13 Things to Do in Minehead
Discovering the characterful seaside town of Minehead
Often referred to as the “northern gateway to Exmoor”, the coastal town of Minehead also marks the beginning for the South West Coast Path, England’s longest waymarked footpath.
This historic town lies in Somerset’s scenic western district, flanked by the magnificent Quantock Hills to the east and nestled on the fringes of Dunkery and Horner Wood – one of the largest nature reserves in the West Country.
With dramatic headlands and sweeping, sandy bays, Minehead is the ideal destination for all those who love to explore the great outdoors.
Things to do in and around Minehead…
1. Minehead Beach
Minehead Beach is a wide, sandy shore which, at low tide, has ample space for beach games and sandcastle building. Also known as “The Strand”, this popular bay lies below the lofty heights of North Hill and is also freckled by rock pools. From May to September dogs are allowed on the central stretch of the beach between the harbour and the golf course.
View this post on Instagram
2. West Somerset Railway
Twenty miles of track wending through the beautiful West Somerset countryside, West Somerset Railway is the longest standard gauge independent heritage railway in the UK. Sit back and relax in your coach as the steam locomotive chugs along the rolling Quantocks hills towards the rugged cliffs and shores of the Bristol Channel – the contours of the South Wales peninsula it the distance. You won’t find a more nostalgic day out in all of Somerset!
View this post on Instagram
3. Dunster Castle & Watermill
Surrounded by ancient woodland, Dunster Castle was established during the Norman era before becoming part of the Luttrell family’s 600-year-old ancestry and transformed into an opulent country home. Impressive features include the medieval gatehouse, ruined tower, subtropical gardens, terraced gardens and ancient watermill. You can also enjoy a stroll by the river and sparkling views of the Bristol Channel. Dunster Castle and Watermill is preserved and maintained by the National Trust.
View this post on Instagram
4. Culver Cliff Woodland Walk
Liven the senses with an invigorating walk along woodland paths and coastal trails. This popular stroll is a little over a mile long, ideal for all those wanting to start the day with some fresh, countryside air and some stunning views of the Bristol Channel. Set off from Quay Town, one of Minehead’s oldest quarters (dating back to the 11th century) and return to the seafront by way of a woodland track known locally as “The Zig Zags”.
5. Exmoor Owl & Hawk Centre
Only a handful of miles from Minehead, Exmoor Owl & Hawk Centre is home to an amazing array of birds. Aerial displays take place during the summer season, plus flying and taster experiences are also available. These birds regularly fly free from their aviaries and include common buzzards, a Harris’s hawk, a palm-nut vulture, and a variety of beautiful owls.
View this post on Instagram
6. Holnicote Estate
Part of Exmoor National Park’s vast 12,000 acreage, Holnicote Estate is one of West Somerset’s most-cherished wild escapes. Walkers, ramblers, horse riders and mountain-bikers love to explore the rugged moorland, ancient woodland and shingle beaches that characterise this precious enclave. The estate plays host to Dunkery Beacon, Somerset’s loftiest peak and also designated as a Dark Sky Discovery Site. The area is rich in wildlife, with red deer and Exmoor ponies regularly seen grazing on the heaths and heathers and the rare heath fritillary butterfly among Holnicote’s variety of unique inhabitants.
7. Exmoor Riding
What better way to explore the roaming bridleways and ancient hill tracks of Exmoor than on horseback. Set in the sweeping pastures of West Lynch Farm, all horses at Exmoor Riding have been trained using gentle horse and rider techniques and respond to all types of riding abilities, from gentle trail riding to exhilarating cross-country canters. A wonderful opportunity to reconnect with the natural world and bond with this noblest of creatures.
View this post on Instagram
8. Exmoor Adventures
The rugged plains of Exmoor and the secret shores of West Somerset provide the perfect setting for outdoor adventure activities. Based in Porlock, Exmoor Adventures offers an array of unforgettable wilderness experiences, from mountain biking, abseiling and rock climbing to kayaking, coasteering and raft building, all delivered by a fun and passionate team with bags of experience and vast knowledge of the local landscape.
View this post on Instagram
9. Minehead Museum
Unlock the secrets of Minehead’s past with a visit to the town’s museum. Find out about the area’s rich maritime history and the local characters who helped put the town on the map. Among the museum’s many projects is a recently commissioned model of Minehead Pier, constructed to celebrate its 120th anniversary. What a great introduction to this famous West Country seaside town.
10. The Golden Retriever Experience
It’s the opportunity to encounter a pack of people-loving Golden Retrievers for cuddles, petting and playtime. Founded by renowned UK dog whisperer, Nicolas Grant-St James, the Golden Retriever Experience can be found in the heart of Minehead, not far from Blenheim Gardens. This popular and much-loved breed are well-known for their ability to connect with humans, and the pack’s soothing presence is a joy to behold.
View this post on Instagram
11. Blenheim Gardens
Not far from the esplanade, these stunning gardens were first landscaped and planted during the 1920s. Today, they are full of mature trees, shrubs, perennials and flowerbeds, all of which thrive in the milder climes of West Somerset. During the summer months, concerts are often held on the park’s bandstand. It’s the perfect place to relax and unwind.
12. Channel Adventure
Based at The Adventure Centre in Minehead, on the foothills of Exmoor, Channel Adventure offer a range of exciting outdoors experiences, with kayaking, canoeing, coasteering, mountain biking, tree climbing and axe throwing among the many activities sure to get your adrenalin pumping. Qualified instructors are on hand to show you the ropes. Guaranteed fun and excitement for all the family.
View this post on Instagram
13. The Regal Theatre
Described as the “hub of the community”, The Regal Theatre regularly hosts professional and amateur productions. Its large auditorium holds 400 seats and has staged anything from ballets and costume dramas to choirs and dance troops. The theatre’s bar is also a hive for entertainment, with poetry, jazz and pop-up plays often in the line-up. It also incorporates a stylish balcony. Built in 1934, ‘The Regal’ remains the life ‘n’ soul of this flamboyant seaside town.
Check out Toad Hall’s growing list of holiday cottages in the characterful, seaside town of Minehead, gateway to Exmoor.