West Somerset Railway, Cleeve Abbey & Dunster

Sample the best of North Devon and Somerset on this lovely tour, staying in the lovely seaside resort of Minehead. We enjoy a journey on the mighty West Somerset Railway, taking in the county's stunning countryside and coast. We also spend time in the twin villages of Lynton and Lynmouth and the pretty medieval village of Dunster, and get an insight into monastic life 800 years ago at the fascinating Cleeve Abbey.Monday: We depart the Travel Centre this morning and make our south, making adequate comfort stops before arriving at the hotel late afternoon.

Tuesday: This morning we spend time at leisure in the twin villages of Lynton and Lynmouth, where we can take the cliff railway from one to the other. The unique Victorian water powered funicular cliff lift (disabled access is limited) will transport us 500ft up and down to the villages, where we can explore their little independent shops selling local produce, gifts, arts and crafts. We have free time for lunch before returning to Minehead this afternoon, with time at leisure to relax in our resort.

Wednesday: This morning we board the West Somerset Railway in Minehead for a journey on the UK’s longest heritage railway. Our relaxing one way journey takes us through stunning countryside and coast to Bishops Lydeard (please note, steam haulage is not guaranteed).

Thursday: We begin our day with a visit to the Grade I listed Cleeve Abbey, a Cistercian abbey in Washford. Scheduled as an ancient monument, the abbey was founded in the late twelfth century. Despite being destroyed by Henry VIII during the dissolution in 1536, the cloister buildings survived remarkably intact and are said to be the ‘finest cloister buildings in England’. We then make our way to the beautiful medieval village of Dunster with time at leisure to enjoy lunch and explore. Wander through the cobbled streets browsing the selection of shops and admire the hilltop Dunster Castle and Watermill, the lovely thatched cottages and the Grade I listed Yarn Market, a striking octagonal wooden building once used to buy and sell cloth.

Friday: We depart the Travel Centre this morning and make our way back to Hugglescote, with adequate comfort stops en route, before arriving back late afternoon.The Northfield Hotel
The hotel is located on the lower slopes of Northhill in nearly 2 acres of landscaped gardens reputed to have been laid out by Gertrude Jekyll. There is a wonderful view from the elevated position from the coast to the Quantocks, Brendon hills and indeed Exmoor.
All bedrooms are en suite with tea/coffee making facilities and television. The hotel has leisure facilities including swimming pool, steam room & jacuzzi.