Bristol, Bath and the West

Whilst in Minehead...
Minehead is a great place to visit for a fabulous holiday by the sea. With fantastic beaches, a beautiful harbour and great places to see locally, Minehead is an ideal location for all the family. The bustling town is perfect to while away an afternoon shopping, or if you prefer to get some fresh air, take a bracing sea-front walk.

If you’re after something lively try the Butlins Holiday camp. It’s a fantastic day out with something for all ages. There’s a traditional fun fair, children’s shows, mini adventures and Splash sub-tropical waterworld with Master Blaster raft ride, space bubble and wave machines. Also, you can enjoy the Skyline Pavilion, with famous names, spectacular shows, dancing, circuses and much more.

Why use the car to travel around Minehead?  Leave it at home or at your accommodation and use the bus, it’s easy, convenient and good value.

www.visitsomerset.co.uk (opens in a new window).

Dunster
Dunster, abounding in old world charm, is commonly referred to as the Jewel in the Crown of Exmoor. This medieval village delights the eye and fires the imagination when wandering down the winding streets and backwaters. Dunster Castle, only 2 miles from Minehead, is a stunning example of a fortified castle. It is open to all visitors and contains many superb exhibits from its exciting history.

Taunton
Taunton is an attractive town with the River Tone flowing through the centre. Taunton’s air of bustling prosperity and activity reflects a modern role as Somerset’s County Town. Taunton has many shops and attractions. Why not go for a days shopping or visit the County Cricket Ground’s Cricket Museum, the Brewhouse Theatre or the Castle Museum.

Other places of interest in Taunton include the Somerset County Museum with displays relating to Somerset’s natural and human history. If shopping around for a potential bargain is more your style, then why not visit the Taunton Antique Market, situated in the centre of the town and held each Monday, offering over 100 stalls selling a variety of items from £1 to £1000.

There are many places to eat and drink making Taunton a great place to visit for the day.

Tiverton
Tiverton, which was voted ‘Best Market Town’ in the 2003 Britain in Bloom competition, has an excellent range of facilities: The medieval castle, an excellent museum, a thriving traditional pannier market and the Grand Western Canal. The canal offers 11 miles of easy towpath walks in the country park together with canal cruises in a horse-drawn barge.

Tropiquaria
For a bit of fun for all the family, visit Tropiquaria Animal & Adventure park in Washford village. It’s a great day out for adults and children of all ages. Hold a snake or tarantula in the Tropical Hall, visit the amazing puppet show and the newly redecorated aquarium. For a nostalgic experience see the Radio Museum, play outside on full-size pirate ships or in the Indoor Play Castle plus many animals all around the grounds.

www.tropiquaria.co.uk (opens in a new window).

Watchet
Watchet is an ancient harbour town, steeped in history, nestled between Exmoor National Park and the Quantocks. It has a Victorian station in the heart of the town and a new marina.  Watchet also has two small but fascinating museums. The Market House Museum goes through the fascinating history of this small trading port. The Boat museum holds a collection of old Flatner boats. Taking a walk around Watchet is an absolute delight, and just out of town you can even go fossil hunting at Helwell bay or West Street beach.

www.visit-watchet.co.uk/ (opens in a new window).

West Somerset Steam Railway
The West Somerset Steam railway is a wonderful day out from Minehead railway station - whatever the weather. Sit back in your seat and watch the steam and the countryside drift past your window with over 20 miles of glorious Somerset scenery rolling gently beside the Quantock Hills. Why not travel back by bus to enjoy the different scenery that can be seen from the road.

www.west-somerset-railway.co.uk (opens in a new window).