Discover the West Country: A Must-Visit Destination in Southwest England

14 min read

Nestled in the southwest of England, the West Country is a treasure trove of rolling hills, stunning coastlines and charming villages. We find ourselves enchanted by its rich history, vibrant culture and delicious local produce. From the rugged cliffs of Cornwall to the serene landscapes of Somerset, every corner of the West Country offers something unique.

Whether we’re exploring the ancient ruins of Tintagel Castle or sampling cider in a quaint Devonshire pub, the West Country promises unforgettable experiences. Its blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage makes it a must-visit destination. Let’s delve into what makes this region so special and why it should be on everyone’s travel list.

Key Takeaways

The West Country, including Cornwall, Devon, Somerset, and Dorset, boasts stunning coastlines, rolling hills, and charming villages.
Key historical sites like Tintagel Castle, Bath’s Roman baths, and Stonehenge showcase the region’s rich heritage.
Traditional events such as the Sidmouth Folk Festival and Glastonbury Festival highlight the vibrant culture of the West Country.
Notable local cuisines include Cornish pasties, cream teas, Cheddar cheese, and Somerset cider.
The region offers diverse accommodation options, from luxury hotels to pet-friendly stays, catering to every traveler’s needs.
Outdoor and water activities, along with hiking trails in national parks, emphasize the area’s natural beauty and adventurous spirit.

Overview Of The West Country

The West Country encompasses Cornwall, Devon, Somerset, and Dorset. This region is renowned for its stunning coastal landscapes, historic landmarks, and culinary delights. Visitors find numerous opportunities for outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and gastronomy.

Geography and Landscape
The coastline features rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and scenic coves. Inland areas showcase rolling hills, lush countryside, and quaint villages. Dartmoor National Park and Exmoor National Park, situated in Devon and Somerset respectively, offer hiking, horseback riding, and wildlife watching.

Historic Sites and Attractions
Tintagel Castle, believed to be the birthplace of King Arthur, attracts mythology enthusiasts. Bath, a UNESCO World Heritage site, boasts Roman baths and Georgian architecture. Stonehenge, located in Wiltshire, is a prehistoric monument drawing global visitors.

Culture and Traditions
The West Country is famous for its traditional music, dance, and folklore. Events, including the Sidmouth Folk Festival and the Glastonbury Festival, highlight the area’s rich cultural heritage. The region also has a notable maritime history, with historic harbours in towns like Falmouth and Plymouth.

Culinary Delights
Local cuisine includes cream teas, Cornish pasties, and Cheddar cheese. Cider production is prominent, with Somerset being particularly well-known for it. Regional recipes often feature fresh seafood, reflecting the area’s coastal nature.

Climate and Weather
The West Country enjoys a temperate maritime climate, with mild winters and warm summers. Coastal areas generally have milder weather compared to inland regions. Rainfall occurs year-round, but spring and summer tend to be the driest seasons.

Exploring The Natural Beauty

In the West Country, natural beauty abounds with stunning landscapes that captivate visitors. From lush national parks to breathtaking coastal views, there’s much to explore.

National Parks

Our journey begins with the region’s national parks. Dartmoor and Exmoor, both located in Devon, offer vast expanses of moorland dotted with ancient stone circles and tors (granite outcrops). These parks are perfect for hiking, cycling, and wildlife spotting. Dartmoor, covering 954 square kilometres, is famous for its wild ponies and dramatic scenery. Exmoor, spanning 692 square kilometres, features wooded valleys and the highest cliffs in England.

We can also visit the Quantock Hills in Somerset, designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Known for their sweeping landscapes and diverse habitats, the hills offer numerous trails for walkers and horse riders.

Coastal Views

The West Country’s coastline is iconic for its rugged cliffs, golden beaches, and scenic coves. Cornwall’s coastline is particularly striking with dramatic cliffs and quaint fishing villages such as St Ives and Padstow. We can explore the South West Coast Path, stretching 630 miles, offering panoramic views and access to hidden beaches.

In Devon, the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, spans from Exmouth in East Devon to Studland Bay in Dorset. It’s famed for its geological significance and fossil discoveries. Clifftop walks here reveal millions of years of Earth’s history embedded in the rocks.

The coastline at Somerset’s Brean Down Peninsula provides expansive sea views and opportunities for horse riding and paragliding. The Dorset coast offers stunning locations like the chalk cliffs of Old Harry Rocks and the arch of Durdle Door, both popular spots for photography and sightseeing.

By exploring these natural gems, we experience the diverse and captivating beauty of the West Country’s outdoor offerings.

Historical Sites And Landmarks

The West Country brims with historical sites that offer glimpses into its rich past. We explore some key landmarks, from ancient castles to informative museums.

Castles And Forts

West Country’s castles and forts highlight its strategic significance throughout history.

Tintagel Castle in Cornwall, famously linked to King Arthur, features dramatic sea views and medieval ruins.
Corfe Castle in Dorset, a Norman fortress with a thousand-year history, provides stunning views and insights into medieval sieges.
Dartmouth Castle in Devon, guarding the Dart Estuary for over 600 years, offers a fascinating look at coastal defence.
Berkeley Castle in Gloucestershire, where Edward II was imprisoned and murdered, presents a well-preserved example of medieval architecture.

Museums And Heritage Centres

West Country’s museums and heritage centres offer educational experiences about the region’s diverse history.

Roman Baths Museum in Bath displays one of the world’s best-preserved Roman bathhouses, highlighting ancient bathing culture.
SS Great Britain Museum in Bristol showcases Brunel’s iconic steamship and delves into Victorian engineering.
The Jurassic Coast Heritage Centre in Dorset educates visitors about the World Heritage site’s geological history and precious fossils.
The Museum of Somerset in Taunton houses exhibits ranging from prehistoric artefacts to contemporary art, tracing the area’s rich timeline.

These landmarks and heritage centres exemplify the remarkable history and culture of the West Country.

Gastronomic Delights Of The West Country

The West Country offers a culinary journey that highlights fresh, local produce and traditional recipes. From renowned restaurants to unique local specialities, the region delights every palate.

Local Specialities

The West Country is famed for its distinctive local specialities, including:

Cornish Pasties: These pastries feature a hearty filling of beef, potatoes, onions, and swede, all encased in a golden, flaky crust.
Cream Teas: Consisting of scones, clotted cream, and strawberry jam, this treat is quintessentially Devonian or Cornish, with a notable debate over jam or cream first.
Cheddar Cheese: Originating from the village of Cheddar in Somerset, this cheese boasts a rich, tangy flavour, often matured in the Cheddar Gorge caves.
Cider: Particularly famous in Somerset, this drink is crafted from locally grown apples and varies from sweet to dry, showcasing traditional cider-making techniques.
Stargazy Pie: A Cornish dish where fish heads peep out through the pie crust, demonstrating the region’s creative and hearty approach to seafood.

Renowned Restaurants

The West Country hosts several renowned restaurants that elevate its culinary scene:

The Seafood Restaurant, Padstow: Run by Rick Stein, this Cornwall-based restaurant is celebrated for its fresh, locally sourced seafood dishes.
The Pony & Trap, Bristol: A Michelin-starred gastropub offering a menu that changes with the seasons, ensuring fresh and innovative dishes.
Gidleigh Park, Devon: This restaurant in a luxurious country house hotel features two Michelin stars, presenting an exquisite fine dining experience.
The Masons Arms, Devon: Holding a Michelin star, it offers refined dishes using local ingredients in a rustic pub setting.
River Cottage Canteen, Axminster: Founded by Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall, this restaurant champions sustainable, organic, and local produce in its menus.

Exploring these gastronomic delights not only satisfies culinary cravings but also deepens appreciation for the West Country’s rich agricultural and culinary heritage.

Activities And Attractions

The West Country offers a wealth of activities and attractions to suit every interest. From outdoor adventures to cultural events, let’s explore what this region has to offer.

Outdoor Adventures

Those who enjoy outdoor activities will find plenty to do in the West Country. Dartmoor and Exmoor are perfect for hiking and wildlife spotting. The South West Coast Path runs through Cornwall and Devon, offering spectacular coastal views. Water enthusiasts can partake in surfing at Newquay, kayaking along the Jurassic Coast, or sailing in Plymouth Sound.

For cycling, the Camel Trail in Cornwall provides a scenic ride. Rock climbing is available at Cheddar Gorge in Somerset. Fishermen can enjoy angling in the region’s numerous rivers and lakes, such as the River Exe in Devon. Stroll through the picturesque gardens of Stourhead in Wiltshire. Families can enjoy walking and picnics on the Brean Down Peninsula in Somerset.

Festivals and Events

The West Country hosts numerous festivals and events that celebrate its rich culture. Glastonbury Festival, one of the world’s largest music festivals, takes place in Somerset. Folk enthusiasts can attend the Sidmouth Folk Festival in Devon. The Bath Literature Festival attracts renowned authors and book lovers.

For food lovers, the Cornwall Food Festival showcases the region’s culinary delights. The Bristol Balloon Fiesta features spectacular hot air balloon displays. Art fans can explore the Bath Festival of Arts. Historical reenactments occur during the Tewkesbury Medieval Festival in Gloucestershire.

Seasonal events also draw crowds. Visit the West Country during Christmas for the Sherborne Christmas Market in Dorset. Attend the Bristol Harbour Festival in summer. These festivals and events highlight the diverse cultural offerings of the region.

Accommodation Options

When exploring the West Country, you’ll find diverse accommodation options, catering to every taste and budget. From luxury hotels to charming bed and breakfasts, there are plenty of choices.

Luxury Hotels

For a lavish stay, several luxury hotels offer premium amenities and services.

Bovey Castle in Devon provides opulent rooms, a golf course, and spa facilities.
The Gainsborough Bath Spa in Bath offers a five-star experience with access to historic Roman baths.
Lucknam Park Hotel & Spa in Chippenham features elegant suites, fine dining, and extensive wellness services.

Bed and Breakfasts

If you prefer a more personal touch, the West Country hosts numerous charming bed and breakfasts.

The Lakeside, located in Westbury, offers cosy rooms with lake views and homemade breakfasts.
Highcliffe House in Lynton provides stunning coastal views, elegant interiors, and friendly hospitality.
The Old Rectory in Boscastle combines historical charm with modern comfort and proximity to scenic attractions.

Self-Catering Cottages

For a home-like experience, self-catering cottages are an excellent choice. These accommodations offer the flexibility to cook and live at your own pace.

Boskenna Shepherds Hut in Penzance provides a rural getaway with rustic charm and modern conveniences.
Bleu Bay Cottage in Brixham boasts coastal views and proximity to beaches and walking trails.
Millbrook Estate in High Bickington offers luxurious, secluded cottages perfect for romantic escapes or family stays.

Camping and Glamping

Outdoor enthusiasts can opt for camping or glamping sites to immerse themselves in nature.

Cornish Tipi Holidays near St. Kew provides traditional tipis in a woodland setting, complete with a lake for swimming and boating.
Exmoor National Park, with its varied landscapes, offers numerous campsites ideal for hiking and wildlife spotting.
Loveland Farm in Hartland combines eco-friendly luxury with stunning countryside views and unique glamping pods.

Family-Friendly Stays

Families visiting the West Country will find numerous family-friendly accommodations that cater to all ages.

Woolley Grange in Bradford-on-Avon features family rooms, children’s activities, and a walled garden.
Sands Resort Hotel & Spa in Newquay offers large family suites, on-site entertainment, and close proximity to the beach.
Twitchen House Holiday Village in Woolacombe provides various accommodation types, kids’ clubs, and outdoor entertainment.

Pet-Friendly Options

Travellers with pets needn’t worry as the West Country offers pet-friendly options.

Talland Bay Hotel in Looe welcomes dogs with amenities like dog-friendly dining areas and nearby trails.
The Cary Arms & Spa in Torquay offers luxury dog-friendly rooms and direct access to coastal walks.
The Red Lion Hotel in Clovelly, a historic inn, allows pets and provides easy access to dog-friendly beaches.

From luxurious retreats to cosy cottages, the West Country’s diverse accommodation options ensure all visitors find the perfect place to stay, further enhancing their travel experience.

Travel Tips For Visiting The West Country

Best Time To Visit

Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) offer mild weather and fewer crowds. Summer (June-August) is perfect for beach activities, though it’s peak tourist season. Visiting in winter allows for quieter exploration of indoor attractions but comes with cooler temperatures and potential rain.

Getting Around

Consider renting a car for flexibility, as public transport can be limited, especially in rural areas. Trains connect major towns and cities; for example, the Great Western Railway links London to Exeter and Plymouth. Buses also serve local routes but may have infrequent schedules.

Packing Essentials

Bring layers to adapt to the temperate maritime climate. Waterproof clothing is crucial, as rain can be unpredictable. Don’t forget sunscreen and hats in summer, with comfortable walking shoes for exploring attractions and countryside.

Local Cuisine

Sample local foods such as Cornish pasties, cream teas, and Cheddar cheese. Try cider from Somerset and fresh seafood from coastal towns like Padstow. Visit markets for high-quality produce and regional specialities.

Accommodations

Book in advance during peak seasons, especially for popular locations like Cornwall and Devon. Consider various options: luxury hotels, charming bed and breakfasts, self-catering cottages, and glamping sites.

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local traditions such as queueing politely and being considerate of community norms. Acknowledge historical sites’ significance, maintaining silence where necessary, for example, in museums and heritage centres.

Outdoor Activities

Explore hiking trails like the South West Coast Path and Dartmoor’s moorlands. Try water activities: surfing in Newquay, kayaking in Dartmouth, and sailing in Salcombe. Engage in wildlife spotting, particularly in Exmoor National Park.

Events and Festivals

Align your visit with regional events for a richer experience. The Glastonbury Festival in June and Sidmouth Folk Festival in August are major highlights. Check local calendars for food festivals and seasonal events such as Christmas markets.

Safety Tips

Stay informed about weather conditions, especially when hiking or engaging in water sports. Respect safety guidelines at coastal cliffs and rugged terrains. Keep personal belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings in urban areas.

Conclusion

The West Country offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. From the rugged cliffs of Cornwall to the tranquil scenery of Somerset, there’s something for every traveller. Whether you’re exploring ancient castles, enjoying local cuisine, or partaking in outdoor adventures, the region promises unforgettable experiences.

With its diverse attractions and welcoming accommodations, the West Country stands out as a must-visit destination. Embrace the charm and heritage of this remarkable region, and you’ll find yourself longing to return. So pack your bags and embark on an adventure that celebrates the best of southwest England.