South West England is UK’s Best Kept Secret for a

Published February 8th, 2010 - 09:39 GMT
Al Bawaba
Al Bawaba

Whether it be Valentine’s Day, a romantic European holiday, or planning a summer escape, South West England provides an ideal setting for Middle Eastern travellers looking for a private and peaceful break , and a truly unique and memorable experience.

Rich in history and heritage, South West England offers the region’s visitors some of the very best attractions the UK has to offer, including Stonehenge and the magnificent Bath Spa, castles and cathedrals, as well as traditional English gardens, stately homes, and quaint Cotswold towns and villages – a window into life in times gone by.

With places like Bath, Cornwall, Cotswolds, and Devon, regional visitors can also experience charming scenery, beautiful beaches, world class seafood, and many top boutique hotels catered for the ideal romantic holiday. 

“At this romantic time of year, it is a great opportunity to spoil those you love by planning the ideal getaway,  and with so much on offer in South West England, visiting guests from the Middle East are sure to have a unique and memorable experience,” said Carol Maddison, Marketing Manager, VisitBritain UAE.

2,000 years ago the Romans built a magnificent Bath House around the only natural hot spring in England, giving the city of Bath its name. Famously the home of Jane Austen, and among the most beautiful of places in South West England - the entire city has been named a World Heritage site. The River Avon winds through a valley of stately homes, Palladian parades, and a wealth of architectural treasures built from honey-coloured limestone.

In the most South Western corner of England lies coastal Cornwall, a county proud of its Celtic roots, tin mining past and inescapable relationship with the sea. In recent times it has become a hot-spot for surfing, art, good food, laid-back beach lifestyle, and a playground for outdoors enthusiasts. Lovers of all things ‘ocean' will be in their element exploring picturesque fishing villages, sampling freshly caught seafood, taking on new water sports or simply losing track of time on Cornwall's 300 or so beautiful golden beaches.

Another must-visit destination is Gloucestershire's Cotswolds and Forest of Dean – the English countryside of the imagination. Dotted amongst hills, rivers and ancient woodland are some of the most picturesque towns and villages in the country. Built from Cotswold limestone they are famous for their honey coloured cottages and churches. Lovers of arts and crafts will find many independent galleries and shops to browse the wares of local artisans, and walkers will be in their element in spectacular countryside with plenty of rustic eateries to stumble across.

Devon, a firm favourite holiday spot visited year-on-year by tourists, has such a diverse and beautiful natural environment complemented with mild climate. Two coastlines offer miles of golden beaches featuring some top surf spots and dramatic cliff-top walks. Dartmoor and Exmoor National Parks provide perfect opportunities for getting active in wild, unspoilt open expanses and the quintessential rolling Devonshire countryside is an idyllic patchwork of fields, farms, and overgrown hedgerows teeming with wildlife. Foodies will relish visiting farmers markets and an array of exquisite restaurants that proudly serve up delicious local fare.