Winter is almost here, which means many of us will be tempted to hole up at home and stay warm and cosy. But this beautiful season shouldn’t be taken for granted.
The great British staycation was such a success this summer that it would be a shame not to indulge in a holiday close to home before 2020 draws to a close. What better place to do just that than right here at Extra Mile Venue St Audries Park?
Our stunning country manor is the perfect base to explore the most beautiful and fascinating Somerset haunts.
Whether you’d like to explore the great outdoors, stay inside or a mixture of both, make sure these things feature on your winter mini-break itinerary!
Quantock Hills
Based just a stone’s throw away from St Audries, the Quantock Hills is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty that no adventurer should miss out on visiting during a stay with us.
Whether you’re walking, cycling, or horse riding, the Quantock Hills is the perfect place to explore. With views that stretch as far as the Bristol Channel, Mendips, Wales, and the Somerset Levels, there’s plenty to see.
As well as taking in the stunning views, you’ll want to find out more about the area’s fascinating history. Here the National Trust gives us a brief insight:
“Heading south off the main common are Great and Marrow Hills. A large hill-top Bronze Age burial cairn looks over the vale towards Exmoor and the Brendon Hills. Running alongside is the Drove Road, a fabulous beech-lined avenue.
It was originally used as a traders’ route, leading along the ridge of the Quantocks to the port at Watchet. The route was especially useful in the winter when the Somerset Levels were impassable.”
Wellington Monument
From one Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty to another, Blackdown Hills is a great outdoor spot to add to your mini-break itinerary.
Here, you’ll find the Wellington Monument, an iconic structure that’s surrounded by the lush British countryside and wildlife-rich meadows.
Once you’ve checked out the monument, be sure to extend your visit by taking on one of Blackdown Hill’s walks and rides.
The Museum of Somerset
Set in the great hall of the 12th century Taunton Castle, the Museum of Somerset makes a fascinating visit for people with all interests. Discover the history of the region from the prehistoric times to the present day, exploring interactive exhibitions, artefacts, and multimedia.
The Museum of Somerset is home to several impressive collections, including its famous underfloor Plesiosaur and the largest collection of Roman coins ever to be discovered in Britain. The museum is currently temporarily closed due to the national lockdown but is due to reopen very soon.
Hestercombe
Enjoy the best of indoors and out at Hestercombe, based just 30 minutes’ drive away from St Audries.
There’s lots to explore at Hestercombe, including 50 acres of lakes, temples, water features, woodland, terraces, and formal gardens. Indoors you’ll find a contemporary art gallery, an amazing café, plant centre, second-hand bookshop, and gift shop.
Clarks Village
Looking to indulge in some retail therapy? Then be sure to visit Clarks Village.
Clarks Village was the UK’s first ever outlet shopping centre, and it’s been the area’s retail heaven ever since it opened its doors back in 1993. Located in the heart of Somerset, the shopping centre is packed full of stores and eateries, including some 90 designer and high street brands, cafés and restaurants.
Here at St Audries Park, we’re so much more than a wedding venue. We’re hosting a series of mini-breaks and restaurant events over the winter months, so what are you waiting for? Book your winter escape right here.
