The Stunning South West

11 August 2023

Britain’s South West holds some of the country’s best beaches, oldest history and distinct dialects originating from the Celtic language used hundreds of years ago. The cuisine is fine and the warm summer months mean Al Fresco is the way here.
 
Come and explore the culture of the South West. Here are some suggested highlights:
 
St Ives
This picturesque seaside town hosts an amazing amount of charm and culture for its size. It’s one of Britain’s southern most towns and sunny days on the beach or walking the country paths are a part of life. The postcard perfect fishing harbour has inspired artists and authors alike making it one of the world’s smallest art capitals.
 
Things you may like to do:
  • Tate St Ives: Art gallery hosting twelfth century masterpieces, regular exhibitions and a proud view over the Atlantic Ocean.
  • Boat Tour: Take a tour to a seal island or go fishing for mackerel with one of the many boat tours from St Ives.
  • St Ives Theatre: Check out the performances that are on during your stay.
  • St Ives Museum: Look at artifacts preserved from the town's rich past.
Nearest station: St Ives
 
 
Penzance and Land’s End
Come and experience a town with a difference. Sandwiched between pure countryside and golden beaches ideal for surfing, Penzance has all the buzz of a city with the relaxed atmosphere of a country town. Not far from here is Land’s End, the furthest you can go in Britain (hence the name!) with it’s iconic signpost, a popular photopoint. Penzance is just 5 hours away from London by day at the end of the Great Western Railway, or you can also take the night sleeper (don’t worry about oversleeping, it’s the end of the line!)
 
Things you may like to do:
  • St Michael’s Mount: Needing no introduction, this top tourist destination in Cornwall is on a tidal island only accessible at mid and low tide. Hosting a medieval church and castle and also a small living community, this island is a must see.
  • Minack Theatre: Built in 1930 this amazing outdoors theatre is the brainchild of Rowena Cade who bought and developed the land into the site you see today (with the help of her gardener and a few other friends). Playing season is between Easter and October but you can visit this amazing structure all year round.
  • Wildlife Cruise: Dolphins, Whales and Porpoises are among some of the spots you can see from one of these boat cruises.
  • Jubilee Geothermal Pool: This art deco seawater lido was opened to celebrate George V’s Jubilee in 1935. The pool was built in a popular bathing spot and is located directly on the seafront, making a safer way to swim in the sea.
Nearest station: Penzance
 
 
South West Coast Path
Covering 630 miles around the Coast of the South West, this epic route takes you past some of Britain’s top coastal scenic spots. Starting at Poole Harbour and ending at Minehead travelling via Land’s End, you can join the route at any point and hike until your heart is content!
 
Nearest station: Multiple (View the South West Coast Path website).
 
 
Eden Project
Set in a former China clay pit and hosting large biomes containing tropical plants, this attraction is a sight to behold with its vast array of plants from around the globe and mission for the future. 
 
Nearest station: St Austell
 
 
Cardiff
With green spaces, great heritage and a buzzing cultural scene, the capital city of Wales, is a city on a high. There is an unmistakable Welshness that is key to its appeal, from the warm smiles in the Victorian market to the glowing inscriptions on the Wales Millennium Centre, it’s a city of music, poetry and pride … and if you like hearing different dialects, you should definitely speak with the friendly locals!
 
Things you may like to do:
  • Cardiff Castle: There has been a castle on this site since the 11th century and various battles have been fought around it and subsequent additions made. Come and learn more about the castle and Cardiff’s history.
  • Wales Millennium Centre: Cardiff’s principle performing arts centre. With the second largest stage in Europe, check out what performances are on during your stay.
  • Millennium Stadium: Sports fans will know Wales are Rugby legends and alongside the national Football (Soccer) team, here is where they call home. See if there’s a game on while you visit. The Welsh are passionately proud of their national teams!
Nearest station: Cardiff Central
 
 
Salisbury
Salisbury is a historic city located in Wiltshire. It is known for its medieval history, picturesque surroundings, and most notably, Salisbury Cathedral. Where you can experience during your visit:
  • Salisbury Cathedral: A masterpiece of medieval architecture. Admire the soaring spire, explore the intricate interior and don't forget to visit the Chapter House to see the original Magna Carta...
  • Magna Carta: Home to one of the most important historical documents in the world, the Magna Carta. This original copy dates back to 1215 and played a pivotal role in shaping the principles of modern law.
  • Stonehenge: Located approximately 8 miles (13 kilometres) north of Salisbury and accessible by bus from the station. Stonehenge is an ancient prehistoric monument and is one of the most iconic and mysterious landmarks in the world.
Nearest station: Salisbury
 
 
Bath
Bath is in the county of Somerset and is renowned for its well-preserved Roman-built baths, stunning Georgian architecture, and magnificent landscapes. Here's some suggestions for your visit:
  • Roman Baths: One of the most famous landmarks in Bath. Explore the ancient Roman bathing complex and it’s well-preserved architecture.
  • Bath Abbey: Located right in the city centre. Take a tour of the interior, admire the stunning stained-glass windows, and don't forget to climb the tower for panoramic views of Bath.
  • The Royal Crescent and The Circus: Two iconic examples of Georgian architecture. The Royal Crescent is a sweeping crescent-shaped row of elegant townhouses, while The Circus is a circular street surrounded by beautiful townhouses.
Nearest station: Bath Spa
 
 
Exmoor National Park
A vast and beautiful national park of mass moorland, woodland and rivers all accompanied by a coastal scene.
Many activities including hiking await you here, such as:
  • Dunster Castle: With a ruined tower that reminds of the past history, there has been a castle here since the Norman times. In the 19th Century it was turned into an elegant country home.
  • Allerford Museum: Housing artefacts from local homes and farms from times gone by in Somerset. This museum was once a local village school with a thatched roof.
  • Wildlife Safari: Explore hidden corners of the National Park and have a chance to spot animals that many will not normally see on this tour.
Nearest station: Taunton
 
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