After Wales, our UK road trip wound its way into Bristol — a city buzzing with colour, creativity, and riverfront charm. From wandering the painted streets to long harbourside walks with Roly, Bristol felt like a mix of history and modern energy, all tied together with that laid-back South West vibe.
(More detail can be added later about specific routes, dog-friendly spots, and reflections.)
I’ve lived in the UK for over 30 years, yet when I thought about travel, my instinct was always to look outward; a flight, a new country, somewhere far away. But when January 2025 rolled in, something shifted. Instead of chasing stamps in my passport, I decided to chase the beauty already on my doorstep.
So I packed up the car, bundled Roly into the backseat, and we set off. From the rolling hills of Wales to the windswept cliffs of Cornwall, this was more than just a road trip — it was a reset. Each stop wasn’t just about the views (though there were plenty), but about remembering that adventure can live closer than we think.
Looking back now in September, this UK road trip feels like the spark that lit The Next Route. It showed me that travel doesn’t always mean leaving home behind, sometimes it means seeing home with new eyes.