14 Things To Do in South West England 🇬🇧: Guide to Top Attractions

Welcome to South West England, a region that feels like it was pulled straight from a storybook! Whether you’re dreaming of exploring ancient landmarks, relaxing on golden beaches, or wandering through quaint villages, this guide is here to help you uncover the very best of what this stunning corner of the UK has to offer.

🏡 Where to stay in Parma:

• 💎 Luxury Hotel: Seawood House Boutique Hotel
• ✨ 5-Star: Gidleigh Park- A Relais & Chateaux Hotel
• 🏨 4-Star: Leonardo Hotel Exeter
• 🛏️ 3-Star: Holiday Inn Express Exeter East by IHG
• 💸 Cheap: Tiverton Hotel Lounge & Venue formerly Best Western
• 🏢 Apartment: Riverside Park & Country Club
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 For Families: Holiday Inn Express
• 🏩 For Couples: Northgate House

👩🏻 Best guided tours:

• Stonehenge Inner Circle Access Day Trip from London Including Windsor from € 145 (⭐️ 4.8/5)
• Roman Baths and Bath City Walking Tour from € 25 (⭐️ 4.9/5)
• 4 Day Tour in Cornwall, Devon and Stonehenge from Bristol from € 495 (⭐️ 4.7/5)
• Windsor Castle, Stonehenge & Salisbury Cathedral Guided Tour from € 105 (⭐️ 4.9/5)
• Cotswolds Private Day Tour from € 320 (⭐️ 5.0/5)

Best Things To Do in South West England

1. Stonehenge

Ancient wonder. Standing before the massive stone circle of Stonehenge, I felt a connection to the past that’s hard to describe. This Neolithic masterpiece has drawn visitors for centuries, and it’s easy to see why. The massive sarsen stones, some weighing up to 25 tons, create a perfect astronomical calendar that has survived for over 5,000 years. Walking around the perimeter path gives you excellent views from all angles, though the inner circle access (available through special tours) offers a truly magical experience.

Practical access. The site has become much more visitor-friendly in recent years with the addition of a modern visitor center located 1.5 miles from the actual stone circle. I recommend taking the shuttle bus that runs regularly between the two points, especially if you’re visiting with children or those with mobility issues. Alternatively, the walking path offers lovely views of the surrounding countryside and builds anticipation as the stones gradually appear on the horizon.

Best timing. My insider tip is to book the first morning slot (currently 9:30 AM) to beat the crowds that arrive by mid-day. The site is particularly atmospheric in winter when mist often shrouds the stones, creating an ethereal experience. If you’re planning a summer visit, consider the special solstice events when the site opens for free sunrise viewing – though be prepared for thousands of fellow enthusiasts!

⭐ Best activities

• Tour: Stonehenge Inner Circle Access Day Trip from London Including Windsor – With this tour, you’ll enjoy a private viewing of the Inner Circle at Stonehenge, one of England’s most mysterious and magnificent landmarks. With round-trip transit via comfortable coach from London, you’ve ensured a seamless experience of this world-famous UNESCO World Heritage Site. Combine your visit with a trip to Windsor Castle (if option selected), an official residence of the royal family.
• Ticket online: Stonehenge: Fast Track Entry Ticket + Audio Guide – Like seeing the pyramids up close, seeing Stonehenge with your own eyes is something you’ll never forget. Visit this mysterious Neolithic site on Salisbury Plain and learn its history and mystery with an audio tour.

2. Roman Baths

Thermal wonders. Stepping onto the ancient pavements surrounding the Great Bath was like traveling back to Roman Britain. The steaming waters of Britain’s only natural hot spring still flow at a constant 46°C, filling the magnificent lead-lined bath just as they did nearly 2,000 years ago. What impressed me most was how the Romans engineered this complex bathing facility with underfloor heating systems and sophisticated water management – all without modern technology!

Living history. The museum portion of the Roman Baths offers a fascinating glimpse into daily Roman life. I particularly enjoyed meeting the costumed characters who bring the site to life – from Flavia, a Roman lady, to Sulinus, a stonemason. Don’t miss the Beau Street Hoard display, featuring over 17,000 Roman coins discovered during recent excavations. The award-winning audioguides (included in your ticket) are excellent, with special versions for children narrated by Michael Rosen.

Georgian elegance. After exploring the ancient ruins, I treated myself to afternoon tea in the beautiful 18th-century Pump Room above the baths. With live music playing and sunlight streaming through tall windows, it was the perfect way to experience Bath’s Georgian elegance. The famous Bath buns served here are deliciously sweet and make a perfect accompaniment to a pot of tea. Just remember to book ahead as tables fill quickly, especially during peak season.

Visitor Information:

• Adult Ticket: £22.50-£32.00 (approx. €26-€37)
• Opening Hours: Daily 9:00-18:00 (last entry 17:00)
• Location: Abbey Church Yard, Bath, BA1 1LZ

⭐ Best activities

• Tour: Roman Baths and Bath City Walking Tour – See the best of Bath, including the Roman Baths, on a morning or afternoon walking tour. As you walk between the sites, hear about this UNESCO-listed city and its Roman and Georgian heritage. Admire landmarks like Bath Abbey and the Royal Crescent, and visit the Roman Baths to see the baths and artifacts left by Britain’s Roman occupiers almost 2,000 years ago. Upgrade to include the baths’ admission fee.
• Ticket online: Bath: Roman Baths Entry Ticket with Audio Guide – Step back 2000 years into the past with an entry ticket to the Roman Baths in Bath. Explore the ancient bathhouses, uncover the remains of a goddess’ temple, and taste the mineral-rich spa water.

3. The Minack Theatre

Cliffside drama. Perched dramatically on granite cliffs overlooking the turquoise waters of Porthcurno Bay, the Minack Theatre took my breath away. This open-air amphitheater was largely carved by hand by Rowena Cade and her gardener, making its creation story almost as impressive as the venue itself. Watching a performance here, with the sound of waves crashing below and seabirds soaring overhead, creates a theatrical experience unlike any other in Britain.

Natural backdrop. Even if you’re not attending a performance, the Minack is worth visiting for its spectacular views alone. The theater overlooks one of Cornwall’s most beautiful beaches, with golden sand and crystal-clear water that could easily be mistaken for the Mediterranean on a sunny day. I spent hours photographing the subtropical gardens that surround the theater, filled with exotic plants that thrive in Cornwall’s mild climate. The vibrant colors against the blue sea create a photographer’s paradise.

Practical planning. A common tourist mistake is arriving without pre-booking, only to be turned away. The Minack is extremely popular, and both performances and daytime visits often sell out in advance. The narrow, steep access road can be challenging, so follow the Minack’s advice to approach from the west and ignore your satnav directions. Wear sturdy shoes as the theater is built into a cliff face with many steep steps, and bring layers even in summer – the coastal winds can be chilly even on sunny days.

⭐ Best activities

• 4 Day Tour in Cornwall, Devon and Stonehenge from Bristol – From Minack Theatre to Durdle Door, Stonehenge to St Ives, you won’t believe the beauty of Cornwall and Devon.The beauty in this part of Great Britain truly is something to marvel at. From the peaceful seaside town of St Ives to the intriuging mystery that is Stonehenge, you’re going to love this this part of the world steeped in myths and legends.

4. Salisbury Cathedral

Soaring spire. Walking through Salisbury’s medieval streets, the cathedral’s spire appears to touch the clouds at a breathtaking 404 feet – the tallest in Britain. What makes this Gothic masterpiece even more remarkable is that it was built in just 38 years, giving it a harmonious architectural style that many other cathedrals lack. I was amazed to learn that the foundations are merely 70cm deep, built on a barely drained swamp – a testament to medieval engineering genius.

Magna Carta marvel. The cathedral houses one of only four surviving original copies of the Magna Carta, and Salisbury’s is the best preserved. Seeing this foundational document of democracy, written in tiny, precise Latin script on vellum, gave me goosebumps. The Chapter House where it’s displayed is itself a masterpiece, with an octagonal design and a slender central pillar supporting the vaulted ceiling like an opening umbrella. Don’t miss the world’s oldest working mechanical clock in the cathedral’s north nave.

Tower tour triumph. The highlight of my visit was climbing the 332 steps to the base of the spire on a guided tower tour. The journey takes you through ancient roof spaces with medieval graffiti and carpenter’s marks, before emerging onto the balcony with panoramic views across Salisbury and the surrounding water meadows. I could see why the cathedral inspired artists like John Constable, whose famous paintings capture its majestic presence in the landscape. The tour guides are incredibly knowledgeable about the cathedral’s construction and history.

⭐ Best activities

• Windsor Castle, Stonehenge & Salisbury Cathedral Guided Tour – Discover three of England’s top destinations in just one day. Meet in the morning, hop aboard your coach, and leave London’s bustle behind. Your first stop is Windsor Castle: the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world. Continue to the UNESCO-listed Stonehenge and then visit Salisbury Cathedral. With round-trip transit included—and the chance to pay for admission to all, some, or none of the sights—you’ll have a perfectly convenient, flexible day out.

5. Eden Project

Biome exploration. Descending into the reclaimed clay pit that houses the Eden Project, I was struck by the futuristic appearance of the massive geodesic domes set against the Cornish countryside. Stepping inside the Rainforest Biome – the largest indoor rainforest in the world – the humidity hit me immediately, along with the rich scents of tropical vegetation. I followed the winding path past banana plants, coffee trees, and giant bamboo, climbing to the canopy walkway for a bird’s-eye view of this incredible ecosystem.

Mediterranean magic. The smaller Mediterranean Biome offered a welcome relief from the tropical heat, with its dry, warm climate showcasing plants from California, South Africa, and Western Australia alongside Mediterranean favorites. I was fascinated by unusual specimens like the “Kangaroo Paws” and the story panels explaining how these plants have adapted to survive in water-scarce environments. The outdoor gardens are equally impressive, with over 3,000 plant varieties spread across 20 acres, including lavender fields, wildflower meadows, and ancient Ginkgo trees.

Educational entertainment. What sets Eden apart from a typical botanical garden is its focus on storytelling and interactive exhibits. The “Invisible Worlds” exhibition explores everything from microscopic life to cosmic connections in engaging ways. For thrill-seekers, the SkyWire zip line (England’s fastest at 60mph) offers an exhilarating flight over the biomes. I found the Eden Project’s message about sustainability and our relationship with nature delivered in a way that’s inspiring rather than preachy, making it an educational experience that never feels dull.

Visitor Information:

• Adult Ticket: £38 online, £42 at door (approx. €44-€49)
• Opening Hours: Generally 10:00-17:00 (9:30-18:00 during school holidays)
• Location: Bodelva, Par, Cornwall, PL24 2SG

⭐ Best activities

• Parma Private Walking Tour – Discover a world of wonder with an entry ticket to the Eden Project. Explore this former mine that has been transformed into a diverse range of gardens, indoor forests, and interactive exhibits.

Things to Do in South West England with Kids

1. The Tank Museum

Military marvels. The moment my nephew saw the enormous Challenger 2 battle tank in the entrance hall of The Tank Museum, his eyes widened to the size of saucers. This incredible collection in Dorset houses nearly 300 tanks from 26 countries, making it the world’s largest collection of tanks and armored vehicles. What impressed me most was how the exhibits balance technical information with human stories, bringing the history of tank warfare to life through personal accounts and interactive displays.

Hands-on history. The kids in our group couldn’t get enough of the interactive elements scattered throughout the museum. They climbed into the driver’s seat of several decommissioned tanks, tried on military helmets, and attempted to lift replica ammunition (much heavier than they expected!). The “Tank Story Hall” takes visitors on a journey from the first tanks of WWI to modern fighting vehicles, with plenty of buttons to press and levers to pull along the way. I watched as children of all ages engaged with history in a way that textbooks could never achieve.

Action-packed events. If possible, time your visit to coincide with one of the museum’s special events. We caught the “Tiger Day” event, where we witnessed the world’s only running Tiger I tank in action on the museum’s arena track. The ground literally shook beneath our feet as this massive WWII German tank rumbled past, creating an unforgettable sensory experience. The regular tank demonstrations throughout the year offer similar thrills, with expert commentary explaining the vehicles’ capabilities and historical significance.

2. SEA LIFE Centre Weymouth

Underwater wonders. Walking through the ocean tunnel at SEA LIFE Weymouth, I found myself mesmerized by graceful rays gliding overhead and colorful tropical fish darting between coral formations. The kids in our group pressed their noses against the glass, pointing excitedly at sharks and sea turtles swimming just inches away. This center houses over 1,000 creatures, from tiny seahorses to massive green sea turtles, all displayed in thoughtfully designed habitats that mimic their natural environments.

Interactive experiences. What sets this aquarium apart is the range of hands-on activities available. The rockpool experience was a particular hit, where marine experts guided small hands to gently touch starfish and sea anemones. I watched as initially hesitant children gained confidence, their squeals of delight echoing through the center when sea anemones tickled their fingertips. The daily feeding sessions for penguins, otters, and seals included informative talks that kept both kids and adults engaged, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions.

⭐ Best activities

• SEA LIFE Weymouth Admission Ticket – Discover a whole new underwater world at Sea Life Center Weymouth. See a range of aquatic wildlife, from otters to sea turtles to the world’s smallest penguins, and much more. You can get closer to sharks than you would in the wild in the Ocean Tunnel, and kids will love the Caribbean Cove Adventure Playground as well as the interactive rock pool, where they can touch a real starfish.

3. Crealy Adventure Park

Thrilling rides. Crealy Adventure Park delivers that perfect balance of excitement and safety that parents look for in a family attraction. I watched as children raced from one ride to the next, their faces flushed with excitement. The Twister roller coaster provided just enough adrenaline for younger thrill-seekers without being too intimidating, while the Maximus roller coaster gave older kids the more intense experience they craved. What impressed me was the range of ride heights – even toddlers in our group found plenty of options, preventing the tears that often come when little ones can’t join in.

Animal encounters. Between rides, we discovered the park’s excellent animal areas, which provided a welcome change of pace. The children were enchanted by the chance to stroke rabbits and guinea pigs in the Animal Barn, while the more adventurous ones tried hand-feeding the friendly goats. The daily animal handling sessions were a highlight, with experienced keepers bringing out creatures like bearded dragons and corn snakes for supervised touching. I noticed how these calm, educational moments balanced out the high-energy ride experiences, giving families a more varied day out.

Free Things To Do in South West England

1. Clifton Suspension Bridge

Engineering marvel. Standing in the middle of Clifton Suspension Bridge, I felt a curious mix of awe and vertigo as I gazed down at the Avon Gorge 75 meters below. This iconic structure has become the symbol of Bristol, its elegant iron chains spanning 214 meters across the deep limestone gorge. What many visitors don’t realize is that walking across this masterpiece of Victorian engineering costs absolutely nothing.

Hidden perspectives. The most common tourist mistake is viewing the bridge only from its deck. Instead, I followed the path down to the Observatory Garden in Clifton, where I discovered the “Giant’s Cave” – a natural cavern in the cliff face that frames the bridge perfectly. For another spectacular angle, I hiked down to the towpath beneath the bridge, where the true scale of this engineering feat becomes apparent as it soars overhead.

Visitor experience. On the Leigh Woods side of the bridge, I stumbled upon the free visitor center housed in a former toll keeper’s cottage. Inside, fascinating exhibits explain how the bridge was built and showcase original artifacts including pieces of the iron chains and construction tools. The enthusiastic volunteer guides shared stories about Isambard Kingdom Brunel’s ambitious design and the bridge’s dramatic opening.

Budget Tip: Free guided tours of the bridge run every Saturday and Sunday at 3:00 PM from the Clifton Toll Booth (Bristol side). These last about 45 minutes and offer insights you’d miss exploring on your own.

2. Dartmoor National Park

Wild expanses. The moment I drove onto Dartmoor, the landscape opened up into a vast moorland that seemed to stretch endlessly in all directions. Granite tors (rocky outcrops) punctuated the horizon like nature’s sculptures, while wild ponies grazed freely among the purple heather and golden gorse. What struck me most was the sense of space and freedom – after the bustle of coastal towns, Dartmoor’s 368 square miles of open access land felt wonderfully untamed.

Ancient mysteries. Walking across Dartmoor feels like stepping back in time. I followed prehistoric stone rows, discovered Bronze Age circles hidden in bracken, and explored Grimspound’s 3,000-year-old stone huts. At dusk near Bellever Forest, the setting sun cast shadows across Laughter Tor stone circle, evoking a deep connection to the ancient people who once gathered there.

Outdoor adventures. Dartmoor offers endless possibilities for free recreation. I spent a morning wild swimming in the crystal-clear Dart River at Sharrah Pool, where deep swimming holes are surrounded by moss-covered boulders and dappled woodland. Later, I hiked a section of the Two Moors Way, passing through landscapes that inspired Arthur Conan Doyle’s “The Hound of the Baskervilles.”

Insider Tip: Download the free Dartmoor National Park app before visiting. It works offline and includes walking routes, points of interest, and real-time information about military firing times (certain areas are occasionally closed for military training).

3. Royal Albert Memorial Museum

Cultural treasure trove. Pushing open the heavy doors of Exeter’s Royal Albert Memorial Museum (RAMM), I was surprised by the scale and quality of this regional museum. The magnificent Victorian Gothic building houses over a million objects spanning natural history, archaeology, world cultures, and fine art. What impressed me most was how the museum tells the story of Devon’s global connections – from exotic animals brought back by local explorers to trade goods that linked this corner of England with distant lands. The best part? This world-class museum is completely free to visit.

Curious collections. The museum’s eclectic exhibits captivated me, from a giraffe skeleton to delicate Japanese netsuke carvings. Gerald the giraffe, a cherished taxidermy specimen, is a highlight. The Egyptian collection features a genuine mummy and painted coffin, while the natural history galleries showcase creatures from tiny insects to massive mammals. RAMM stands out by linking global treasures to Devon’s stories, illustrating the mutual influence between the local and the world.

Interactive elements. Despite its Victorian origins, RAMM offers plenty of hands-on experiences for visitors of all ages. I tried on replica Roman helmets, examined objects under digital microscopes, and listened to recordings of extinct bird calls. The museum’s digital displays let me explore artifacts too fragile to handle, zooming in on details invisible to the naked eye.

Seasonal Activities

Christmas

Festive markets. The South West of England truly comes alive during the Christmas season. I’ve found that one of the best ways to soak up the yuletide atmosphere is by visiting the region’s enchanting Christmas markets. The Bath Christmas Market (usually held from late November to mid-December) is a personal favorite. Wandering through the 150+ chalets lining the city’s picturesque Georgian streets, I’ve discovered unique handcrafted gifts while sipping on mulled wine. The aroma of roasted chestnuts and the sound of carol singers create a magical ambiance that never fails to put me in the holiday spirit.

Winter wonderlands. For a truly immersive Christmas experience, I highly recommend the Eden Project’s Festival of Christmas (typically running from late November through December). The biomes are transformed into a winter wonderland, with stunning light displays illuminating the lush vegetation. The festival also features local choirs, storytelling sessions, and craft workshops that keep both children and adults entertained for hours.

Coastal celebrations. Mousehole Harbour Lights in Cornwall (mid-December to early January) offers a uniquely South Western Christmas experience. Seeing the tiny fishing village illuminated by thousands of lights, with the famous “Sea Serpent” display stretching across the harbor, was unforgettable. Pair it with traditional Stargazey Pie from a local pub for the full Cornish Christmas experience.

Budget Tip: Many Christmas markets and light displays are free to enter. Bring your own thermos of hot chocolate instead of buying drinks on-site.

Summer

Beach festivals. Summer in the South West is synonymous with beach life, and I’ve found no better way to celebrate this than at the Boardmasters Festival in Newquay (usually held in early August). This five-day event combines world-class surfing competitions with live music performances on the clifftops overlooking Fistral Beach. I’ve watched in awe as professional surfers rode massive waves by day, then danced the night away to headline acts as the sun set over the Atlantic. The festival’s commitment to sustainability, with reusable cups and beach clean-ups, adds to the positive vibe.

Cultural celebrations. Falmouth Sea Shanty Festival (mid-June) brings the town’s maritime heritage to life. I’ve joined impromptu sing-alongs in harbor-side pubs and watched performances from groups across the UK. With tall ships in the bay and fresh seafood stalls lining the streets, it’s a true celebration of coastal culture.

Rural traditions. The Royal Cornwall Show (early June) offers a fascinating glimpse into agricultural life. I’ve spent days exploring livestock competitions, craft displays, and sampling Cornish produce. The main ring events, including the grand parade, showcase rural traditions that have defined the region for centuries.

Spring

Floral extravaganzas. Spring in the South West bursts into life with a series of spectacular garden festivals. My favorite is the RHS Malvern Spring Festival (early May), set against the backdrop of the Malvern Hills. I’ve wandered through show gardens bursting with color, picked up tips from horticultural experts, and found inspiration for my own garden at the many plant stalls. The food and drink pavilion, showcasing local producers, is always a highlight – I never leave without some artisanal cheese and a bottle of local cider.

Literary celebrations. As the birthplace of many renowned authors, the South West hosts several literary festivals in spring. The Bath Literature Festival (late February to early March) has become an annual pilgrimage for me. I’ve attended thought-provoking talks by bestselling authors, participated in writing workshops, and enjoyed poetry readings in historic venues across the city. The festival’s diverse program, covering everything from fiction to politics, always leaves me feeling intellectually invigorated.

Outdoor adventures. The Exmoor Walking Festival (late April to early May) offers the perfect way to experience spring landscapes. Guided walks have taken me through blooming heathlands and along dramatic coastal paths. I’ve spotted wild ponies and enjoyed breathtaking views in the clear spring light.

Autumn

Food festivals. Autumn in the South West is a feast for the senses, and nowhere is this more evident than at the Abergavenny Food Festival (mid-September). I’ve spent blissful weekends here, sampling artisanal cheeses, watching cooking demonstrations by celebrity chefs, and participating in foraging walks in the surrounding countryside. The festival’s commitment to sustainability and local producers aligns perfectly with the region’s ethos, and I always leave with a deeper appreciation for the food on my plate.

Arts and culture. As the leaves turn golden, the region’s cultural calendar heats up. The Cheltenham Literature Festival (early to mid-October) is a must-visit for book lovers like myself. I’ve had the privilege of listening to Booker Prize winners discuss their craft, engaged in debates on current affairs, and discovered new favorite authors at intimate reading sessions. The festival’s family-friendly program, with storytelling and interactive events for children, makes it a great outing for all ages

Harvest celebrations. Apple Day events at National Trust properties (mid-October) capture autumn’s essence. At places like Cotehele in Cornwall, I’ve joined apple pressing demonstrations and tasted heritage varieties. The sight of laden apple trees and the crisp autumn air make these events truly special.

Day Trip from South West England

1. Cotswolds AONB

Picture-perfect villages. Castle Combe captured my heart with its honey-colored stone cottages and flowering window boxes. This quintessential Cotswold village feels frozen in time, with no visible power lines or modern intrusions. I spent my morning exploring Bibury’s Arlington Row – the iconic cottages that appear in UK passports – and watching trout swimming in the crystal-clear River Coln. Later, I wandered through Bourton-on-the-Water, crossing its five low stone bridges that give it the nickname “Venice of the Cotswolds.”

Walking trails. Between Stow-on-the-Wold and Broadway, I followed a section of the Cotswold Way through rolling hills divided by ancient dry-stone walls. The landscape here has been shaped by centuries of sheep farming, creating that distinctive patchwork of fields. I spotted red kites circling overhead and wildflowers carpeting the meadows. The Cotswolds has over 3,000 miles of public footpaths – even a short walk connects you to the landscape in ways driving between villages never could.

Local specialties. At The Old Butchers in Stow-on-the-Wold, I sampled regional specialties including single Gloucester cheese and Tewkesbury mustard. The Cotswolds is home to excellent farmers’ markets – Stroud’s Saturday market is particularly good for artisanal bread, local honey, and organic vegetables.

⭐ Best tours

• Cotswolds Private Day Tour – Experience England’s Cotswolds on a private tour that whisks you around its highlights so you don’t have to worry about itineraries or transport. Avoid the inconveniences of a DIY or large-group trip, and relax on a chauffeur-driven tour of the must-see towns and villages. See the riverbank houses of Bourton-on-the-Water, and admire honey-stoned Broadway and other gems; all with a driver-guide for personalized service plus flexible pickup and drop-off options.
• From London: Full-Day Cotswolds Small-Group Tour – Join this Cotswolds day tour from London and spend a relaxed day exploring charming scenery, traveling along narrow country lanes, and visiting historic towns and villages.

2. Bath

Roman heritage. The Roman Baths complex showcases remarkable engineering with its Great Bath still filled by natural hot springs flowing at 46°C. The audio guide (included in your ticket) reveals fascinating details about Roman bathing rituals and social customs. Don’t miss the gilt bronze head of Minerva and the curse tablets – messages scratched onto lead sheets asking the goddess for revenge.

Georgian architecture. Bath’s uniform honey-colored buildings create one of Britain’s most harmonious cityscapes. The Royal Crescent spans 500 feet in a perfect arc, while The Circus forms a complete circle inspired by the Colosseum. Pulteney Bridge is one of only four bridges worldwide with shops built across its full span. For the best views, climb to Alexandra Park or take the skyline walk from Bathwick Fields – both offer panoramic vistas across the city nestled in its green valley.

Insider Tip: Visit the Roman Baths after 6pm in summer for reduced entry prices and atmospheric torchlight illumination with significantly smaller crowds.

⭐ Best tours

• Walking Tour of Bath with Blue Badge Tourist Guide – Explore Bath on foot with a Blue Badge-licensed guide to lead the way by signing up for this walking tour. You’ll visit some of the city’s most celebrated examples of Georgian architecture, including the Royal Crescent, the Circus, and Pulteney Bridge, with time left over to visit Sally Lunn’s house and the Bath Abbey, finishing at the city’s most famous site: the Roman Baths.
• Bath: Guided Walking Tour – Explore the UNESCO World Heritage City of Bath with a fully-qualified and professional tour guide. Visit the city’s major landmarks and hear about its history along the way.

3. Cheddar Gorge

Dramatic landscape. Th place cuts dramatically through the Mendip Hills with limestone cliffs rising 450 feet on either side. The B3135 road winds through the narrowest section, where sunlight creates constantly changing patterns on the rock faces. For photographers, the best light occurs in early morning or late afternoon when the low sun highlights the rugged textures. Look for the wild Soay sheep and goats that maintain the cliff ecosystem by grazing on precarious ledges.

Cave exploration. Gough’s Cave extends 115 meters into the hillside with chambers filled with stalactites and stalagmites. The Cathedral Chamber has remarkable acoustics where even whispers echo dramatically. The cave maintains a constant 11°C temperature year-round, making it refreshingly cool in summer. Cox’s Cave offers a different experience with its fantasy crystal quest featuring light and sound effects. Both caves have paved paths and electric lighting, though some sections require ducking under low ceilings.

Budget Tip: Access the top of the gorge for free via public footpaths at either end. The National Trust’s free circular trail offers spectacular views without paying for attraction tickets.

⭐ Best activities

• Glastonbury and Cheddar Gorge Guided Day Tour from London – Swap the bustle of London for the tranquil countryside of Somerset on this full-day tour of Glastonbury and the Cheddar Gorge, by luxury mini-coach. Marvel over the remarkable Glastonbury Abbey (entry included), one of England’s most historically significant monasteries, then visit the dramatic gorge, one of Britain’s most renowned natural wonders. Most of free time in both destinations to explore further and take photos.

❓ FAQ

How do I get to South West England?

You can reach South West England by train, car, or plane. Major cities like Bristol, Exeter, and Plymouth have excellent rail connections from London and other parts of the UK. Bristol Airport also offers domestic and international flights.

What are the best places to visit in South West England?

Some of the top attractions include the Roman Baths in Bath, the Jurassic Coast (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), Glastonbury Tor, Exmoor National Park, and the Isles of Scilly. You’ll find plenty of coastline, historic landmarks, and unique attractions.

What makes South West England unique?

This region is known for its diverse landscapes, including rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, rolling hills, and charming villages. It’s home to England’s best spa towns, world-famous attractions like Glastonbury Festival, and natural wonders such as Cheddar Gorge and Dartmoor National Park.

What are some family-friendly attractions in South West England?

For family days out, visit Crealy Adventure Park in Devon, SEA LIFE Centre Weymouth, or explore the South West Coast Path for breathtaking seaside views. The region offers plenty of things to do for kids and adults alike.

What is the best time to visit South West England?

Spring and summer are ideal for enjoying outdoor attractions like Exmoor National Park and the Jurassic Coast. Autumn is perfect for exploring cosy villages and harvest festivals, while winter highlights events like Christmas markets in Bath.

Are there any famous festivals in South West England?

Yes! The Glastonbury Festival, one of the world’s most famous music festivals, takes place in Somerset every June. Other events include Boardmasters Festival in Cornwall and various food festivals celebrating local specialties like cheddar cheese and cider.

What are some must-see historical sites?

Don’t miss Bath’s Roman Baths (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), Glastonbury Tor, Tintagel Castle (linked to Arthurian legend), and Plymouth’s historic harbor. These places offer a glimpse into England’s rich history.