Guide to Somerset for Luxury Self-Catering Breaks

Overview of What Somerset Offers for Luxury Self-Catering Holidays

Somerset is home to some of England's best hidden gems and popular places to visit for luxury cottage breaks such as Bath, Western-Super-Mare, Minehead and Glastonbury. Set in the heart of the West Country, Somerset is a wonderful destination for a luxurious self-catering holiday because of its tremendous coastline, epic seaside resorts, stunning countryside and beautiful historic attractions. Described as the Jewel of the South West' Somerset hosts a variety of fantastic places to visit as well as a huge selection of available activities for you to get stuck into and enjoy. Marvel at the Exmoor ponies, pretend you are king of the Castle at Dunster and go fossil hunting on Kilve Beach, whatever you choose there should be something to please everyone. Similarly when it comes to self-catering accommodation, whether you have in mind a luxury chalet, a luxurious cottage or a large country house we hope you find something that meets your needs.

Luxury self-catering cottages in Somerset

Top Tips on Quality Food and Dining Out in Somerset

Good quality, tasty, local foods can be found in Somerset, the Land of the summer people' is famous for its fruits and has been for centuries. Its most famous produce however includes its apples, cider and cheddar cheese but there is so much wonderful food produced here that you may have a tough time deciding what tastes best. You can also get your hands on some beautiful Exmoor lamb, smoked eels or Cheddar strawberries all of which should be part of your holiday food shop when you arrive at your cottage. Visit a local farmers' market to make sure that you're getting the best of the best as you purchase your products directly from the people who made, grew, reared or baked them. There are plenty to choose from all over the county and you are sure to have a great time trying before you buy.

If cooking and spending time in the kitchen is not your definition of a holiday then why not venture out to one of Somerset's fantastic restaurants. Pubs, Inns, Bistros, cafes and restaurants await your arrival in Somerset so there is no doubt that you will have plenty of choice for an evening meal. Some fine dining restaurants available include Signature Viceroy in Yeovil and Tamburino Italian Restaurant, you can also find The Prince of Wales in Ham Hill, Market Bar and Bistro and The Crown and Victoria Inn. It is always a good idea to settle down in one of the local coffee shops or cafes and enjoy a Somerset cream tea whilst you decide where to dine in the evening. Boasting home made scones, farmhouse clotted cream and Whortleberry Jam which can only be found in the Exmoor area, you wont be able to resist. Or if you prefer simply relax at home, take it easy and cook up a great dish in your own cottage kitchen.

Places of Interest and Tourist Attractions to Discover on Luxury Cottage Breaks in Somerset

After you have re-fuelled and re-stocked the energy levels it's time to get out and about whilst enjoying a luxury cottage stay in Somerset. Enjoy what Somerset has to offer, which may mean delving into the past, admiring some beautiful fauna and flora or learning something new in a local museum. Dunster Castle is an obvious choice if you're looking to investigate the past and the heritage of Somerset. You can also enjoy Wookey Hole Caves and Papermill, South Cadbury Hill Fort, Farleigh Hungerford Castle and visit Cheddar, the Cheddar Caves and gorge. If you would like to leave Somerset with slightly more knowledge than when you arrived then maybe Montacute TV Radio and Toy Museum, Weston-Super-Mare Museum and the Fleet Air Arm Museum will interest you. On the other hand, gardening and outdoor enthusiasts may like to visit somewhere like Chalice Well, Tintinhull Garden or Hestercombe Gardens.

If you're looking to find some places to visit on your luxury self-catering break which will keep the whole family occupied and happy then you may wish to visit the Seaquarium, Exmoor Pony Centre, Longleat Safari and Adventure Park or Noah's Ark Zoo Farm. There is also Cleeve Abbey, Cheddar Caves and Gorge or the Yeovil Railway Centre which are suitable for children.

Recommended Activities to Enjoy on a Luxury Cottage Holifday in Somerset

If however you want to spend your holiday in Somerset getting to know the area and exploring the great outdoors then there are plenty of outdoor pursuits, sports and activities for you to enjoy and get the best out of the West Country. Activities such as horse riding, cycling, walking, and fishing are some of the most popular in Somerset as they get you out and about taking in the fresh air and amazing landscapes. There are also opportunities to play a game of golf, take a refreshing yet fun dip at a local swimming pool or for the more thrill seeking holiday makers there are even water sports, a Ribcraft ride or scuba diving for you to enjoy.

When it comes down to it if none of the above take your fancy then there are always the beaches to enjoy. Some people book luxury cottage breaks in Somerset for the beaches alone. Enjoy spending time on beaches such as Blue Anchor Bay situated in a quiet coastal location with a long sandy beach ideal for anglers, walkers or horse riding, also Cleevedon which is a victorian seaside town of unspoiled charm. Burham-on-sea, Weston-Super-Mare and Minehead are also options for a great day on the beach with all the seaside charm you could need.

Add an extra touch of luxury...

Adding a touch more luxury to your cottage holiday couldn't be easier in Somerset with opportunities to take a relaxing hot air balloon ride through the stunning blue skies, viewing the county from a bird's eye view. You could also rent a classic car for your stay so that you can cruise around Somerset in style. Finally if you wanted to go all out why not take a helicopter tour of the county and surrounding area and experience a one of a kind view of England's West Country? You may even be able to fly from Somerset to the beautiful Lundy Island for an even more unique experience.

More Places of Interest and Tourist Attractions in Somerset:

There are numerous places to visit and things to do in Somerset. Your greatest challenge on your luxurious self-catering break may be deciding how to spend you time. Some of Somerset's tourist attractions include Clarks Village, Somerset Rural Life Museum, The Museum of Somerset, Oakham Treasures, North Devon Hawk walks, Court Farm Country Park, Red Stags Safari, Burcott Mill, Barrington Court, Gants Mill and Garden, Castle Neroche, Dolebury Warren Hill Fort and Brent Knoll Hill Fort.

Whether you rent a cottage for two or a large country house for a large group we trust that you will enjoy all that Somerset has to offer and hope you have a fabulous time.

More beautiful Somerset countryside