Relaxing Devon & Somerset

On this trip we visit some of the most beautiful and scenic counties in Britain, whilst relaxing on two cruises and taking a nostalgic train journey to the coast.

Sunday: From our local departure points we journey southwest to Tiverton in Devon for our four-night stay in this picturesque county. On arrival we are welcomed with a cup of tea or coffee whilst our luggage is taken to our rooms.

Monday: This morning we head to the captivating and stylish regency resort of Sidmouth, situated on the Jurassic Coast, England’s first Natural World Heritage Site. We have some free time here before continuing to the seaside resort of Exmouth, where we take a relaxing cruise on the River Exe, with live commentary on the sights, history and wildlife of the surrounding area.

Tuesday: Today we journey to Bishop Lydeard where we can visit the Gauge Museum before enjoying a nostalgic train ride through the glorious Somerset countryside on the West Somerset Railway, the UK’s longest steam heritage railway. (Please note steam haulage is not guaranteed) On arrival at the coastal resort of Minehead we leave the train at the seafront station, there will be time at leisure here before returning to our hotel. Our return journey takes us via the delightful Exmoor National Park. Its large areas of open moorland provide a sense of remoteness and tranquility rare in southern Britain.

Wednesday: We have a leisurely morning to explore Tiverton before joining our barge and watching the world go by very peacefully, as we glide along the idyllic Grand Western Canal on the last horse drawn barge trip in the South West - a little bit of ‘heaven’ in Devon!

Thursday: After breakfast this morning, we collect our things together and start our journey home to East Anglia making appropriate stops on route.