Bristol Lichfield Train

The city of Bristol, which borders the counties of Gloucestershire and Somerset, has always prospered due to its ties to the sea. The city's commercial Port of Bristol was originally located on the heart of the city but was moved to Avonmouth on the Severn Estuary. Royal Portbury Dock lies to the west of the city. Additionally, Bristol has a long history as a centre of culture and as such is the largest cultural centre in the region. In recent years the city's economy has increasingly depended on the creative media, electronics and aerospace industry. The site of the former docks in the city centre have been regenerated as a centre of heritage and culture. The city's principal theatre company, the Bristol Old Vic, was founded in 1946 as an offshoot of The Old Vic company in London. Its premises on King Street consist of the 1766 Theatre Royal which has 607 seats, a modern studio theatre called the New Vic which has 150 seats, and foyer and bar areas in the adjacent Coopers' Hall (built 1743).

Bristol is located in an area of limestone which runs from the Mendip Hill to the south to the Cotswolds to the north east. The River Avon flows from nearby Bath and created a gorge, the Avon Gorge, which helped to protect Bristol Harbour.

Located in the county of Staffordshire, the city of Lichfield lies just to the north of Birmingham and is steeped in heritage with lots of things to do and see for the whole family. Whilst in the city why not pay a visit to the Georgian home of Erasmus Darwin, grandfather of Charles Darwin and leading doctor, botanist, inventor and poet of the 18th century. The house is located in the idyllic surroundings of Cathedral Close and contains many interactive displays and a herb garden. Any trip to Lichfield must include a visit to the 800 year old cathedral which has treasures including the 8th century St Chad Gospels, 16th century Flemish Glass, monuments by Chantrey and Epstein and the 20th century Lang Lichfield Silver Commission. Located a few miles from Lichfield is Drayton Manor Theme Park with some of the biggest, scariest and wettest rides around. Thrill seekers will love the adrenaline-inducing drop-tower, Apocalypse, stand-up coaster, Shockwave, splash-tastic log flume, Stormforce 10, gyro-swing, and Maelstrom. The park is also home to Europe's only Thomas Land™ which features 21 rides and attractions based on the popular Thomas & Friends™ TV series, including Cranky’s Drop Tower, the Troublesome Trucks Coaster and Winston’s Whistle Stop Tour.