Bristol is the largest city in South West England, and the perfect destination for a long weekend or mini-break. Situated in Somerset, Bristol is also in prime cider country. There has always been a strong association between Somerset and apples, and producers vary from tiny orchards that produce farmhouse scrumpy, to large commercial operations producing a smooth refined drink. In 2012 Bristol will host its 8th annual Cider Festival, and several more are scheduled across Somerset, which guarantee to be enjoyable!

Bristol makes the perfect launch pad from which to explore the West Country. Bristol hotels have lots of useful information about the local area, including local natural attractions such as Cheddar Gorge and Wookey Hole caves. And there are plenty of cheap hotels in the city – so you can save your money for the delicious cider!

In between sampling the local tipple, you may also want to see:

• Bristol Museum and Art Gallery: Set in a magnificent building, the collections are housed in 19 galleries over 3 floors, and contain some outstanding collections of art, archaeology, Egyptology and natural history.
• Bristol Zoo Gardens: One of Britain's oldest zoos, where visitors can come face to face with over 400 species of exotic, endangered and adorable animals from all corners of the globe. Visitors can see the family of gorillas, stroll through the tropical Butterfly Forest or become immersed in the impressive Seal and Penguin Coast.
• Isambard Kingdom Brunel's SS Great Britain: One of Britain's most famous historic ships, the Great Britain was the first steamboat to make it across the Atlantic in 1845. Come aboard one of Britain's most acclaimed ships, and visualise life aboard an ocean liner in the glorious days of travel by sea.
• The Clifton Suspension Bridge: Another Brunel landmark, completed in 1864, the Clifton Suspension Bridge's spectacular setting on the cliffs of the Avon Gorge has made it the defining symbol of Bristol, drawing thousands of visitors a year just to stroll across for views of the ancient Avon Gorge, elegant Clifton and the magnificent city beyond.
• Bristol Aquarium: The spectacular Bristol Aquarium in Bristol's historic Harbourside area takes you and your family and friends on a spectacular undersea safari. The £4m re-development of the building showcases native and tropical marine and freshwater creatures from around the world, all designed to inspire deeper understanding and appreciation of the natural world.