West Country Travel Guide

Explore the sights, sounds, and tastes of West Country with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover cultural and natural attractions, hiking and biking routes, must-try dishes, accommodations, and more.


Introduction to West Country

West Country, located in the southwestern region of England, is brimming with natural beauty, cultural attractions, and historical significance. Comprised of Cornwall, Devon, Dorset, Somerset, and Wiltshire counties, the area draws millions of visitors each year with its charming seaside towns, rolling hills, and iconic landmarks. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or historical enlightenment, West Country has something to offer.

List of Places to Visit in West Country

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Bath: Visit the ancient Roman Baths or experience the Georgian architecture and charming streets of Bath.
  • Stonehenge: Marvel at the iconic prehistoric monument and discover the mysteries of its construction with an audio guide.
  • The Eden Project: Explore the largest indoor rainforest in the world, learn about sustainability, and experience fun and interactive exhibits.
  • Bristol: Enjoy a lively and vibrant modern city with a rich history. Visit the Clifton Suspension Bridge, Bristol Museum and Art Gallery, and many other highlights.

Natural Attractions of West Country: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Jurassic Coast: comb the shore or walk along the cliffs to explore the prehistoric fossils and stunning views.
  • Dartmoor National Park: Enjoy peaceful moorland hikes or navigate challenging cycle routes, all while taking in the breathtaking scenery.
  • Cheddar Gorge: Marvel at the stunning limestone cliffs and explore the underground caves on a guided tour.
  • Exmoor National Park: embark on a scenic hike or mountain bike ride, all while sighting wild ponies and stag.

Hiking/Biking Routes of West Country

  • South West Coast Path: running along the entire length of the coast from Minehead in Somerset to Poole Harbour in Dorset, this route offers some of the best coastal walks in England.
  • Tarka Trail: cycle along this 30 miles of traffic-free paths through North Devon’s rolling countryside past peaceful lochs and through pretty villages.
  • West Somerset Coast Path: admire the dramatic cliffs, coves, and picturesque harbors along Porlock Bay on this 29-mile coastal route.
  • The Two Moors Way: The 102-mile coast to coast walk from Ivybridge on the south coast of Devon to Lynmouth on the north coast of Exmoor is a must for any hiking enthusiasts.

Best Things to Do in West Country: Activities and Tours

  • Surfing in Cornwall: Ride the waves from dusk till dawn at Fistral Beach, one of the best spots for surfing in England.
  • Theatre Royal in Bath: Catch a play or a musical in Bath’s oldest and most elegant theatre, designed by John Palmer in 1804.
  • Wildlife Watching: Spot dolphins and whales on a boat tour, or spend a day looking for seals and puffins at Lundy Island.
  • Local Farm Experiences: Visit West Country’s fields and farms, interact with friendly animals, and learn about organic agriculture.

Week-Long Itinerary for West Country

Day Activity
1 Visit the Eden Project and have a countryside hike.
2 Explore the historical city of Bath and visit the Roman Baths.
3 See the ancient stones of Stonehenge in Salisbury and continue onwards to Bristol’s Clifton Suspension Bridge.
4 Discover Dartmoor national park with a countryside hike and see the wild ponies.
5 Visit the dramatic and picturesque Cheddar Gorge and the caves.
6 Experience the Jurassic Coast and its prehistoric fossils.
7 Take a surfing lesson in Cornwall or do some kayaking at the Exmoor National Park.

Food and Drink Scene of West Country

Must-Try Dishes

  • Cream Tea: Indulge in the signature culinary experience of West Country with freshly baked scones served with clotted cream and strawberry jam.
  • Cornish Pasty: Taste a hearty hand-crimped pocket of pastry with savory beef and hearty vegetables, a classic Cornish dish.
  • Cider: experience authentic West Country cider, apple pressed and brewed to perfection.

Local Beverages

  • St Austell Brewery: Visit the award-winning brewery and taste the traditional beer and ales that are synonymous with Cornwall.
  • English Wine: Visit one of the various vineyards across West Country known for its vineyards that produce premium quality wine.

Where to Stay in West Country: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • The Pig near Bath: This stylish boutique hotel features award-winning restaurants with an extensive wine list and lush gardens.
  • The Old Rectory Hotel in Exmoor: Enjoy a peaceful retreat in a beautiful Georgian rectory, with garden views and attentive hospitality.
  • YHA in Dartmoor: Explore the national park on a budget with this comfortable hostel, offering affordable accommodation and outdoor activities.

What to Buy in West Country: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Cornish Piskies: Take home a handcrafted fairy from the West Country lore.
  • Devonshire Cream: Indulge in a delicious souvenir of clotted cream, a signature West Country condiment that elevates any dish.

Local Culture and Customs of West Country

West Country is a region steeped in history, folklore and traditional customs. A few fun facts:

  • The West Country dialects exist in several variations across the region.
  • Morris Dancing is a traditional folk dance, often performed in villages and towns across the region.
  • Wassailing is a unique West Country custom where people gather to share cider and bread, sing traditional songs, and bless the apple trees to ensure a good harvest.

Best Time to Visit West Country

The West Country is a year-round destination, although peak season is from June to August. Late spring and early autumn are also lovely times to visit, with milder temperatures and fewer crowds.

Do’s and Don’ts of West Country

Do:

  • Be respectful of wildlife habitats and nature.
  • Use footpaths and cycle lanes.
  • Try local foods and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Litter or disturb the environment.
  • Climb on or touch ancient ruins, historical sites or artifacts.
  • Cut footpaths or go off designated trails.

Safety and Health

Safety in West Country

West Country is generally a safe region, with low crime rates and friendly locals. However, follow standard safety guidelines such as keeping valuable items safe, and being aware of surroundings when walking alone at night.

Health in West Country

Ensure you have appropriate clothing, according to current weather conditions and outdoor activities. Wear comfortable shoes, use sunblock, and stay hydrated when doing outdoor activities like hiking or cycling.

Getting to West Country: Transportation Options and Logistics

The best ways to reach West Country are by car, train, or bus.

Airports Near West Country

  • Bristol Airport
  • Exeter Airport
  • Newquay Cornwall Airport

Bus Stations Near West Country

  • The National Express
  • Megabus
  • First Bus

Other Options

For a scenic journey, you can also consider traveling by ferry to explore the coastal regions of West Country.

How to Get Around in West Country

The easiest way to get around West Country is by car, although public transportation is available with frequent buses and trains. To explore remote areas and hiking trails, it’s best to have your own car.

Where to Go Next from West Country: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • The Cotswolds: experience the idyllic countryside with charming villages, historic castles, and stunning gardens.
  • Oxford: visit the iconic university city with its famous architecture, museums, and libraries.
  • London: travel to the buzzing capital city for art, culture, and history.

Conclusion

West Country offers a diverse range of activities for travelers of all ages and interests. From the picturesque coastline to the rolling countryside, the region is full of surprises and delights. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or simply looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, West Country is an ideal travel destination.

The Circus, Bath The Circus, Bath link=UNESCO World Heritage List link=UNESCO World Heritage List Neolithic icon: Stonehenge Neolithic icon: Stonehenge Brunel's Masterpiece: the Clifton Suspension Bridge traverses the river Avon, Bristol Brunel's Masterpiece: the Clifton Suspension Bridge traverses the river Avon, Bristol Geevon tin mine Geevon tin mine


    Cornwall
    Devon
    Dorset
    Gloucestershire
    Isles of Scilly
    Jurassic Coast
    Somerset
    Tamar Valley
    Wiltshire