Still wondering what to do in Swindon? Opodo has the top must-see plans so you won't miss a thing. Find everything you need to know before picking your stay in Swindon and book your hotel today!
Swindon is a historic Wiltshire town that came to prominence as the home of the Great Western Railway (GWR) works, transforming it into a major industrial centre. Today, its railway heritage is celebrated at the fantastic STEAM Museum of the Great Western Railway, housed in a beautifully restored Grade II listed building.
You can indulge in retail therapy at the massive Swindon Designer Outlet, located right next to the STEAM Museum, or explore the elegant Lydiard Park, a large historic parkland featuring a Palladian house. The Museum of Computing offers a fun, hands-on experience with vintage technology. Swindon is a practical and convenient hub for exploring Wiltshire and the nearby Cotswolds.
The best location for your Swindon hotel is one that balances proximity to the town centre's amenities with easy access to the railway heritage and major shopping.
The area near the Swindon Designer Outlet and the STEAM Museum is a highly convenient choice. Staying here puts you steps away from the largest retail and heritage attractions, perfect for first-time visitors who want easy access to the main draws.
For visitors prioritising culture and the historic quarter, look for accommodation in the Old Town area, where you’ll find the Swindon Museum & Art Gallery. This district offers a quieter, more historic atmosphere and charming independent shops. For green space, hotels near Coate Water Country Park offer a tranquil base.
Swindon is served by a central railway station, Swindon Station, with excellent connections to London Paddington, Bristol, and Cardiff. The town is located near the M4 motorway. Local bus services are extensive, connecting the town centre with the Old Town and the retail parks. A central hotel is the most efficient choice for using the town as a base.
Hotel prices in Swindon are heavily influenced by its corporate and logistical hub status. The highest prices are consistently found during the mid-week, from Monday to Thursday, due to high business travel demand near the M4 corridor.
The most significant savings can be made by booking a stay over the weekend, particularly a Sunday night, when corporate demand drops significantly. The peak tourist season is the summer, June to August. A unique tip for Swindon is that prices are often lower when booking a hotel that is slightly outside the immediate Designer Outlet area, as that location is frequently booked at a premium by shoppers and business travellers alike.