For lots of people, one of the key solutions for cooling off in a heatwave is a swim - and if you're able to get to them, there are quite a few swimming spots on offer in the Bristol region.
While some Bristolians have flocked to the seaside others have stayed inland to cool off in the city's nearby river spots. Popular areas like Conham River Park were packed as people desperately tried to escape the heatwave.
So where do you go for a quiet respite away from the busy swimming spots in the hot weather? A small but serene spot a short distance outside of the city is turning the heads of a lot of wild swimmers looking for a more serene experience.
Read more: Places you can and can't go wild swimming near Bristol
Publow's wild swimming spot is in the River Chew just a few miles outside of Bristol. There's a pool formation along the river next to Publow's Church of All Saints (which has some parking), which is small in size but almost like a large plunge pool - ideal for cooling off in the heat.
It's around 20 minutes from the city centre down the A37 or keen cyclists can get there in just 40 minutes. Alternatively, you can hop on the S12 from Broad Weir or the 376 from Temple Meads Station to Belluton Lane which is just a short walk from the river.
The neighbouring village Pensford is beautiful with extremely kind and friendly residents. It's worth noting that the area cannot cope with huge numbers of cars so visitors should be considerate. It might be worth carpooling, cycling or taking the bus during the busy summer months.
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It's both a beautiful and serene place to have a dip, with trees and other greenery draping over the water. There are shallow spots along the River Chew meaning some parts are suitable for young children.
A swim in Publow is not complete without a visit to neighbouring village Pensford for a drink or two at gastropub the Rising Sun's outstanding beer garden. It has been recognised as the nation's best pub garden multiple times and it's easy to see why - offering a stunning vista of the village's viaduct that looms over the garden.
After you've dried off from a swim you can take a ten-minute walk down Publow Lane towards the quaint village nestled further along the River Chew. The staff behind the bar are so warm and welcoming, they will make you feel right at home as soon as you step through the door.
Owned by St Austell Brewery, the Rising Sun has quite a few Cornish beers on tap although they do cater to the locals by offering a few cask ales and ciders from the area. The kitchen serves up proper pub grub - burgers, fish and chips, pie - all made with love and the freshest of ingredients (and with local produce where possible).
The pub is suitable all year round but there's nothing better than sipping a cool pint in the luscious green gardens on a hot day. They also serve up an incredible roast so if you're visiting on a Sunday be sure to book in advance to avoid disappointment.
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