Located in the southwest of England, the county of Somerset is renowned for its its vast array of landscapes; from the dramatic coastline and moorlands of Exmoor National Park with its red deer and Exmoor ponies, to the sandy beaches at the seaside resort of Weston-Super-Mare. Surrounded by lush rolling hills, the jewel in the crown of Somerset is Bath — the only city designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in England. Extravagant Georgian architecture stands side by side with the ruins of the Roman Baths and Temple. Further south from Bath lies the glorious Wells Cathedral with its scissor arches and the Bishop’s Palace, while close by is the mystical town of Glastonbury, where legends of King Arthur abound.

The fertile agricultural land in the area produces some of nature’s finest ingredients, from mouth-watering strawberries to delicious cheddar cheese, which you can wash down with a local apple cider. Music lovers are drawn to the annual music festival near Glastonbury that features some of the biggest artists in the world.

Although there are no major international airports in Somerset itself, you can easily access the county from Bristol Airport (BRS), Exeter Airport (EXT), and Cardiff Airport (CWL). The area boasts an extensive railway network, with high-speed trains from Bath into the centre of London taking as little as one hour and 15 minutes. So, if you are flying into Heathrow Airport (LHR), you will be able to get to holiday cottages in Somerset quickly and easily. National coach providers offer services between major towns and cities in the area, while local bus operators enable you to visit smaller villages. If you are looking for somewhere off the beaten track, such as parts of Exmoor National Park, renting a car may be a more useful option.

On chillier days during the winter months, trips to famous cities and attractions, like Bath and Wells Cathedral, are more relaxed with fewer fellow visitors. Just be prepared with warm layers and a trusty umbrella for potential downpours. As the weather warms up in the summer and the days get longer, do as the locals do and head to nearby beaches, including Weston-Super-Mare. Alternatively, take a walk along the South West Coast Path to witness the area’s dramatic scenery. The summer months are also the best time to taste local produce, including strawberries and scrumpy cider. Major events in the area include the annual music festival — which normally takes place at the end of June at Worthy Farm — and festive Bath Christmas Market in November and December.

West Somerset Heritage Railway

Travel to a bygone era in a carriage pulled by a steam engine on the West Somerset Heritage Railway. Its 20-mile stretch makes it one of the longest heritage railways in the country. Sit back and relax on the journey from Bishops Lydeard by the Quantock Hills through the countryside, with views over to Exmoor before arriving at the coastal town of Minehead.

Mendip Hills

The Mendip Hills are one of 46 Areas of Outstanding National Beauty in the United Kingdom. The Mendips are formed by dramatic limestone hills and studded with verdant woodland, fields, and streams. Striking gorges include Cheddar Gorge that has a road passing right through it, where you can look out for goats and Soay sheep up high. The area also boasts an impressive cavern system, the most famous being the Wookey Hole Caves, which are open to visitors.

Fleet Air Museum

Aviation has a proud tradition in the southwest of England and the Fleet Air Arm is responsible for aviation within the Royal Navy. Walk among the largest collection of aircraft from the Royal Navy anywhere in the country, listen to personal accounts, and learn about the theory of flight.