Weston-super-mare
Weston-super-Mare is situated in a sheltered bay at the foot of the Mendip Hills with views across the Bristol Channel to South Wales. It is Somerset's finest holiday resort both in terms of its natural beauty and the attractions and activities the town and surrounding area have to offer. Weston has maintained a Victorian and Edwardian legacy, with its charming turn-of-the-century terraces interspersed between well kept gardens. Attractions in the resort of Weston vary from its well developed Sea Life centre to its covered amusement park on the historic Grand Pier; the landward end is still open to visitors despite the recent devastating fire. There is dancing nightly at the Winter Gardens and top class cabaret, as well as big star names performing at the Playhouse, Weston's premier theatre. Weston is surrounded by places of cultural and historical interest. It is close to the cities of Bath, Bristol and Wells, with their ancient Roman history and breath-taking cathedrals. Plus, the resort's position, nestling between the Mendip Hills and the Bristol Channel, means there are opportunities for both gentle rambling and sailing.
Hotels
We use the Anchor Head Hotel, a Leisureplex Hotel.
Town Centre
The town centre has a pedestrianised High Street as well as the indoor Sovereign Shopping Centre. Intriguing antiques, books and craftworks are found just off the beaten track, amongst Weston's narrow side streets. Less than half an hour away, the Clarks Shopping Village offers over 90 shops selling at factory prices.
Beach and Gardens
The resort's beach and gardens provide an excellent environment for relaxation with deckchairs, bowling lawns and music drifting from the bandstands. Weston's clean, sandy beaches stretch over a mile along the front. Its gardens are well kept and are frequent contenders for awards such as the Britain in Bloom contest.
Activities and Attractions
Tourist Information Tel:01934 888800
www.weston-super-mare.com
Brean Leisure Park Tel:01278 751595
A family leisure park with over 30 rides and attractions. There is a fun pool with waterslides, mini-golf, bar, restaurant, garden centre and a gift shop.
www.brean.com
Playhouse Theatre Box Office Tel:01934 645544
The theatre hosts a variety of shows from stand-up comedy to musical theatre.
www.theplayhouse.co.uk
Weston Heritage Centre Tel:01934 412144
A chance to experience the lives of people in Victorian Weston-Super-Mare.
North Somerset Museum Tel:01934 621028
The museum tells the story of the area from pre-history to present day through a number of exhibitions.
www.n-somerset.gov.uk
Court Farm Country Park Tel:01934 822383
An award-winning farm park with all-weather facilities including tractor rides, mazes and a range of animals.
www.courtfarmcountrypark.co.uk
Weston Helicopter museum Tel:01934 635227
The museum houses one of the largest collections of helicopters in Europe.
www.helicoptermuseum.co.uk
Animal Farm Adventure Park Tel:01278 751628
Situated in 23 acres of farmland, the park is home to a host of birds and animals, including several rare and exotic species.
www.animal-farm.co.uk
Bishop's Palace - Wells Tel:01749 678691
A magnificent medieval palace set within 14 acres of landscaped gardens.
www.bishopspalacewells.co.uk
Events
Weston Super Mare Open Bowling Tournament:
Taking place in June for men and August for women, the Tournaments attract players from across the UK.
Helicopter Show:
A unique three day event at the end of July with up to 50 military and civil helicopters flying in for the weekend.
www.helicoptermuseum.co.uk
Weston Carnival Held in November, this is one of the biggest events in the area; the parade includes illuminated floats, performers and locals in fancy dress.
www.northsomersetcarnival.co.uk
Sand Sculpture Festival Tel:01934 888800
Amazing displays of sand art can be viewed on the beach lawns from July to September.
www.westonsandsculpture.co.uk
Frome Festival A range of events to suit all ages.
www.fromefestival.co.uk
Minehead and Exmoor Festival takes place in July/August and features a week of classical and chamber music.
homepage.virgin.net
Somerset Art Weeks Venues across Somerset will be showcasing a range of visual arts for two weeks in September.
www.somersetartweek.org.uk
For up to date details and further events see: visitsomerset.co.uk
Excursions from Weston
The details below are intended as a general guide only. For specific tour details, first check Availability and then follow the link from the Tour Description.
Minehead Travel along the shores of the Bristol Channel via the picturesque village of Dunster with its historic castle, to Minehead, now a popular holiday centre, but once an important port.
www.mineheadsomerset.co.uk
Bath A focus of culture down the ages, Bath was a spa town in Roman times and the height of fashion in the Georgian period. The Pump Room is well worth a visit and there is a fine medieval abbey to explore.
visitbath.co.uk
Wells is home to a stunning medieval cathedral and the Bishop's Palace. There are twice weekly markets and a superb range of shops.
www.wells-uk.com
Cheddar Caves & Gorge Discover enchanting illuminated caves, dramatic cliffs and the fascinating pre-historic world of our cannibal ancestors. There is also a snack bar, restaurant, licensed bar and gift shops.
www.cheddarcaves.com
Street is one of England's most picturesque villages and is headquarters of the Clark's shoe empire. Clark's Village has over 90 retail stores on site and a range of dining facilities.
www.clarksvillage.co.uk
Taunton lies between the Quantock and Blackdown Hills in the spectacular Vale of Taunton Deane. The town has many fine features, such as Taunton Castle which houses the County Museum and Hesterton Gardens, comprising of 40 acres of woodlands, formal terraces and lakes.
www.tauntontowncentre.co.uk
Bristol is bursting with things to see and do for all ages, whether it's historic houses, churches, parks and gardens or a trip to the zoo.
visitbristol.co.uk