Guilt free indulgence is close at hand - South West England
4 World Heritage Sites, 2 National Parks, 34 Blue Flag beaches, fine dining from the freshest local produce…there’s no need to travel to the other side of the world to enjoy a world-class holiday. We even have a sub-tropical paradise. The South West of England is a region of contrast; from long sandy beaches to windswept moorland, buzzing cities to traditional country villages.
Bristol and Bath, Bournemouth and Poole, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, Cotswolds and the Forest of Dean, Devon, Dorset, Somerset and Wiltshire - each part of the region has its own individual character.
A Green and Pleasant Land
With such a fantastic environment and distinctive culture, it is no surprise that many of those providing tourism are keen to protect its special qualities.
'Going green' is nothing new in South West England with initiatives to encourage responsible tourism running since the early 90s. You'll find a greater choice of tourism facilities with green certification in the South West than any other region in the UK.
Accommodation, visitor attractions, activity providers, Tourist Information Centres, places to eat and drink - there are over 400 green award holders and the choice is growing all the time. Many have also achieved the highest quality gradings allowing you to experience your own 'guilt free indulgence'.
Even the regional tourist board has joined in – becoming the first to achieve 'Gold' certification under the Green Tourism Business Scheme.
You'll also find a huge variety of locally and organically produced food that will provide you with a taste of the South West. The region's mild climate, lush pastures and coastal peninsula provide the perfect environment for some of the country's finest meat, dairy and fish produce. It's no surprise that the likes of Rick Stein, Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall and Michael Caines are based here.
The 'Future Footprints' campaign encourages visitors to join in keeping the South West special highlighting 3 messages:
- Try local - treat yourself to local produce and souvenirs
- Avoid the stresses of driving by enjoying the attractions on your doorstep, or exploring on foot, bike, bus, train or ferry.
- Choose tourism facilities with a green award
Find holidays in Cornwall, Devon, Dorset or Somerset Find more holidays in South West England