Landscapes that melt together rambling moors, rolling hills and postcard-shot beaches dotted with medieval market towns and cathedral spires. South West England shouts 'picturesque' from every corner. Hiking and biking trails criss-cross valleys and ridgeways, wind between stone-built villages and traverse towering gorges. Legends of mystical moorland beasts and stone circles lead you through endless Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Foodies should fast well in advance for a gourmet trip stuffed with cream teas, fruity cider and crumbly cheeses.
South West England
Watch Indie A-listers at the End of the Road Festival
The intimate surroundings of the End of the Road Festival give you the chance to get up close and personal with the bands and their music.
Location: Larmer Tree Gardens, North Dorset
November events: See Longleat in a different light
Experience the magical Festival of Light with hundreds of illuminated displays after dark before staying in a luxury Longleat spa hotel.
Location: Warminster, Wiltshire
All the fun of the fair with Dorset’s summer festivals
Dorset entertains the whole family all summer long hosting an array of amazing events and festivals that are unique, nostalgic or just plain fun!
Location: Dorset
June events: Revel in music at Westonbirt Arboretum for Forest Live
England’s forests turn into atmospheric music venues for Forest Live, offering an eclectic range of artists & an amazing night out.
Location: Westonbirt near Tetbury, Gloucestershire
July events: Tewkesbury Medieval Festival
Originally one of the world’s biggest battle re-enactments, this event in the normally quiet village of Tewkesbury has grown into a festival recreating all aspects of medieval life.
Location: Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire
October events: Be wowed by Abbotsbury's Illuminate
Discover an illuminated winter wonderland at one of Dorset’s finest annual events.
Location: Abbotsbury, Dorset
October events: Lace up your boots for Dursley’s Walking Festival
Immerse yourself in the beauty of the undiscovered south Cotswolds and take part in the annual Dursley Walking Festival, which takes place every October.
Location: Dursley, Gloucestershire
October events: Celebrate all things foodie at the Forest Showcase Food Festival
Head to the Forest of Dean this autumn for the best in local, seasonal and speciality food and drink at the Forest Showcase Food Festival.
Location: Coleford, Gloucestershire
December events: Enter an underground Christmas cave
Follow the story of Archie and the Unicorn, told through glittering lights in an underground cavern.
Location: Clearwell Caves, Gloucestershire