South West England
The South West is a region of contrasts - Wiltshire, where South West England begins less than an hour from London; Gloucestershire, home to the Forest of Dean and the Cotswolds; Dorset, an area of outstanding natural beauty and bordered by the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site; Bristol and Bath, with centuries of history and culture; Somerset, a mix of heather covered Exmoor and the levels of Sedgemoor; Devon, with two coastlines and wide open spaces; Cornwall, bounded by the sea and steeped in Celtic tradition with the delightful Scilly Isles, each with its own features and attractions.
Majestic cathedrals grace cities like Salisbury, Gloucester, Wells, Truro and Exeter while Bath boasts famous Roman remains and Georgian splendour. Maritime history features strongly in Plymouth from where the Pilgrim Fathers and Sir Francis Drake sailed. And for contemporary arts, Bristol, the largest city in the South West, is home to the wonderful Arnolfini.
Wherever you go you will see spectacular scenery, wonderful countryside and a beautiful coastline. Walk the coastal paths, discover sandy beaches, dramatic cliffs, secluded coves and picturesque fishing villages, or visit the larger and livelier resorts. Inland, visit prehistoric sites, villages with thatched, cob cottages and riverside pubs, stately homes with landscaped gardens or the wide open spaces of the wonderful National Parks, Exmoor and Dartmoor.
Must see and do
- Eden Project, Cornwall
- Annual Cheese Rolling Competition, Brockworth (May)
- Roman Baths, Bath
- Stonehenge, Wiltshire
- Bath International Music Festival, Bath (May/June)
- Bristol Zoo Gardens, Bristol
- Exeter Cathedral, Devon
- Salisbury Festival, Wiltshire (May/June)
- Wells Cathedral, Somerset
- Helston Flora Day, Helston (May)
Related Links
Featured destinations in South West England
An exquisite Georgian spa city boasting the Royal Crescent, Roman Baths, and Thermae Bath Spa. Founded by the Romans and now a World Heritage Site.
More about Bath
Bristol successfully combines its maritime past with a vibrant approach to modern life. Its harbourside location, with attractions, boats, restaurants and museums, makes it unforgettable.
More about Bristol
Explore Exeter, a small intimate city brimming with colourful character and steeped in ancient history. Enjoy heritage, arts, culture, festivals and events. Ideal holiday destination.
More about Exeter
A beach paradise, stretching for seven miles, drawing all ages and interests like a magnet and making this one-time fishing village Cornwall’s premier resort.
More about Newquay
Combines the charm of a medieval city with the vibrancy of modern life, Salisbury is every bit the classic English city.
More about Salisbury
St Ives is a small fishing village with a working harbour and a haven for artists due to its special light.
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