Get More From Your Lower Durston Hot Tub Cottage Break
Booking cottages with hot tubs in Lower Durston gives you access to one of Somerset's most peaceful corners whilst staying within easy reach of the county's best attractions. This tiny hamlet sits between Taunton and Bridgwater in the heart of the Somerset Levels, where flat wetlands stretch for miles and church towers punctuate the horizon.
We love how Lower Durston offers the perfect base for romantic breaks and family getaways alike. The area combines genuine rural isolation with surprisingly good transport links to coastal towns and historic sites. Whether you're after dog friendly retreats or luxury cottages with private hot tubs, this part of Somerset delivers authentic country breaks without the tourist crowds.
What to do on a family or couple's hot tub break in Lower Durston
Lower Durston itself is a working agricultural community where traditional Somerset life continues much as it has for centuries. The surrounding landscape of the Somerset Levels is a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, created by centuries of drainage and peat extraction. You'll find drove roads, rhynes (drainage channels) and willow plantations that once supplied the basket-making industry.
The hamlet sits just three miles from Taunton, Somerset's county town, giving you immediate access to shops, restaurants and cultural attractions. Bridgwater lies six miles north whilst the Quantock Hills rise dramatically to the northwest. The M5 motorway runs nearby, making this an excellent spot for exploring both the Somerset coast and the inland attractions of Exmoor.
Sightseeing in Lower Durston
The area around Lower Durston showcases classic Somerset scenery. Flat fields stretch towards distant hills whilst medieval churches like St John the Baptist in nearby Durston village display the distinctive red sandstone typical of the region. The Somerset Levels are famous for their wildlife, particularly in winter when thousands of starlings create spectacular murmurations at dusk.
Top 5 attractions you have to see in Lower Durston
From historic market towns to dramatic coastal scenery, the attractions near Lower Durston cover everything from family days out to secluded romantic spots perfect for couples staying in boutique cottages.
Hestercombe Gardens
Just four miles from Lower Durston, Hestercombe combines three centuries of garden design across 50 acres. The Georgian landscape garden, Victorian terrace and Edwardian formal gardens designed by Gertrude Jekyll and Edwin Lutyens create one of Somerset's finest horticultural attractions. The on-site café serves excellent lunches using produce from the kitchen garden.
Quantock Hills
England's first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty lies eight miles west of Lower Durston. These ancient hills offer superb walking with heather moorland, deep combes and oak woodlands. Coleridge and Wordsworth walked these paths in the 1790s and the views across the Bristol Channel to Wales remain spectacular. Perfect for dog friendly adventures.
West Somerset Railway
Britain's longest heritage railway runs 23 miles from Bishops Lydebridge to Minehead. Steam trains chug through the Quantock foothills and along the coast, stopping at beautifully restored stations. The journey takes 90 minutes each way and offers a brilliant day out for families or a unique way to reach the seaside.
Bridgwater Town Centre
Six miles north, Bridgwater offers proper market town shopping alongside its fascinating maritime history. The town hosts Britain's oldest annual carnival each November with illuminated processions drawing huge crowds. Visit the Admiral Blake Museum to learn about this important port's role in trade and industry. Good for rainy day activities.
Burnham-on-Sea Beach
Twelve miles northwest, Burnham-on-Sea provides classic British seaside fun with seven miles of sandy beach. The distinctive wooden lighthouse on stilts makes a great photo opportunity whilst the long promenade suits gentle strolls. The beach is perfect for families and the town has traditional fish and chip shops plus amusement arcades.
Don't Miss These...
| Attraction | What you'll experience | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Hestercombe Gardens | Three centuries of garden design with stunning formal gardens and woodland walks | Couples |
| Quantock Hills | Moorland walking with panoramic views and literary heritage | Everyone |
| West Somerset Railway | Steam train journey through countryside to the coast | Families |
| Bridgwater Town Centre | Market town shopping and maritime museum | Everyone |
| Burnham-on-Sea Beach | Traditional seaside with sandy beach and promenade | Families |
Visitor FAQs
How do I get to Lower Durston?
Junction 25 of the M5 sits three miles away. Taunton railway station offers regular services to London Paddington, Bristol and Exeter. Local buses connect the hamlet to Taunton and Bridgwater though hiring a car gives you much better flexibility for exploring.
What family activities are available near Lower Durston?
The West Somerset Railway provides a brilliant day out whilst Burnham-on-Sea offers traditional beach fun. Hestercombe Gardens has trails for children and Bridgwater's parks include play areas. Many holiday cottages and lodges welcome large family groups.
Where are the best romantic spots?
Hestercombe Gardens at sunset is magical whilst the Quantock Hills offer secluded walking. Book a table at one of Taunton's excellent restaurants or enjoy fish and chips watching the sunset at Burnham-on-Sea. Your cottage with hot tub provides the perfect romantic retreat.
Is there good shopping nearby?
Taunton has a proper high street plus independent shops in the historic town centre. Bridgwater offers market town shopping whilst Clarks Village outlet shopping centre in Street lies 20 miles south. For unique gifts visit the craft shops around the Quantocks.
Why choose cottages with hot tubs in Lower Durston?
After days exploring Somerset's attractions, returning to your own private hot tub beats any hotel. The area offers everything from cheap cottages to luxury villas, many with swimming pools or jacuzzis. Pet friendly cottages mean your dogs can join the adventure whilst remote self catering properties provide genuine isolation.
Lower Durston gives you authentic Somerset countryside combined with easy access to the county's best attractions. Whether you're booking last minute deals or planning new year getaways, the area suits everyone from couples seeking romantic hot tub stays to large groups needing big cottages. Visit this peaceful corner of Somerset and discover why holiday homes here offer the best country breaks.