Where to Stop on the South Coast

The south coast of England is a truly remarkable place. Bordering the English channel and nestled between the North Sea, the Irish Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, it’s the epitome of coast.

Approximately 300 miles in length, the south coast is the sunniest part of the country with over 1900 hours of warm sunshine per year.

Dramatic coastlines and must-see landscapes including the Seven Sisters, the Needles and Old Harry’s Rocks. The most idyllic location to Explore & Stay is right on our very own south coast.

Cornwall

Cornwall is known for its beaches and surfing opportunities. There is however, a lot more to this beautiful region than the ocean.

The Minack Theatre

Be one with nature when you enjoy a show in this open air theatre perched up on the cliffs. Minack means a rocky place and was lovingly built by hand. Led by the extraordinary Rowena Cade who kept working on the threatre well into her eighties.

The threatre welcomes over a quarter of a million guests every year to immerse themselves in one or more of the 200 plus live performances. The world-famous platform hosts plays, musicals, opera, music and children’ events.

Mevagissey

This quaint fishing village is a port and civil parish in Cornwall. Originally the hub of the county’s pilchard trade and continuing to be a working harbour.

The old buildings that make up this settlement are made of cob and slate creating an old town feel. There are regular fishing trips from the harbour and a ferry to the nearby port of Fowey.

Along the narrow streets you can delight in gift shops, craft workshops, galleries, cafes and pubs. A wonderful place to stop off to get a true feel for Cornwall.

Lost Gardens of Heligan

200 acres of this hidden estate to explore. They were overpowered by brambles until a door was discovered in the ruins.

The gardens have since been restored to their former glory and become one of the finest gardens in England.

A garden for all seasons, The Lost Gardens of Heligan have already made up for being gone so long. Lose yourself in the romance of this grand estate, ancient woodlands and secret gardens.

Perranporth Beach

The beach is for surfing, snorkeling, sailing and wading. Miles upon miles of golden sand, dunes and impressive surf.

Set up camp and spend the day enjoying this unspoiled beach. With a choice of cafes and bars nearby you’ll have everything you need for a pitstop.

Need to stretch your legs? There’s a 2 mile walk up to Ligger Point for you to do just that.

Explore & Stay in Cornwall

Our 4 Cornish hotels are in 3 different locations giving you ample chance to Explore & Stay in Cornwall.

Start in Newquay at The Beresford Hotel before heading East. 40 mins drive away you’ll stumble across The Lost Gardens of Heligan.

Keep going to the cost to visit Mevagissey. Head through the Roseland Heritage Coast to The Ship and Castle Hotel in St Mawes.

After a few nights here, drive all the way down to Porthcurno to experience the Minack Theatre before resting at The St Ives Bay Hotel.

Head back to Newquay via Perranporth beach for a full Cornish holiday.

Devon

Devon is renowned for its breathtaking coastline, stunning beaches and infamous cream tea!

Exmoor National Park

A biggie for your bucket list. Exmoor national park is famous for its wild deer and ponies, impressive coastline and heather moorland. A great destination for stretching your legs, having a picnic and discovering.

With over 1000 km of footpaths and bridleways through woodlands, along rivers and on open heather – it is a remarkable landscape to recharge your batteries.

Burgh Island

An iconic landmark, Burgh Island can be accessed at low tide by walking over or by the strip of sand. When the tide is high you need to hitch a ride on the sea tractor.

The island is well known for its links to Agatha Christie. Spend a few hours exploring the remains of the chapel or look out for the wildlife. Stop off at the Pilchard Inn for a baguette or laze on the sand and admire the endless vistas.

Dartmoor Prison Museum

How often do you get the chance to visit one of the world’s most notorious jails? Dartmoor prison museum welcomes over 35,000 visitors per year. There are amazing artifacts and documents on display so that you can piece together what prison life might have been life.

The prison has more than 200 years of history to show for itself starting from the beginning when it housed prisoners of war right through to today.

See life size models, read about the horrific massacre and learn about the most infamous houdinis!

Dart’s Farm

Everyone loves a farm shop on a road trip. Dart’s Farm is more than just a road side refresh, it’s an experience.

The Cow & Cacao cafe is open for business and serves everything from smoothie bowls to seasonal fish. All products are created from locally sourced produce. Visit the food hall for some take-home treats or get some fresh air as you venture around the farm.

There is enough to keep the whole family occupied with an animal corner, nature trail, farm walk, maze, pick your own sunflowers, sculpture trail and play area.

Explore & Stay in Devon

We have 6 hotels across five towns in Devon, perfect for you to pack the car up to go Explore & Stay.

Start at The Valley of Rocks in Lynton. From there travel through Exmoor National Park, stopping off wherever you see fit to adventure.

On your way to Exmouth, rest and recharge at Dart’s Farm. From Exmouth we highly recommend taking the trip to visit the Dartmoor Prison Museum and Burgh Island.

Weymouth

This wonderful Georgian seaside town is idyllic as it is quaint. Enjoy retro fish and chips and donkey rides when you Explore & Stay in Weymouth.

Nothe Fort

This heritage attraction is not to be missed. The mighty Nothe Fort is right at the entrance of Weymouth harbour and gives you the chance to enjoy 360 degree views of Dorset’s Jurassic Coast.

The fort was built between 1860 and 1872 to protect the naval harbour at Portland. It was decommissioned in 1956 and the museum now takes visitors on a journey of military design and technology.

There is a cafe on site as well, great for a few hours respite.

Weymouth Sea Life Adventure Park

Is there anything greater than an aquarium? No matter your age, everyone can find wonder with our sea friends.

Weymouth Sea Life Centre has 13 different zones and is home to more than 1,000 creatures. Opened in 1983, this centre was the second Sea Life to be built.
Apart from getting up close and personal with these marine creatures you can also enjoy the Caribbean cove playground, get involved in the splash zone and pool, visit the sensory garden or play miniature golf.

Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens

The gardens date back as far as 1541 and nowadays they are home to exotic and unusual flowers. Famous the world over for its Camellia groves and magnolias.

There is a viewpoint at the top of Magnolia walk that offers stunning views of the Jurassic Coastline. The coffee shop is open and welcomes well behaved dogs on leads.

This is a great destination for mindfulness, peace and an opportunity to have a stroll around colourful bursts of nature.

Sandsfoot Castle

Sandsfoot castle was completed around 1539 under King Henry VIII’s orders. The purpose of the castle was to act as a defense line alongside Portland castle.

Weymouth corporation purchased the ruins of the castle in 1902 for £150. Tudor styled gardens were landscaped in front of the castle in 1931. In 2006, a cafe and toilet were re-established for visitors.

Alongside the castle is the ‘friends of Rodwell trail’ which was formed in 2008. Their aim is to develop and manage the Rodwell trail and the castle, promote public awareness and work towards ‘Green flag’ status among others.

A lovely bit of history to take in on your journey.

Explore & Stay in Weymouth

Either as a day trip or on your way to or from Weymouth, Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens is a short drive away. Whilst you’re there, you should also take the time to visit Abbotsbury swannery.

In Weymouth itself, the Sea Life centre is a quick 5 minute drive away with Nothe Fort and Sandsfoot castle both under 10 minutes drive from the hotel.

Explore & Stay with us to get the full seaside experience in Weymouth.

Eastbourne

Home to Europe’s biggest man-made marina, Eastbourne is proud to welcome visitors to Sovereign harbour to eat, drink, shop and enjoy.

Beachy Head

Beachy Head elevates you above the coast in a way that few other viewpoints can. A lovely walk up to the viewpoint where you stand above the famous chalk cliffs and look across the ocean.

It can get a bit windy so be sure to take a light jacket in the warmer months but it is definitely worth the gentle hike for the views.

Eastbourne Miniature Steam Railway Adventure Park

Revel in the famous one-eighth scale miniature locomotives traveling around the country park for almost a mile.

The five acre lake is a great place to appreciate nature and the wildlife within their natural habitats. There is an adventure playground for the kids, a maze to get lost in and a prize winning tea garden.

Take your own picnic if you fancy stopping for a while in one of the picnic areas.

Eastbourne Pier

Completed in 1872, Eastbourne pier is built on stilts and is 300 metres long. Ideal for a fresh perspective of the coastline and home to treats such as a traditional fish and chip shop, a Victorian tea room and jazz lounge.

The pier is such a big part of the local area and showcases some of the best views of this seaside town. Definitely worth a stop if you’re only passing through Eastbourne and a little more time if you’re staying to explore a while.

Seven Sisters

If you’re a walker then Seven Sisters is a no brainer. There are so many trails and footpaths to follow as you navigate the Sussex heritage coastline.

Part of the South Downs Way National Trail, the 14 miles of Seven Sisters walk can be easily enjoyed starting from Seaford beach through to Eastbourne. Taking in sights such as the coast guard cottages and Beachy Head lighthouses.

Alternatively, jump in the car and drive up to the cliffs where you can spend the day in the fresh sea air.

Explore & Stay in Eastbourne

We have two fantastic hotels in Eastbourne; Burlington Hotel and Majestic Hotel.

From either hotel the attractions are within easy reach. Burlington hotel is only a 1 minute walk from the pier!

Eastbourne is a convenient coastal stay where you can spend your days exploring everything the area has to offer you.

When you Explore & Stay on the South Coast, be sure to check in with us. When you book directly with us you get booking flexibility, a full English breakfast, on-site parking, late check out and specialist agents to assist with planning your itinerary.