The South West of England is full of exciting places to visit. It has cool beaches, mysterious moorlands, and rich history. The area is one of the best places to explore in the UK. But with so much to see and do, it can be hard to choose where to start.
Don’t worry! I’m here to help. Here are ten great places in the West Country to visit this year.
South West England bucket list
West Penwith, Cornwall: for stargazing
West Penwith, a beautiful part of Cornwall, has received a great honor. It is now an International Dark Sky Park! This means it’s one of the best places in the world to see stars at night. It’s the second place in Cornwall and the seventh in the UK to get this award.
This special area stretches from St Ives to Mousehole and includes spots like Sennen and Land’s End. There isn’t much light from towns and cities here, so the night sky is very dark. This makes the stars look extra bright and magical!
Mendip Hills “Super” National Nature Reserve: for hiking and nature
Discover the Mendip Hills “Super” National Nature Reserve: A Fun Place for Hiking and Nature!
Visit the Mendip Hills in Somerset in 2024! This place has just become a “super” National Nature Reserve. This means it’s even better at protecting nature and helping animals and plants.
The Mendip Hills stretch from Wells to Weston-super-Mare. They connect 31 nature reserves! There are many cool spots to explore. You might see rare butterflies, the Cheddar pink flower, and small mammals darting around!
One of the best things to do here is walk the Mendip Way. This trail takes you through rolling hills, cliffs, and magical woodlands! It’s a great adventure for hikers and nature lovers.
If you love exploring, spotting wildlife, and seeing beautiful natural sights, the Mendip Hills “Super” National Nature Reserve is the place to be in 2024!
Exmouth – for my walking tours!
Exmouth was once a popular Victorian seaside resort. Now it’s making a big comeback with cool new restaurants, a beach bar, and exciting watersports centers. You can explore all of this on my fun historical walking tours around the town center!
Walk through the town and see the fancy Regency-era buildings. Stroll along the beautiful two-mile beach and dive into the town’s rich history. You’ll learn about famous people like Ada Lovelace and Lady Byron who once lived here. Plus, you’ll discover the oldest part of England’s Jurassic Coast!
Don’t miss Exmouth’s evolving scene with its trendy eateries and attractions. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a mix of history, nature, and modern fun!
Launceston: Dive into Cornish Culture!
Discover Launceston, a charming town in Cornwall that’s a hidden gem waiting to be explored! Even though it’s often overlooked, Launceston is full of Cornish culture and history.
The best spot in Launceston is its medieval castle, sitting high on a hill. From there, you get amazing views of the town and countryside. The castle has many exciting stories and ancient battles, making it fascinating!
Take a walk through Launceston’s lovely streets. You’ll find fun shops selling everything from local crafts to tasty treats. The town’s old buildings and cozy cottages make it feel magical.
Don’t miss Launceston’s festivals and events. You can enjoy traditional music and eat delicious Cornish pasties. The friendly locals love sharing their Cornish pride, and you’ll feel the special Cornish spirit everywhere you go.
Whether you’re exploring the castle, shopping in unique stores, or enjoying local festivals, Launceston is a great place to experience Cornish culture and history!
Porlock: Your Ultimate Exmoor Adventure
In 2024, visit Porlock, a charming village in the heart of Exmoor National Park! This place looks like a fairy tale, with cozy cottages and lovely streets.
Porlock is perfect for hikers! There are great trails that lead to Porlock Weir, part of the South West Coast Path, and the exciting Porlock Hill. Get ready for amazing views and fun adventures!
The village is full of history and friendly people. Don’t miss the Porlock Apple Press, where you can see how they make tasty apple treats!
Whether you’re exploring the village, hiking the trails, or relaxing by the beautiful beach and harbor, Porlock is a great place for a fun and peaceful escape into nature!
The Rame Peninsula: A Super Cool Spot for a Quiet Cornish Adventure!
In 2024, visit the Rame Peninsula, known as ‘Cornwall’s Forgotten Corner’! This amazing place is perfect for a peaceful getaway. It’s full of beautiful nature and charming villages.
If you want a break from busy seaside towns, the Rame Peninsula is the place to be. You’ll find hidden beaches and stunning views from rugged cliffs.
It’s great for a relaxing walk or a fun day at the beach with golden sands and gentle waves. Explore the cute villages of Kingsand and Cawsand, where you can relax and maybe try a local favorite, Rattler cider!
You can also visit cool historic sites like Mount Edgcumbe House and Rame Head Chapel. Mount Edgcumbe has lovely gardens and fantastic views, and Rame Head Chapel has a fascinating history.
If you love nature, the Rame Peninsula has awesome trails through lush woods and along clifftops with amazing sea views. Look out for seabirds and playful seals!
The Rame Peninsula is a perfect spot to enjoy a quieter, more relaxed part of Cornwall’s beautiful coast!
Branscombe, East Devon: Explore the Coolest Devon Fishing Village!
Check out Branscombe in East Devon for a great look at traditional Devon village life! This village feels like it’s straight out of a storybook with its cute cottages and friendly atmosphere.
Branscombe is known for its stunning beach and cool rocky cliffs. It’s a great spot to hang out. You can build amazing sandcastles, find hidden tide pools, and have a picnic with fantastic sea views.
Walk around the village and see its charming thatched cottages, cozy shops, and local cafes. You might even see fishermen working on their boats or sorting their catch. It’s a fun way to see what a real Devon fishing village is like.
Don’t miss exploring Branscombe’s history! Check out cool places like the old forge and the quaint village church. The local museum is also a great place to learn about the village’s seaside adventures.
If you love nature, Branscombe’s scenic trails are perfect for hiking. They offer amazing views of the cliffs and countryside. It’s a fantastic place to enjoy the peaceful Devon vibe and maybe even find a fossil on the beach!
Avebury, Wiltshire: The Ultimate Stonehenge Adventure!
Make sure to visit Avebury in Wiltshire for a fantastic twist on Stonehenge! This ancient site is full of history and mysteries, and it’s a lot of fun to explore.
Avebury is famous for its huge stone circle, which is even bigger than Stonehenge! The giant stones are spread out, making it feel like you’re stepping into a magical, ancient world.
You can walk right among the stones, touch them, and imagine what it was like when they were first placed there thousands of years ago.
The village of Avebury is very charming. It has cute cottages and friendly shops. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the old-timey atmosphere. Don’t miss the Avebury Museum, where you can see cool exhibits about the stones and the people who built them.
If you love adventures, there are fantastic trails around Avebury. These trails take you through beautiful countryside and offer great views of the stone circle and nearby sites. You might even see some wildlife along the way!
Avebury is an amazing spot for a fun and educational day out. You can walk among the stones, which are the largest stone circle in Europe! Plus, nearby archaeological sites like Silbury Hill and the West Kennet Long Barrow make Avebury even more exciting for history lovers!
Bradford-on-Avon: A Magical Cotswolds Adventure!
Bradford-on-Avon in Wiltshire is the perfect spot! This charming Cotswold town feels like a storybook with its beautiful old buildings and the scenic River Avon.
Bradford-on-Avon is famous for its mix of old buildings. You can see ancient Saxon churches and pretty Tudor houses. The town sits right along the River Avon, making it perfect for exploring and enjoying the peaceful vibes.
One of the coolest places to visit is the Tithe Barn. It’s a huge medieval building with a fascinating history. You should also check out the lovely old bridge and stroll through the picturesque streets.
Don’t miss the cozy shops and cafes in town. You can grab tasty treats and chat with friendly locals. Bradford-on-Avon also has beautiful gardens and fun walking trails with great views of the countryside.
For a day filled with charm, history, and natural beauty, Bradford-on-Avon is your go-to Cotswolds adventure! Enjoy exploring this magical town and soaking up its wonderful atmosphere.
Isle of Portland: Your Ultimate Adventure Destination
Head to the Isle of Portland in Dorset for a great adventure on this rugged limestone island! It’s linked to the mainland by Chesil Beach, a long pebble beach. This island is full of cool geological features, interesting maritime history, and the famous Portland stone quarries.
The Isle of Portland is perfect for outdoor lovers. Its dramatic cliffs and rugged coastline offer stunning views. You can spot seabirds soaring high above the cliffs. And don’t miss the island’s iconic lighthouses. They stand tall against the crashing waves, making for fantastic photos and great ocean-watching spots.
Portland is known for its Portland stone, a special limestone used in famous buildings like St. Paul’s Cathedral in London. You can visit the quarries where the stone is cut and learn about its history and use.
If you enjoy sports and adventure, Portland is the place to be. It was a major site for the 2012 Olympics and is a hotspot for water sports like sailing and windsurfing. Grab your gear and enjoy some thrilling fun on the water!
Whether you’re exploring the rocky coastline, discovering the island’s history, or diving into exciting water sports, the Isle of Portland is a fantastic place to visit in 2024!
Best hotels in South West England:
| Location | Hotel Name | Features | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bath | The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa | Historic luxury, spa, fine dining | ★★★★★ |
| Bristol | Hotel du Vin & Bistro | Stylish, modern amenities, bistro dining | ★★★★☆ |
| Cornwall (St Ives) | The St Ives Harbour Hotel & Spa | Sea views, spa, beach access | ★★★★☆ |
| Cornwall (Falmouth) | The Greenbank Hotel | Waterfront, historic charm, fine dining | ★★★★☆ |
| Exeter | The Magdalen Chapter | Contemporary style, luxury amenities | ★★★★☆ |
| Torquay | The Imperial Torquay | Classic elegance, sea views, pool | ★★★★☆ |
| Dartmoor (Ashburton) | The Two Bridges Hotel | Historic, scenic location, traditional dining | ★★★★☆ |
| Gloucester | The New County Hotel | Central location, modern comfort | ★★★★ |
| Poole | The Sandbanks Hotel | Beachfront, luxury amenities, family-friendly | ★★★★☆ |
| Plymouth | Crowne Plaza Plymouth | Modern, central location, business amenities | ★★★★ |
Visiting South West England – Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Stunning Landscapes: Enjoy beautiful coastlines, rolling hills, and picturesque countryside. | Weather: Can be unpredictable with frequent rain and variable temperatures. |
| Rich History: Explore historic sites like Stonehenge, Bath, and medieval towns. | Traffic and Parking: Busy tourist spots can lead to heavy traffic and limited parking. |
| Charming Villages: Discover quaint villages like the Cotswolds and beautiful towns like Bath. | Crowds: Popular destinations can be crowded, especially in peak tourist seasons. |
| Outdoor Activities: Great for hiking, cycling, and exploring nature reserves. | Accommodation Costs: Prices can be high, particularly in popular tourist areas. |
| Local Cuisine: Enjoy fresh local produce, including seafood, cheeses, and traditional dishes. | Limited Public Transport: Rural areas might be less accessible without a car. |
Conclusion
South West England is an amazing place to visit in 2024! You can explore dramatic cliffs, ancient castles, and beautiful beaches all in one spot. Check out lively cities like Bristol and Exeter, or visit charming villages such as Branscombe and the Isle of Portland.
Get ready for exciting adventures. Hike on thrilling trails, relax on sandy beaches, or spot wildlife in national parks. Don’t miss famous landmarks like Stonehenge and Tintagel Castle. Try tasty local treats like Cornish pasties and fresh seafood.
With its mix of history, stunning views, and fun activities, South West England is perfect for everyone!
FAQ
Q1: What are the main cities?
- Bristol: Vibrant city with a rich maritime history.
- Bath: Famous for its Roman Baths and Georgian architecture.
- Exeter: Known for its medieval cathedral and lively atmosphere.
- Plymouth: Historic port city with a maritime heritage.
- Truro: The charming county town of Cornwall.
Q2: What are the top attractions?
- Stonehenge: Iconic prehistoric monument.
- The Jurassic Coast: Stunning cliffs and fossils.
- Roman Baths: Ancient baths and Bath Abbey.
- Tintagel Castle: Legendary site linked to King Arthur.
- Dartmoor National Park: Wild landscapes and outdoor adventures.
Q3: What outdoor activities can I do?
- Hiking: Trails in Dartmoor, Exmoor, and along the coast.
- Beach Fun: Surfing, swimming, and sandcastle building.
- Cycling: Scenic routes like the Camel Trail.
- Wildlife Watching: Look for birds and seals.
Q4: Best time to visit?
- Spring: Mild weather and fewer crowds.
- Summer: Warm weather and festivals.
- Autumn: Beautiful fall colors and quiet spots.
- Winter: Crisp air and festive events.
Q5: What local foods should I try?
- Cornish Pasty: Meat-filled pastry.
- Cream Tea: Scones with clotted cream and jam.
- Cider: Refreshing apple cider.
- Seafood: Fresh fish and shellfish.
Q6: How to get around?
- Car: Ideal for exploring.
- Train: Connects major cities and attractions.
- Bus: Local services available.
- Bike: Many bike-friendly paths.