As the sun stretches its rays across the patches we call home, painting the countryside in hues of gold and orange, and the gentle breeze carries the scent of fresh herbs and the sound of buzzing bees, it can only mean one thing… summer is here, and it's the perfect time to make some memories!
To really make this summer one to remember, our PIG people have shared their favourite places to visit around our PIGs in the West Country (after all, they know the area like the back of their hand!).
THE PIG-at Harlyn Bay, Cornwall
Cornwall is well known for its beautiful beaches, wild moorland, idyllic harbour villages, delicious pasties, and some of the finest seafood. Here are a few of our recommendations for things to get up to whilst you are visiting THE PIG-at Harlyn Bay.
Wander the cobbled streets of Padstow
THE PIG-at Harlyn Bay is only a 10-minute drive from the picturesque port of Padstow, which has plenty of old Cornish charm and is practically overflowing with great spots to eat and drink – lots of them are even right on the harbour’s edge.
Hop across the water
When in Padstow, you can also hop on the water taxi to take a trip across the estuary to explore Rock. It’s much quieter than Padstow but has a beautiful long, sandy beach that stretches around to Daymer Bay and beyond.
Time to catch some waves
Being in, by, or near the sea in Cornwall during the summer is a massive must-do! One thing we really recommend trying your hand at is surfing. Our friends at Harlyn Surf School can help just about anyone stand up on a board! If surfing isn’t your thing, they also offer an exciting range of water sports including stand up paddle boarding, coasteering and kayaking.
Reconnect with nature
Spend the day at the well-known visitor centre, the Eden Project. There is so much to do and see – you can trek through the world's largest indoor rainforest, take in the sights and smells of their Biomes, and explore huge outdoor gardens.
Flying day trip
Take a boat or plane to experience a day in paradise on the magical Isles of Scilly, just 28 miles off the coast of Cornwall. Close enough to visit for the day; but with enough to keep you entertained for much longer.
THE PIG-at Combe, Devon
THE PIG-at Combe is totally secluded but within easy reach of many of Devonshire’s hot spots! The hotel is situated just 8 miles from the East Devon coastline, meaning there’s a heap of things to get up to, both on land or out at sea.
Walk the paths along some golden shores
Golden Cap is just a short drive away; hop in the car and you’ll go from the countryside to the coast in under 40 minutes. This stunning coastline overlooks the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site with magnificent views at every compass point. You’ll find walking routes all around for every ability – and whether you’re up for an uphill challenge, or something gentler, you’ll never be short of beautiful things to see.
Taste the grapes of a local English vineyard
Castlewood Vineyard is a boutique vineyard in East Devon, that produce some delicious wine that we just can’t get enough of! You can pop over to see our friends at Castlewood for a vineyard tour and wine tasting, where you can learn the trials and tribulations of growing grapes in Devon.
Explore Devon’s best wildlife park
Set within 45 acres of breathtaking parkland and woodland, Wildwood Escot makes for the perfect day out for all! There is plenty of wildlife to see here, plus a maze, outdoor adventure play, a 40-meter zip line, a drop slide, and an authentic Saxon village.
Salty sea breeze boat trips
Fancy some fun out at sea? Lyme Bay Rib Rides is great for all (including little ones) to get outside and feel the salty spray of the sea at a fast pace! You’ll get to cruise along the Jurassic Coast with the skippers of Lyme Bay Rib seeing unrivalled views of the iconic cliffs.
A foodie’s dream come true
Darts Farm is a local farm shop based in Exeter with great local food and drink produce, a restaurant, local butchers, a food hall and homeware and lifestyle products. We love it here and it is definitely worth a visit!
THE PIG-near Bath, Somerset
Although tucked away in the heart of the Mendip Hills, THE PIG-near Bath is within easy reach of many of the West Country's hot spots! The hotel is nestled between Bath and Bristol on the edge of the village of Hunstrete. There’s a heap of things to get up to when staying with us...
Breathe in calming aromas of lavender
The Somerset Lavender Farm is a great place to visit during the summer months, with the lavender expected to bloom in late June and throughout July. Here, you can wander through acres of beautiful purple lavender, breathe in the calming aromas, and experience all the farm has to offer, including its farm shop and café.
Meander the stalls of our local Sunday Market
If you can time it right, on the first Sunday of each month, Frome is amazing for their huge independent market. You can get a breakfast-time cider if you fancy and browse everything from their antique cutlery to hyper local cheeses and incredible artisan jewellery.
Explore the real-life set of Bridgerton
A trip to Bath is the perfect excuse to immerse yourself into the world of Bridgerton. From Abbey Green to the Royal Crescent, many of the city’s hot spots were used as filming locations for the Netflix TV sensation.
The floating Bristol harbour
Head to Bristol’s historic harbour, Wapping Wharf, where you can spend your time wandering between independent boutique shops, outdoor food stalls, and lively bars along the waterfront.
A ‘roar-some’ day out
Longleat Safari Park is home to over 120 species of wildlife and is a must for animal lovers! There is so much to see and do here for all ages, you can explore by foot, train, bus or boat, all on the grounds of Longleat House. You can even go on a six-and-a-half-mile drive through safari experience to see roaming lions, stalking tigers, swinging monkeys, and so much more.
Or you can just stay put with us…
Daily Kitchen Garden Tours
A must at any PIG this summer is joining our friendly team of Kitchen Gardeners for a tour of our grounds! Happening every day at 11am these tours are free to attend and offer a great opportunity to speak to THE PIG's gardening team, peek into our polytunnels, discover our greenhouses, and see what we're growing in our fruit cages.
Potting Shed Treatments
If you’re after something a little more relaxing at THE PIGs, why not book yourself in for a bespoke treatment in the Potting Sheds – our seriously relaxing, rustic treatment rooms, tucked away in the Kitchen Gardens. Whether you opt for a facial or a massage, they make for the perfect space to switch off, melt away and unwind.
Acoustic Music Nights
If long lazy evenings with chilled acoustic music are your thing, we've got you covered! Head to your favourite PIG this summer for some live local music - the perfect way to unwind at the end of the week. No need to book these events, just swing by – entry is free. Find the next date here.
Whether you’re looking for a last-minute road trip, or the chance to wallow in comfort at your favourite PIG by staying a little longer for less – check out our latest offers across the litter.
