Minehead

Minehead in Somerset

MINEHEAD IS CONSIDERED THE NORTHERN GATEWAY TO EXMOOR

Minehead, on the edge of Exmoor National Park in West Somerset is the area’s largest town. It is also the starting point of the South West Coast Path, England's longest waymarked footpath and a National Trail - it stretches for 630 miles.

Nestling between Exmoor National Park on one side and the Quantock Hills on the other and with Somerset’s County Town of Taunton just a 45 Minute scenic drive away, it is perfectly located for a superb holiday or short break. From that first distant glimpse of the sea and the iconic North Hill as you approach Minehead, you’ll begin to fall in love with our town.

Minehead offers the perfect destination for a family seaside holiday.  It boasts a wonderful long flat sandy beach, a charming harbour, a bustling town with Independent shops and cafes and heritage attractions.

Just a short stroll from the seafront you’ll find Blenheim Gardens, Minehead’s largest park. These beautiful gardens, which first opened in 1925, are open all year, with a bandstand and wide variety of free entertainment during the summer months. The historic 14^th Century St Michaels Church and charming cottages on North Hill give an olde world charm to the town, coupled with a bustling shopping area with a range of independent shops, high street stores and regular markets. Together with a busy West Somerset events calendar, there is always something to see and do in Minehead!

Across from the promenade and the gardens is West Somerset Railway’s western terminus — originally opened in 1874 as The Minehead Railway. A short walk leads you to The Avenue - Minehead’s main shopping street which is just off the seafront and offers a variety of shops, bars and restaurants.
 
Nearby villages include Dunster with its majestic Castle and Yarn Market, Watchet, Blue Anchor, Porlock and Porlock Weir- a very popular spot for crab fishing and water sports.