In the next part of our Great British Outdoors series, we’re dreaming of the lush countryside of Somerset. This South West county is a must-visit destination for those in search of country walks, classic beaches and plenty of cider.
There is an abundance of natural sites just waiting to be explored in this large county, from the rugged heights of Exmoor National Park to the cavernous depths of Cheddar Gorge. And with three Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty lying within the county boundaries – not to mention the many beautiful beaches – Somerset is a haven for walkers and nature lovers alike. That doesn’t mean it’s dull, however – visit one of the thriving cities and towns like Bath, Wells and Taunton to find cultural stimulation and sample some of the food and drink the county is famous for. Whatever you’re dreaming of doing on your next Somerset holiday, we have a fantastic range of holiday cottages ready and waiting for you.
Somerset's best places to stay
Coastal Somerset
Towering cliffs and traditional resorts
Don’t overlook Somerset’s beautiful beaches in favour of its South West sisters, Devon and Cornwall – sand seekers of all varieties will be in their element here.
Somerset’s coastline boasts jaw-dropping scale, combining the second-biggest tidal range in the world with some of the UK’s highest cliffs in Exmoor National Park to create a stunning backdrop to your beach break. Not only this, but nature lovers will be in their element at the Bridgewater Bay National Nature Reserve, home to a large variety of birds.
Those looking for a traditional bucket-and-spade break won’t be disappointed either, with Somerset being home to one of the finest, family-friendly beaches in the UK: Weston-super-Mare. The iconic pier, donkey rides and children’s activities carry on the most-loved traditions of a seaside break that the whole family will adore.
Somerset also marks the start (or end) of the beloved South West Coast Path at Minehead, where you can set off on 630 miles of seaside trails that take you through some charming Somerset towns and villages before winding around Devon, Cornwall and Dorset.
Somerset's best beaches
Dog-friendly Somerset
Walkies through wetlands and wild beaches
Blending coast, countryside and cool towns, Somerset offers a huge variety of walkies that your hound on holiday will adore.
Somerset has a wide range of dog-friendly beaches if your pup dreams of running free on golden sands, or maybe they’ll love exploring unique landscapes such as wetland and moorland.
There are also so many dog-friendly attractions in Somerset too, so your four-legged best friend won't miss out on any of the holiday fun, as well as a wide range of dog-friendly pubs peppered throughout the towns and villages of this beautiful county.
Discover dog-friendly Somerset
Activities
Country walks and culture-rich cities
Whether you’re looking for tranquil walks through the green hills or something a little more action-packed, Somerset has plenty of activities to try on your next holiday. And with a huge abundance of natural spaces, it’s no surprise that many of them are in the great outdoors!
One of Somerset’s most popular attractions is Cheddar Gorge, where you can explore the ancient landscape from above the gorge or explore one of the subterranean caves. Another famous Somerset spot is Glastonbury Tor, sat on a hill high above the famous town, perfect for a tranquil picnic while soaking up the spiritual atmosphere.
There are many historic houses with beautiful gardens to explore too – wander around the medieval Dunster Castle in Exmoor, appreciate art and architecture at Montacute House or relax in the tranquil parkland of Tyntesfield.
But if you’re looking for something a little more action-packed, Somerset can deliver. Enjoy fairground rides at Weston-super-Mare’s Grand Pier, abseil down Wookey Hole or kayak around the coast.
Top things to do
Food and drink
Chilled cider and Cheddar cheese
Gastronomes are in for a treat on a visit to Somerset, as the county is home to some of our most loved food and drink.
First things first, you can’t visit Somerset and not sample some Cheddar cheese. The most popular cheese in the UK began its humble origins in the village of Cheddar and the Cheddar Gorge Cheese Company still produces this creamy delicacy today.
Somerset is also synonymous with cider, as the county’s climate is perfect for growing the sharp apples that make this delicious drink. Seek out independent producers or sip some of the well-known Thatchers cider which has been based in Somerset for over 100 years – you can even visit the farm near Winscombe.
One less well known – but equally delicious – product that Somerset is famous for is strawberries. Cheddar Valley strawberries were once famous but can still be found in the county today, and should definitely be on your must-try list.
The best food and drink
Where to stay
Cosy cottages by countryside and coast
Whatever you’re dreaming of doing in Somerset, our holiday cottages are in fantastic locations all around the county to ensure you’re exactly where you want to be.
Enjoy the rural splendour of the Somerset countryside with our collection of rural and working farm cottages, where you can relax and unwind in tranquil surroundings. Set off on walks from your front door at our Quantock Hills cottages or discover the medieval town of Dunster on the fringes of Exmoor National Park.
Or if you picture yourself by the Somerset shores, take a look at our range of coastal cottages. Close to popular and traditional seaside destinations like Burnham-on-Sea, Minehead and Weston-super-Mare, our coastal cottages put you in the perfect location to enjoy a relaxing break by the sea.
However, if you’re dreaming of exploring Somerset’s vibrant towns, we have plenty of accommodation to choose from too. Pamper yourself in the spas of Bath, soak up the culture in Bristol or discover historic sites in Wells.
All Somerset cottages
