Get More From Your Aust Hot Tub Cottage Break
Booking cottages with hot tubs in Aust gives you a peaceful riverside retreat where the River Severn meets the Severn Estuary. This tiny South Gloucestershire village sits right on the English-Welsh border and offers stunning waterside views alongside easy access to both Bristol and the Forest of Dean. The location makes it perfect for romantic breaks and family getaways alike.
We love how Aust combines tranquil countryside with proximity to major attractions. Your private hot tub becomes the perfect spot to unwind after exploring the Severn Bridge or walking the coastal paths. The village itself dates back to Roman times and sits on ancient ferry crossing routes that connected England and Wales for centuries before the bridges were built.
What to do on a family or couple's hot tub break in Aust
Aust offers a unique blend of natural beauty and engineering marvels. The village sits beneath the iconic Severn Bridge which opened in 1966 and the newer Second Severn Crossing from 1996. Both bridges create dramatic backdrops for photographs and walks along the estuary.
The area works brilliantly for hot tub stays because you get seclusion and nature without being remote. Bristol lies just 12 miles away whilst the Cotswolds and Forest of Dean are within easy reach. You can book everything from boutique cottages to large holiday houses with pools and jacuzzis.
Sightseeing in Aust
The Severn Estuary dominates the landscape here with its massive tidal range of up to 14 metres. This creates unique mudflat ecosystems that attract thousands of wading birds throughout the year. The Severn Way long-distance footpath runs right through Aust and offers spectacular views across to Wales.
Top 5 attractions you have to see in Aust
From historic engineering to wildlife watching and vibrant city culture, the area around Aust delivers variety. We've picked five must-visit spots that showcase the best of this corner of South Gloucestershire.
Severn Bridge and Viewpoints
The original Severn Bridge stands as a masterpiece of 1960s engineering. Walk beneath it from Aust or drive across for incredible estuary views. The bridge spans 1600 metres and on clear days you can see the Brecon Beacons from the Welsh side.
Bristol Harbourside
Just 20 minutes away, Bristol's regenerated harbourside buzzes with restaurants and museums. Visit the SS Great Britain, explore the M Shed museum or simply enjoy waterfront dining. The city offers excellent shopping and nightlife for those wanting more than a secluded retreat.
Chepstow Castle
Cross into Wales and you'll find Britain's oldest surviving post-Roman stone fortification. Chepstow Castle dates from 1067 and towers above the River Wye. The Great Tower still stands nearly complete and the views from the battlements are worth the visit alone.
Slimbridge Wetland Centre
Founded by Sir Peter Scott in 1946, Slimbridge hosts the world's largest collection of swans, geese and ducks. The centre sits 15 miles north along the estuary and attracts huge flocks of wild birds in winter. Kids love the tropical house and flamingo lagoon whilst adults appreciate the hides overlooking the Severn.
Forest of Dean
This ancient royal hunting forest covers 110 square kilometres of woodland between the Severn and Wye valleys. You'll find mountain biking trails, walking routes and unique attractions like Puzzlewood with its twisted rock formations. The forest offers fishing lodges and log cabin accommodation if you fancy exploring further afield.
Don't Miss These...
| Attraction | What you'll experience | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Severn Bridge and Viewpoints | Dramatic engineering and estuary panoramas with birdwatching opportunities | Everyone |
| Bristol Harbourside | Urban culture, maritime history and waterfront dining in a vibrant city setting | Couples and Families |
| Chepstow Castle | Medieval fortress with nearly 1000 years of history and commanding river views | Families |
| Slimbridge Wetland Centre | World-class wildfowl collection and winter bird spectacles on the estuary | Families |
| Forest of Dean | Ancient woodland adventures with trails, cycling and mysterious rock formations | Everyone |
Visitor FAQs
How do I get to Aust?
Junction 21 of the M4 provides direct access to Aust. The village sits right off the motorway before the Severn Bridge. Bristol Airport lies 25 miles away whilst Bristol Temple Meads station offers rail connections with local bus services to the area.
What family activities are nearby?
Slimbridge Wetland Centre tops the list for families along with Bristol Zoo, the We The Curious science centre and Aerospace Bristol. The Forest of Dean offers Go Ape treetop adventures and Beechenhurst Lodge has excellent cycling trails suitable for children.
Where are the best romantic spots?
Walk the Severn Way at sunset for spectacular views or book a table at one of Bristol's harbourside restaurants. The Wye Valley across the bridge offers stunning scenery whilst Chepstow has charming independent shops and cafes perfect for couples.
Is there good shopping nearby?
Bristol's Cabot Circus provides major retail therapy whilst Clifton Village offers boutique shopping. Chepstow has a traditional high street and the nearby market town of Thornbury features independent stores and a Saturday farmers market.
Why choose a cottage with hot tub in Aust?
The combination of peaceful countryside and easy access to attractions makes Aust ideal for hot tub breaks. You get the best of both worlds with secluded self catering accommodation and major destinations within 30 minutes. Pet friendly cottages and dog friendly options mean the whole family can visit.
Whether you're after cheap cottages for a last minute getaway or luxury cottages for a new year celebration, Aust delivers. The village works perfectly as a base for exploring whilst your private hot tub provides the ultimate way to relax. Book your cottage breaks here and discover why this quiet corner of South Gloucestershire offers such great value for country breaks and coastal cottages experiences combined.