South West England attractions

Housed in an elegant 19th-century building that was originally a library, Bath's Victoria Art Gallery showcases a stellar collection of paintings, sculptures, decorative arts, and ceramics, dating from the 15th century until modern times. Highlights include a Tudor portrait of Henry VIII and the Lichfield Clock, an intricate musical clock.

Henrietta Park, a charming nature spot near the center of Bath, was opened to mark Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee. Spanning 7 acres (3 hectares), it offers a serene escape with its scented roses, winding paths, and garden that honors King George V. This picturesque park is ideal for a peaceful stroll and a tranquil escape from a day of exploring.

For millennia, Bath’s mineral waters have been reputed for their healing powers, and the grand Royal Mineral Water Hospital building—known locally as “the Min”—reflects that long-standing medical history. A listed landmark in the heart of Bath’s UNESCO-listed center, the building is no longer used as a hospital, and is now being redeveloped into a luxury hotel.

A top shopping destination and one of Bath’s most iconic streets, Milsom Street is renowned for its Georgian architecture, luxury boutiques, and independent stores. Visitors flock here to see charming courtyards, indulge in some retail therapy, and enjoy the vibrant café scene. It’s the perfect spot to eat, drink, and shop to your heart’s content in a picturesque setting.

Torquay’s Babbacombe Model Village is a fun and charming destination that’s suitable for the whole family. It's a representation of English village life in miniature—complete with cottages, gardens, and transport—alongside well-known landmarks such as Stonehenge and Windsor Castle. With more than 400 models and approximately 13,000 miniature people, there’s plenty to see here.

The home of Bath Rugby since 1894, Bath’s Recreation Ground—known locally as “the Rec”—is considered one of the country’s most idyllic rugby grounds. Located right in the city center along the banks of the River Avon, it’s also a publicly accessible green space, and is used for other sporting events, festivals, concerts, and more.

A must-see for fans of Jane Austen, this elegant public park—known as a “pleasure garden”—opened back in 1795 and encapsulates the Georgian style for which Bath is known. With tranquil paths and elegant views overlooking the Kennet and Avon Canal, it is easy to imagine Austen heroines like Anne Elliot or Catherine Morland having a stroll here.

Active Reality is a futuristic virtual reality gaming world in Bath that works well as a rainy-day activity. Here, visitors can use advanced technology to participate in multi-player games in the virtual world. As a player, you can run, walk, and jump while immersed in a world where you battle zombies and robots—a fun option for groups visiting Bath.

Part of a well-known chain of British seaside resorts founded in the 1930s, Butlin’s Minehead offers all-inclusive family vacations and easy access to both the beach and to Exmoor National Park. The resort also provides an assortment of entertainment offerings—from a traditional fairground to live shows—and has ample dining facilities.

More than 250 birds of prey—representing about 75 different species—can be found at this long-standing bird of prey center, which has been in operation since 1967. Walk through the center’s gardens, peer into aviaries, and observe flying demonstrations during which staff educate visitors on the behaviors and habits of raptors.

Since 1964, Somerset’s Fleet Air Arm Museum has immersed guests in the history of British naval aviation. Four main exhibition spaces showcase a range of historic aircraft, while interactive displays provide plenty for visitors of all ages to see and do—including an award-winning aircraft carrier experience and an outdoor play area.

Active Reality is a futuristic virtual reality gaming world in Bath that works well as a rainy-day activity. Here, visitors can use advanced technology to participate in multi-player games in the virtual world. As a player, you can run, walk, and jump while immersed in a world where you battle zombies and robots—a fun option for groups visiting Bath.