The West Country, encompassing Dorset, Somerset, Devon and Cornwall offers some of England’s most dramatic and sought-after landscapes. This is a region defined by its breathtaking Jurassic Coast, rolling pastoral valleys, and wild, open moorland. It appeals to those seeking an active, outdoor lifestyle coupled with a profound sense of history and escape, all within a manageable distance of London.
An Iconic Coast & Untamed Interior
The World Heritage Jurassic Coast provides a stunning backdrop, from the exclusive enclave of Sandbanks to the sailing waters of the Salcombe Estuary and the timeless charm of Lyme Regis. Inland, the Dorset Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the Blackdown Hills, and the wild expanse of Dartmoor and Exmoor National Parks offer unparalleled riding, walking, and a true sense of seclusion.
Key Destinations
Dorset: The picture-perfect village of Abbotsbury and the Georgian elegance of Bridport.
Somerset: The architectural harmony of Bath (a World Heritage Site), the culinary hub of Bruton (home to the Hauser & Wirth gallery and Osip restaurant), and the medieval charm of Wells. The pretty Georgian town of Castle Carey has the country’s 21st century produce and garden phenomena of The Newt. Frome has been established as Somerset’s centre for creatives for over a decade with its laid back and independent vibes. Clifton provides elegant city living with vibrant social life and Bristol’s growing economy.
Devon: The sailing paradise of Salcombe and Dartmouth, the vibrant estuary town of Totnes, and the rural idyll of the South Hams.
Cornwall: The dramatic cliffs of Lands End mark Cornwall’s western most point, while the iconic Eddystone Lighthouse stands sentinel miles out to sea from Plymouth Sound. In between, countless coves and harbours like those in Falmouth and St Ives have held the keys to Cornwall’s maritime destiny for centuries.
Connectivity
Mainline stations at Exeter St Davids, Taunton, and Sherborne offer direct services to London Paddington in approximately 2-2.5 hours. The A303/M3 corridor provides the principal road link, though travel times can be seasonal.
Education
The region is renowned for its exceptional schooling:
Private: Sherborne School, Bryanston, King’s College, Taunton, The Maynard School in Exeter and Millfield. Monkton Combe, Kingswood, Prior Park, Bath Royal High School in Bath. Clifton College, Bristol Grammar School, Badminton School in Bristol. Downside School and Sidcot School in Somerset also have their following.
State: The Gryphon School in Sherborne and Colyton Grammar School have been consistently top-ranked.
Dining & Lifestyle
The West Country is a food lover’s destination, from the Michelin-starred The Elephant in Torquay and The Mason Arms in South Petherton to iconic seafood shacks and celebrated country pubs like The Hive Beach Café in Burton Bradstock. Cultural pursuits are world-class, including the Bath Literature Festival, the Port Eliot Festival, and the internationally renowned Dartington Hall estate.
Offering a compelling mix of raw natural beauty, profound history, and contemporary culture, the West Country represents the ultimate country lifestyle for the discerning buyer.
