South West Destinations

The South West UK is regarded as one of the prettiest locations in the UK with so much to see and do? Here we will run through some of our favourite places for you to perhaps add to your bucket list. If we’ve missed any feel free to comment at the bottom and tell us about your favourite south west places to visit.

Gloucestershire

One of the more accessible places of south west places to visit is Gloucester. No pilgrimage to the South West would be complete without a trip to Bath. Steeped in history, this beautiful Somerset city is home to the ancient Roman baths, medieval abbeys, museums, lush green parks and delightful architecture. The city centre is home to some of the best names on the high street, as well as designer brands and plenty of independent bookstores & cafes. Visit Sally Lunn’s Eating House to sample the famous Sally Lunn bun in one of Bath’s oldest buildings.

The Cotswolds

Rich with history dating back to the Domesday Book and full of quintessentially English towns and villages. The Cotswold’s is adorned with pretty cottages crafted from golden Cotswold stone. Head for Cheltenham Town where you can marvel at the most beautiful tall architecture made from Cotswold stone. The Cotwolds is one of out personal favourite South West places to visit.

Bournemouth

If you’re a lover of nautical history and long stretches of sandy beach, Bournemouth is the perfect seaside destination. Renowned for cleanliness as well as high safety standards making them popular with holidaymakers. There are tourist shops galore and the entire coastline is dotted with colourful beach huts. Don’t forget the obligatory seafront chips and ice cream!

Cornwall

Cornwall is the ultimate coastal escape and such an authentic place to enjoy the lifestyle of holiday home ownership. Art enthusiasts will love the Lost Gardens of Heligan and the Barbara Hepworth Museum. Make sure you visit the Eden Project because its a great day out for the whole family. For a bit of much needed peace and quiet escape to the tranquil Ruthern Valley, which in late Spring is carpeted with indigo bluebells. Fans of literature flock to Fowey, famous for inspiring much of Daphne du Maurier’s work.

There are countless working farms and petting zoos throughout the county if you have little people to keep happy. Cornwall is also the perfect place to sample delicious seafood, and Rick Stein’s seafood school at Padstow is the perfect gift for foodies.

Devon

Devon has lots to offer, from miles of stunning coastline to the world-famous cream tea. Outdoorsy types will love the Tamar Trails and Go Ape! at Haldon Forest. There’s also the model village at Babbacombe, surf school at Saunton Sands, vast Bronze Age moorland of Dartmoor. If you’re into historical buildings the stunning Exeter Cathedral is unmissable. Looking to discover the real ‘rural’ Devon? Head for East Devon where you can explore the Blackdown Hills which is designated an area of outstanding natural beauty. We would recommend heading to Lakeview Manor in Dunkeswell where you can enjoy a walk around the beautiful lake and Sunday lunch in the restaurant.

Dorset

Dorset is full of natural attractions from Durdle Door; a huge limestone arch in the sea at Lulworth to Old Harry Rocks on the Isle of Purbeck, marking the most easterly point of the Jurassic Coast. History lovers should also visit the Castletown D-Day Centre and the Tank Museum, and the water park at Corfe Castle is a must for adventure seeking families. The Jurassic Safari is another great way to spend the day, enjoying the rich scenery and wildlife of Dorset from a rugged Land Rover.