There’s no need to wait till the summer for a well-deserved holiday. Take a trip to one of our neighbouring counties and make the most of the spring sunshine at one of these bucolic destinations, less than hour's drive away from Bristol. All you have to do is pack up the car and go – we promise you won’t be disappointed!
We really are spoilt for choice when it comes to spectacular natural beauty in the South West and you could do worse than spend the weekend ensconced in the beautiful rolling green hills of the Mendips, which stretch from Weston Down to Wells. Pack your tent and take your pick from one of the many excellent campsites, and enjoy an open fire and some countryside stargazing.
Stewart Black via Flickr
Carry on a little further from Bristol and discover the truly breathtaking Blackdown Hills, a designated area of outstanding natural beauty which stretches across the Somerset/Devon border. Pitch up at one of many excellent campsites in the area and get those walking boots on ready for some rambling. There are plenty of excellent country pubs to fill up on some proper grub after all that exercise, and don’t forget to pay a visit to the cider farm on your way back home.
If tents aren’t your thing, take glamping to the extreme with your own private yurt in the secluded Herefordshire countryside, sitting on the border between England and Wales. Complete with separate mini yurt kitchen and private eco-friendly shower block, it’s got everything you need for living off-grid for a weekend. This part of the world is truly stunning in the summer, and with nothing to wake you up except the mooing of the cows you can really relax and be at one with nature.
Blaentrothy Cottages
Somerset is home to some of the UK’s best camping spots, just one of which is the beautiful Batcombe Vale. Nestled in unspoilt countryside just outside of Shepton Mallet, there’s a wealth of activities on your doorstep including hiking, canoeing and fishing. You can also pay a visit to England’s smallest city Wells, just a few miles away. If that all seems like too much effort, take a stroll to discover a secret hidden glade and while away an afternoon with a good book.
Ladye Bay
If it’s beaches you’re after, forget Weston or Minehead and head for one of the South West’s most popular beaches, the beautiful Ladye Bay. Situated just a stone’s throw away from Clevedon, the sandy beach and large cliffs at the bay make it a popular spot for rock climbers, but there's plenty of fun to be had for families too. Pack a picnic and take a day trip out here for a paddle in the waters – just be careful not to get sand in your sandwiches.
Robert Cutts via Flickr