A woman having a sunrise dip at the mermaid pool at Burgh Island

Things to do in South West England

The South West of England is a region of remarkable diversity. A sweeping landscape where dramatic coastlines meet rolling moorland, and centuries of heritage collide with contemporary culture. From windswept cliffs and hidden coves to busy market towns and artistic enclaves, this corner of the country offers endless inspiration for those who seek beauty, adventure, and a sense of timelessness.

 

Here, the natural world is ever-present. Vast stretches of unspoilt countryside invite exploration, while historic harbours, ancient trails, and elegant gardens tell stories of the South West’s enduring character. It is a place to wander, to discover, and to simply breathe in the sea air.

 

Perfectly poised on its own private tidal island, Burgh Island Hotel is an ideal starting point for exploring all that this captivating region has to offer. Whether venturing inland to the wild heart of Dartmoor, sailing the calm waters of Salcombe, or uncovering the artistic spirit of Totnes, each journey begins with the quiet elegance and timeless allure of the island itself.

Discover the Beauty of the South West

The beauty of the South West lies in its contrasts. The idyllic meeting of land and sea, and in the quiet harmony between wildness and tranquillity. Along the rugged cliffs of Devon and Cornwall, the Atlantic rolls endlessly against the shore, carving out hidden coves and sandy bays that seem untouched by time. Inland, the landscape softens into the rolling fields and orchards of Somerset and Dorset, where winding lanes lead to timeless villages and far-reaching views, offering so many things to do in the South West.

 

For those who love the outdoors, this is a region that invites exploration in every season. Coastal paths trace the edge of the land, offering walkers moments of solitude and sweeping sea vistas. Sailors find freedom in the sheltered estuaries and sparkling bays, while secluded coves and tidal inlets await those content simply to wander and watch the tides turn.

 

Whether under bright summer skies or in the silver light of winter, the South West reveals a beauty that is both invigorating and deeply restorative: a landscape to be savoured, not rushed.

 

Historic & Cultural Highlights

You cannot touch on the things to do in the South West of England without mentioning the castles, tors and sights. Steeped in captivating history, the South West of England is truly a region where every castle, garden, and cobbled street tells a charming story. From the commanding fortresses that once guarded the coastline to the elegant National Trust estates that grace its countryside, this part of England offers an enduring sense of heritage shaped by centuries of artistry and adventure. 

 

Wander through the bohemian town of Totnes, remarking on its independent spirit and undeniable medieval charm, or trace the maritime legacy of Dartmouth, where narrow lanes lead down to the harbour and the scent of salt lingers in the air. Across the region, museums, galleries, and stately homes reveal a culture deeply rooted in both creativity and tradition.

 

And at the heart of it all, Burgh Island Hotel stands as a living piece of this heritage on its own private island. An Art Deco masterpiece that captures the glamour and optimism of the 1930s. Once a retreat for literary legends such as Agatha Christie, whose stories were inspired by its tides and isolation, the hotel remains a place where the past and present meet with effortless grace. Here, the spirit of the South West’s cultural legacy continues, offering a timeless, imaginative, and entirely unique escape.

 

Coastal Adventures & Nature Trails

Beyond quiet pondering and the admiring of historic sights, the South West of England still offers an incredible treasure chest of things to do on the water and along the shores. Along the South West Coast Path, walkers are rewarded with sweeping ocean views, hidden beaches, and encounters with the region’s untamed beauty. The trail winds through dramatic headlands and tranquil bays, capturing the essence of coastal England at its most inspiring.

 

Inland, the vast wilderness of Dartmoor National Park offers a striking contrast of granite tors rising from open moorland, ancient woodlands sheltering streams, and miles of quiet trails waiting to be explored. For those drawn to the water, the Salcombe estuary provides calm sailing waters and secluded coves where the pace of life slows to the rhythm of the tides.

And, of course, no journey here is complete without the sea tractor crossing to Burgh Island; a delightfully unique experience that turns arrival itself into an adventure.

 

 

Food, Drink & Local Discoveries

The South West’s culinary heritage is as rich and varied as its landscapes. From the indulgence of a traditional Devon cream tea enjoyed beside the coast to the simple pleasure of a Cornish pasty warm from the oven, every flavour tells the story of a region that takes pride in its produce and traditions.

 

Local markets brim with colour and character, where farmers, fishermen, and artisans share the fruits of their craft, allowing locals and tourists to sample everything from handmade cheeses and fresh shellfish to ciders pressed from orchard apples and honey gathered from moorland hives. Along the coast, the day’s catch inspires menus shaped by the tides, and the allure of fresh fish and chips and seafood on the shore is always too tempting to resist.

 

On Burgh Island itself, dining becomes an experience in harmony with its setting. The Pilchard Inn, one of Devon’s oldest taverns, offers a welcoming sense of history beside the sea: a place for hearty fare and tales of seafarers past. Meanwhile, The Nettlefold Restaurant celebrates the South West’s finest ingredients with elegance and artistry, pairing local seafood and seasonal produce with panoramic ocean views. And for guests staying at the hotel, the Grand Ballroom offers delectable fine dining, exquisite cocktails and a setting that feels elegantly old-fashioned. 

 

Stay Amidst the Magic of the South West

To experience all the best things to do in the South West, Burgh Island is the most enchanting base. Set upon its own tidal island, surrounded by the rhythm of the sea and the changing landscape dominating the sky, the hotel captures the very essence of this remarkable region, allowing you to experience firsthand the natural drama, its artistic spirit, and the quiet sense of escape.

 

After days spent exploring windswept cliffs, hidden coves, and historic towns, guests return to a haven of elegance and calm. Within its Art Deco interiors, the world feels beautifully still; the sound of the tide replaces the noise of the day, and time unfolds at a gentler pace. Whether enjoying cocktails at sunset, dining on the finest local seafood, or simply watching the horizon fade into dusk, every moment here is an invitation to pause and savour the South West at its most magical. With a collection of rooms all uniquely decorated and a team of staff ready to welcome you for a stay that takes you back in time, allow Burgh Island to serve as your base on your next South West escape. Book now.