South West England'sMost Underrated Holiday Destinations

North Devon

Exmoor National Park – Wild Moorland without the crowds..

Exmoor offers a mix of dramatic moorland and wooded valleys that drop straight into the Bristol Channel. It is Europe’s first International Dark Sky Reserve, making it a dream for stargazers be sure to check out the Exmoor Dark Skies Festival running from October 16 – November 1, 2026. Why not stay in the heart of Exmoor at Lynmouth Holiday Retreat with sweeping sea views surrounded by wildlife.

Places to visit nearby:

• Valley of Rocks: dramatic cliffs and wild goats
• Tarr Steps: ancient clapper bridge over the River Barle
• Watersmeet: scenic river confluence with woodland trails

Tamar Valley

Tamar Valley – Lush Valley and Mining Heritage.

The Tamar Valley is a lush escape straddling the Devon and Cornwall border. It is known for its rolling countryside and deep mining history, now part of a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is the perfect spot for travellers who want to experience the “real” South West away from the coastline. Find your perfect Dog friendly cottage or hot tub lodge with panoramic views overlooking the Tamar Valley…

Must-see spots:

• Morwellham Quay: historic mining port and open-air museum
• Cotehele Estate & Gardens: Tudor house and gardens by the River Tamar
• Tamar Trails: network of walking and cycling paths through rolling hills

North Devon

Lynmouth & Lynton – Cliffside Towns at Exmoor’s Edge

These twin towns are famously linked by a Victorian water-powered cliff railway. Lynmouth sits at sea level while Lynton is perched 500 feet above, offering incredible views. It is a peaceful base for couples who love independent shops and quiet evenings. You can enjoy stunning coastal cliff paths or wander the East Lyn River to Watersmeet. For a luxury stay with sea views, check out Lynmouth Holiday Retreat for Camping & Glamping, or discover their Stargazer Geo-domes and hot tub accommodations…

Local highlights:

• Lynton & Lynmouth Cliff Railway: unique water-powered funicular
• East Lyn River Walks: peaceful trails through wooded valleys
• Valley of Rocks: nearby dramatic coastal landscape

Dorset

Kimmeridge Bay & Chapman’s Pool, Dorset – Jurassic Coast Without the Tour Buses

While Durdle Door is packed, Kimmeridge Bay offers world-class fossils and rock pools with a fraction of the visitors. Nearby, Chapman’s Pool feels even wilder and more remote. Reaching this horseshoe-shaped cove requires a steep hike, which naturally filters out the crowds and rewards you with total peace. Just a few miles from Kimmeridge Bay, you’ll find Downshay Farm, a beautifully maintained campsite set on a working farm – an ideal base for your trip.

Nearby attractions:

• Kimmeridge Bay Fossil Walks: explore rich Jurassic Coast geology
• Etches Collection Museum: unique fossil collection in Kimmeridge
• Chapman’s Pool: secluded cove with dramatic cliffs and sandy spots

Dorset

Brownsea Island, Dorset – Wildlife Haven in the Middle of Poole Harbour

A quick boat ride from Poole brings you to this National Trust island, one of the last homes for native red squirrels in the south. The island features 90 acres of woodland and lagoon habitats. It is a fantastic day trip for birdwatching or quiet circular walks. Remember to check the ferry times, as the island is a seasonal sanctuary. For a unique experience getting you back to nature – why not pitch up at Brownsea Island Campsite and stay a while.

Points of interest:

• The Lookout Wildlife Observatory: spot kingfishers, common and Sandwich terns, and oystercatchers
• Red Squirrel Trails: rare native species in their natural habitat
• Brownsea Castle: historic fort with spectacular views across Poole Harbour

North Devon

Saunton Sands, North Devon – Three Miles of Golden Sand and Dunes

Most people race toward Croyde, leaving Saunton Sands surprisingly empty. This massive beach is backed by the Braunton Burrows dune system, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. It is perfect for long low-tide walks, beginner surfing, or simply watching an Atlantic sunset without the amusement arcade noise. This is also one of the best dog-friendly beaches in the region.

Local attractions:

• Braunton Burrows: extensive dune system and outstanding natural beauty
• Saunton Golf Club: classic links course with stunning coastal views
• North Devon Coast Path: scenic walking trail along the west coast

Cornwall

The Rame Peninsula, Cornwall – Cornwall’s ‘Forgotten Corner’

The Rame Peninsula remains tucked away from the usual Cornish tourist trail. It combines the pastel-colored twin villages of Kingsand and Cawsand with the rugged beauty of Whitsand Bay. The narrow lanes keep big traffic away, preserving a residential, local feel. You can hike to the Rame Head chapel for sweeping sea views or explore the woodland gardens at Mount Edgcumbe.

Highlights to explore:

• Kingsand & Cawsand: charming fishing villages with cobbled streets
• Rame Head Chapel: historic chapel with spectacular views of the south coast
• Mount Edgcumbe Country Park: gardens and woodland with views over the English Channel

Cornwall

Carn Euny, Cornwall – Ancient Settlement on a Quiet Cornish Hillside

Carn Euny in the beating heart of Cornwall offers a sense of private discovery that busy heritage sites just can’t match. This Iron Age settlement features visible stone roundhouses and a mysterious underground “fogou” passage. There are no gift shops or cafes here, just a south-facing slope and silence. It is an amazing place to linger with a picnic and imagine life in Cornwall over two thousand years ago. *photo credit > Cornwall Heritage Trust  

Nearby points of interest:

• Chapel Carn Brea: Cornwall’s northernmost point with panoramic views
• Tredinney Common: tranquil heathland perfect for nature walks
• St Euny’s Holy Well: historic site near the ancient settlement

Somerset

The Strawberry Line, Somerset – Cider Orchards and Old Railway Tunnels

This traffic-free trail runs for 16km through Somerset’s beautiful cider country. Named after the trains that once carried strawberries to market, the path is flat and perfect for cycling. You will pass through wooded cuttings and wetlands teeming with wildlife including otters, owls, bats, and butterflies. Stop at the community-run cafe in Yatton or explore the apple orchards that make this region so famous. *Photo credit > Walk Wheel Cycle Trust

Key stops along the route:

• Strawberry Line Café, Yatton: community-run spot in a restored Victorian waiting room
• Mendip Hills: rolling countryside with outstanding natural beauty
• Cheddar Gorge: dramatic limestone gorge with caves and cliff walks nearby

Devon

Branscombe, Devon – Thatched Cottages and a Peaceful Jurassic Coast Beach

Branscombe is a classic Devon village with flint cottages and a valley that leads down to a shingle beach. While nearby towns get busy, Branscombe remains a calm sanctuary for rockpooling and coastal walks. You can hike the cliff path to Beer for incredible views or visit the historic working mill. Note that Manor Mill has specific seasonal hours in 2026, often resting on Mondays and Tuesdays.

Local gems:

• Branscombe Beach: quiet shingle beach with stunning Jurassic Coast views
• Branscombe Mill: historic watermill open to visitors
• South West Coast Path: scenic cliff walk towards Beer and beyond

Cornwall

Portwrinkle, Cornwall – Secluded Beaches and Stunning Sunsets

Portwrinkle is a small, often overlooked coastal village that offers a peaceful retreat with beautiful sandy beaches and dramatic sea views. Unlike busier Cornish towns, Portwrinkle retains a tranquil charm perfect for quiet walks, rock pooling, and watching spectacular sunsets over the Atlantic. The village’s friendly local pub, The Finnygook Inn, serves fresh seafood and local ales, making it an ideal spot to unwind after a day by the sea.

Local highlights:

• Portwrinkle Beach: a quiet sandy beach ideal for families and nature lovers
• Coastal Walks: scenic trails along the South West Coast Path with breathtaking views
• The Finnygook Inn: Traditional Cornish pub at the top of the hill known for fresh seafood and very welcoming atmosphere

Somerset

Brean & Burnham-on-Sea, Somerset – Classic Seaside Charm

Brean and Burnham-on-Sea are quintessential British seaside towns known for their expansive sandy beaches and the iconic Low Lighthouse that stands as a local landmark. These towns offer a laid-back atmosphere perfect for families and couples seeking a traditional coastal experience.

What to explore and enjoy:

• Low Lighthouse: a unique, short lighthouse standing on the wide sands
• Brean Beach: miles of golden sand perfect for sunbathing and beach games
• Burnham-on-Sea Pier: a peaceful spot for fishing and strolling

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful day trip or a longer staycation, Brean and Burnham-on-Sea provide all the charm of a classic British seaside escape. Discover Coastal holiday caravans available to own for a perfect seaside retreat.