Introduction
The South West of England, known also as ‘The Westcountry’, is one of the UK’s most beautiful regions. Known for its dramatic coastlines, rolling countryside, historic cities, and picturesque villages, it is a destination that rewards every type of traveller. From the surf beaches of North Devon and Cornwall to the wild beauty of Dartmoor in Devon, to the cultural heritage of Bath in Somerset, and the fossil-rich cliffs of Dorset’s Jurassic Coast, the South West offers something to everyone.
While we know that the South West extends as far as Gloucester and Wiltshire, our focus, at least for now, is on Cornwall, Devon, Somerset, and Dorset.
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Map of South West England
Why Visit South West England?
Natural Beauty
The South West is home to some of the UK’s most dramatic landscapes:
- Jurassic Coast (Dorset & East Devon) – A UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its remarkable geological features and rich fossil history. Spanning approximately 95 miles (150 km), this coast showcases a continuous sequence of Triassic, Jurassic, and Cretaceous rocks, offering a window into Earth’s ancient past. Famous fossil-hunting spots include Lyme Regis, Charmouth, and West Bay, where visitors can find ammonites, ichthyosaurs, and even dinosaur footprints. The dramatic cliffs, arches, and stacks create a stunning landscape, making it a must-visit for geology enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
(Jurassic Coast). - The South West Coast Path – England’s longest marked footpath, stretching about 630 miles (1,014 km) along the coastline from Minehead in Somerset to Poole Harbour in Dorset. This walk offers a diverse range of scenery, including rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, picturesque fishing villages, and historic sites. It provides opportunities for walking and wildlife spotting, with sections that pass through the national parks of Exmoor and Dartmoor, offering panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. The path is well-maintained, with numerous cafes, bars, pubs and places to stay catering to hikers.
- Cornish Coastline – Characterised by dramatic, rugged cliffs, hidden coves, and huge golden beaches, Cornwall’s coast is a haven for surfers, walkers, and artists. Famous spots include St Ives, Land’s End, and the Eden Project. The coastline features picturesque fishing villages like Padstow and Port Isaac, as well as historic sites such as Tintagel Castle, linked to the legend of King Arthur. The region’s natural beauty is complemented by a growing foodie scene, especially seafood, and a rich maritime history.
- Dartmoor & Exmoor (Devon & Somerset) – These expansive moorlands are designated protected areas offering wild, open landscapes dotted with granite tors, ancient woodlands, and deep river valleys. Dartmoor features rugged terrain, stone circles, and the famous Dartmoor Prison, while Exmoor boasts heather-covered hills and the stunning Valley of the Rocks. Both parks are ideal for hiking, horse riding, mountain biking, and wildlife watching, with opportunities to see red deer, wild ponies, and a variety of bird species. The parks also provide dark skies, making them excellent locations for stargazing.
- Somerset Levels – A vast area of low-lying wetlands, marshes, and floodplains, this region is well known for its unique ecosystem and rich birdlife, particularly during migration seasons. The Levels are home to numerous nature reserves, such as Westhay Moor and Shapwick Heath, where visitors can observe rare species like bitterns, marsh harriers, and beavers. Traditional activities include birdwatching, boating, and exploring ancient peat-cutting sites and historic villages. The landscape’s tranquillity and ecological significance make it a haven for nature enthusiasts.
- The Quantock Hills – Recognised as England’s first designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the Quantocks offer a blend of rolling hills, woodlands, and farmland, with sweeping views across the Bristol Channel and the Somerset Levels. The area is rich in history, with ancient burial mounds, medieval churches, and remnants of past industries like quarrying. Popular activities include walking, mountain biking, and horse riding, with numerous trails passing through heathland and woodland. The hills also support a variety of wildlife, including red deer and rare bird species, and feature charming villages with traditional pubs and cottages.
History and Heritage
The history of South West England is rich and diverse, shaped by ancient cultures, medieval kingdoms, and maritime heritage. The South West has roots dating back to prehistoric times, with evidence of early settlements and tin mining that fueled trade and prosperity.
Cornwall (Kernow) was once a distinct Celtic kingdom, retaining strong cultural ties to Wales and Brittany. Even today, there remains a strong sense of being Cornish above all else, with a culture and identity that stand apart from England This distinct identity is rooted in a shared Celtic heritage, the Cornish language (Kernow), and the country’s unique cultural symbols, such as St Piran’s flag.
Somerset and Dorset have long histories as agricultural and trade centres, with Somerset playing a significant role in medieval England through its abbeys and markets. The region’s coastline has historically been vital for fishing, shipbuilding, and maritime trade, especially during the Age of Exploration and the Victorian era. In the 19th century, the South West experienced a boom in tourism, driven by its stunning landscapes and historic sites. Throughout centuries, this region has maintained a unique cultural identity, blending Celtic heritage, maritime tradition, and rural charm that continues to define its character today.
Visit:
- Tintagel Castle in Cornwall, tied to the legendary King Arthur.
- Bath in Somerset, a UNESCO World Heritage city with Roman Baths and Georgian architecture.
- Exeter Cathedral in Devon, with its spectacular Gothic ceiling. Started in the 12th Century.
- Maiden Castle in Dorset, Europe’s largest Iron Age hillfort, occupied from around 600 BC.
Food and Drink
The South West really is a foodie’s paradise, with traditions and flavours that are as much a part of its identity as its rolling hills and rugged coastline. Take the famous cream tea, for instance – a delight that sparks friendly rivalry across county lines. In Devon, the cream is spread first with jam on top, while Cornwall insists on jam before cream. We lean towards the Devon way, but whichever side you take, it’s hard to resist warm scones piled high with clotted cream and fruity jam.
Then there’s the Cornish pasty, best bought from a traditional bakery. Born out of necessity, it was once the perfect ‘packaged lunch’ for tin miners – a hearty, portable meal encased in golden pastry that could withstand a morning in the mines. Today, it’s a symbol of Cornish heritage, still enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.
For something a little more rustic, the ploughman’s lunch embodies the simple pleasures of the countryside: crusty bread, wedges of strong local cheese, tangy pickles, and a crisp apple on the side. No mention of the South West would be complete without Cheddar – matured in the limestone caves of Cheddar Gorge, where the cool, damp atmosphere creates its signature depth of flavour.
To wash it down, Somerset cider is legendary. From farmhouse scrumpy that packs a punch to award-winning varieties crafted by expert orchards, cider here is more than just a drink, like so many other things, it’s a tradition.
And for those who prefer the fruits of the sea, the coastline offers a bounty: oysters from Falmouth, gleaming catches landed daily at Brixham, and Newlyn pilchards – also known as Cornish sardines – that have fed generations.
The South West really is a region where history, landscape, and local pride are poured into the food on your plate.
Outdoor Activities
Perfect for adventure seekers:
- Walking the South West Coast Path (South West Coast Path).
- Surfing at Newquay, Sennen Cove or Croyde Bay.
- Fossil hunting along Dorset’s cliffs.
- Cycling trails like Cornwall’s Camel Trail, the Exe Valley or Tarka Trail in Devon.
Cornwall
Cornwall is the far western tip of England, a rugged peninsula that reaches out into the Atlantic. With more than 400 miles of coastline, this is a county defined by the sea, its history and culture shaped by the tides and its landscapes framed by dramatic cliffs, sweeping bays, and fishing harbours.
Highlights
St Ives has long been an artists’ haven, celebrated for its extraordinary natural light and sandy beaches, and today it also draws visitors to the Tate St Ives gallery on the waterfront. To the north, Newquay has become synonymous with surf culture, its world-famous Fistral Beach attracting professionals and beginners alike. Inland, the Eden Project offers something altogether different – vast futuristic biomes recreating ecosystems from around the globe. At the very edges of Cornwall, Land’s End marks the westernmost point of England, while the Lizard Peninsula holds the title of most southerly, both offering dramatic views of ocean meeting land. History and legend come alive at Tintagel Castle, linked forever with the tales of King Arthur, and just 28 miles offshore the Isles of Scilly provide a striking contrast – a subtropical cluster of islands that feel both exotic and close to home.
Experiences
Cornwall is made for the outdoors. Its Atlantic swells and sheltered coves invite adventure: surfing, paddleboarding, and coasteering are all part of the Cornish experience. For those who prefer to keep their feet on land, the South West Coast Path offers one of Britain’s great walks. Stretching for 630 miles, it reveals ever-changing views of cliffs, coves, and wide horizons. Inland, the legacy of Cornwall’s mining industry is etched into the landscape, with old tin mines now recognised as part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site – evocative reminders of the county’s industrial past.
Devon
Devon is a county of contrasts, where rolling farmland meets two dramatic coastlines, and where wild moorlands give way to historic towns and postcard-perfect villages. With two National Parks at its heart and a wealth of seaside resorts along its shores, Devon offers a slice of everything that makes the South West so distinctive.
Highlights
On the south coast lies the English Riviera, the sweep of Torbay encompassing Torquay, Paignton, and Brixham. These are classic seaside towns with a Victorian influence; promenades, palm trees, and sheltered beaches that have drawn visitors for generations. To the north, the coastline is wilder, with Woolacombe and Croyde Bay among the finest surfing beaches in the country. Inland, Dartmoor National Park stretches across a vast upland landscape of granite tors, open moors, and ancient Bronze Age remains, while to the north-east Exmoor (shared with neighbouring Somerset) offers a gentler beauty of rolling hills, wooded valleys, and dramatic cliffs. At the heart of the county sits Exeter, a compact yet vibrant city where Exeter Cathedral dominates the skyline, and from which there are views both to the sea at Exmouth and across to the granite peaks of Dartmoor.
Experiences
Life in Devon is closely tied to the water. Sailing and fishing are part of the culture, with Plymouth, Dartmouth, and Salcombe all renowned harbours where maritime traditions are still very much alive. For those who prefer to explore on foot or two wheels, Dartmoor’s rugged trails reward walkers with sweeping vistas, while the Tarka Trail provides a gentler cycling route through countryside and along old railway lines. History and culture are never far away either: Exeter Cathedral stands as one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in England, Powderham Castle reflects centuries of aristocratic life, and Plymouth tells the story of Britain’s naval past, from the Mayflower’s departure to its role as a modern naval base.
Somerset
Somerset is a county rich in tradition, myth, and natural beauty. It’s a place where ancient landscapes meet Roman heritage, where the legends of King Arthur mingle with festival culture, and where cider orchards roll down to the rivers and canals. Even the roads themselves tell a story: the Roman Fosse Way still cuts across the county, a reminder of Somerset’s long history as a crossroads of trade and travel.
Highlights
At its northern edge, Bath stands as one of England’s most elegant cities, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its Roman Baths and Georgian crescents. A short journey away, Wells – England’s smallest city – is dominated by its cathedral, a masterpiece of medieval architecture. To the west, Cheddar Gorge slices through the Mendip Hills with dramatic limestone cliffs and caves, while Glastonbury offers a more mystical appeal. Here, the famous Tor rises from the Levels, a landmark shrouded in legend, while the town itself is celebrated worldwide for the Glastonbury Festival. Further west still, Exmoor National Park beckons with wild ponies, heather moorland, and some of the darkest skies in Britain — perfect for stargazing.
Experiences
Festivals are part of Somerset’s lifeblood, and none more so than Glastonbury, the world’s most iconic celebration of music and culture. Yet heritage is equally compelling: the soaring nave of Wells Cathedral, the ruins of Glastonbury Abbey, and Roman roads like the Fosse Way all point to centuries of history. Outdoor adventures abound too. Walkers can explore the Quantock and Mendip Hills, cavers can descend into Wookey Hole, and nature-lovers will find the Levels a landscape of wildlife-rich wetlands shaped by both people and tides.
Dorset
Dorset offers some of England’s most striking coastal scenery alongside historic market towns and a countryside rich in heritage. From the fossil-strewn cliffs of the Jurassic Coast to medieval abbeys and lively seaside resorts, the county is full of character and contrast.
Highlights
The UNESCO-listed Jurassic Coast is Dorset’s showpiece, a dramatic sweep of cliffs and bays that reveal 185 million years of the Earth’s history. Landmarks such as the limestone arch of Durdle Door and the sheltered curve of Lulworth Cove are among the most photographed spots in Britain. At the western end of the coast, Lyme Regis charms with its Georgian seafront, fossil-rich cliffs, and connections to literary greats. Inland, Sherborne Abbey stands as one of England’s finest pieces of medieval architecture, while the bustling resort of Weymouth combines sandy beaches with a lively harbour atmosphere. At the county’s southern tip, Portland Bill offers a wilder edge: dramatic cliffs, surging tides, and the iconic red-and-white lighthouse standing guard over the English Channel.
Experiences
Dorset is a natural playground for those who love the outdoors. Fossil hunting along the Jurassic Coast is a must, with finds ranging from ammonites to ichthyosaur remains. Walkers are spoilt for choice too, whether following clifftop paths with sweeping sea views or exploring the heathland and rolling chalk downs inland. Wildlife thrives here, with Brownsea Island in Poole Harbour home to the rare red squirrel. History is woven through the landscape as well, from Iron Age hillforts to the romantic ruins of Corfe Castle, once a Norman stronghold.
Practical Visitor Information
When to Visit
- Spring (March–May) – quieter, with wildflowers and (generally ) decent weather.
- Summer (June–August) – peak season for beaches and festivals (and car parks).
- Autumn (September–November) – fewer crowds, beautiful colours. Weather usually still mild.
- Winter (December–February) – think welcoming pubs, Christmas markets, dramatic coastal walks.
Getting Here
- By Road – The M5, A30 and A303 are the main routes into the South West. The A30 starts in London and finishes at Land’s End. It is one of the longest trunk roads in England.
- By Rail – Great Western Railway runs services from London Paddington and Birmingham to Exeter, Plymouth, Penzance, Bath, and beyond (GWR). South West Trains runs services from London Waterloo to Exeter via Salisbury, Yeovil and Honiton.
- By Air – Exeter Airport, Newquay, and Bristol airports provide international connections via Dublin or Amsterdam. Bristol has the most extensive UK and European regional connections but Exeter and Newquay also offer options.
Getting Around
A car offers the most flexibility, but rail and bus services connect major towns. For scenic routes, try the Dartmouth Steam Railway, the West Somerset Railway, the Swanage Railway or local ferries along the coast.
For a more detailed article on when to visit, follow this link.
Where to Stay
Options range from luxury hotels and boutique B&Bs to coastal cottages, hostels, campsites, and glamping sites. The National Trust and independent providers also offer unique stays.
Sample Itineraries
A Week in Cornwall & Devon
- Days 1–2: Explore St Ives and Penzance, surf and walk the coast path.
- Days 3–4: Visit Tintagel Castle and the Eden Project.
- Days 5–7: Head into Devon – Dartmoor walks, Torquay, and Exeter Cathedral.
A Long Weekend in Dorset
- Day 1: Start in Lyme Regis, enjoy fossil hunting.
- Day 2: Explore Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove.
- Day 3: Visit Corfe Castle and relax in Weymouth.
A Cultural Tour of Somerset
- Day 1: Discover Bath’s Roman Baths and Georgian architecture.
- Day 2: Visit Wells Cathedral and Cheddar Gorge.
- Day 3: Explore Glastonbury Tor and Abbey. Sample local cider or maybe even cider brandy!
Useful Resources & Links
- Visit Cornwall
- Visit Devon
- Visit Dorset
- Visit Somerset
- South West Coast Path Association
- National Trust
- English Heritage
The South West of England – Cornwall, Devon, Somerset, and Dorset – is an English region offering huge variety and interest. From wild moorlands and sandy beaches to historic cities and picture-perfect villages, it has something to suit every traveller. Whether you come for adventure, relaxation, culture, or food, the South West will reward you with unforgettable experiences.
So pack your walking boots, bring your appetite, and prepare to discover one of England’s most inspiring destinations. You will receive a warm Westcountry welcome!
Over to you … have you recently travelled to South West England? What worked for you? What advice would you give to others? Please leave your comments below or join in the discussion in our Facebook Group.
New to South West England or returning after a while? Start with our ‘Travel Basics’ – quick guides packed with tips to help you plan your trip.
