While the Cotswolds have long been Britain’s go-to rural escape, South Somerset is now emerging as a top contender in the South West, without the crowds of Cornwall or Devon. The area is celebrated for its picturesque villages built from warm, golden Hamstone, reminiscent of the Cotswolds’ charm. With deep-rooted cider-making traditions, family-run orchards, and the bird-rich wetlands of the Somerset Levels, South Somerset offers a unique blend of natural beauty and heritage. The region is also gaining recognition for its culinary scene, with establishments like Holm in South Petherton and the Lord Poulett Arms in Hinton St George receiving high praise. South Somerset is quietly becoming a haven for creatives and food enthusiasts, offering rural charm, delectable food, and a genuine community spirit at more affordable prices than its more famous counterparts.
What’s the UK’s top alternative to the Cotswolds in the South West?
