Bath, Bristol, Cornwall, Devon, Dorset, Somerset, Gloucestershire and Wiltshire - England's south western peninsula stretches out into the Atlantic Ocean. The popularity of the region owes much to its geography and landscape. The coastline alone offers such variety and choice, with perhaps the best scenery in the world.
Golden sands, rugged cliffs, sheltered coves, friendly resorts and small, picturesque village, fascinating off-shore islands like Lundy and the Isles of Scilly - all are here.
But the coast is but one facet of this sparkling region. Inland are historic cities and towns, the two magnificent national parks of Exmoor and Dartmoor, cathedrals and abbeys, castles and stately homes, glorious gardens, zoos and wildlife parks, and some of the prettiest villages anywhere.
This is a land of history and literary association - Sir Francis Drake sailing from Plymouth to meet the Spanish Armada, the Wessex of Thomas Hardy, or Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's 'Hound of the Baskervilles'.
A few miles up the River Avon is Britain's oldest spa, the famous city of Bath - originally a resort for the Romans, with a later surge of popularity in the 18th century, there is the superb architecture in the Assembly Rooms, or the surging natural water of the Sacred Spring
Glorious gardens abound throughout the region - its mild climate means spring comes early, and some gardens specialize in sub-tropical plants, with gardens like Killerton creating a riot of colour to reward the visitor.
The West Country also suits those who look for activity! The varied coastline is ideal for all kinds of watersports, with plenty of opportunity for surfing, windsurfing, sailing and diving amid stunning scenery. Alternatively, you can try potholing, abseiling or rock climbing. On two wheels, you can journey along the delightful Camel Trail in Cornwall, or the Tarka Trail in North Devon. There is the South West Coast Path, 613 miles of walking from Minehead to Poole Harbour; or over eighty golf courses, to practice a quiet game.
Of course, the region is also famous for its food - tasty cheese, glorious clotted cream, or delicious pasties, to name but a few!
Those who have experienced the hospitality of the region come back again and again. The West Country surely has something for you.
With thanks to
SouthWest Tourism
The Regional Tourist Board for the Southwest of England
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