Looking to explore the stunning South West of England without breaking the bank? You’re in the right place! Our budget caravan in the South West at Doniford Bay is ideally located for a variety of fun, free activities that showcase the beauty of Somerset and the surrounding areas. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or just want to relax by the sea, there are plenty of free things to do near Doniford Bay. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the best free activities near our caravan that you can enjoy during your stay.
1. Doniford Bay Beach
Just a short walk from our budget caravan in the South West of England at Doniford Bay Beach is a perfect spot for a relaxing day by the sea. The beach is peaceful and often less crowded than other beaches in the area, making it ideal for a quiet retreat. You can spend the day sunbathing, taking a stroll along the shoreline, or simply sitting back and enjoying the fresh sea air.
If you’re up for a bit of adventure, try rockpooling at low tide to discover marine life like crabs, small fish, and other fascinating sea creatures. The best part? It’s completely free to visit, and you can spend as much time as you like soaking up the coastal beauty.
2. Exmoor National Park
Exmoor National Park, located just a short drive from Doniford Bay, is an outdoor paradise full of stunning landscapes, wildlife, and natural beauty. The park offers miles of walking and hiking trails, so you can explore its vast moors, wooded valleys, and dramatic coastline for free. Whether you’re looking for an easy walk or a more challenging hike, there’s a trail for every fitness level.
As you explore Exmoor, you might encounter red deer, Exmoor ponies, and a variety of bird species. There are several scenic viewpoints where you can stop and take in breathtaking views of the countryside. Don’t forget to pack a picnic and enjoy a break surrounded by nature. For more information on trails and things to do in Exmoor, visit the Exmoor National Park website.
3. Dunster Castle Grounds
Although there’s a charge to enter Dunster Castle itself, you can still enjoy the surrounding grounds for free. The castle is set on a hill overlooking the village of Dunster, and its gardens offer a tranquil place to relax and take in the view. You can wander around the beautifully maintained grounds, explore the woodland areas, and enjoy a peaceful walk along the castle’s impressive walls.
From the grounds, you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, including the Bristol Channel. The surrounding area also features some lovely walking routes, perfect for a relaxed day out in nature. Check out the National Trust’s Dunster Castle page for more details about visiting the grounds.
4. Watersmeet and the Valley of Rocks
If you’re looking for a scenic and peaceful day out, the Valley of Rocks and Watersmeet are must-visit locations within Exmoor National Park. The walk to Watersmeet is one of the most picturesque in the area, taking you through a wooded gorge with a crystal-clear stream running alongside it. The surrounding area is also a great spot for wildlife watching, and you might even spot some local red deer.
The Valley of Rocks, located nearby, is a dramatic landscape with towering cliffs and unique rock formations. It’s a great spot for a picnic or simply to take in the stunning scenery. Both Watersmeet and the Valley of Rocks are free to visit, and there are plenty of walking trails to enjoy. For more information on these sites, visit the National Trust’s Watersmeet page.
5. Porlock Weir
For a charming coastal village experience, head to Porlock Weir, just a short drive from our budget caravan in the South West at Doniford Bay. This small, peaceful village offers stunning views of the Bristol Channel and the surrounding hills. Take a leisurely stroll around the harbour, enjoy the sea breeze, and watch the boats as they come and go.
There are plenty of opportunities for a relaxing walk along the coast, with scenic routes offering fantastic views over the sea and nearby cliffs. Porlock Weir is also a great spot for birdwatching, as you can often see wading birds and seabirds around the harbour. The best part is that all of this can be enjoyed for free! You can also find more information about the area on the Porlock Weir website.
6. Minehead Seafront
Minehead, a nearby seaside town, is a lovely place to spend a day exploring. Its long, sandy beach is perfect for a relaxing walk or a family day out. The promenade stretches along the seafront and offers beautiful views of the coast. You can enjoy a leisurely stroll, watch the waves roll in, or simply sit and relax while taking in the sea breeze.
In addition to the beach, the seafront area features Victorian architecture and plenty of green spaces, perfect for a picnic or a game of frisbee. It’s an ideal spot to unwind, and best of all, it’s completely free to visit. While in Minehead, be sure to check out the Minehead Tourist Information Centre for information on local attractions and events.
7. Tarr Steps Clapper Bridge
Tarr Steps is an ancient clapper bridge that spans the River Barle in Exmoor National Park. It’s one of the most iconic landmarks in the area and offers a peaceful and scenic spot for a walk or picnic. The bridge itself is thought to be over 1,000 years old and is made of large, flat stones, which gives it a unique appearance.
Surrounding the bridge are several walking trails, so you can explore the area and take in the natural beauty of the park. The visit to Tarr Steps is completely free, making it a perfect stop for anyone on a budget. For more information about Tarr Steps, visit the Exmoor National Park website.
8. Local Villages and Countryside Walks
The area around our budget caravan in the South West in Doniford Bay is full of quaint villages, rolling hills, and beautiful countryside, making it an excellent location for scenic walks. Whether you prefer to explore the local villages, wander through wooded areas, or take in the coastal views, you’ll find plenty of paths to explore.
One great way to discover the local area is by following one of the many walking trails around the villages of Dunster, Porlock, and Minehead. These walks offer a mix of coastal views, countryside scenes, and charming rural villages, and they’re all free to explore.
9. West Somerset Coast Path
For those who enjoy walking along the coast, the West Somerset Coast Path is a must-try. The path stretches from Minehead to the village of Blue Anchor, offering stunning views of the Bristol Channel and the surrounding countryside. The walk is free to access, and you can choose to do as much or as little of it as you like.
Whether you’re looking for a short stroll or a longer hike, the West Somerset Coast Path is a beautiful way to experience the natural beauty of the South West. Visit the West Somerset Coast Path website for more information on the trail and suggested walking routes.
10. Local Pubs and Cafes
While many pubs and cafes require you to purchase food or drinks, some of the best experiences in the South West are simply enjoying the atmosphere of a local establishment. Many pubs in the area have lovely beer gardens or scenic views, where you can sit and relax with a drink or snack. Whether you’re in Dunster, Minehead, or Porlock, there’s always a welcoming local pub to enjoy.
Conclusion
Staying in our budget caravan in Doniford Bay means you’re never far from free activities that let you make the most of the beautiful South West of England. Whether it’s a walk on the beach, a hike through Exmoor National Park, or a visit to a historic site, there’s plenty to see and do without spending a penny. So pack your bags, get outside, and enjoy all the free adventures waiting for you in and around Doniford Bay!
To book your stay in our budget caravan, visit our booking page or contact us for further information.