Minehead Cottages with Hot Tubs

Get More From Your Minehead Hot Tub Cottage Break

Sightseeing

Minehead packs loads of attractions into a relatively small area. The town's main beach stretches for a mile with views across to Wales on clear days. It's got a proper traditional seaside feel with donkey rides in summer.

West Somerset Railway (TA24 5BG, open daily March-October) is England's longest heritage railway. The 20-mile route to Bishops Lydeard passes through stunning countryside. I'd recommend booking ahead for special events like their steam galas.

Dunster Castle (TA24 6SL, open 10am-5pm) sits just 3 miles from Minehead. This National Trust property scores 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor. The medieval castle has been transformed into a comfortable country home with dramatic views and subtropical gardens.

Blenheim Gardens offers a peaceful spot right in town. These formal gardens date from 1925 and host summer bandstand concerts. They're free to enter and look fantastic in spring when the flower beds burst into colour.

North Hill provides excellent walking opportunities with panoramic views across the Bristol Channel. The 1-mile steep climb from town is worth it - on a clear day you can see both Devon and Wales coastlines.

Pet Friendly

Many Minehead cottages welcome dogs and the area is brilliant for pet owners. The main beach has seasonal restrictions (May-September) but Dunster Beach allows dogs year-round. We found this ideal for morning walks before returning for breakfast at the cottage.

The Quay Inn (TA24 5UL) welcomes dogs in its bar area and serves good pub food. They even provide water bowls and treats. Similarly, The Old Ship Aground (TA24 5UL) has a dog-friendly policy and outdoor seating with harbour views.

Exmoor National Park offers countless walking routes where dogs can roam freely. The Coleridge Way and South West Coast Path both start in Minehead. Pack extra towels for muddy paws before getting back in the hot tub!

Dunster Castle allows dogs in the gardens and grounds (though not inside the castle). The surrounding village has several pet-friendly cafes including The Luttrell Arms (TA24 6SG) with its medieval atmosphere.

Top 3 attractions you have to see in Minehead

West Somerset Railway tops my list. This heritage steam railway offers a nostalgic journey through Somerset countryside. The 10 stations each have their own character - Watchet is particularly worth stopping at with its harbour and marina. The railway runs special events throughout the year including dining trains and Santa Specials in December. A family rover ticket lets you hop on and off all day.

Dunster Medieval Village and Castle provides a perfect day out. The village looks like it's frozen in time with its yarn market, water mill and ancient buildings. The castle sits above on a wooded hill with subtropical gardens that benefit from the mild local climate. Kids love the dressing up boxes and activity trails. The village hosts a candlelight evening each December that transforms the streets into a magical experience.

Exmoor National Park begins just outside Minehead. The park covers 267 square miles of moorland, woodland, valleys and farmland. Dunkery Beacon, Somerset's highest point at 1,705 feet, offers incredible views. Wildlife spotting opportunities include red deer and Exmoor ponies. The park has Dark Sky Reserve status - perfect for stargazing from your hot tub after sunset. The visitor centre in Dunster provides maps and walking routes.

Is Minehead suitable for families with young children?

Yes, Minehead is excellent for families. The beach has a gentle slope making it safe for paddling and there's a traditional promenade with amusements. Butlin's resort has day visitor passes available for their water park and shows. Many cottages provide high chairs and travel cots - just check when booking.

When is the best time to visit Minehead?

May to September offers the warmest weather, but April and October can be lovely with fewer crowds. The town hosts festivals throughout the year including May's Hobby Horse Festival and September's Food Festival. Winter breaks can be magical - imagine Christmas lights reflected in your hot tub!

Do I need a car in Minehead?

While not essential, a car makes exploring easier. The 28 bus connects Minehead to Taunton (with rail connections). Local taxis are available but booking ahead is recommended. Many attractions like Dunster Castle can be reached by public transport.

What's the weather like in Minehead?

Somerset enjoys a mild climate compared to much of the UK. Summer temperatures average 18-22°C, while winters rarely drop below freezing. The area gets less rainfall than you might expect, though it's always worth packing waterproofs for Exmoor walks.

Are there good restaurants in Minehead?

The town has excellent dining options. The Quay Inn serves great seafood, while The Old Ship Aground offers harbour views. For something special, try Reeves Restaurant (TA24 5PU) which focuses on local produce. Fish and chips from Minehead Chippy on The Avenue are a must!

Can I bring elderly relatives to Minehead?

Many cottages offer ground floor bedrooms and accessible features. The promenade is flat and wheelchair-friendly and Blenheim Gardens has good accessibility. Some properties have hot tubs with steps and handrails - check the specific access details when booking.

1. Visit Exmoor Official Tourism Site
2. West Somerset Railway Timetables
3. Dunster Castle Information
4. Somerset Weather Forecasts