Complete Guide to South West England (2025)
South West England is a region of captivating contrasts, offering everything from dramatic coastlines and moorlands to quaint villages and lively cities. Stretching from Gloucestershire and Wiltshire in the north to Cornwall in the far west, it encompasses a diverse landscape shaped by centuries of history and natural beauty. The region is known for its slower pace of life, picturesque countryside, and a coastline that draws walkers, surfers, and beachgoers alike. The South West is also steeped in myth and legend, from King Arthur’s Glastonbury to the smugglers’ coves of Devon and Cornwall.
Culturally rich and proudly regional, South West England showcases a strong local identity expressed through dialects, traditions, and food. Towns like Bath and Salisbury offer elegant architecture and Roman or medieval heritage, while smaller places such as Totnes and St Ives celebrate independent arts and crafts. The food scene is defined by local produce: think Cornish pasties, Somerset cider, fresh seafood, and world-class cheeses. Farmers’ markets and coastal eateries offer authentic tastes of the region, often served with stunning views.
The region is also a magnet for outdoor adventure. Dartmoor and Exmoor provide wild, open landscapes ideal for hiking and horse riding, while the Jurassic Coast is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with spectacular cliffs and fossil-laden beaches. Whether you’re exploring ancient stone circles in Wiltshire, enjoying the surf in Newquay, or relaxing in a Cornish fishing village, the South West offers a timeless charm and variety that appeals to nature lovers, history buffs, and holidaymakers alike.
Table of Contents
- Cities of South West England
- History of South West England
- South West England in Prehistoric and Roman Times
- South West England in the Saxon and Medieval Period
- South West England in the Early Modern Period
- South West England in the Industrial and Victorian Eras
- South West England in the 20th Century and Beyond
- Cities of South West England
- Best Time to Visit South West England
- South West England in Spring
- South West England in Summer (Best)
- South West England in Autumn
- South West England in Winter
- How to get to South West England
- Getting to South West England by air
- Getting to South West England by train
- Getting to South West England by car
- Travelling around South West England
- Festivals in South West England
Cities of South West England
Exeter
Exeter, located in the heart of Devon, offers a rewarding mix of city life and countryside charm. With its compact city centre, you can explore charming streets lined with independent shops, lively cafés, and a thriving arts scene. The city’s impressive cathedral is a highlight, surrounded by green spaces perfect for relaxing, especially in warmer months. Visitors will find Exeter welcoming and walkable, making it easy to enjoy its character at a relaxed pace.
The city sits close to the River Exe, and the historic quayside is one of Exeter’s most scenic spots. Here, you can hire a bike or kayak, browse antique shops, or simply enjoy the waterside pubs and restaurants. A short walk from the centre brings you to quiet paths along the Exeter Ship Canal, ideal for a peaceful afternoon. The quayside is also known for local markets and live events throughout the year.
Thanks to its location in the southwest, Exeter serves as a brilliant base for exploring Devon. The nearby countryside and coastlines, including Dartmoor National Park and the Jurassic Coast, are all within easy reach. Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures, cultural activities, or simply soaking up the atmosphere of a well-kept English city, Exeter offers a little bit of everything in a picturesque setting.
View our Exeter Guide
Gloucester
Visiting Gloucester offers a charming blend of urban culture and scenic surroundings in the heart of the South West England region. The city’s compact centre is easy to explore on foot, with a variety of shops, cafes, and markets creating a lively atmosphere. Visitors often enjoy strolling along the Gloucester Docks, a revitalized historic waterfront area filled with restaurants, galleries, and boutique shops that provide a relaxed and vibrant experience.
Gloucester’s location in Gloucestershire means it’s a great base for exploring nearby natural attractions like the Cotswolds and the Forest of Dean. Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty of opportunities for walking, cycling, and boating in the surrounding countryside. The city’s parks and green spaces also offer pleasant spots for relaxation, making it appealing for families and nature lovers alike.
Cultural offerings in Gloucester include theatres, museums, and festivals that reflect the city’s creative spirit. From live performances at the Guildhall to events celebrating local food and music, there’s often something happening to engage visitors. This combination of accessible city life with easy access to rural landscapes makes Gloucester a versatile and welcoming destination in the South West.
View our Gloucester GuideBristol
Visiting Bristol offers a dynamic experience in the South West of England, combining vibrant city life with rich cultural attractions. The city is well known for its lively harbourside, where visitors can enjoy a mix of restaurants, bars, and galleries along the waterfront. Bristol’s compact city centre makes it easy to explore on foot, with a blend of historic architecture and modern developments that give the city a unique character.
Bristol is also a hub for the arts and music, with numerous theatres, live music venues, and street art spots, including works by the famous artist Banksy. The city hosts a variety of festivals throughout the year, celebrating everything from film to food and music, which add extra energy and appeal to any visit. Outdoor enthusiasts will find green spaces like Brandon Hill and the nearby Avon Gorge ideal for walking and taking in panoramic views of the city.
For families, Bristol offers attractions such as the Bristol Zoo Gardens and the interactive M Shed museum, which tells the story of the city through engaging exhibits. Its location near the River Avon and the Clifton Suspension Bridge also makes it an excellent base for day trips into the surrounding countryside and the Cotswolds, providing a balance of urban excitement and natural beauty.
View our Bristol GuideBath
Visiting Bath is a rewarding experience, set in the scenic South West of England. The city is renowned for its stunning Georgian architecture and compact layout, making it easy to explore on foot. Bath offers a rich cultural scene, with numerous theatres, galleries, and festivals taking place throughout the year. Visitors often enjoy leisurely walks along the River Avon and the charming streets lined with independent shops and cafes.
One of the highlights of a trip to Bath is its world-famous Roman Baths complex, where you can discover the ancient history of the city through well-preserved ruins and interactive exhibits. Beyond the baths, there is plenty to enjoy, from the impressive Bath Abbey to the elegant Royal Crescent. The city also boasts excellent dining options, ranging from traditional pubs to fine dining restaurants, catering to a variety of tastes.
Bath serves as an excellent base for exploring the wider Somerset and Cotswolds regions, with easy access to picturesque villages, countryside walks, and historic sites nearby. Whether you’re interested in wellness, culture, or simply soaking up beautiful surroundings, Bath’s unique blend of natural beauty and urban charm makes it a must-visit destination in the South West.
View our Bath GuidePlymouth
Plymouth, located on the scenic south coast of Devon, is a city that effortlessly blends maritime heritage with a dynamic waterfront lifestyle. One of its great strengths is the setting: visitors can enjoy long walks along the Hoe with panoramic views over Plymouth Sound, or explore the historic Barbican where cobbled streets lead to quirky shops, galleries, and harbourfront eateries. The natural beauty surrounding the city – cliffs, beaches, and green parks – make it a pleasant base for relaxed exploration.
The city is also a hub for culture and entertainment in the region. The Theatre Royal Plymouth offers a broad programme of performances, from major touring musicals to local productions. Just a short distance away, The Box – a modern museum and arts venue – showcases exhibitions that reflect Plymouth’s role in global history and its creative present. Whether you’re interested in art, theatre, or architecture, there’s enough variety to fill a cultural weekend.
For families and casual visitors alike, Plymouth has plenty of accessible attractions and activities. The National Marine Aquarium is a major draw, particularly for younger audiences, while the water taxis and harbour cruises offer a scenic way to get around. Food is a strong point too, with the city’s restaurants making the most of the fresh seafood landed locally. In all, Plymouth offers a diverse mix of coast, culture, and cuisine in one compact and lively package.
View our Plymouth GuidePoole
Visiting Poole offers a charming coastal experience in the South West of England, set along the beautiful Dorset coastline. The town is renowned for its expansive natural harbour, one of the largest in Europe, which provides a stunning backdrop for exploring the area’s maritime activities. Visitors can enjoy a variety of water sports, boat trips to nearby islands, and peaceful walks along sandy beaches like Sandbanks, famous for its golden sands and clear waters.
Poole also serves as a great base for exploring the surrounding Dorset countryside and the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The town’s vibrant quayside area is filled with lively cafes, seafood restaurants, and boutique shops, making it perfect for leisurely afternoons. Attractions such as the Poole Museum and the nearby Upton Country Park offer a blend of cultural and outdoor activities for all ages.
For families and nature lovers, Poole Harbour’s surrounding nature reserves provide excellent opportunities for birdwatching and tranquil strolls. The town’s accessibility, combined with its mix of coastal charm and natural beauty, makes Poole an appealing destination for a relaxed seaside getaway in the South West region.
View our Poole GuideHistory of South West England
South West England in Prehistoric and Roman Times
South West England has some of the richest prehistoric archaeology in the country, with evidence of early human settlement dating back tens of thousands of years. Sites like Avebury and the world-renowned Stonehenge speak to a complex Neolithic culture that left its mark on the landscape. During the Bronze and Iron Ages, the region was dotted with hillforts, burial mounds, and ritual sites, showing signs of an organised, tribal society. The Dumnonii tribe occupied much of the area prior to the Roman arrival.
When the Romans invaded, South West England became a strategic part of Britannia. They established important settlements such as Aquae Sulis (modern Bath), famed for its natural hot springs and religious significance. Roads, villas, and forts were built, facilitating trade and military control. Bath became a flourishing Roman town, blending local Celtic beliefs with Roman customs, particularly around its baths and temple complex.
South West England in the Saxon and Medieval Period
Following the Roman withdrawal, the region saw waves of Saxon settlement, particularly in areas like Somerset and Wiltshire. Christianity spread through the establishment of monasteries, and conflicts with the native Britons continued into the early medieval period. The Kingdom of Wessex gradually expanded its influence over the region, integrating South West England into the growing Anglo-Saxon realm.
During the Norman and medieval periods, the region saw a rise in the construction of castles, cathedrals, and market towns. Notable sites include Wells Cathedral, Exeter Cathedral, and the fortified port of Dartmouth. Agriculture, tin mining in Cornwall, and wool production in the Cotswolds and Devon became important economic drivers. Pilgrimage routes and monastic estates also played a major role in shaping the landscape and society.
South West England in the Early Modern Period
The Tudor and Stuart eras brought considerable change to South West England. The dissolution of the monasteries under Henry VIII led to the redistribution of church lands, reshaping the ownership and economy of the countryside. Bristol grew as a key port, developing strong links with the Atlantic trade, including its later involvement in the transatlantic slave trade. Naval shipbuilding and exploration became increasingly significant in Devon and Cornwall.
Religious tensions flared during the English Civil War, with towns such as Exeter and Plymouth witnessing sieges and political unrest. The region remained largely Royalist, but there were pockets of strong Parliamentarian resistance. In the late 17th century, nonconformist religious communities flourished, particularly in areas of Cornwall and Somerset.
South West England in the Industrial and Victorian Eras
While less industrialised than the North of England, South West England developed key industries during the 18th and 19th centuries. Mining in Cornwall and Devon thrived, particularly for tin and copper, and engineering innovation followed. The Great Western Railway, engineered by Isambard Kingdom Brunel, revolutionised travel, linking towns like Swindon, Bristol, and Plymouth to London and beyond.
Bristol expanded rapidly, becoming a hub of commerce, manufacturing, and shipping. Seaside resorts like Torquay and Weston-super-Mare became fashionable holiday destinations during the Victorian era. Agricultural improvements, canal networks, and tourism contributed to economic diversification. At the same time, many rural communities remained isolated, preserving unique dialects and traditions.
South West England in the 20th Century and Beyond
The 20th century brought both upheaval and regeneration. During World War II, Plymouth and other coastal cities were heavily bombed due to their naval importance. Post-war rebuilding and the decline of traditional industries like mining led to major changes in the economic landscape. Tourism emerged as a major force, especially with the rise of domestic holidaymaking.
In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, South West England became known for its environmental awareness, creative industries, and rural-urban mix. The Eden Project in Cornwall, the growth of cultural festivals like Glastonbury, and the revival of heritage railways and rural crafts helped rebrand the region. Today, South West England balances historical preservation with a dynamic sense of regional identity and modern development.
Best Time to Visit South West England
South West England in Spring
Spring in South West England, from March to May, is a charming season as the countryside begins to bloom with wildflowers and coastal paths become colourful and lush. Temperatures typically range from 10°C to 16°C, with April often being the driest month. This is a great time to visit gardens like those at the Eden Project or the Abbey Gardens on Tresco, as well as to enjoy peaceful walks in the Cotswolds or along the South West Coast Path before the summer crowds arrive.
South West England in Summer (Best)
From June through August, South West England sees its warmest and busiest season. Average temperatures are between 18°C and 23°C, though heatwaves can occasionally push the mercury above 28°C. Coastal resorts such as St Ives, Salcombe, and Padstow are in full swing, and festivals like the Glastonbury Festival and the Bristol Harbour Festival draw large numbers. This is the prime season for beach days, hiking Dartmoor or Exmoor, and enjoying open-air events across the region.
South West England in Autumn
Autumn, from September to November, brings golden foliage and quieter towns. Temperatures drop steadily from around 18°C in early September to 10°C by late November. The sea is often still warm enough for late-season swimming or surfing in places like Newquay. Harvest festivals and food events, such as the Dartmouth Food Festival, make this a rewarding time for food lovers, while the countryside offers excellent conditions for walking and photography.
South West England in Winter
Winter in South West England, from December to February, is milder than much of the UK, with coastal areas like Cornwall and Devon seeing average temperatures between 4°C and 9°C. Rain is frequent, but there are still dry spells ideal for brisk coastal walks or exploring quiet historic cities such as Bath and Exeter. Christmas markets in towns like Cheltenham, Exeter, and Salisbury bring seasonal charm, while surfing continues on the south coast for those brave enough to face the colder seas.
Annual Weather Overview
- January 7°C 48°F
- February 7°C 49°F
- March 9°C 52°F
- April 12°C 58°F
- May 13°C 59°F
- June 18°C 68°F
- July 20°C 72°F
- August 21°C 73°F
- September 16°C 65°F
- October 13°C 58°F
- November 10°C 53°F
- December 9°C 52°F
How to get to South West England
Getting to South West England by air
Nearest airports: The main air gateways to South West England include Bristol Airport, Exeter Airport, and Cornwall Airport Newquay. Bristol Airport is the largest and best connected, with regular flights from major UK and European cities. It’s located just south of Bristol and serves as a convenient entry point for destinations across Somerset, Gloucestershire, and Wiltshire. Exeter Airport offers regional connections and is well placed for exploring Devon and parts of Dorset. Cornwall Airport Newquay, though smaller, is ideal for visitors heading to the far southwest, including St Ives, Penzance, and Falmouth.
Air connections to towns: From Bristol Airport, buses and taxis provide direct links to the city centre, while longer connections to Bath, Weston-super-Mare, and Wells can be made via train or coach. Exeter Airport is close to the city itself and has direct transport connections to Torquay, Plymouth, and the wider Devon countryside. Cornwall Airport Newquay gives easy access to Truro, Padstow, and the surf beaches around Newquay and St Agnes.
Getting to South West England by train
South West England is well connected to the rest of the UK by rail. Great Western Railway operates regular high-speed services from London Paddington to major hubs such as Bristol, Bath, Exeter, Plymouth, and Penzance. Travellers heading to Wiltshire towns like Salisbury and Trowbridge can also connect via South Western Railway services from London Waterloo. CrossCountry trains offer east-west routes linking cities like Birmingham to Cheltenham, Gloucester, and down into Devon and Cornwall.
https://www.gwr.com
https://www.southwesternrailway.com
https://www.crosscountrytrains.co.uk
Getting to South West England by car
South West England is easily reached via the M5 motorway, which runs from the Midlands through Bristol down to Exeter, connecting with the A30 and A38 for access deeper into Devon and Cornwall. The M4 also links London to Bristol and Bath. Key A-roads such as the A303 (from the southeast through Salisbury) and the A39 (the scenic Atlantic Highway through Somerset and North Devon) are important routes for reaching rural and coastal areas. The road network is generally good, though traffic can be heavy in summer months, particularly in Cornwall.
Travelling around South West England
Once in the region, travel between towns and attractions is easiest by car, especially in rural and coastal areas. However, public transport is available and practical in many parts. Great Western Railway and CrossCountry continue to operate services between major towns like Bristol, Bath, Exeter, Torquay, and Plymouth. Local train lines connect smaller stops, such as the Looe Valley Line in Cornwall or the Heart of Wessex Line serving towns between Bristol and Weymouth.
https://www.gwr.com
https://www.crosscountrytrains.co.uk
https://www.nationalrail.co.uk
Buses are widely available in cities and large towns, with companies like First Bus and Stagecoach covering most of the region. In rural areas, services can be limited, so checking timetables in advance is essential. In cities like Bristol, Bath, and Exeter, local buses are reliable and well-signed, while coastal towns often have seasonal services tailored to tourists.
Festivals in South West England
Glastonbury Festival
When: June
Where: Pilton, near Glastonbury
One of the most iconic music festivals in the world, Glastonbury brings together international musicians, visual artists, circus performers, and environmental activists. Set in the Somerset countryside, the event attracts thousands for five days of live performances, creative workshops, and a famously eclectic atmosphere.
Bath Festival
When: May
Where: Bath
This vibrant multi-arts festival celebrates literature and music with a dynamic programme of talks, concerts, and performances. Featuring international authors, poets, and musicians, the event highlights the cultural heritage of Bath through events staged in historic venues and public spaces across the city.
St Ives September Festival
When: September
Where: St Ives
This two-week festival celebrates arts, music, and performance in one of Cornwall’s most picturesque coastal towns. Visitors can enjoy open studios, jazz nights, poetry readings, and theatre shows, all while exploring the town’s rich artistic community and stunning seaside setting.
Bristol Harbour Festival
When: July
Where: Bristol
A celebration of Bristol’s maritime heritage, this lively summer event transforms the harbourside into a hub of music, street food, dance, and water-based displays. It’s a family-friendly weekend that showcases local talent alongside tall ships, sailing displays, and circus performers.
Boardmasters
When: August
Where: Newquay
Combining world-class surfing competitions with major music acts, Boardmasters is Cornwall’s top summer beach festival. Held across Fistral Beach and Watergate Bay, it attracts a young, energetic crowd for a long weekend of sport, live music, and coastal camping.
Port Eliot Festival
When: July
Where: St Germans, Cornwall
Set in the grounds of the historic Port Eliot estate, this festival is known for its eclectic mix of literature, fashion, food, and music. It offers an offbeat and intimate experience with pop-up performances, workshops, and a bohemian vibe set among riverside woods and gardens.
Sidmouth Folk Festival
When: August
Where: Sidmouth, Devon
A cornerstone of the UK folk music calendar, Sidmouth Folk Festival brings together traditional and contemporary folk musicians from across the world. With concerts, ceilidhs, dance displays, and craft stalls, the event transforms the seaside town into a hub of heritage and community.
Totnes and Bridgetown Festival
When: August
Where: Totnes
This community-led festival in South Devon features a week of music, street entertainment, food markets, and processions. It reflects the independent spirit of Totnes, blending creative arts with local history and environmental awareness in a relaxed and festive setting.
Bournemouth Air Festival
When: August
Where: Bournemouth
Europe’s largest free air show, the Bournemouth Air Festival spans four days and includes spectacular aerial displays, including performances from the Red Arrows and historic aircraft. Alongside the airborne action, the event features navy ship visits, fireworks, and beachside entertainment.
Wells Food Festival
When: October
Where: Wells
A celebration of Somerset’s culinary culture, this popular food festival features local producers, street food stalls, cooking demos, and tastings. Set around the historic centre of Wells, the event also includes talks on sustainable food practices and artisan skills.