of Vegan takeaway options.

  • Swindon Pulse Wholefood Cooperative - This is a Whole Foods store in the town centre offering many fairly traded and organic goods. You’ll find Vegetarian, Vegan, organic, local, sustainably produced, gluten-free, and raw goods from all corners of the planet in this store. 

Where to stay in Swindon

Finally, you’ll want somewhere to lay your head after experiencing all Swindon has to offer. 

We recommend the Harp & Crown - a fully vegan pub and guesthouse. A traditional Freehouse pub and rooms with a creative vegan menu, expect to sample vegan delights such as jerk seitan wings with slaw, rich mushroom and lentil lasagne, fully loaded nachos, and marinated jackfruit.

If you choose to stay at this lovely pub over the weekend, you’re in for a treat with their Sunday roasts. Choose from vegan cottage pie, vegetable dhansak with all the sides, pulled seitan burgers, and, of course, a delicious nut roast with roast potatoes, vegetables, Yorkshire pudding, and vegan gravy. 

Come along to our Vegan Fair in Swindon

Be sure to check out our upcoming Vegan Fair in Swindon and get involved for a whole family fun day out in Swindon. We run our Vegan Fairs throughout the South West of England and Wales - find the full Vegan Fairs event list here.

Siobhan Keeley