One particular part of Devon and Somerset is dotted with farmhouses and country cottages to rent for a week's holiday or a short break. Awash with rolling countryside and picturesque landscapes, it really is no wonder that the Blackdown Hills at 370 square kilometres and situated perfectly on the border of Devon and Somerset have been recognised as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty for the past 25 years. It is almost a hidden secret; known only to those who have holidayed here before and discovered the wildlife rich meadows, woodlands and streams. This is the place to come to enjoy tiny lanes bordered by hedgerows and grass verges that are peppered with wild flowers and dancing butterflies.
Holiday cottages to rent in the Blackdown Hills
Talking about the birds and bees is rife in this part of the world…as are the sightings of dormice, lizards, barn owls and otters; and it is otters which the residents of Blackdown Hills have taken closely to their hearts. After all, there is a River Otter nearby which rises near to the quaint village of Otterford, where the local stream feeds the Otterhead lakes. But one question still exists: Did Lou Reed write 'Walk On The Wild Side' when he visited this gorgeous part of south west England?
Enjoy an active holiday in the Blackdown Hills
With all this charming countryside to explore, a walk, cycle or even a horse ride will never have felt better. Whatever mode of transport you wish to use, you’ll certainly be in for a treat when you encounter popular historical beauty spots like the Iron Age Hembury Fort with stunning views across the Otter Valley and Castle Neroche, a Norman motte and bailey masterpiece that’s now owned by the Forestry Commission. From this point, why not treat the pet pooch to a dog friendly yet muddy 2 mile walk through the woods? One that will have your four-legged friend curling up to you later in exhaustion. By the way, there are lots of pet-friendly holiday cottages to rent in Devon and the Blackdown Hills. Alternatively, if you’re looking to get up on your high horse, you should try the 10-mile Neroche link or 14-mile routes at Staple Fitzpaine, a civil parish with less than 200 inhabitants and famed for the Grade I listed Norman Church of St Peter or Wambrook, where a delicious Sunday Roast and local ale is always waiting for you at The Cotley Inn.
Flower Meadows and cascades of wild flowers to delight
Flower enthusiasts take note! There are many reasons why the Blackdown Hills are blooming beautiful. As you make your way across the fabulous forests and farmland, will you be able to spot the colourful variety of wildflower species like the heath spotted orchid, violets and primroses dotted around the ground? Why not pick one out for your partner for that photo of a lifetime? A shot that’s even better if there’s a gatekeeper butterfly in the background. Searching for more wild flowers? The Haymeadow in the parish of Churchstanton is a traditional six-acre grass hay meadow with lush green hedgerows and trees that overlook the 175-foot-high Wellington Monument, the tallest three-sided obelisk in the world. A perfect wedding venue needs to be momentously memorable and magical and this is what the Haymeadow can provide with its rural and secluded location. A given for all soppy romantics!
Fishing, country rambles and much in the Blackdown Hills
Has roaming around the idyllic countryside taken it out of you during your holiday? No problem at all. There are lots of other activities in which will spark you and your family’s interest. The creative ones will love the frequent arts and crafts fairs and courses in the area, whereas the outdoorsy types will enjoy a spot of fishing in the plethora of tranquil lakes. The perfect excuse to put their feet up and relax on their memorable trip! If you’re an art lover, then travelling to the Blackdown Hills during Somerset Art Week is a must. Showcasing some of the best visual arts in the South West, the festival is celebrated over two and a half weeks in 120 venues every Autumn and attracts enthusiasts from all over the country.
A pub night is in order during a holiday in the Blackdown Hills
When it comes to local cuisine, the Blackdown Hills again rank high with tourists. In the heart of the area lies the award-winning and luxurious country pub The Candlelight Inn which is a pull for its customers not just for its fantastic location but for its delicious, locally sourced food and drink, wooden floors and open fires and adjacent sunshine trap beer garden. Looking for an evening of exciting family entertainment? The Candlelight Inn hosts regular live music events and fabulously fun pub quiz nights. The ideal way to toast your special holiday deep in the Devon and Somerset countryside.
Fine foods to buy during your visit to the Blackdown Hills
This spectacular part of the world is synonymous with its milk based goods and local businesses like Blackdown Hills Cheese Co, found regularly at Taunton farmers market and Otter Valley Dairy use their own farms and herds to produce a tantalising array of products like cheese and gelato style ice cream. A sensational summers treat, which of the handcrafted variety of ice cream flavours will be your favourite? The regular taste of Chocolate, Cream Tea, a traditional dining delicacy well known to people from these parts or the more exotic Seabuckthorn.
Wanting an exotic holiday with a difference this year? The Blackdown Hills can be the answer to all of your countryside prayers. With miles and miles of babbling brooks, wondrous woodlands and vibrant villages to explore, as well as the chance to exercise your body and improve your health, where better to start your holiday adventures this summer than in the South West of England?
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