Tuesday 7th May 2024
In recent years the British summer staycation has had a major resurgence (just like the old days). As tempting as it is to book a flight and jet off to sunny Spain there are plenty of fantastic options a little closer to home and few better destinations than the Costa del Somerset.
However, planning the perfect summer staycation can be an overwhelming process (not to mention preparing for whatever the British weather may bring!).
Which is why, with more than 60 years’ experience living and working in the local area, we’ve compiled a list of some of our favourite things to see and do in Somerset.
And why not use the Trainline to travel to these destinations? Offering rail and coach options, they’re a great option for sustainable travelling. By using public transport you can help reduce the amount of cars on the road.
Read on for our top picks for a holiday in Somerset that young and old alike will enjoy.
Places to Stay
Our very own Rural Stays are the ideal destination if you’re looking for a quiet, country getaway. With three luxurious retreats surrounded by the gorgeous Mendips countryside. Situated at the peak of the Yeo Valley, Wills Barn has all the comforts you need for a summer staycation for two, while Coombe Barn is a cosy countryside cottage suitable for up to eight people. Or, if your holidaying with a large group or family Heronmere houses up to ten people, providing stunning views across Blagdon Lake and beyond.
But if you are happy to immerse yourself completely in nature, then Classic Glamping may be the perfect place for you to stay. With a selection of different Shepard’s Huts to choose from, including dog-friendly options, you can watch the sun set (or rise!) from your personal hot tub surrounded by lovely countryside.
If it’s more than just the two of you, then can accommodate the whole family! You can go for a swim in their indoor heated pool, say hello to the farm animals, or get involved in their pizza nights. Middlewick Cottages are also doing lots to reduce their impact on the local environment, like using a Bio Mass Heating System and offering electric vehicle charging points.
Places to Visit
In Washford lies one of the undiscovered jewels of Somerset, providing an interesting day out for families and budding historians alike. The Cistercian abbey of Cleeve is a haven of peace and tranquillity, said to contain the finest cloister buildings in England and thanks to our friends at English heritage you can get 25% off an annal membership, giving you access to Cleeve Abbey and over 400 other historic sites.
These beautiful gardens in Combe Hay, nestling in a valley just south of Bath, have been lovingly restored and nurtured by Phil and Amanda Honey. Their vision and ethos has created a sustainable landscape that is visually stunning and rich in thriving wildlife, a fantastic place to visit whilst in the area.
Located in the beautiful Chew Valley with stunning views across Chew Valley Lake, North Hill farm boasts over 150 acres of organic wildflower meadows. With nature at the heart of everything they do, our friends at North Hill have recently implemented regenerative farming practices with the aim of increasing the biodiversity of their landscape. They hold various events in their infamous barn including a Gut Health day on July 26th which is sure to be a delicious day out.
In the heart of the valley is Yeo Valley’s own Organic Garden. Spanning more than six acres the Organic Garden is the perfect day out for any garden lover! Explore our veggie garden, meadow, or gravel garden before finishing with a pot of tea and slice of cake in our tearoom.
Food & Drink
If you are looking for a place to stop off and stretch your legs on your journey down the A303, or are staying in the local area, then TEALS is a must-visit. Sustainability is at the heart of everything TEALS does – from selling ethically sourced products to serving locally produced food in their café.
Come and spend the day with us in the Valley! Have a tour of our farm and learn all about the Yeo Valley story. Not only that, but you’ll also get an exciting demo from one of our chefs showing you how to use our products in your own homes.
Support the local community by visiting one of Somerset’s Farmers Markets that runs in various towns throughout the month. The initiative helps promote living sustainably, by inviting local small-scale farmers to sell their produce and with over 100 vendors to choose from, be spoilt for choice!
Places for Families
Keep the kids active and entertained at Brean Splash Park, which has won GOLD in the Holiday Park pool of the year multiple times. With indoor and outdoor pools, water slides (including a disco one!), and a baby splash pool there’s something for every age.
Explore Somerset’s sights as a family by taking one of the 29 Treasure Trails on offer. Crack the code, find the treasure, or discover ‘whodunit’ by taking in the local sites and following the clues. Only £6.99 for a group of five, so it won’t break the bank!
Help support a local charity by visiting the Ferne Animal Sanctuary. The charity was first set up at the start of World War Two and since then has rehomed and cared for hundreds of animals. Not only can you say hello to the animals, but you can also take a walk around their meadow and woodlands or have lunch in their café.
To find out more about Somerset and the wonderful places you can visit in the area, head to the Visit Somerset website for more information.
You can also find out more about the different exciting events that we having going on throughout the year in the valley here.
It all sounds really good
I have just had a look at Teals. Strangely enough my godson & his family live in North Cadbury so they must know Teals!
This is a brilliant idea! I was brought up in Dunster & now live in Devon but still have friends in Somerset. I must have a look at some of the ideas mentioned.
Thank you!