Recently updated on July 7th, 2023 at 04:43 pm
You might’ve heard of a prominent figure landing on British shores recently. That’s right – Joe Biden is on his first overseas trip since becoming the US president, arriving in Cornwall alongside other prominent figures for this year’s G7 summit. And whilst we’re pretty sure their itinerary is booked up, is there anyone who can resist stopping for a spot of Cornish cream tea? Not us. Here’s our top 5 unmissable sights for a trip down to Cornwall and Devon.
Step into Jane Austen’s world in picturesque Bath
Even the simple act of walking through the cobbled streets of Bath is a treat for the eyes. Stunningly well-preserved Georgian architecture lines the length of the city, hosting everything from kitsch shops, cosy cafes and galleries inside. As you stroll through the city, you’ll come to understand why Bath was a coveted destination for fashionable society in the 1800’s, and the backdrop for many of Jane Austen’s characters. Stare in awe at the elegant image of the Royal Crescent, Pulteney Bridge, and the Circus, taking the opportunity to have a photo in front of this iconic backdrop. Then move on to the Roman Baths, where the city’s natural thermal springs fill up the site with natural water. And whilst you can’t take a dip in the emerald-tinted waters of the Baths themselves, you can in the neighbouring modern Thermae Bath Spa – the only natural thermal hot springs in Britain you can actually bathe in.
Get lost in the majestic rooms of Longleat House
Longleat House – one of the most renowned pieces of Elizabethan architecture and home to the 7th Marquess of Bath. Hear your footsteps echo throughout the grand halls of this regal home, where libraries are filled with over 40,000 books and Flemish tapestries decorate the walls. With over 450 years of history, you’ll have plenty of stories to absorb yourselves in. Had your fill of Elizabethan history? Stroll through the well-manicured grounds surrounding this stately home – the perfect end to the day.
Enjoy a traditional cream tea near coastal Devon
Mingle with the local community in the historic market town of Totnes, snacking your way through the town’s plethora of independent fairtrade shops and local cheesemongers. With Totnes on the doorstep of the River Dart, there are plenty of gorgeous countryside walks around the area for you to stretch your legs, too. Worked up an appetite? Head over to The Old Forge for a spot of cream tea; a combination of freshly baked scones, clotted cream and jam. The real question however – and one that divides Devon and Cornwall residents – is cream or jam on top of the scone first? We’ll let you guys duke it out…
Drive through the scenic roads of Dartmoor’s mysterious moors
Hop in the car and take a trip through the brooding landscape of Dartmoor. Everywhere you look you can’t fail to be impressed by all Mother Nature has to offer; dense forests, winding rivers, vast wetlands, and craggy rock formations. Let the roads guide you towards the capital of the Devon area – Princetown. There lies one of the country’s most notorious jails, where you can find yourselves swept up in the bloodthirsty tales of the ‘Max Axeman’ and ‘The Princetown Massacre’. And if you’re still hungry to hear more, why not cozy up in a local inn with one of our Local Specialists, who will be more than happy to share with you the legends of the area.
Unravel the mysteries of Stonehenge – one of the world’s ancient wonders
The prehistoric site of Stonehenge was first built around 5,000 years ago, with it’s famous stone circle erected around 2500 BC. This World Heritage site holds many unsolved mysteries including the origins of its appearance, with no written records of how it was created in existence. One story comes from Arthurian legend, involving the help of the wizard Merlin in transporting Stonehenge over from Ireland. Other stories even include the possibility of extraterrestrial life-forms. Whatever the origins of Stonehenge may be, it’s safe to say that this renowned site is an unmissable landmark in British culture.
GET INSPIRED: Best of Devon and Cornwall – your perfect short break
