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Things To Do in Somerset and Devon
Kittisford Barton is centrally situated on the Somerset-Devon border, ideally located for guests to take advantage of countryside, coast and the surrounding towns. Here you have a destination for all the family with lots to see and do during your relaxing escape to the country.
English Heritage & Historical Places in Somerset
Cothay Manor Historic House and Gardens
www.cothaymanor.co.uk
The manor, which dates back to the 14th century, is a good half hour walk from Kittisford Barton and is set within 12 acres of atmospheric medieval-style gardens on the banks of the river Tone. This charming building is open for guests to explore and its old rooms include The Great Hall which has vaulted ceilings and 15th century wall paintings. There are often guided house tours available for if you're interested in delving a little deeper into the history.
Cleeve Abbey
English Heritage-owned Cleeve Abbey is located in Washford. The stunning building gives visitors a glimpse into monastic life 800 years ago and parts of it date back to the 13th century with a 15th century refectory building still remarkably intact. This Cistercian abbey displays wonderful cloister buildings and provides a charming site of tranquility.
Hestercombe Gardens
www.hestercombe.com
Located in Taunton, these gardens surround an impressive Grade II* listed country house which was originally built in the 16th century. The spectacular landscape gardens were designed and laid in the 18th century. Different sections have been created over the years, including a formal Victorian parterre and an Edwardian garden, giving the whole space a range of moods that you will discover as you move through. The restored watermill has been transformed into the visitor centre and there are a number of beautiful buildings, called seats, carefully placed throughout the 100 acre grounds, all offering breathtaking views.
Things to Do With Kids in Devon and Somerset
Go Ape
www.goape.co.uk
In Exeter's Haldon Forest, Go Ape is a fantastic one for those seeking adventure and fun. You can really let loose on the Tree Top Adventure with zip-wires, swings, bridges and high ropes to master. There are courses for a range of ages so the whole family can enjoy a day of excitement together. Alternatively explore the forest at ground level and have a segway adventure.
Mansell Raceway
www.mansellraceway.com
Roughly half an hour's drive from Kittisford Barton the Mansell Raceway welcomes those who are keen to get their hearts pumping. This karting circuit is 750 metres long and is a great option for friends looking for a good (if slightly competitive) day out.
Quad World
www.quadworld.co.uk
Quad World takes things to the next level. This multi-award winning quad biking company has a large circular track that is great for people of any ability. If you've never been before, no problem, you can get one-on-one tutoring and then explore the track at your own pace.
West Somerset Railway
www.westsomersetrailway.vticket.co.uk
At just 20-30 minutes away, this railway is very popular with visitors to the area. It is the longest heritage railway in England and will take you all the way to Minehead where you can spend a fun day out on the north-Somerset coast. There are often special events, galas and days out to enjoy throughout the year. Bishops Lydeard station has a little museum with a model railway, and a station shop.
FlipOut Trampoline Park
www.flipout.co.uk/locations/somerset/
Just 15 minutes away from site this is a great wet weather day activity. FlipOut Somerset has 75 interlinked trampolines, a 20m tumble track, a ninja warrior course, foam pits and lots more to keep the kids occupied. OPENING JUNE 2017
Langford Heathfield Nature Reserve
www.somersetwildlife.org/Langford_Heathfield-Additional.html
Up the hill from the Kittisford Barton site, you’ll find Langford Heathfield - Somerset Wildlife Trust’s second largest nature reserve. With ancient woodland, heathland and ponds, there’s plenty to discover on the reserve’s many walks. Spot Shetland ponies grazing on the rough grass, and look out for woodpeckers, nightingales and other birds and butterflies fluttering past. Dormice, badgers and roe deer also call it home. Langford Heathfield is open to the public all year, and allows dogs on leads. You can park in nearby lay-bys, and the nearby Martlet Inn is a great place to grab a bite.
Longleat
www.longleat.co.uk
Longleat is home to the UK's number 1 safari park and is a firm favourite with all ages. There is an incredible range of animals to see from across the world and different zones to discover too. Some you can visit on foot, and others are drive-through. Also here you have the grounds, gardens and Longleat house. Throughout the year there is a range of events taking place; this is a day out with something for everyone.
Crealy
www.crealy.co.uk/Devon
Crealy Great Adventure Park is spread over 100 acres and has more than 60 attractions that are great for a family day out. Youngsters will enjoy all the different rides on offer or can spend some time meeting all the animals and enjoying petting the friendlier residents. There is a soft play area for smaller visitors and an ongoing programme of events throughout the year.
Devon Railway Centre
www.devonrailwaycentre.co.uk
For railway-themed fun, this Exe Valley attraction includes inside and outside activities including train rides along the River Exe and around the centre, a miniature railway, a model Edwardian village and a model railway exhibition. There are outdoor and indoor play areas for youngsters and the whole site is a great way to delve into the history of the area.
Tropiquaria
www.tropiquaria.co.uk
For animal lovers, this is a day out that you'll remember; there is a range of animals to see and fun to be had at Tropiquaria. The little zoo has a number of zones including the Tropical Hall which is home to different reptiles, the Aquarium, which features fish from all over the world and the outdoor enclosures, which sit within five and a half acres of land. Outside you'll find several aviaries and a range of mammals. There is also a selection of inside attractions for younger guests.
The Bear Trail
www.thebeartrail.co.uk
The Bear Trail is a short 15 minutes drive away from the site and is a outdoor children’s adventure trail. There are a series of different obstacles which involve bear infested mud pits, climbing bear mountain and making your way through bear tunnels!
National Trust Properties in Devon and Somerset
Dunster Castle and Water Mill
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/dunster-castle
This National Trust property, located towards the north coast of Somerset consists of an ancient castle displaying 1000 years worth of history in elegant rooms, as well as great architecture and beautiful Mediterranean-style gardens. Take a look at the fully restored 18th-century working watermill while you're here too.
Fyne Court
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/fyne-court
This charming woodland area is located just to the north of Taunton in the heart of the Quantock Hills. Discover woodland, streams and follies and explore your surroundings on one of three way-marked trails. There is a tea room here too so you and treat yourself to a post-walk pick-me-up.
Knightshayes Court
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/knightshayes
Knightshayes Court is a stately Victorian house set in several acres of parkland and gardens. The house itself is a Gothic Revival building and its rooms are richly furnished. Outside you can wander the kitchen garden, the formal garden and the woodland garden or venture further into the outlying parkland.
Dumpdon Hill Fort
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/dumpdon-hill-fort
Discover history and wild countryside as you enjoy one of the best Somerset walks impressive Iron Age hill fort located above the beautiful Otter Valley. This is a picturesque area to walk with woodland, pastureland and hilly scenery to enjoy. Look out for the Exmoor ponies nearby and admire the impressive earthworks of Dumpdon.
Combe Wood
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/combe-wood
Another great one for walkers. Here you have 10 acres of ash and oak woodland located close to Honiton. Keep your eyes peeled because this is a good one for birdlife and there are a number of trails for you to make your way through the trees.
Barrington Court
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/barrington-court
Barrington Court is a Tudor manor house that is beautifully panelled inside and displays lovely architecture. The rooms are not furnished so you can wander freely and let your imagination wander to the past inhabitants. Explore the garden and stretch your legs along the pergola walk or in the orchard.
More Things to Do Around Devon and Somerset
Cheddar Gorge
www.cheddargorge.co.uk
Famous for its show caves and interesting geology, Cheddar Gorge is now part of a Sight of Special Scientific Interest. With arguably some of the finest views in Somerset, you can venture along the 3-mile cliff top walk and look out for the herd of British Primitive goats as you go. Alternatively head downwards and experience the subterranean wonders of the area by exploring one of the caves. For something more adrenaline fuelled try an extreme activity such as rock climbing or adventure caving.
Sheppy's Farm and Cider Centre
www.sheppyscider.com
Enjoy some of the local culture with a trip to the birthplace of Sheppy's Cider. Discover 200 years of history and explore the farm and the orchards just outside of Bradford-on-Tone. Visit the museum to learn a bit more, pop into the farm shop to grab something tasty and then round off your visit with a pick-me-up in the tea room.
Oake Manor Golf
www.oakemanor.com
If you fancy a relaxing day but still want to take advantage of your superb surroundings, why not try your hand at golf? Oak Manor Golf Club is just 20 minutes from Kittisford Barton and is great for any ability, whether you're just starting out, or looking to practice your skills. This is an 18 hole course which offers lessons if you want them and has excellent onsite facilities.
Tiverton Canal Company
www.tivertoncanal.co.uk
For something a little different the Tiverton Canal Company is home to one of the last horse drawn barges in the UK. Travelling the Grand Western Canal this way is a very relaxed and memorable way to experience the view. Also on offer is boat hire, for those who want to explore at their own pace in a motor boat, canoe or rowing boat. Visit the floating café bar for a bite to eat and then have a wander in the Nature Reserve along the banks.
Quantock Trekking
www.quantocktrekking.co.uk
Discover the stunning landscape in true style by trekking the Quantock Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty on horseback. This is a fantastic way to get back to nature and appreciate your Somerset surroundings. There are various rides you can choose from, each one offering incredible views.
Shopping in Devon and Somerset
Taunton
You will find many high street names as well as a number of independent shops in Taunton, so there is a lot of choice. Orchard shopping centre is right in the town centre, with a multi-storey car park for convenience. It has a good selection of shops and eateries.
Also available is County Walk shopping centre, a little smaller than the Orchard but with a variety of shops to browse as well.
For a supermarket shop you will find a Tescos and a Sainsbury's quite central, an Asda slightly further out, and a number of smaller stores too.
Sheppy's Farm and Cider Centre
www.sheppyscider.com
Enjoy some of the local culture with a trip to the birthplace of Sheppy's Cider. Discover 200 years of history and explore the farm and the orchards just outside of Bradford-on-Tone. Visit the museum to learn a bit more, pop into the farm shop to grab something tasty and then round off your visit with a pick-me-up in the tea room.
Exeter
Exeter is well-served with shopping opportunities from big names to small boutiques. There are independent high street shops and the award-winning Princesshay shopping centre is located in the centre of town with a great range of shops to chose from.
Also available is the Guildhall shopping centre, this you can reach from the high street and as well as a range of shops has a good amount of places to eat too.
Exeter always has lots going on and this means a nice variety of markets to choose from, including the farmers' market every Thursday morning.
Somerset, Devon & Dorset Seaside Resorts
Weston-super-Mare
This famous seaside resort in Somerset has been a favourite since the 19th century and today, as well as its long sandy beach, the seaside town features a popular pier, museums, an aquarium and seasonal Wheel of Weston.
Sidmouth
Sidmouth is a nice little town with a sandy beach accessed via a series of wooden steps known as Jacob's ladder. The steps also lead to the pretty Connaught Gardens which date from the mid 19th century. There are good facilities around the seafront.
Minehead
Also on the northern coast of Somerset, Minehead is considered the northern gateway to Exmoor. North Hill rises up behind the town, just at the boundary of Exmoor National Park. Minehead beach is flat and long and the promenade features cafés, bars and shops. Minehead is the starting point of the South West Coast path, the UK's longest long-distance National Trail.
Lyme Regis
Down on the south coast of Dorset Lyme Regis is one of the famous towns of the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site, famous for the amount of fossils found in the bordering cliffs. There are several beaches lining the shoreline; Monmouth beach shelves to the sea and is reasonably pebbly, whereas Front beach is long and sandy and flat. The Cobb and harbour are iconic features of the town.
Exmouth
A good place for a long sandy beach is Exmouth, located at the mouth of the river Exe the beach stretches from the estuary right round to the south coast where the water flows into the sea. From the harbour this family-friendly beach extends about 2 miles and there are plenty of facilities for everyone to make use of.
Best Pubs and Restaurants in Somerset
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