42 Best Sights in The West Country, England

Consisting of a museum, galleries, and an archive, the Box opened in 2020 as Plymouth's state-of-the-art exhibition space dedicated to all cultural and historical aspects of the city. Local themes are explored in the linked Port of Plymouth gallery and the 100 Journeys gallery, which focuses on the city's long relationship with the sea and the various voyages that began from Plymouth (including those of Sir Francis Drake, Captain Cook, and various slave-traders). Both are designed to engage visitors of all ages. More than 3,000 natural history specimens are displayed in the Mammoth gallery, while, upstairs, the Media Lab provides visual images from the past. This level is also the best place to view the 14 giant wooden ship figureheads dating from the 1800s that are suspended above the café area, each with its own story told via interactive touchscreens. The art collection, including works by artists associated with the West Country such as Sir Joshua Reynolds, Stanhope Forbes, and Barbara Hepworth, is currently dispersed throughout the museum, and there are regular temporary exhibitions upstairs and in the annex, a deconsecrated church.

A 13th-century fortress remodeled in 1868, Dunster Castle dominates the village from its site on a hill. Parkland and unusual gardens with subtropical plants surround the building, which has fine plaster ceilings, stacks of family portraits (including one by Joshua Reynolds), 17th-century Dutch leather hangings, and a magnificent 17th-century oak staircase. The climb to the castle from the parking lot is steep. The riverside wooded garden below the castle leads to an 18th-century working watermill with three floors of traditional machinery—milling usually takes place on Wednesday. Operas and other outdoor events are staged in the castle's grounds in summer.

Spectacularly set in a former china-clay pit, this garden presents the world's major plant systems in microcosm, with more than 70,000 plants—many of them rare or endangered species—from three climate zones. Plants from the temperate zone are outdoors, and those from other zones are housed in hexagonally paneled geodesic domes. In the Mediterranean Biome, olive and citrus groves mix with cacti and warm-climate vegetation. The Rainforest Biome steams with heat, resounds to the gushing of a waterfall, and blooms with exotic flora. For a monkey's-eye view of it all, follow the elevated Canopy Walkway.

The emphasis is on conservation and ecology but is free of any editorializing. Stop at the exhibition in the visitor center for an entertaining introduction to the whole project, and leave time to visit The Core, where the permanent Invisible Worlds exhibition features giant sculptures and other eye-popping wonders that illustrate the invisible forces that shape us and our world—a favorite with children, if you can drag them away from such attractions as England's fastest zip line and the giant swing (both with separate, pricey fees). Visitors with mobility issues can request transportation from the entrance to the bottom of the site on a golf buggy, and there is an elevator. Tickets, which must be bought online for a specific time, are valid for a year.

There are open-air concerts in summer and an ice-skating rink in winter. The Eden Project is 3 miles northeast of Charleston and 5 miles northwest of Fowey. There's frequent bus service from Fowey to St. Austell and from St. Austell train station to Eden. Visitors arriving on foot, by bike, or on public transport can claim a free Eden Guide on presentation of a bus and/or train ticket or bike helmet (one guide per party).

In a refurbished transit shed on the harborside, this museum is dedicated to the city's history. The collection comprises three main galleries—Bristol People, Bristol Places, and Bristol Life—that focus on everything from the slave trade to scientific inventions to recent cultural innovations associated with the city. Check out the artifacts, photos, and sound and video recordings of and by Bristolians, all jazzed up with interactive technology. Don't forget to take in the magnificent harbor views from the top-floor terrace.

At the end of its own peninsula stands this formidable castle, built by Henry VIII in the 1540s and improved by his daughter Elizabeth I. You can explore the defenses developed over the centuries. In the Royal Artillery Barracks, the Pendennis Unlocked exhibit explores the castle's history and its connection to Cornwall and England. The castle has sweeping views over the English Channel and across to St. Mawes Castle, designed as a companion fortress to guard the roads. Check the website for costumed jousts, tournaments, and other scheduled events.

The centerpiece of this family-friendly museum, housed in a refurbished Victorian building, is the Making History gallery, a giddy mix of objects imaginatively illustrating the city's history and covering everything from Roman pottery to World War II memorabilia. The geology section is thrillingly enhanced by the latest video technology, and there are also excellent ethnography and archaeological collections, natural-history displays, and works by West Country artists.

Occupying a Victorian farmhouse and a 14th-century abbey tithe barn, this museum tells the story of life in Somerset throughout the ages. Exhibits in the six galleries illustrate 19th-century farming practices and daily life using sound recordings and projections as well as an array of tools and domestic objects. The barn, more than 90 feet long, once stored the one-tenth portion of the town's produce that was owed to the church and now holds exhibitions. Soups and crusty sandwiches are available at the Grain Store Café, which has tables in the yard. The grounds also contain an apple cider orchard, as well as a scenic footpath up to the Tor, which is ½-mile east.

On view in the harbor is the first iron ship to cross the Atlantic. Built by the great English engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel in 1843, it remained in service until 1970, first as a transatlantic liner and ultimately as a coal storage hulk. Everything from the bakery to the officers' quarters comes complete with sounds and smells of the time, and there are even shadowy glimpses of rats in the galley. You can try on typical garments of the time, descend into the ship's dry dock for a view of the hull and propeller, and climb the ship's rigging (daily between April and October and during school vacations, or weekends at other times; £12).

Your entry ticket also admits you to the Dockyard Museum, an engrossing overview of the ship's history, and to Being Brunel, a separate exhibition dedicated to the life of Isambard Brunel. A short walk east along the harborside from here will bring you to a replica of the Matthew, the tiny craft that carried John Cabot to North America in 1497, moored here when it is not cruising up and down the river or sailing on the high seas. Standard tickets are valid for one year.

Although all that remains of the ruined cliff-top Tintagel Castle, legendary birthplace of King Arthur, is the outline of its walls, moats, and towers, it requires only a bit of imagination to conjure up a picture of Sir Lancelot and Sir Galahad riding out in search of the Holy Grail over the narrow causeway above the seething breakers. Archaeological evidence, however, suggests that the castle dates from much later—about 1150, when it was the stronghold of the earls of Cornwall. Long before that, Romans may have occupied the site. The earliest identified remains here are of Celtic (5th century AD) origin, and these may have some connection with the legendary Arthur.

Legends aside, nothing can detract from the castle ruins, dramatically set off by the wild, windswept Cornish coast, on an island joined to the mainland by a narrow isthmus, where paths lead down to the pebble beach and a cavern known as Merlin's Cave. Although a modern, elegant footbridge makes it easy enough to access Tintagel Castle from the mainland, exploring the site might still involve clambering over uneven surfaces and rocky terrain. Even on a summer's day, when people swarm over the battlements and a westerly Atlantic wind sweeps through Tintagel, you can feel the proximity of the distant past. Book ahead to guarantee a time slot and discounted ticket prices.

Torquay's chief attraction is Torre Abbey, surrounded by parkland but close to the seafront. The abbey itself, founded in 1196, was razed in 1539, though you can still see traces of the old construction. The mansion that now occupies the site was the home of the Cary family for nearly 300 years. It was later converted into a museum and art gallery, and the main building contains such artistic riches as Victorian sculptures, maritime paintings, Pre-Raphaelite window designs, and drawings by William Blake. There are plenty of family-friendly activities, including brass-rubbing. There's also a good café in the Spanish Barn.

Every ornate detail commands attention at this extravagant, magnificently restored, 35-bedroom, Victorian–Gothic Revival mansion. In addition to splendid woodwork, stained glass, tiles, and original furniture and fabrics, the house contains the modern conveniences of the 1860s, such as a heated billiards table. The servants' quarters are equally absorbing. There's a restaurant and family play area, too. 

You can see the house, garden, and chapel at your own pace, or join a free tour of the gardens and grounds (11 am and 2 pm; no booking required). Arrive early in the day or in the early afternoon on weekdays to avoid the crowds—Monday and Tuesday are the quietest days. Tyntesfield is 7 miles southwest of Bristol; the daily bus service X6 is the most convenient public transport from the city. The house is a 15-minute walk from the bus stop.

One of the country's top family-friendly science centers provides a "hands-on, minds-on" multimedia exploration of science and technology in more than 200 interactive exhibits and activities spread over two floors. All About Us is dedicated to the inner workings of the human body, Animate It allows you to create your own animations, and a 3-D planetarium in a gleaming stainless-steel sphere takes you on a 30-minute voyage through the galaxy (bookable when you buy your ticket). It's all as instructive as it is entertaining. Allow at least three hours to see everything. Discounted late entry tickets are also available (after 3 pm).

Worked from Roman times until 1900, this quarry has an impressive underground network of caves that make for an interesting hour-long tour. A small exhibition includes tools and examples of carved stone. Reservations are advisable at peak times.

In the sleepy village of Berkeley (pronounced bark-ley), this castle is perfectly preserved, down to its medieval turrets, and full of family treasures. It witnessed the murder of King Edward II in 1327—the cell in which it occurred can still be seen. Edward was betrayed by his French consort, Queen Isabella, and her paramour, the Earl of Mortimer. Roger De Berkeley, a Norman knight, began work on the castle in 1153, and it has remained in the family ever since. Magnificent furniture, tapestries, and pictures fill the state apartments, but even the ancient buttery and kitchen are interesting. Guided tours are available daily (book on arrival), and summer sees a program of events for all ages, including jousting, archery sessions, Tudor dancing, and theater. The castle is 20 miles north of Bristol, accessed from M5.

Located on Start Bay, this privately managed beach sits at the edge of an extraordinary natural setting of meadows and forest. It's favored for its clear water and long, wide stretch of shingle. Popular with families, the beach is big enough that you can always find a quiet stretch. Take A379 south of Dartmouth and look for signs. Amenities: food and drink; lifeguards; parking (fee); showers, toilets; water sports. Best for: swimming.

One of the country's most famous zoos has been reimagined and shifted 6 miles north from its longtime base in Clifton to a 136-acre site just outside the city. The emphasis is on conservation and education, with nearly 80 percent of the animals threatened and part of targeted conservation programs. Highlights include giraffes, zebras, lemurs, red pandas, and brown bears, which can be viewed from a raised walkway trailing through the Bear Wood. You'll also be able to see black rhinos, red-necked ostriches, and cheetahs roaming around such habitats as Central African Forest. Non-animal-related attractions include climbing walls and adventure playgrounds, and there are talks scheduled several times a day. Take buses 1 or 2 from Temple Meads Station or the city center, then walk 15 minutes.

At the southern point of Torbay, Brixham has kept much of its original charm, partly because it still has an active fishing harbor. Much of the catch goes straight to restaurants as far away as London. Sample fish-and-chips on the quayside, where there's a (surprisingly petite) full-scale reproduction of the vessel on which Sir Francis Drake circumnavigated the world from 1577–1580. There's also a statue of the Dutch William of Orange, who landed here with an army in 1688 to set in motion what became known as "The Glorious Revolution," eventually becoming King William III. The village is 8½ miles south of Torquay via A379 and A3022 and 10 miles southeast of Totnes via A385 and A3022.

Although this castle northeast of Chagford looks like a stout medieval fortress, complete with battlements, it was actually built between 1911 and 1931. Designed by noted architect Sir Edwin Lutyens for Julius Drewe, a wealthy grocer, and constructed entirely of local granite, the castle combines medieval grandeur with early-20th-century comforts and includes a collection of Flemish and French tapestries—most notably one made for Louis XIV. There are fantastic views over Dartmoor's Teign Valley, and the grounds are well worth a prolonged wander, with paths leading down to the river at Fingle Bridge. Open-air theater and other events are occasionally held here in summer. Turn off the A30 Exeter–Okehampton road at Whiddon Down to reach the castle.

A monument to Victorian engineering, this 702-foot-long bridge spans the Avon Gorge. Work began on Isambard Kingdom Brunel's design in 1831, but the bridge wasn't completed until 1864. Guided tours lasting up to one hour take place on weekends and bank holidays at 2, departing from the tollbooth at the Clifton end of the bridge; call or consult the website for monthly tours of the Underground Vaults. At the far end of the bridge, the Clifton Suspension Bridge Visitor Centre has an engaging exhibition on the bridge and its construction, including a range of videos and hands-on experiences. Near the bridge lies Clifton Village, studded with cafés, boutiques, antiques shops, and smart crafts shops in its lanes and squares. Bus No. 8 from Bristol Temple Meads Station and the city center stops in Clifton Village.

Dating from the 14th century, this well-preserved fortification a mile downriver was once equipped with a massive chain attached to the Dart's opposite bank to protect the town from sea raiders. Five hundred years later it was the site of a gun battery, dramatically illustrated in a sound and light display. It's a pleasant riverside walk from Dartmouth's center, or take one of the frequent boats leaving from Dartmouth's quay.

These lovingly restored trains chug along on tracks beside the River Dart between Paignton and Kingswear (across the river from Dartmouth). You can combine a train ride with a river excursion between Dartmouth and Totnes and a bus between Totnes and Paignton or Torquay on a Round Robin ticket (£39.50). Consult the website for the sporadic winter timetable.

The winding B3306 coastal road southwest from St. Ives passes through some of Cornwall's starkest yet most beautiful countryside. Barren hills crisscrossed by low stone walls drop abruptly to granite cliffs and wide bays. Evidence of the tin-mining industry is everywhere. Now a fascinating mining heritage center, the early-20th-century Geevor Tin Mine employed 400 men, but, in 1985, the collapse of the world tin market wiped Cornwall from the mining map. Wear sturdy footwear for the surface and underground tours. A museum, shop, and café are at the site.

Fondly regarded in folklore as the lost land of Lyonesse, this compact group of more than 100 islands 30 miles southwest of Land's End is equally famed for the warm summer climate and ferocious winter storms. You can find peace, flowers—wild, cultivated, and subtropical—swarms of seabirds, and unspoiled beaches galore. There's a 2¾-hour ferry service from Penzance, a plane service from Land's End airport and other mainland airports, and a helicopter service ( www.penzancehelicopters.co.uk) from Penzance. Planes and ferries both arrive at the largest of the five inhabited islands, St. Mary's, while up to 11 helicopter flights connect Penzance with St. Mary's and Tresco. St. Mary's has the bulk of the lodgings, though the most palatial retreats are on the islands of Tresco and St. Martin's.

These sprawling grounds have something for all garden lovers, as well as an intriguing history. Begun by the Tremayne family in the late 18th century, they were rediscovered and spruced up in the early 1990s by former rock music producer Tim Smit (the force behind the Eden Project). In Victorian times the gardens displayed plants from around the British Empire. The Jungle area contains surviving plants from this era, including a lone Monterey pine, as well as giant redwood, clumps of bamboo, and a wobbly rope bridge crossing the subtropical valley. The Italian Garden and walled Flower Garden are delightful, but don't overlook the fruit and vegetable gardens or Flora's Green, bordered by a ravine. It's easy to spend half a day here. Guided tours can be arranged for groups. Travel via St. Austell to avoid confusing country lanes, then follow signs to Mevagissey.

Water and a cable system power the 862-foot cliff railway that connects these two towns. As it ascends a rocky cliff, you are treated to fine views over the harbor. Inaugurated in 1890, it was the gift of publisher George Newnes, who also donated Lynton's imposing town hall, near the top station on Lee Road.

One of the Southwest's most important contemporary arts and crafts centers is in a converted 19th-century coach house in the village of Bovey Tracey, 10 miles southeast of Chagford and 14 miles southwest of Exeter. The center has excellent exhibitions of local, national, and international crafts, as well as shops and a café.

On three floors, this interactive exhibition narrates the story of Plymouth, from its beginnings as a fishing and trading port to the modern industrial city it is today. Along the way, you'll take in the stories of various expeditions that embarked from here to the New World, including the Mayflower itself. Great harbor views can be enjoyed from the top-floor balcony, and the city's tourist office is also in this building.

In the 19th century, Morwellham (pronounced More-wel-ham) was England's main copper-exporting port, and it has been carefully restored as a working museum, with quay workers and coachmen in costume. Visitors can board a special train that goes along the River Tamar and into the George and Charlotte Copper Mine. Fairs and other special events take place throughout the year. The site lies 2 miles east of Cotehele House and 5 miles southwest of Tavistock.

The three floors of this informative museum contain historical artifacts, domestic knickknacks, traditional agricultural and mining tools, and fascinating insights into the lives of ordinary folk living on the moor. The museum has its own (free) car park and also provides tourist information for Dartmoor and the Okehampton area.

This excellent aquarium—the U.K.'s largest—on the town's harbor presents aqueous environments, from a freshwater stream to the Great Barrier Reef and the Biozone. Don't miss the chance to walk beneath sharks in the Atlantic Ocean tank, alongside clownfish, angelfish, and cleaner wrasses in the Biozone. Feeding times are fun for the kids, and Waves Café, with its harbor views, makes a good spot for a rest and refreshment. Tickets, which are valid for one year, should be booked ahead at peak times.