Country Breaks

Magical, charming and romantic. Escape to a world of lush foliage, gentle strolls and high teas. Some great examples include:

Hidcote Manor in the Cotswolds, 
Lanhydrock in Cornwall and 
Powderham Castle in Devon.

Thatched cottages, crumbling stone walls, ancient churches and rustic country pubs. Experience a slow, slow pace of life and take a glimpse into the England of times gone by. Try:

Cornwall,
Devon,
or the Cotswolds

The South West is wildlife enthusiast's paradise: discover Dartmoor's wild ponies in Devon; spot dolphins and seals off the Cornish Coast; see the famous starling murmurations on the Somerset Levels or spot a tiger or two in Wiltshire!

The South West is steeped in mysterious historic sites. There's Stonehenge in Wiltshire, Tintagel in Cornwall and Glastonbury Tor in Somerset to name but a few.

Enjoy some of England's most tranquil areas and darkest starry skies, don't forget to pause, look around (and above) and listen to the sounds of nature - it costs nothing and you'll feel terrific.

Fantastic countryside locations, peaceful surroundings and friendly welcoming hosts. Cartwheel offers quality farm accommodation in Cornwall, Devon, Somerset and Dorset. 

Find out more about Cartwheel

The only way to get to know our countryside is by walking through it. There are thousands upon thousands of toe paths criss-crossing the landscapes. The only traffic you might encounter is other ramblers and perhaps a few cows.

A great way to explore Cornish towns and villages is through a Treasure Trail - a fun, healthy, and educational way to get you out and about exploring, whilst solving a mystery.'

Discover Devon on foot - you'll find walks for everyone and, with its mild climate, unspoilt beauty, peace and tranquillity, Devon is the perfect place for walkers to explore.

See also The South West Coast Path

With a comprehensive network of routes, cycling enthusiasts and leisurely amateurs alike will be spoilt for choice. 

For a genteel ride try the Camel Trail in Cornwall or the Granite Way in Devon.
For something more challenging try Wiltshire's Salisbury Plain Explorer or head for the Mendip & Quantock Hills in Somerset.

Whether it's a home cooked farm breakfast, a delicious pub lunch or your own barbecue with local ingredients, you'll be surrounded by delicious locally sourced produce to help recharge your batteries. Explore farmers markets, shops and food festivals for food of quality and freshness you won't find in any supermarket.

Wining and Dining in Devon 
Food and Drink in Cornwall

The Kennet and Avon Canal runs right across Wiltshire and offers wonderful opportunities for exploring the beautiful countryside by boat.

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Discover unspoilt countryside, rugged coastline, winding green lanes and hidden villages. The area prides itself on keeping alive rural skills with events for visitors to learn traditions like dry stone walling, basket weaving and jam making.

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Cornwall boasts 12 seperate Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. These are precious landscapes whose distinctive character and natural beauty are so outstanding that it is in the nation's interest to protect them. Including Bodmin Moor, the Lizard Peninsula and the Helford River.

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England's highest clifftops, the open skylines of moors and tors, cool, clear streams and picturesque villages make these National Parks perfect for escaping from the pressures of everyday life.

More on Dartmoor 
More on Exmoor

Characterised by deep wooded valleys, open heath land and rich flora and fauna. The Quantocks are ideal for walking, cycling and horseriding.

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The village of Lacock is surely one of the most beautiful in England. Bounded by the river Avon it makes a great base for exploring the surrounding Wiltshire countryside. The village itself has beautiful cottages, a stunning Abbey and some great pubs.

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