Minehead

Minehead does not have the most romantic of names it has to be said.  However, this is where the vast expanse of Exmoor runs down to the sea and so the name does not do it justice. Here you have the best of both worlds – the breathtaking coastline for those who favour the sand and sea and the miles and miles of unspoilt countryside of Exmoor National Park for those who love to be close to nature. The town of Minehead offers everything you could want from a traditional seaside resort; the promenade is long and perfect for a relaxing walk and the beach is sandy and inviting. Around the harbour area the beach is pebbled and offers views right out across to Wales and the Bristol Channel.

Things to See and Do

This is a part of the country that is very popular with walkers. It also marks the start of the South West Coastal Path which leaves the quayside at Minehead and works its way along the coast across to the seaside town of Poole. The start of the walk is easy to spot as it is marked by a pair of sculpted hands holding onto a map. As with any seaside resort there are plenty of cafes and bars and wonderful seafood restaurants to sample.

The National Park begins at North Hill, the broad expanse of the sloping landscape dominating the views. Access to the park can be gained with just a short walk from the centre of the town and before you know it you are in open countryside sharing the space with the Exmoor ponies and red deer that live here. Step about a steam train run by the West Somerset Railway and relive the golden age of steam as you soak up the wonderful views of both park and coast. The kids will enjoy touring the lifeboat station and learning about the rescues that have been carried out off the coast here.

Places to Visit

Make a point of wandering the trails through the park and explore this unique expanse of untamed nature. Enjoy the surroundings of Blenheim Gardens, or simply spend time on the beach with the kids. If the children are craving a little more excitement spend the day at the Butlins Holiday Camp and let them enjoy all of the facilities of the holiday park such as swimming pools and water slides as well as amusement areas and entertainments. The Minehead holiday park is the largest in Europe and has plenty of activities to keep the whole family entertained.

Sample the very best in local produce at the fabulous farmers’ market which is held every Friday, and get a real taste of the region. Minehead enjoys the largest stretch of coastal walkway anywhere in the UK, stretching twenty five miles and connecting several existing trails along the way. There is something about Exmoor that draws people from all over the world, so as you can imagine Minehead has developed to meet the needs of these visitors, making it a great place for all the family to visit.