Minehead - 10 things to do whilst visiting

Minehead is located on the Somerset Coast and sits on the South Bank of the Bristol Channel.  It is just 21 miles from Taunton, 12 miles to the Devon border and sits on the edge of Exmoor National Park, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.  Minehead promises fabulous beach walks, climbs and trails to walk, cycle and explore and creates a super base to discover the West Country.

 

Read on to see why it’s worth visiting Minehead and the 10 things to do when you are here.

 

Are there many shops in Minehead? 

 

There are more than 100 shops in Minehead which are a good mix of national brands and smaller unique retailers. There is a thriving cafe culture where you can sip a cup of coffee or sit for longer and have lunch or dinner whilst enjoying the picturesque view. You can sample the many cafes, pubs and restaurants which are located in the town itself, and along the harbor and sea front.

 

Can you swim in the sea at Minehead?

 

The Strand is the main beach at Minehead and is made up of mostly sand with some small areas of stone and shingle. It stretches right across the bay and is approximately 1 mile long!  Plenty of space to relax and play whilst on holiday.  It’s always best to check the tide times.  It’s recommended that the best times to swim are 1.5 to 2 hours either side of high tide.  There is also a promenade to walk along making the most of the stunning view.

 

Does Minehead have a Farmers Market?

 

Minehead has a Farmers’s Market which takes place every Friday morning along The Parade between 8:30 and 1pm. Here you can be tempted by the fresh local produce made by the local producers.  There is a great display of breads and cakes, meats and fish, fresh fruit and vegetables, plants, chutneys and jams, gourmet foods and not forgetting apple juice and beer.

With some of the popular questions answered, let’s have a look at our top 10 things to do in Minehead

 

1) South West Coastal Path  

Minehead is the starting point of the South West Coastal Path which runs for 630 miles and ends in Dorset. Suitable for all, families, walkers and ramblers alike, can absorb the stunning views and wildlife which presents itself. From Minehead it runs past the harbor to Culver Cliff, then climbs through woodland and enters Exmoor National Park.  It heads inland towards Selworthy Beacon and Bossington Hill then follows onto the cliff top at Hurlstone Point. Follow on through  Bossington and Porlock Weir (a harbor settlement) which has the option of connecting to Coleridge Way which is another popular 51 mile trail running through Somerset and Devon.  This starts in the Quantocks and runs all the way to Lynmouth.

 

2) West Somerset Railway 

The West Somerset steam train takes you on a trip of over 20 miles of heritage railway through the Somerset countryside and along the coast.  It starts at Minehead and runs to Bishops Lydeard.  Visit 10 different stations and discover what lies at each. Pick a favorite stop. Maybe break at Bishops Lydeard and visit the Quantock Brewery or stop for lunch in Williton. 

Dunster is one of the most popular stops with no trip complete without a visit to Dunster Castle and Water Mill. This is cared for by the National Trust and has an array of things to do such as walk in the terraced gardens, explore the wooded garden or visit the natural play area.  They have a list of activities for peak times to keep the family entertained.  Dunster itself has a fine selection of local craft shops and retailers along with fabulous tea rooms.  You will not be disappointed.

 

3) Minehead Museum 

The Minehead Museum is located in the Beach Hotel Complex, The Avenue.  It is run by a dedicated team of volunteers who will guide you around and look after you on your visit.  They are very informative about the local Minehead and Alcombe areas with history dating back to 1046.  The Museum has many exhibits to include the history of the famous swimming pool, The Pier, The Hobby Horse, the Lifeboats, the Great Fire and world famous author Sir Arthur C. Clarke.  You can even see the original puppets used in the Minehead Punch and Judy productions.

The Museum is open from mid March until the end of October.  It is open Tuesday to Saturday 10am -4pm and Sunday 11am until 6pm.  Admission is free of charge although donations are gratefully received.

 

4) Blenheim Gardens 

Opened in 1925, Blenheim Gardens is the largest park in Minehead.  It is located in the centre of the town and is a stone’s throw from the seafront and harbor. Take a leisurely stroll around the large green space and view the seasonal bedding displays and the wide range of trees and shrubs which thrive in a mild seaside climate.  For those who prefer to take a seat, there are plenty of benches located around the park so the sounds and colours can be appreciated. In the summer months, weekend concerts and bands play in the bandstand.

 

5) Minehead Eye 

The Minehead Eye caters for kids and adults alike.  The Skatepark offers sessions for all and includes skate, BMX and scooter activities.  There is even a session for the under 8’s called Diddy’s Dudes Skate Session.  If climbing is your passion, why not try bouldering or try the climbing wall alongside one of the instructors.  Whilst on site refreshments can be purchased at the cafe. 

6) Avenue Cinema 

The Avenue cinema in Minehead is a three screen cinema with the latest sound tech and has all the new releases to watch. Tickets can be purchased online in advance.   It has a family feel and promises a good viewing experience.

 

7) Butlins Resort 

Loved by families since 1962, the Billy Butlin experience continues with the Vintage Funfair with family rides and stalls. Experience the Skypark, a dedicated sensory playground with 6 different zones and climbing towers. Ride the flumes, slides and splash zone in Splash Waterworld and float around the lazy river. In the evening watch the numerous shows and entertainers and don’t forget the famous Butlin’s Big Weekenders – not just for families! Experience big headline acts, daytime activities and live performances.  Day pass tickets are available.

 

8) Local Towns  

There are so many picturesque towns and villages to visit when staying in Minehead. Visit the Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff top Railway, have a stroll along the shingle beach at Porlock and consume the numerous art galleries and shops. Families love to engage in a spot of crabbing or even star gazing. Malmsmead is the Gateway to the Doone Valley.  There are plentiful tearooms and shops to peruse and enjoy. Malmsmead can be accessed by Coleridge Way or the South West Coast Path.

 

9) Exmoor 

Minehead is located on the edge of Exmoor National Park so is easily accessible for walks and bike rides. There are over 1000km of footpaths and bridleways which cover moorland, woodland, valleys and farmland to seek.

Wimbleball Lake near Brompton regis offers fantastic opportunities for paddle boarders and canoeists both inland and out at sea. 

Exmoor is one of the best off road cycling destinations in the UK.  There are plenty of permitted tracks, lanes and bridleways to test your skills.

If fishing is your pastime, many of the local towns offer arranged fishing trips out to sea to catch sea fish.  Inland permit fishing is also plentiful and available at East Lyn, The Barle and River Exe.

 

10) Watersports and activity hire 

There are various hire activities available in Minehead.  Channel Adventure is located in the middle of the seafront alongside the cycle path.  They are a non for profit community interest group who have a real passion for getting people outdoors. They offer a wide selection of items for hire on land to include mountain bikes, scooters, skateboards and land SUPS. If you would like to enjoy the calm waters in the Bay, stand up paddle boards can be hired by the hour or for the day. Catch a wave or two on a body board and keep yourself warm and toasty with a wetsuit.  

 

Minehead is a popular location which offers plenty of activities for all of the family. Westcountry Resorts have static caravans for sale in Minehead at the Butlin’s Resort. A resort loved by families since 1962.

 

Have a look at our holiday homes for sale in Somerset to open your gateway to the West Country.

 

For more information visit www.westcountryresorts or call 01392 271 222.