Somerset may gain its name from ‘the land of the summer people’ but that doesn’t mean you should avoid it like the plague come winter. In fact, Somerset is packed with things to do throughout the year and this is our pick of winter fun. Why not wrap up warm and come to Somerset for a wonderful winter break?
Carnival County
During November, Somerset comes alive with thousands of twinkling lights as Carnival comes to town. Regarded as the largest illuminated procession in the world, Carnival has to be seen to be believed. You’ll see many floats each depicting a particular theme such as a popular book or famous historical plot. Carnival dates back to the 1600 when West Country locals commemorated the Gunpowder Plot every year and it’s a tradition which continues today. Throw fireworks and street entertainers into the mix and you’re in for a great night wherever you choose to watch the carnival. It’s best to arrive in plenty of time as each town is packed with spectators more than an hour before the procession is due to begin.
Take to the slopes
There’s no need to jet off to the Alps for a winter ski holiday if you opt for a winter break in Somerset. Head for the village of Churchill near Cheddar and you’ll find an outdoor activity centre with a dry ski slope. You can ski, board and toboggan whatever your experience with lessons on offer and the 165 metre track challenging enough for those with years of experience. Choose one of the many Somerset self-catering cottages and you’ll be pleased to head back after an exhausting day on the slopes. Maybe you’ll choose a log cabin so your holiday accommodation resembles something from a traditional skiing holiday? Enjoy a soothing bath to relieve tired muscles or cosy up in front of a roaring fire in your Somerset holiday cottage. Why not cook up a yummy cheese fondue in your very own kitchen for a real taste of an Alpine holiday.
Winter Wonderland
Festive parks tend to pop up all over the UK from mid-November onwards and Somerset is no exception. Wrap up warm and experience a traditional British Christmas in the great outdoors. Ice skating under the stars and then enjoying a steaming mug of mulled wine is the perfect way to start feeling festive. Try the winter wonderland at Hestercombe Gardens just outside of Taunton or skate in front of the famous Royal Crescent in Bath.
Get outside
There’s something pretty special about having a whole beach to yourself and winter is normally the best time for this. Somerset is home to some truly gorgeous sandy beaches and a dramatic coastline on a par with Dorset’s famous Jurassic coast. Where better for a bracing walk than on a deserted beach where you can really appreciate what nature has to offer? A walk across Brean Downs onto Brean Cove is a good bet with amazing views across the Bristol Channel to Wales on a clear day and spectacular sunsets in the early evening. The area is managed by the National Trust so you’re guaranteed unspoilt scenery and wonderful landscapes.
Photo Attribution
Carnival: http://www.flickr.com/photos/jamesclay/4114865048/sizes/z/in/photostream/
Brean: http://www.flickr.com/photos/steinsky/384815784/sizes/z/in/photostream/
