For an encounter with an animal that's possibly rarer than the giant panda, head west: Paul Bloomfield meets the ponies of Exmoor – and the people working to protect them The wildlife encounter most visitors to Exmoor crave most is a sighting of a red deer – and it’s hardly surprising. Bearing a huge rack of antlers spreading nearly 1m, the majesty of a mature stag is undeniable. But what’s the best way to spot a deer? One rather surprising answer I received was: look for ponies. “When you train your eyes to search for ponies, you see so much more,” says Linzi Green. “It really helps you enjoy the environment. Most days I see deer on the moor, because I’m looking in a different way.” In fairness, Linzi may be biased. As Exmoor Pony Officer of the Moorland Mousie Trust, she spends her days working with foals and adult ponies, helping visitors and locals alike understand the importance of this rare breed to Exmoor. With a mere 300 or so roaming Exmoor, ponies are outnumbered ten to one by red deer; the Rare Breed Survival Trust has registered them as endangered. Indeed, there may be fewer Exmoor ponies in the world than giant pandas. These ponies aren’t wild – all belong to the owners of the land on which they graze – but as essentially free-living creatures, they might as well be. Some 15 herds roam designated blocks on the moor, so if you head to the right areas you have a good chance of meeting them – though you’ll need to keep your eyes peeled; their brown coats blend into the foliage surprisingly well. I spotted my first ponies on the slopes of Dunkery Beacon, but Winsford Hill is another good place to look. It’s home patch to the Anchor Herd, established by Sir Thomas Acland in 1818 when the Royal Forest was sold. For a guaranteed close encounter, head for the Exmoor Pony Centre near Dulverton. Here, Linzi and her team train and care for perhaps a dozen new foals each year. I asked her to tell me more about the origins of the breed. “Britain’s native ponies probably arrived around 130,000 years ago, grazing lowlands till rising waters at the end of the last ice age drove them up to higher ground,” she explained. During the Second World War, Exmoor’s ponies had a tough time. Rustled for meat, and even used for target practice, only about 50 survived. But thanks to the efforts of the Exmoor Pony Society (which manages the stud book) and Moorland Mousie Trust, numbers have rebounded. Today, hill farmers recognise the importance of their ponies for maintaining the land, and cherish the animals’ place in Exmoor’s heritage. Each autumn, the herds are rounded up and foals registered and inspected. It’s at this stage that the Moorland Mousie Trust comes in. Not all foals can be returned to the moor – there’s not enough grazing for numbers to increase. So the Trust takes in a number each year – mostly colts – and works with them to prepare them for life as riding or grazing animals, some loaned out to other regions for vital conservation grazing. Linzi introduced me to three of the centre’s inimitable characters: Dylan, Tom and one-eyed Winston. Tom nuzzled her affectionately as she rubbed his thick winter fur to expose his herd number and the diamond mark on his shoulder that confirms he’s been inspected and registered. In November, visitors to the centre can watch the young colts being trained. Individual one-hour taster sessions are tailored to the needs of individual visitors, giving the chance to groom and learn about the ponies before taking a ride. Half-day treks take keen riders out onto the moor to discover just how confident and sure-footed the ponies are. This article was written by Paul Bloomfield

As part of our Green Traveller's Guide to Somerset & Exmoor, Jackie King picks out a selection of historic, cultural and natural attractions. It's perhaps not widely known that Exmoor has a wonderful coastline (including the highest cliffs in Britain) as well as a wealth of places to visit inland that cater for all budgets and tastes. And it's not just a summer destination, the region is packed with wonderful places to visit in winter, spring and autumn. This is one of the best places in Britain to go birdwatching (including the spectacular starling murmuration), there are world class caves to explore, and of course the grandaddy of music festivals, Glastonbury. Keep an eye out too for the lesser known festivals that celebrate the best food and drink and music in the region. Google map: shows the location and details of all the places to stay, local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities in our Green Travel Guide to Somerset & Exmoor: Green = Places to stay Blue = Local food & drink Yellow = Attractions Purple = Activities Places to visit in Somerset & Exmoor Kilver Court Secret Gardens Featuring a millpond, an award-winning rockery, and a vegetable garden, there are many reasons to visit Kilver Court Secret Gardens. Set against the magnificent backdrop of the Charlton Viaduct, visitors can enjoy a magical stroll around the three acre site. Industrialist Ernest Jardine created the gardens in the early 1900s to inspire his workers, and today they are sure to inspire any visitor. The same pair of gardeners have tended the site for over thirty years, and their devotion has really paid off- these beautiful gardens are well worth a visit. kilvercourt.com/garden Milton Lodge Gardens On a gentle slope looking out towards Wells, Glastonbury Tor and the Somerset Levels beyond is Milton Lodge Gardens, created in 1900 by Charles Tudway, the present owner's great-grandfather. Designed to capitalise on the stunning views, the gardens consist of a series of manicured terraces, sloping lawns, and lily ponds, bordered by a colourful collection of flowering shrubs and perennials, roses and wild flowers, and a variety of lovely trees. On hot days find shelter in The Combe, an 8-acre arboretum of woodland garden filled with gracious old trees and shady spots. miltonlodgegardens.co.uk Cheddar Gorge and Caves Probably the most famous tourist attraction in the Mendips, the breath-taking limestone Cheddar Gorge, which rises a dramatic 445 feet at its greatest height, was formed by meltwater nearly 1 million years ago. There are caves to explore, a museum to investigate, dedicated to the discovery of Britain’s oldest skeleton, the Cheddar Man, great walks (the 3-mile cliff top circular gives spectacular views into the gorge – bring a picnic), and a 274-step lookout tower, giving you uninterrupted views across the valley. Thrill-seekers can opt for caving or rock-climbing. cheddargorge.co.uk Wookey Hole Caves Wookey Hole Caves need little introduction - this is family fun at its best. The beautifully-lit caves and grottos will keep children entertained for hours: there’s the Witch of Wookey (a stalagmite which resembles a witch), a prehistoric valley of the dinosaurs, a magical fairy garden; you can even play around with producing your own paper at the 18th century paper mill. wookey.co.uk Mendip Outdoor Pursuits Build a raft and sail it down the river, explore the labyrinth of underground caves or head off with a map and compass for an afternoon of orienteering. From bush crafts and assault courses to guided walks and mountain walking, Mendip Outdoor Pursuits has dozens of different trips and ideas for company away days, school outings, stag and hen parties. mendip.me The Royal Bath & West Show This wonderful celebration of the British countryside is well worth a visit. There's a vast range of trade stands displaying the best food and drink that the South West has to offer, and The British Cheese Awards and British Cider Competition are held at the show. Once you've had your fill of the culinary attractions, there's plenty more to see and do. Go canoeing, watch livestock competing for the title of best in show, and enjoy an array of equestrian events. If you're after something quirkier, pay a visit to the alpacas, or see the shearing competitions. bathandwest.com/royal-bath-and-west-show Glastonbury This world famous festival takes place annually at 900-acre Worthy Farm, near Pilton, Somerset. Established by Michael Eavis in 1970, Glastonbury plays host to a star-studded line-up over the course of five days. Most people camp, though a few tipis are available for a more luxurious experience, and B&B accommodation can be found nearby. glastonburyfestivals.co.uk Watchet Festival Family friendly music festival with views of the West Somerset coast line and beyond. Has on site camping, three Stages, and over 50 live acts. It runs over the August bank holiday weekend. watchetfestival.co.uk Bridgwater Carnival This annual carnival, set in the Somerset market-town of Bridgwater, includes a procession of traditional carts, lovingly constructed by West Country carnival clubs, compete for the attention of the judges, attracting crowds of up to 150,000. The event in Bridgwater, which takes place on the first Saturday of November, is the largest in a series of carnivals throughout Somerset. Whilst the carnival is free, donations to local charities are encouraged. somersetcarnivals.co.uk Exmoor Pony Festival The annual Exmoor Pony Festival showcases one of the unique charms of the region: the wild moorland ponies which roam the National Park. Catch a glimpse of the ponies in their natural habitat on a safari with an expert guide, see them at the Exmoor Pony Society's yearly Breed Show, enjoy family-friendly activity days, or attend one of the many other events on offer. exmoorponyfestival.com Frome Festival Established in 2000, this is a relatively recent addition to the festival calendar. The ten days in July are jam-packed with musical, theatrical, literary and artistic events, all of which take place in the pretty market town of Frome. These days more than 30,000 people attend each year, and as the festival expands, more and more attractions are added. fromefestival.co.uk Tunnels Beaches Tunnels Beaches opened in Ilfracombe in 1823, offering Victorians with a way to swim without compromising their modesty; the hand carved tunnels led to separate tidal pools for men and for women. Today it is both a historical attraction and a great place for a swim - with no gender segregation required! Tunnels beaches is also a wonderful place for rock pooling and kayaking. To see the tidal swimming pool in its full glory, visit within three hours of low tide. tunnelsbeaches.co.uk Wild Swimming For hardy souls who want to combine getting some exercise with enjoying the beauty of the South West, few things are better than wild swimming. There are many places to embark on an aquatic adventure, from windswept bays to quiet stretches of river and hidden waterfalls. Wild swimming will introduce you to many delightful areas of natural beauty across Exmoor and Somerset; the website below is a treasure trove of information, with recommendations to suit a variety of ages and skill levels. wildswimming.co.uk Dunster Castle Perched on a wooded eyrie gazing across its namesake village to the coast, Dunster Castle blends Medieval ambition – the 13th-century gateway is the oldest surviving element – with a Victorian ideal of fortified grandeur. Part fortress, part comfortable country house, it’s also a flagship green property for the National Trust, part solar-powered and maximising composting, recycling and efforts to reduce energy consumption. Mostly, though, it’s a chance to wander lush gardens, play king of the castle, delve into the crypt to learn about the resident bats, and explore the 600-year family history of the Luttrell family, inextricably linked with the village and surrounding area. nationaltrust.org.uk/dunster-castle-and-watermill Wells Cathedral Evensong Choral Evensong takes place at 5.15 pm from Monday to Saturday, and at 3.00 pm on Sunday. For the full experience, visit during the Wells Cathedral School term time to hear the heavenly voices of boys and girls in addition to the men's choir. The sublime music and the grandeur of the cathedral make for a truly unforgettable experience. Have a look at the website for a full calendar of services, especially in the run up to Christmas. wellscathedral.org.uk Glastonbury Abbey Glastonbury Abbey has many claims to fame. It's the fabled resting place of King Arthur, and a modern-day pilgrimage destination with a history dating back to the 7th century. Start your visit in the engaging and informative museum, then wander around the ruined abbey itself. There are also 36 acres of parkland to explore, with an orchard and a wildlife area including a Badger Boardwalk. In addition, between March and October guides in full costume give visitors fascinating insights into medieval life. glastonburyabbey.com Burcott Mill Recorded in the Domesday Book, this flourmill is one of the few remaining working watermills in the UK. The River Axe still powers the old Victorian cogs which drive the millstones, producing flour sold throughout Somerset, and supplying various restaurants and bakeries in the region. The mill is open daily for tours (advance bookings only) or for a quiet wander around the museum. Louise and Steve also run B&B in some of the neighbouring buildings. burcottmill.com West Somerset Rural Life Museum Go back to school – and back in time – with a visit to this fascinating museum in the idyllic National Trust hamlet of Allerford. Housed in the old school house, built in 1821, the museum incorporates a replica schoolroom from that era (complete with original desks and benches!), offering an insight into educational mores of two centuries ago. Elsewhere, displays illustrate various domestic and trade topics – imagine taking on the laundry duties of a Victorian maid – as well as artefacts from across Exmoor, while the photographic archive reveals snapshots of local life over the past 200 years. allerfordmuseum.org.uk Wells & Mendip Museum The permanent collections in the Wells Museum, which was established by a member of the Wells Natural History and Archaeological Society in 1894, document the region’s history, from an intriguing collection of Stone Age artefacts, to an important collection of minerals and fossils, and social history artefacts dating from the 18th century. wellsmuseum.org.uk King John’s Hunting Lodge Housed in a half-timbered building in the middle of medieval Axbridge, this museum illustrates the history, geology and community of the village and the surrounding area, with exhibits such as civilian life in Somerset during World War II, prehistoric caves found nearby, as well as those on local prehistory, the Roman period, and Saxon history. There’s also a museum shop where you can pick up gifts of local interest. kingjohnshuntinglodge.co.uk Dunster Water Mill The River Avill powers the region’s finest working water mill, alongside Exmoor National Park and just steps from Dunster Castle. Watch flour being milled as it was for hundreds of years, the wheat grain fed down to huge grinding stones. The attached museum features a fascinating collection of ancient agricultural machinery, once again demonstrating the efforts of farming and food production in years gone by. As well as selling the mill’s own stone-ground wholemeal flour, the Mill Shop is also stocked with home-made muesli and other local treats, and you can settle in for an indulgent cream tea in the adjacent tea room or riverside garden. nationaltrust.org.uk/dunster-castle-and-watermill Dark Sky Telescope Hire Explore the breathtakingly starry skies above Exmoor with a rented telescope for as little as £30 per week. Simply choose from a list online, fill in a booking form, and collect the telescope from Ian at West Withy Farm, then you're ready to start your stargazing! The details below are for the company's Somerset base, but a limited range of telescopes can be hired from different locations within Exmoor – check online for more information. If you're new to astronomy and need a guided tour of the cosmos, this can also be arranged. darkskytelescopehire.co.uk Lynton and Barnstaple Railway Woody Bay was one of the original stations on the Lynton and Barnstaple railway, which was 19 miles long, much of it on a gradient of 1 in 50. It was built to the narrow gauge of one foot eleven and a half inches (600mm) and opened in 1898. Faced with increasing competition from road transport, it closed in 1935. The one-mile of track from Woody Bay to Killington Lane was reopened in stages between 2004 and 2007, and is currently the longest-closed section of a railway to be reopened anywhere in the world. From the carriage window there are views of the sweeping Exmoor landscape, and on a clear day you can see the coastline of Wales. The railway is owned by a Charitable Trust and is operated as a 'not for profit' business, with the majority of work undertaken by volunteers. lynton-rail.co.uk Lynton & Lynmouth Cliff Railway You step on, the brakes are released, and you glide up (or down). It’s that simple – yet this elegant water-powered Victorial railway is something of a work of genius. Designed by George Marks and opened in 1890, the vertiginous railway was intended to provide an easier access route for tourists and goods to reach clifftop Lynton from the harbour at Lynmouth. Powered only by water from the River Lyn, the railway has a carbon footprint the size of an ant’s, and a ride in one of the two racing-green carriages, albeit lasting scant minutes, is as charming a travel experience as you’ll encounter. cliffrailwaylynton.co.uk Somerset and Dorset Railway This magical heritage railway near Midsomer Norton, North Somerset, is run by a dedicated team of volunteers. Open only on Sundays and Mondays, its range of diesel locomotives are well worth a visit. There's also a small museum and signal box to investigate, and a shop selling books and souvenirs. Enjoy an assortment of refreshments in a café converted from a buffet coach to top off your visit. sdjr.co.uk East Somerset Steam Railway Explore the region near Shepton Mallet in style by taking a ride in a historic steam engine. The 2.5 mile route between Cranmore and Mendip Vale Stations offers picturesque views of the Somerset countryside, from the comfort of a beautifully preserved train. For a decadent treat, try a Sunday lunch on board the Mendip Belle dining train, or a delicious cream tea in the summer. A miniature railway also operates for a few days each month, and there's a well-stocked shop. See the website for a calendar of special events, including plenty of activities for younger passengers. eastsomersetrailway.com Tiverton Canal Explore the Grand Western Canal by horse-drawn barge, just a stone's throw from Tiverton. This unique attraction, featured on BBC's Countryfile, combines an outing on the water with a chance to admire beautiful animals. The Tiverton Canal Co. has three horses – Taffy, Dandy, and Ross - for you to meet. A two and a half hour return trip, with a chance to stretch your legs in the middle, is the most popular journey on offer. There's also a floating café serving refreshments, and hire boats available. tivertoncanal.co.uk Countryside Mobility A not for profit mobility equipment hire scheme working to improve access to the countryside for people with limited mobility living in and visiting the South West region. Its wheelyboat is available at the Bridgwater and Taunton Canal and also at Wimbleball and Trampers at Hunters Inn, Glen Lyn gorge. countrysidemobility.org Calvert Trust The Calvert Truste "enables people with physical, learning, behavioural and sensory disabilities to experience exciting, challenging and enjoyable outdoor activities." From its centre at the edge of the Exmoor National Park, it runs Activity Holidays, School Residentials, Themed Breaks & Specialist Courses, Carers Breaks and Horse Experience Weekends. calvertexmoor.org.uk Pony Access Pony-powered ferry service for wheelchair users. Exeter based, but owner also works in Brecon and Sussex, and says "to be honest, anywhere people want me. Always happy to discuss possibilities." ponyaccess.com For more information on characterful places to stay, local food and drink, and nearby outdoor activities, see our Green Traveller's Guide to Somerset & Exmoor

As part of our Green Traveller's Guide to Somerset & Exmoor, Jackie King picks out a selection of Farm stays, camping, B&Bs and self-catering. There's a huge range of accommodation in Somerset and Exmoor, covering all budgets, for single travellers, families and those looking for a base to explore this fascinating region. We've assembled a selection of places to stay, but this list is by no means exhaustive. Our selection includes a wonderful Elizabethan manor house, a traditional cottage with panoramic views to Cheddar Gorge, a range of self-catering cottages in the shadow of Glastonbury Tor, a lovely Tudor farmhouse on a working organic farm that provides delicious home-cooked, locally produced food, and a fantastic yurt retreat on a working Dairy Farm in the beautiful Quantock Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Google map: shows the location and details of all the places to stay, local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities in our Green Travel Guide to Somerset & Exmoor: Green = Places to stay Blue = Local food & drink Yellow = Attractions Purple = Activities Places to stay in Somerset & Exmoor Hindon Organic Farm, Exmoor, UK Tucked away in a secluded valley on the National Trust Holnicote Estate, this 380-hectare stock farm is within touching distance of Minehead, Dunster, Porlock and the coast. hindonfarm.co.uk Gorge View Cottage, Mendip Hills, Somerset, England An traditional cottage recently fully renovated to exacting environmental standards. Situated on a small lane, conveniently located in Cheddar village, with panoramic views to Cheddar Gorge, it is perfectly placed to explore the Mendip Hills area. gorgeviewcottage.co.uk Somerset Yurts, Somerset, England A fantastic yurt retreat on a working Dairy Farm in the beautiful Quantock Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The traditional Mongolian yurts are spacious while the nearby Dutch Barn is equipped with excellent kitchen and bathroom facilities. somersetyurts.co.uk The Treehouse, Somerset A fantastic luxury treehouse with a private self contained garden and stunning views. Explore the countryside then relax in the cedar hot tub or in front of the wood burning stove. Perfect for a family or as a couple's retreat. treehouseholidays.co.uk Blackmore Farm, Somerset, England A wonderful B&B in a unique 15th Century, Grade 1 Listed Manor House with many period features including oak beams, stone archways and medieval garderobes, and views of the Quantocks Hills. blackmorefarm.co.uk Pool House, Woolavington, Somerset, England A Grade II listed, Georgian village house B&B that has had a stylish modern makeover - the bedrooms and reception rooms are bright with tall sash windows and there's a cosy wood-fired stove in the drawing room. poolhousewoolavington.co.uk Woolchamber Cottages, Simonsbath House, Exmoor, UK The clue’s in the name: a 300-year-old barn – the woolchamber – has been converted to create three self-contained cottages with exposed beams and bags of charm. simonsbathhouse.co.uk Exmoor House, Somerset, England Escape to the heart of Exmoor at this lovely guesthouse with great food, everything is homemade, and menus tailored to guests' requirements. House parties can be accommodated too. Walk, cycle, explore and relax. exmoorhouse.co Dunkery Beacon Country House, Exmoor, UK Walkers, cyclists and gourmets rejoice! This former Edwardian hunting lodge is the ideal base for active exploration, nestling beneath 518m Dunkery Beacon and offering a drying room for hikers and bikers. dunkerybeaconaccommodation.co.uk Exmoor Centre, Exmoor, UK Get back to basics at this unique centre that provides affordable accommodation aimed at enabling young people to explore the wilds of Exmoor. exmoorcentre.co.uk Exmoor Owl and Hawk Centre, Somerset, England Though the moor’s regal red deer understandably grab the most attention, birdlife is also rich here – and this specialist centre, based at a delightful 15th-century National Trust farmhouse, offers the chance to learn about owls, hawks and eagles. exmoorfalconry.co.uk Burcott Mill Guest House, Mendip Hills Burcott Mill Guest House is one of the only working watermills in Somerset; it’s Victorian cogs still churn away producing organic flour. Friendly owners, Louise and Steve French, have sensitively converted some of the mill buildings into b&b rooms. burcottmill.com Exmoor White Horse, Exmoor, UK A warm refuge plumb in the middle of the national park at Exford, this substantial 16th-century inn is the epitome of a village hostelry – just the kind of place you long to arrive after a day out on the moor. exmoor-whitehorse.co.uk West Withy Farm Cottages, Somerset, England These comfortable and well-equipped holiday cottages, situated on a 23-acre farm in the heart of Exmoor, are a great base from which to explore the region. exmoor-cottages.com Folly Farm, Mendip Hills Folly Farm Centre is at the heart of Folly Farm nature reserve, a stunning 250-acre reserve close to both Bath and Bristol, owned and managed by Avon Wildlife Trust with comfortable en-suite group accommodation available for up to 45 people. follyfarm.org Walkers Farm Cottages, Somerset, England Not only are you slap bang in the Somerset Levels - paradise for birdwatching and horseriding - but you've got four RSPB reserves and four Wildlife Trusts within touching distance. walkersfarmcottages.co.uk Wimbleball Lake, Somerset, England It’s all about the water: this site, managed by the South West Lakes Trust, is set alongside its eponymous mere, and is the perfect spot for windsurfing, kayaking, sailing and rowing, with courses and craft for hire at the Outdoor + Active Centre. southwestlakes.co.uk/camping/wimbleball-lake Halse Farm Caravan & Camping Site, Exmoor, England The site, a long-standing holder of a David Bellamy Conservation Award, is great for kids, too, who can watch lambing and shearing. halsefarm.co.uk Channel View Caravan Park, Exmoor, England There’s a romance to the Exmoor coast that’s hard to top: the poet Shelley felt it, bringing his bride to Lynmouth on honeymoon, and wooded valleys inland breathe life into the tragic tale of Lorna Doone, with locations in Oare and Badgworthy Valley. channel-view.co.uk Porlock Caravan Park, Exmoor, England This charming caravan park is nestled in the vale of Porlock, near Minehead. Enjoy the sea air with a stroll along the picturesque South West Coast Path, and follow in the steps of a literary legend along the Coleridge Way. porlockcaravanpark.co.uk The Webbington Hotel & Country Club, Mendip Hills The Webbington Hotel & Country Club is a giant sized Best Western with 54 rooms converted from an Edwardian manor. Leisure Club facilities for the guests include a tennis court and on site restaurant and bar. Ideal for access to the Mendips and Bath. webbingtonhotelandspa.co.uk Tordown, Somerset, England This Glastonbury B&B offers a peaceful, luxurious break in a Victorian house on the slopes of the magical Glastonbury Tor. It provides many forms of healing from Reiki to Hydrotherapy Spa treatments with an on-site mini Spa. tordown.com Orchard House, Mendips, England Orchard House, self-catering serviced apartments or bed and breakfast in the Chew Valley, perfect for cyclists or walkers wanting to explore the Mendips. Situated on routes 3 and 410 National Cycle routes, a stop off for Lands End to John O'Groats. orchardhouse-chewstoke.co.uk BEST WESTERN PLUS Swan Hotel, Wells, Somerset Located in the shadow of Wells Cathedral, the Best Western Plus Swan Hotel, with over 600 years of history, offers modern rooms, a stunning wedding venue and self catering apartments in a traditional setting, perfect for visiting the Mendips. swanhotelwells.co.uk The Swan, Wedmore, Mendip Hills The Swan, Wedmore is a bustling local pub with seven individually designed and supremely comfortable en-suite guest bedrooms and an outstanding kitchen led by Tom Blake from River Cottage who cooks using local ingredients: simple, unfussy, fresh. theswanwedmore.com Fernhill Farm, Mendip Hills Fernhill Farm, a herd of cowsheds on a 160-acre working farm in the Mendips, converted into an alternative, relaxed accommodation for up to 55 people in eco-camping barns and Ramshackle Arcs. Super green & earnest, groups from 10-200 catered for. fernhill-farm.co.uk Old Barn, Mendip Hills The Old Barn is a beautiful and historic holiday cottage located in Somerset, England, offering cosy self-catered holiday accommodation for up to five people all year round within easy reach of the Mendip and Quantock Hills, Wells, Bath and Bristol. oldbarncroscombe.co.uk Uplands Cottages, Mendip Hills Uplands Cottages in the Mendip Hills are surrounded by unspoilt countryside and woodland heaving with wildlife. 4 cottages are individually situated, built of natural stone and offer a peaceful, relaxing environment near the Village of Winscombe. uplandscottages.co.uk Folly Farm, Mendip Hills Folly Farm Centre is at the heart of Folly Farm nature reserve, a stunning 250-acre reserve close to both Bath and Bristol, owned and managed by Avon Wildlife Trust with comfortable en-suite group accommodation available for up to 45 people. follyfarm.org Woodpecker Lodge, Somerset, England A tranquil, 5-star luxury eco lodge in the heart of the picturesque Somerset countryside, perfect for exploring the surrounding hillsides. Relax on the shaded balcony and enjoy a private sauna. millmeadow.co.uk Lee House, Exmoor, UK The eight en-suite bedrooms at this charming, stone-clad Lynton guesthouse ooze elegance and individuality. leehouse-lynton.co.uk Gable Lodge, Devon, England A pride in Lynton and the local area marks out this Grade II-listed Victorian guesthouse: food miles are minimal – meats, fish, eggs, yoghurts, jams and even tea and coffee are all sourced from suppliers in the Exmoor region. gablelodgelynton.co.uk The Denes, Devon, England The Denes is a warmly traditional B&B, most of its five rooms en-suite (one exception with private bathroom) and all with TV and wifi available. thedenes.com Longmead House, Exmoor, UK Egyptian cotton bedding and feather-and-down pillows soothe the beds, quality toiletries scent the bathrooms, and wifi and flatscreen TVs fulfil multimedia demands; some rooms are rustic – exposed beams, a cottagey vibe – while others are more grand. longmeadhouse.co.uk Croft House, Exmoor, UK This delightful guesthouse – built for a sea captain in 1828, and retaining period features – nestles in the heart of Lynton Old Town, a hop away from the visitor centre, coast path and cliff railway down to Lynmouth Harbour. lyntonbandb.co.uk Little Owl, Knowstone, Devon, England Little Owl Cottage is a 16th century thatched roof cottage, hidden away in the small village of Knowstone on the edge of Exmoor. It is the perfect luxurious and comfy romantic hideaway, full of character with original wonky cob walls and bread oven. rosecottagedevon.co.uk Dean Steep Holiday Cottages, Exmoor, UK Beautifully secluded up on the moor, yet only a mile from Lynton and the coast at Lee Bay, these 12 stone-built bungalows provide a cosy base for exploring the national park. deansteep.com Woolchamber Cottages, Simonsbath House, Exmoor, UK The clue’s in the name: a 300-year-old barn – the woolchamber – has been converted to create three self-contained cottages with exposed beams and bags of charm. simonsbathhouse.co.uk West Hollowcombe Cottages, Exmoor, England Four stone barn conversion cottages on a hill with wonderful views across wooded valleys, pastures and moorland of Exmoor National Park. Ideally situated for walking and exploring the surrounding coastal towns and beaches. westhollowcombe.co.uk Bucklegrove Caravan and Camping Park, Mendip Hills Bucklegrove Caravan and Camping Park started as a tearooms in the 1940s, but these days, tables and chairs have made way for beautifully-manicured camping pitches with mature trees and shrubs, but you can still grab drinks and snacks. bucklegrove.co.uk For more information on characterful places to stay, nearby visitor attractions and activities, see our Green Traveller's Guide to Somerset & Exmoor

As part of our Green Traveller's Guide to Somerset & Exmoor, Jackie King picks out a selection of pubs, restaurants, festivals and markets . Local produce in Somerset and Exmoor is as good as you’ll find anywhere – and finding it is a treat. As well as excellent independent shops, a series of farmers’ markets showcase the best fresh products and artisan goods – breads, cheeses, ciders, cakes – while festivals assemble the producers of the region’s finest fare. You could also join a foraging workshop to learn how to spot nature’s bounty. Google map: shows the location and details of all the places to stay, local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities in our Green Travel Guide to Somerset & Exmoor: Green = Places to stay Blue = Local food & drink Yellow = Attractions Purple = Activities Places to eat in Somerset & Exmoor Local Food Direct, Somerset "Fresh, locally produce direct to you door"... a community business of local producers, based in Glastonbury, that runs an online farmers' market that has been delivery fresh, local food to households throughout Somerset since 2002. Produce includes meat and fish, dairy, fruit and veg, and bread (including gluten free bread). localfooddirect.co.uk Cheddar Ales A stone’s throw from Cheddar Gorge is the microbrewery, Cheddar Ales. Head brewer, Jem Ham, uses natural ingredients, all of which are sourced from English suppliers, and time-honoured methods to produce a fine selection of Cheddar Ales, such as Totty Pot and George Best. You can book onto a tour or stock up on ales from their shop on site. cheddarales.co.uk Torre Cider Farm Fans of adult apple juice flock to this family run farm where four kinds of traditional scrumpy ciders are produced, ranging from medium sweet to ‘mind-blowing extra dry’. Visitors in autumn watch the process in action, from harvesting the eight acres of apples to fermenting 30,000 litres of scrumpy, and there’s a host of family fun year-round, with rare-breed pigs, chickens and pigmy goats to admire. The shop stocks a wide range of local produce – dairy goods, chutneys, preserves, cheeses, country wines and Exmoor Ales, among other treats – while the tea room dishes up cream teas and fresh-baked goodies (including, naturally, Torre Cider Cake). torrecider.co.uk Lye Cross Farm The Alvis family has been farming the land for 400 years and, for the last 50 years, has been producing tasty farmhouse cheddar from their 1000-strong herd of cows. As well as dairy production, they also rear their own beef and pork. You can stock up on Lye Cross Farm produce at their lively farm shop onsite, which has a great deli and bakery, and sells fresh milk, preserves and chutneys. lyecrossfarm.co.uk Butcombe Brewery If you’re a beer lover, no trip to the Mendips wouldn’t be complete without a stop off at the brewery of the West Country’s most popular bitter. The new Butcombe Brewery, which produces some 50,000 barrels of the stuff annually, is located in the village of Wrington, on the edge of the Mendips. You can book onto a tour of the brewery (advanced bookings only) or visit the shop to stock up on aler, cider, and even clothing and other merchandise. butcombe.com Thatchers Cider The Thatcher family has been producing cider on their farm in Sandford for over 100 years. Their apple orchards may have expanded to some 380 acres, but they still use the same oak vats, recipes and ingredients that William Thatcher, the company’s founder, created in 1904. Deeply committed to protecting the business and farmland for future generations, the family has planted 200 acres of orchards in recent years, as well as 2,000 native British trees (ash, beech, oak). Stop off at their cider shop to stock up; the Strawberry Line footpath cuts straight through the orchards. thatcherscider.co.uk Yeo Valley Farm It all began in the 1960s, with the newly-acquired Holt Farm, 30 cows, a few sheep and some arable crops. Fifty years on and Yeo Valley has become one of the nation’s favourite dairy producers. Although Yeo Valley is renowned for its delicious yogurt, produced from its 400-strong herd of British Friesian cows, Yeo Valley focuses heavily on education: Wills Barn, recently-converted, is now a classroom to teach schoolchildren about sustainability and where their food comes from; there are Sarah Mead’s organic gardens – 18 years in the making and now open to the public – and tours and events held throughout the year (ploughing competitions, seed swapping events and summer festivals), as well as courses to sign up to, such as the farm adventure tour, where you can learn about organic and dairy farming. An inspiring place - visit their fun and funky website to find out what it’s all about. yeovalley.co.uk Quince Honey Farm Established in 1949 with just two hives, Quince Honey Farm is now home to the world's largest collection of the humble honey bee. Unique interactive displays allow visitors to get intimate views of the hives and the bees at work, whilst viewing galleries cleverly transport you through the honey making process, from extraction to bottling. There's a fantastic soft play area for kids, a cafe, shop and a tiny museum with fascinating collections of old beekeeping equipment. The farm also runs beekeeping courses and events throughout the year. quincehoneyfarm.co.uk Nutcombe Chocolates A small family business based in Minehead, close to Exmoor National Park, who use a variety of chocolate making techniques to fashion a wide range of hand made chocolates, truffles and seasonal figures using premium Belgian chocolate. Yum! nutcombe-chocs.co.uk The Ring O’ Bells, Compton Martin This is Butcombe Brewery’s oldest owned pub and is perfect for walkers, fisherman, and families. You’ll find lots of delicious dishes on the menu, such as a trio of pork and Butcombe sausages with creamy mash, and local smoked trout salad with apple, capers and new potatoes. They have recently opened two rooms upstairs as B&B – a perfect country retreat in the heart of the Mendips. butcombe.com/pubs/ring-o-bells The Ring O’ Bells, Hinton Blewett A traditional pub located between the Mendip Hills and Chew Valley with fantastic, far-reaching views, great local beers and an exciting, locally-inspired menu. Landlady and head chef, Becky, sources only Somerset and west country produce, and her menu includes dishes such as Chew Valley chuck steak & stout pie, old-fashioned ‘Bells’ bangers, and pot-roasted Somerset chicken. The pub hosts a variety of events throughout the year, such as quizzes, and even a pig-racing night! The pub even has its own cricket team and golfing society, and organises brewery tours in the autumn. butcombe.com/pubs/ring-o-bells-2/ The Bridge Inn, Dulverton Classic country pub on the beautiful River Barle that dates from 1845. Kenny and Rachel McDonald have been the owners since December 2006 and pride themselves on their cask ales, single malt whiskies and large selection of craft beers and ciders. Awarded Somerset CAMRA's 'Pub of the Season' for Autumn 2013 and graded silver by the green tourism business scheme. Menu is classically British (eg. pies served with mash, peas and traditional gravy) with their own unique twist. Dogs are welcome, in fact the owners own dogs, Molly & Milly, keep a secret stash of gravy bones behind the bar for visiting dogs! thebridgeinndulverton.com The Lamb, Axbridge Occupying an old 15th-century coaching inn in the pretty medieval square of Axbridge is the Lamb Inn, the focal of the village and popular with visitors and locals alike. Inside, the atmosphere is warm and inviting, with wonky beams and old slate floors. The menu features a delicious range of dishes, such as their famous beef and Butcombe pie, or homemade delights such as lasagne or scampi. The Lamb Inn is slap-bang on the Mendip Trail, a walking or cycling circular route connecting six Butcombe pubs in the area. butcombe.com/pubs/the-lamb-hotel The Queens Arms, Bleadon In its former life, this Butcombe pub, on the western edge of the Mendip Hills AONB, was a cottage. Now, it is a lovely village pub with a cosy, lively atmosphere: warm terracotta walls, old pews and settles, and award-winning chefs who whip up great locally-sourced food – try the ham hock terrine with Rose Farm piccalilli or the Butcombe beer battered fish and chips served with home-made tartare sauce. They grow their own herbs and bake their own bread, too. The pub is dog-friendly so it makes a perfect pit-stop for walkers on the Mendip Trail. butcombe.com/pubs/queens-arms The Swan, Rowberrow This pub in Rowberrow, an ex-mining village, started out life as an old cider house. Thatchers is still served here, but it’s the food which attracts the punters these days (though cider does features heavily in the menu!): opt for the slow-cooked spiced pork belly with Ashton Press cider apple sauce, Welsh rarebit with Ashton Cider chutney, or roasted butternut squash and rosemary risotto. Walkers, horse-riders, cyclists and runners are all made very welcome. butcombe.com/pubs/swan-inn Dunster by Candlelight For just two evenings a year, on the first Friday and Saturday of December, the Exmoor village of Dunster can be explored by candlelight. Get a head start on your Christmas shopping, enjoy the entertainment on offer, and savour locally-produced food and drink. This unique event gives visitors the chance to escape the modern world, and see this medieval village as it once was; you won't only be supporting local businesses but also helping to raise money for charity. Accommodation disappears quickly, so book a long time in advance if you intend to stay in the village. dunsterbycandlelight.co.uk The Royal Bath & West Show This wonderful celebration of the British countryside is well worth a visit. There's a vast range of trade stands displaying the best food and drink that the South West has to offer, and The British Cheese Awards and British Cider Competition are held at the show. Once you've had your fill of the culinary attractions, there's plenty more to see and do. Go canoeing, watch livestock competing for the title of best in show, and enjoy an array of equestrian events. If you're after something quirkier, pay a visit to the alpacas, or see the shearing competitions. bathandwest.com/royal-bath-and-west-show Carymoor Environmental Centre This remarkable nature reserve sits atop a disused landfill; a range of habitats have been carefully created, resulting in extraordinary biodiversity on the site, with wildlife including newts, grass snakes, butterflies, deer, stoats, barn owls, and more. Carymoor Environmental Centre doesn't just entertain, but also educates visitors about ecology. There's a programme of fascinating events for young naturalists, and rewarding volunteering opportunities on offer. Other attractions include a stroll along the Tree Trail, and a visit to the apple orchard and wildflower collection. carymoor.org.uk Go Wild Snack on bugs and nettles in the undergrowth, take up the fire-lighting challenge, go foraging in the hedgerows, learn how to shoot... Whether you’re planning a hen or stag party, a company away day, or have simply always fancied yourself as a bit of a Ray Mears, sign up to Go Wild you can enjoy these and many more equally entertaining, inspiring, low impact activities in a beautiful rural setting in the Mendips. They also provide accommodation, from cottage to glampsites. gowildweekends.co.uk Dudwell School At Dudwell School in the Mendip Hills, your culinary education is in safe hands: Caroline Waldegrave, founder of Leiths School of Food and Wine and co-author of the Leiths Cookery Bible, will teach you to create a range of gourmet dishes in idyllic surroundings. The school specialises in five-day residential courses, with luxurious accommodation in the Waldegrave family home- there's even a heated pool on site. Bespoke courses are also available. dudwellschool.com Cookery at the Grange The Grange offers residential cookery courses set in rural Somerset. The locally-sourced ingredients, experienced staff, and well-equipped kitchens make it an excellent holiday for foodies of all levels. Three courses are available: 'The Essential Cookery Course' is geared at those who aspire to cook professionally, whereas 'Food with Flair' and 'The One Week Wonder' are more relaxed. There's at least one teacher per five students, so chefs-in-training get plenty of individual attention. Accommodation is comfortable, and you can also enjoy the the products of your hard work for lunch and dinner! cookeryatthegrange.co.uk Stream Combe Cookery Streamcombe Farm, located two miles away from Dulverton in Exmoor, offers a wide range of one-day cookery courses, which range in subject from game to bread making. Bespoke courses are also available; Streamcombe Farm would be a great place to hold a team building day or party with a twist. If you fancy staying the night, the farm also offers luxury B&B accommodation at a reduced rate for course participants. Accomplished chef Ian is an excellent instructor, emphasising the importance of seasonal, locally-produced ingredients. streamcombecookery.co.uk Clavelshay Barn If food photography is your bag, where better to hone your skills than Clavelshay Barn, a sustainable and award winning farm and restaurant on the edge of the Quantocks, which runs food photography workshops on site. Talented local photographer Neil White takes groups through a 'food story', following dishes from creation to completion, focussing on how best to capture the ingredients on camera and how to polish the final images. Lunch at the restaurant is included. clavelshaybarn.co.uk/workshops/foraging-workshop/ For more information on characterful places to stay, nearby visitor attractions and activities, see our Green Traveller's Guide to Somerset & Exmoor

As part of our Green Traveller's Guide to Somerset & Exmoor, Jackie King picks out a selection of arts and crafts, wildlife watching and outdoor activities. Indoors and outdoors, day and night, sunny days and rainy days... there's something for everyone all year round in Somerset and Exmoor. We've selected a few of the highlights, including where to go birdwatching, cycling, climbing, fishing, horse riding and walking, as well as tips on local craft and culture, falconry and watersports and wild swimming. And don't forget, Exmoor is Europe’s first International Dark Sky Reserve and a fantastic place to go stargazing. Google map: shows the location and details of all the places to stay, local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities in our Green Travel Guide to Somerset & Exmoor: Green = Places to stay Blue = Local food & drink Yellow = Attractions Purple = Activities Activities in Somerset & Exmoor Don Bishop Photography Don is a professional photographer who organises photographic workshops on both landscape and steam railway themes for those that are either new to photography wishing to get the most out of their cameras, or for more experienced photographers wishing to extend their knowledge of photography. His steam railway workshops are designed to teach the special techniques required for photographing a range of locomotives in the landscape. donbishop.co.uk Somerset Art Works SAW, an artist-led organisation, brings together the very best of comtemporary art in Somerset. It seeks to engage local communities in the arts through festivals, art projects and education in schools and communities that have little contact with the arts. The Arts Week Festival is an annual Somerset-wide festival featuring exhibitions, visual arts activities and other projects at over 100 venues across the region. somersetartworks.org.uk Exmoor Photography Courses Jack and his team offer jam-packed days of photography instruction, at a variety of beautiful spots across Exmoor. The standard course runs throughout the year, with the itinerary tailored to the season and weather. If you want to combine a photography course with a safari, try the red deer rut special in October. There are no more than three students per group, so there's plenty of individual attention from skilled photographer Jack, a lifelong Exmoor resident. A delicious lunch is included in the price. exmoorphotography.co.uk Exmoor 4 All Exmoor 4 All, a website promoting tourism in Exmoor, runs an annual photography competition, with a different theme each year. Local judges select the winners, whose entries are published in the next year's calendar. exmoor4all.com Foot Trails Bath-based walking holidays company that provides tailormade off-the-beaten track walking holidays - either bespoke independent itineraries or guided tours - in Somerset (as well as the Cotswolds and Wiltshire). foottrails.co.uk Encounter Walking Holidays A self-guided walking holiday company covering southwest England and Wales. encounterwalkingholidays.com Exmoor Pony Centre The Exmoor pony, a hardy, muscular breed, thrived on the moor for centuries, but changes in management, war and other factors caused the population of pure-bred animals to plummet to just a handful at the end of the Second World War. The Moorland Mousie Trust, based at the Exmoor Pony Centre, works to conserve and promote the Exmoor breed. Visitors are welcome at the centre to learn more about the breed and its history, meet a small community of animals, and even head out onto the moor on a trekking experience. exmoorponycentre.org.uk Somerset Wildlife Trust Somerset Wildlife Trust manages 72 nature reserves across Somerset. Some are very large and link to adjacent sites to create a complex, while others are a cluster of fields or woodlands. somersetwildlife.org Quince Honey Farm Established in 1949 with just two hives, Quince Honey Farm is now home to the world's largest collection of the humble honey bee. Unique interactive displays allow visitors to get intimate views of the hives and the bees at work, whilst viewing galleries cleverly transport you through the honey making process, from extraction to bottling. There's a fantastic soft play area for kids, a cafe, shop and a tiny museum with fascinating collections of old beekeeping equipment. The farm also runs beekeeping courses and events throughout the year. quincehoneyfarm.co.uk Avalon Marshes The Avalon Marshes is a spectacular lowland wetland area in the heart of Somerset framed by the Mendip Hills to the north and the Poldens ridge to the south. Somerset in general is one of the best places in Britain to go birdwatching as there is a a wide range of habitats - from intertidal and wetland to woodland and moor. The Avalon Marshes is a focal point for birdwatches keen to see the resident species as well as thousands of migratory birds, and especially for the starlings (there's even a hotline for the murmuration - tel: 07866 554142). avalonmarshes.org Ham Wall A newly created wetland that's home for many rare species including water voles and otters. In spring the reedbeds are alive with birdsong and in autumn you can see kingfishers. Bitterns are seen regularly all year round. There is disabled access to this reserve by RADAR key. Events are held throughout the year for families and for those who want to learn more about wildlife. rspb.org.uk/reserves-and-events/reserves-a-z/ham-wall/ Great Crane Project Cranes were once a common sight in the UK, but by the beginning of the 17th century numbers had dropped significantly. In an attempt to restore numbers of this iconic wetland bird, the Great Crane Project reintroduced just under 100 birds to the Somerset Levels and Moors between 2010 and 2015. Crane chicks were carefully hand reared and monitored at a crane 'school' at Slimbridge Wetland Centre. If you would like to help the project, there are various volunteering opportunities available; Visit the Great Crane Project website for more details. thegreatcraneproject.org.uk Countryside Mobility A not for profit mobility equipment hire scheme working to improve access to the countryside for people with limited mobility living in and visiting the South West region. Its wheelyboat is available at the Bridgwater and Taunton Canal and also at Wimbleball and Trampers at Hunters Inn, Glen Lyn gorge. countrysidemobility.org Calvert Trust The Calvert Truste "enables people with physical, learning, behavioural and sensory disabilities to experience exciting, challenging and enjoyable outdoor activities." From its centre at the edge of the Exmoor National Park, it runs Activity Holidays, School Residentials, Themed Breaks & Specialist Courses, Carers Breaks and Horse Experience Weekends. calvertexmoor.org.uk Pony Access Pony-powered ferry service for wheelchair users. Exeter based, but owner also works in Brecon and Sussex, and says "to be honest, anywhere people want me. Always happy to discuss possibilities." ponyaccess.com Exmoor Adventures There are few activities that sound quite as daft as coasteering: don wetsuit and helmet; leap into crashing surf; climb high onto rocks above sea; leap into waves; repeat. Yet it’s not only one of the most exhilarating adventures to be had along Exmoor’s shores, it also offers a unique perspective on arguably England’s most craggy, dramatic stretches of coastline, a weirdly addictive blend of bodysurfing, rock climbing and geology. Coasteering is among a comprehensive array of activities organised by Exmoor Adventures, including kayaking, rock climbing, mountain biking, abseiling and raft building – all of which emphasise the diverse nature of the Exmoor landscape. exmooradventures.co.uk Willows and Wetlands Centre The Coate family have been cultivating willow here on the Somerset Levels, the UK's most important wetland, for nearly 200 years. Come to learn about the history of basketmaking and why the family are keeping this traditional craft alive on a guided tour, in the museum, the exhibition or the video room. The centre runs a number of workshops, from Christmas decorating in December to willow deer sculpture days. The shops sell a range of unusual and decorative baskets, and there's a cafe for refreshments. coatesenglishwillow.co.uk Musgrove Willows Somerset-based growers and producers of willow. It was founded by Arthur 'Sam' Musgrove who started by cutting tree sticks for furniture back in the 1930s. Products include: Living Willow Kits • Ready-made Baskets • Garden Furniture Living Willow Rods • Domes • Willow Gifts • Willow Hurdles Willow Panels • Craft Kits • Coffins. They also run one- and two-day courses to help you to learn more about using willow, from hurdles to living sculptures. musgrovewillows.co.uk Dunster Water Mill The River Avill powers the region’s finest working water mill, alongside Exmoor National Park and just steps from Dunster Castle. Watch flour being milled as it was for hundreds of years, the wheat grain fed down to huge grinding stones. The attached museum features a fascinating collection of ancient agricultural machinery, once again demonstrating the efforts of farming and food production in years gone by. As well as selling the mill’s own stone-ground wholemeal flour, the Mill Shop is also stocked with home-made muesli and other local treats, and you can settle in for an indulgent cream tea in the adjacent tea room or riverside garden. nationaltrust.org.uk/dunster-castle-and-watermill Hestercombe Gardens Watermill Lose yourself in fifty acres of temple-strewn gardens, marvel at the newly-opened house and gallery (open to the public for the first time in 200 years), flick through novels in the secondhand bookshop, or indulge yourself in the holistic Lavender Rooms...you are spoilt for choice for things to see and do at Hestercombe. There's also the renovated watermill, vintage tearoom and shop selling a tempting array of gifts and treats. Fun for all the family. hestercombe.com Simonsbath Sawmill Although no longer in operation, this historic, 19th-century water-powered sawmill is maintained in working order; once a month the waterwheel is set in motion once again for visitors and educational visits. The mill was restored in 2003 and sawing was stopped on a regular basis in 2010. Today a small team of volunteers care for the mill and lead tours around the site. simonsbathsawmill.org.uk Thorney Lakes This has to be one of Somerset's most tranquil fishing spots. Surrounded by miles of nature trails, with the Levels and RSPB reserve close by, the family-run Thorney Lakes campsite is home to four acres of fishing lakes, stocked with a huge diversity of fish, including bream, carp, perch and tench. It's also a great place for wildlife watching; the lakes attract otters, deer and 70 species of bird. For just £7 a day, anglers can kick back on the banks of the lakes and enjoy the peace and quiet. thorneylakes.co.uk Bellbrook Fishery Whether you're a seasoned angler or have never cast a rod in your life, Bellbrook Valley is the place to be if you want to fish! The fishery is set in its own 40-acre valley in the beautiful North Devon countryside, with six fishing lakes and endless walking routes on the doorstep. The friendly team runs corporate and team building events and fishing tutorial courses, with overnight B&B and self-catering accommodation provided on site. bellbrookfishery.co.uk Blakewell Fishery With a well-stocked five-acre lake of crystal-clear water nestling in a stunning hillside setting, Blakewell Fishery's claim to be Devon's premiere fly fishing venue is well founded. The carefully tended lakes are home to some of the biggest still water trout in the country, whilst the Water Garden Centre attracts garden lovers from across the UK. There's an on site farm shop for stocking up on local goodies, too. blakewell.co.uk Nick Hart Fly Fishing Qualified instructor Nick Hart runs various fly casting and fishing courses in breathtaking locations across Devon and Somerset, from one-day taster courses to multi-day adventures designed for the experienced and improver angler; the River to Rock adventure course takes you from the Exmoor Hills to the lowlands of Devon to the coastline in search of bass, pike and perch. Above all is Nick's philosophy that fishing should be fun - and accessible to all. nickhartflyfishing.com North Devon Halk Walks Get up close to birds of prey on this practical falconry experience. The hour-long sessions, enjoyed out on beautiful Exmoor, give you a real insight into the world of hawks. Don't expect to stand back and watch - these courses are refreshingly hands-on and the knowledgable team will provide lots of guidance and instruction as you fly the birds. For those with a bit more experience, the three-hour Hawk Walk Plus teaches you how to look after the birds. And if it's one-to-one instruction you're after, consider the five-day hawk training experience. northdevonhawkwalks.co.uk Divoky Riding School Set around a beautiful courtyard in the stunning Somerset countryside, this riding school has fantastic facilities, an excellent team and a great selection of horses to chose from. Amble along leafy lanes and quiet bridleways, tackle the all-weather exercise track, or head out for a hack in the hills - however you wish to spend your time in the saddle, Pat and her team will be able to accommodate you. Family-run but utterly professional, these stables have facilities for the serious competitor and beginner alike. divoky.co.uk Ebborlands Riding Centre This small, family-run centre is located on a 120-acre farm just outside Wells on the southern slopes of the Mendip Hills. Lessons cater for all ages and abilities, or you can book a private lesson for some one-to-one tuition. There's a popular weekly Children's Club during school holidays, and year-round off-road hacking through neighbouring farmland with views of Glastonbury Tor and the Somerset Levels. Staff are also able to offer longer courses ranging from half a day to five days. There's a 6-berth caravan available for holiday lets, too. ebborlandsridingcentre.co.uk Shipam Riding Plumb in the middle of an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the Shipam Riding Stables focusses on fun, structured lessons led by an experienced team. Hacks venture out into the surrounding countryside - stop halfway for a pub lunch and spot wild deer along the way. There's an all-weather floodlit arena, and for those that wish to extend the stay or enjoy several days of riding, there's self-catering accommodation above the stables. shiphamriding.co.uk For more information on characterful places to stay, local food and drink, and nearby visitor attractions, see our Green Traveller's Guide to Somerset & Exmoor

As part of our Green Traveller's Guide to Exmoor National Park, Paul Bloomfield picks out a selection of restaurants, cafés and markets to find the best local food and drink in this glorious protected area in southwest England. Exmoor National Park has more than its fair share of local bounty – and for visitors that translates into an exciting array of food and drink to fuel your exploration of the national park. Fishing boats land their catches at Ilfracombe and Brixham, so fresh fish and seafood graces many menus. Cattle, sheep and rare-breed pigs graze and snuffle, and there’s game aplenty – unsurprisingly, local venison is renowned. Rivers and lakes are alive with salmon and trout. Breweries such as Exmoor, Otter and Clearwater supplies pubs with fine ales, and cider farms produce excellent adult apple juice to slake thirsts on summer afternoons. Just as importantly, Exmoor’s pubs and restaurants know what to do with these riches, and we’ve tracked down eateries that focus on locally sourced ingredients to produce tantalising menus. From cream teas to home-made pies and gourmet gastropub cuisine, there’s a feast of flavours to be sampled. Google map: shows the location and details of all the places to stay, local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities in our Green Travel Guide to Exmoor National Park: Green = Places to stay Blue = Local food & drink Yellow = Attractions Purple = Activities Places to eat in Exmoor National Park The Culbone From its lofty perch on Exmoor – it’s the National Park’s highest restaurant – The Culbone lures locals and farther-flung food-lovers alike with award-winning fare based determinedly on locally sourced ingredients, notably beef from Devon Red cattle and fresh Brixham fish. Each of the five spacious, en-suite rooms has its own character, contemporary and chic but understated – flamboyance is superfluous when eyes are magnetically drawn to the windows and dramatic moor views. Still, facilities are exemplary – upmarket hospitality trays, free wifi in the bar, flat-screen TVs, should you feel the need to stay indoors – with comfy beds for post-walk relaxation. theculbone.com Simonsbath Built in the mid-17th century by James Boevey, first warden of Exmoor forest, the fortunes of stately Simonsbath House have waxed and waned over the years – though the views along the Barle Valley haven’t suffered. The elegant restaurant dishes up locally sourced dishes – salmon in tempura butter, Exmoor fillet Rossini, West Country cheeses and homemade Simonsbath House ice cream. simonsbathhouse.co.uk Exmoor White Horse A warm refuge plumb in the middle of the national park at Exford, this substantial 16th-century inn is the epitome of a village hostelry – just the kind of place you long to arrive after a day out on the moor. West Country game, lamb and cheeses, along with fish and seafood from Ilfracombe and Exmoor ales. And the bar – well, with crackling fires and a hundred or so malt whiskies to sample, don’t expect a visit to be brief. exmoor-whitehorse.co.uk Exmoor Forest Inn A country inn in the true sense, the bar of this convivial pub in Simonsbath is a warm, snug bolthole and is decorated with reminders of sporting pursuits, with hunting photos and deer antlers adorning the walls. Food is hearty and proudly local, with fish, meat and game from nearby suppliers, served with ales from Devon breweries. The Two Moors Way walking trail passes through Simonsbath, while cycling, horse-riding and Exmoor wildlife-watching safaris are popular activities in the area. exmoorforestinn.co.uk Torre Cider Farm Fans of adult apple juice flock to this family run farm where four kinds of traditional scrumpy ciders are produced, ranging from medium sweet to ‘mind-blowing extra dry’. Visitors in autumn watch the process in action, from harvesting the eight acres of apples to fermenting 30,000 litres of scrumpy, and there’s a host of family fun year-round, with rare-breed pigs, chickens and pigmy goats to admire. The shop stocks a wide range of local produce – dairy goods, chutneys, preserves, cheeses, country wines and Exmoor Ales, among other treats – while the tea room dishes up cream teas and fresh-baked goodies (including, naturally, Torre Cider Cake). https://www.torrecider.co.uk Hindon Organic Farm You’ll rarely meet farmers who care so much about the welfare of their animals as the Webbers, whose family has worked this 380-hectare hill farm for three generations. And this passion is evident in the quality of the organic meat they produce: Aberdeen Angus beef, lamb and mutton, and Gloucester old spot pork yielding ham, gammon, hand-made sausages and home-cured bacon. Rick Stein and Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall have both acclaimed the produce, and it’s also garnered numerous awards from Taste of the West, the Soil Association and the National Trust (on whose Holnicote Estate at the moor’s eastern edge it lies). http://www.hindonfarm.co.uk For information on characterful places to stay, nearby visitor attractions and activities, see our Green Traveller's Guide to Exmoor National Park

As part of our Green Traveller's Guide to Exmoor National Park, Paul Bloomfield picks out a selection of characterful places to stay, including hotels, B&Bs, self-catering and campsites in this glorious protected area in southwest England. Character: that’s the first quality that unites and defines the wide range of Exmoor accommodation. Whether it’s a 15th-century farmhouse, a stately forester’s mansion or a former sea-captain’s abode, each of the places listed here has something about it that stands out, be it a beamed ceiling, a panelled library, or a sweeping view of moor or coast. The other element shared by these places is a sense of environmental responsibility. Some trim food miles to food metres, proudly sourcing produce from local suppliers (or even their own gardens and farmyards). Others offer bike storage and repair facilities, boot-drying rooms and walking maps to encourage exploration on foot or cycle. And some promote conservation in direct ways, protecting and nurturing the species of plants and animals that make Exmoor so special. Google map: shows the location and details of all the places to stay, local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities in our Green Travel Guide to Exmoor National Park: Green = Places to stay Blue = Local food & drink Yellow = Attractions Purple = Activities Places to stay in Exmoor National Park Dunkery Beacon Country House Walkers, cyclists and gourmets rejoice! This former Edwardian hunting lodge is the ideal base for active exploration, nestling beneath 518m Dunkery Beacon and offering a drying room for hikers and bikers. Walkers, cyclists and gourmets rejoice! This former Edwardian hunting lodge is the ideal base for active exploration, nestling beneath 518m Dunkery Beacon and offering a drying room for hikers and bikers. Revive yourself post-walk with a steaming drink and a slice of homemade cake on arrival, relaxing by the wood-burning stove in the lounge. The eight bedrooms, seven en-suite, vary between cosy, boutique and simply grand – the premier suite boasts a four-poster and panoramic moorland views – and the predominantly locally sourced fare is decidedly gourmet, thanks to host John’s fine-dining training and Jane’s wine-trade experience. dunkerybeaconaccommodation.co.uk Exmoor White Horse A warm refuge plumb in the middle of the national park at Exford, this substantial 16th-century inn is the epitome of a village hostelry – just the kind of place you long to arrive after a day out on the moor. Bedrooms – 28 of them, all en-suite – are elegantly furnished in rich fabrics and dark woods; some have four-posters. West Country game, lamb and cheeses fuel the kitchen, along with fish and seafood from Ilfracombe and Exmoor ales. And the bar – well, with crackling fires and a hundred or so malt whiskies to sample, don’t expect a visit to be brief. exmoor-whitehorse.co.uk The Exmoor Forest Inn A country inn in the true sense, the bar of this convivial pub in Simonsbath is a warm, snug bolthole and is decorated with reminders of sporting pursuits, with hunting photos and deer antlers adorning the walls. Food is hearty and proudly local, with fish, meat and game from nearby suppliers, served with ales from Devon breweries. The Two Moors Way walking trail passes through Simonsbath, while cycling, horse-riding and Exmoor wildlife-watching safaris are popular activities in the area. Most of the comfortable en-suite rooms overlook the Barle Valley – fly-fishing for trout and salmon is available. exmoorforestinn.com Exmoor House Country Retreat (Porlock) Pick a hill view, and your room chooses itself – each of the four bedrooms (two doubles, a twin – all en-suite – and a single) at this imposing Georgian-style house boasts vistas of one or more of Bossington, Porlock or Crawter Hills, inspiring walkers and cyclists to delve onto the moor or across to the coast. On raw winter days the guest lounge entices with a roaring log fire and cosy reading corner, while a boot room and bike-repair corner are welcome facilities for active types. Local fare is championed, from tea and coffee in bedrooms to breakfast bacon and eggs, while regular workshops aim to soothe mind and spirit. exmoor-house.co.uk Simonsbath House Built in the mid-17th century by James Boevey, first warden of Exmoor forest, the fortunes of stately Simonsbath House have waxed and waned over the years – though the views along the Barle Valley haven’t suffered. Today, ten spacious en-suite bedrooms, some with four-posters and each with its own character (plus TV and tea and coffee facilities), offer a little more comfort than in the early 1700s when tenant John Dennicombe burned the doors and floors. Oak-wood panelling and fireplaces lend manor-house gravitas to the bar, while the elegant restaurant dishes up locally sourced dishes – salmon in tempura butter, Exmoor fillet Rossini, West Country cheeses and homemade Simonsbath House ice cream. simonsbathhouse.co.uk Hindon Organic Farm Tucked away in a secluded valley on the National Trust Holnicote Estate, this 380-hectare stock farm is within touching distance of Minehead, Dunster, Porlock and the coast. The 18th-century farmhouse is furnished with delightful antiques and watercolours by a local artist; each of the three bedrooms (two en-suite doubles and a twin with private bathroom) has its own tree-themed name and individual style – choose ‘Oak’ for a long soak in a fabulous rolltop bath. No prizes for guessing where the breakfast bacon, sausages and eggs come from (just glance outside), while bread comes still warm from the oven. hindonfarm.co.uk Lee House The eight en-suite bedrooms at this charming, stone-clad Lynton guesthouse ooze elegance and individuality. Each has a distinctive personality: some feature wrought-iron or brass-knobbed bedspreads, pleasingly solid oak furniture and delicate floral Laura Ashley wallpaper; several have balconies, while one even has a small private patio, and all offer free wifi, TV, tea and coffee-making facilities. Breakfast caters equally well for carnivores and special diets – fear not, vegans or ye of gluten or lactose intolerance – and there’s a commendable reliance on local and Fairtrade produce. leehouse-lynton.co.uk Exmoor Owl & Hawk Centre Fly owls and other birds of prey at the raptor centre, saddle up for a horse ride on the moor, take a stroll to Porlock or along the nearby South West Coast Path, or relax with a cream tea in the bird-bustling gardens. Tucked away down a rural lane near the idyllic National Trust village of Allersford, this characterful place – the main part of West Lynch Farm was built in 1456, and believed to have been the original manor of Bossington – has just two simple guest rooms imbued with the charm and style you’d expect in what’s essentially still a working farmhouse. Fly owls and other birds of prey at the raptor centre, saddle up for a horse ride on the moor, take a stroll to Porlock or along the nearby South West Coast Path, or relax with a cream tea in the bird-bustling gardens. exmoorfalconry.co.uk Gable Lodge, Devon A pride in Lynton and the local area marks out this Grade II-listed Victorian guesthouse: food miles are minimal – meats, fish, eggs, yoghurts, jams and even tea and coffee are all sourced from suppliers in the Exmoor region. Six en-suite bedrooms – all with views of Summerhouse or Hollerday Hill – are furnished in soothing neutral tones, and equipped with TV/DVD, wifi, mini-fridge and iPod dock as well as the more usual tea and coffee facilities. Visitors are encouraged to think green, helped by stocks of maps and walking books to borrow, and plenty of advice on nearby activities. gablelodgelynton.co.uk The Denes, Devon The Denes is a warmly traditional B&B, most of its five rooms en-suite (one exception with private bathroom) and all with TV and wifi available. Victorian visitors rather whimsically tagged the area around Lynton ‘Little Switzerland’, and this Edwardian guesthouse, in a peaceful spot at the edge of town, is ideally situated for guests to find out why: it sits at the threshold of the Valley of Rocks, with several rooms boasting vistas across to Hollerday Hill and the Valley, all rocks and scree and gorse, wild goats browsing among them. The Denes is a warmly traditional B&B, most of its five rooms en-suite (one exception with private bathroom) and all with TV and wifi available. The substantial breakfasts garner rave reviews from guests. thedenes.com Longmead House If ‘Victorian Boutique’ were the newest B&B fad, Longmead House in Lynton would be in the vanguard: from the comfortable, light-filled lounge and rustic dining room to the individually designed bedrooms, all areas have been updated with a knowing but light touch. Egyptian cotton bedding and feather-and-down pillows soothe the beds, quality toiletries scent the bathrooms, and wifi and flatscreen TVs fulfil multimedia demands; some rooms are rustic – exposed beams, a cottagey vibe – while others are more grand. You don’t need to spy the OS maps to know that owners Caroline and Alan love walking: there’s advice and encouragement aplenty, plus boot-drying facilities. longmeadhouse.co.uk Croft House This delightful guesthouse – built for a sea captain in 1828, and retaining period features – nestles in the heart of Lynton Old Town, a hop away from the visitor centre, coast path and cliff railway down to Lynmouth Harbour. Its six bedrooms – all en-suite, and boasting cons both mod (flatscreen TV, tea and coffee-making facilities, free wifi) and less so (enticing windowseats, ceiling beams) – combine charm and comfort. The inviting guest lounge is well stocked with walking maps, leaflets and other material to launch your exploration of the national park, while a secluded walled garden tempts on sunny afternoons. lyntonbandb.co.uk Little Owl, Knowstone Little Owl Cottage is a grade II listed thatched character cottage hidden away in the small village of Knowstone on the edge of Exmoor. The village boasts a Michelin Starred Pub - The Masons Arms which is 50yds from Little Owl. The Masons Arms is the 'Michelin Pub of the Year 2010'. rosecottagedevon.co.uk Dean Steep Holiday Cottages Beautifully secluded up on the moor, yet only a mile from Lynton and the coast at Lee Bay, these 12 stone-built bungalows provide a cosy base for exploring the national park. The grounds – seven hectares of beautiful North Devon countryside – are landscaped with lawns and a fishpond; there’s a games room and even a wendy house for smaller visitors. Each cottage comprises two simply furnished bedrooms (one double, the other with twin or single beds), an open-plan lounge-kitchen with colour TV and DVD player, full-sized cooker, microwave and fridge – and a gas barbecue is available for summer evenings. deansteep.com Exmoor Centre Get back to basics at this unique centre that provides affordable accommodation aimed at enabling young people to explore the wilds of Exmoor. The bunkhouse sleeps 14 people in two rooms, and there’s ample space alongside for camping; facilities are tailored to groups, with a communal washroom, a simple open kitchen and living area, benches and collapsible tables, and a wood-burning stove that’s perfect for evening huddles as sausages sizzle and spuds bake inside. The bunkhouse sits in the wooded Hoaroak Valley on the edge of the high moor near Lynton – perfect for introducing kids to the truly great outdoors. Not accessible by road. exmoorcentre.co.uk West Hollowcombe Cottages Four stone barn conversion cottages on a hill with wonderful views across wooded valleys, pastures and moorland of Exmoor National Park. Ideally situated for walking and exploring the surrounding coastal towns and beaches. westhollowcombe.co.uk Somerset Yurts, Somerset A fantastic yurt retreat on a working Dairy Farm in the beautiful Quantock Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The traditional Mongolian yurts are spacious while the nearby Dutch Barn is equipped with excellent kitchen and bathroom facilities. Pack your backpack and jump on your bike and head by train to Taunton, from there cycle the few remaining miles to the Somerset Yurts. If you haven't got your bike, let them know on booking and they can come and fetch you. The low environmental impact and sustainable nature of Somerset Yurts offers a great green getaway in a beautiful part of England, easily accessible from London, the South and the Midlands. The yurts are located in a south-facing field overlooking Taunton Vale and the Blackdown Hills beyond. If you want to explore the area, there’s plenty to see and do nearby; including exploring Hestercombe Gardens and the Quantock Hills; and further afield there's attractions to suit almost any taste from tranquil pretty village pubs to guided adventure activities. All yurts (complete with double bed, futon and woodburning stove) stand on private decks near to which you’ll find your own picnic area, barbeque, and the communal fire pit. somersetyurts.co.uk The Treehouse Ever wanted to fulfil that childhood dream of having your own treehouse? How about a treehouse filled with the latest luxury, from a six foot master bed with Egyptian cotton linen to a squishy leather sofa? A unique get away, the seductive Treehouse is nestled in the tree tops and made entirely of wood, with cedar shingles on the roof. Its surrounding location is stunning, with Exmoor national park and the Quantock Hill in sight. Explore the countryside then relax in the cedar hot tub or in front of the wood burning stove. Perfect for a family or as a couple's retreat. treehouseholidays.co.uk/properties/the-treehouse Wimbleball Lake It’s all about the water: this site, managed by the South West Lakes Trust, is set alongside its eponymous mere, and is the perfect spot for windsurfing, kayaking, sailing and rowing, with courses and craft for hire at the Outdoor + Active Centre. The lake also tempts anglers – it’s stocked with rainbow trout – and there are also ample opportunities for hiking and cycling in this south-eastern corner of the national park. Facilities are good – it’s garnered three AA stars – but it’s the commitment to conservation, demonstrated through long-term biodiversity projects, that really stands out. southwestlakes.co.uk/camping/wimbleball-lake Halse Farm Caravan & Camping Site Exmoor may be one of the country’s smallest national parks, but it hosts a mouthwatering ensemble of animals. Start your wildlife-watching on one of the varied hiking routes that spider out from this working livestock farm, perched just a mile from the chocolate-box-cute village of Winsford – grab one of the six laminated circular-trail maps provided by the site to traverse woodland, moorland and riverside, with opportunities to spot red and roe deer, wild Exmoor ponies, buzzards, red kites, hares and hedgehogs (which you’ll likely see bumbling among the tents). The site, a long-standing holder of a David Bellamy Conservation Award, is great for kids, too, who can watch lambing and shearing. halsefarm.co.uk Channel View Caravan Park There’s a romance to the Exmoor coast that’s hard to top: the poet Shelley felt it, bringing his bride to Lynmouth on honeymoon, and wooded valleys inland breathe life into the tragic tale of Lorna Doone, with locations in Oare and Badgworthy Valley. Channel View, a quiet family-run site, is well placed for exploring these spots and has its own charm and green appeal recognised with a David Bellamy Conservation Award. Tree-sheltered pitches nestle in the moor above Lynton, with views of the Bristol Channel below – climb nearby Summerhouse Hill for transcendental panoramas in both directions along the hogbacked coast. channel-view.co.uk Porlock Caravan Park This charming caravan park is nestled in the vale of Porlock, near Minehead. Enjoy the sea air with a stroll along the picturesque South West Coast Path, and follow in the steps of a literary legend along the Coleridge Way. After your walk, enjoy a well earned meal in Porlock village, which is just a stone's throw away. Ethically-minded holidaymakers will be pleased to know that the park has obtained the Bellamy Gold Award for Conservation- look out for the hedgehog and bat boxes hidden on site! Bring your own tent or caravan, or stay in a deluxe holiday home. porlockcaravanpark.co.uk For information on local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities, see our Green Traveller's Guide to Exmoor National Park

As part of our Green Traveller's Guide to Exmoor National Park, Paul Bloomfield picks out a selection of historic sites, and natural and cultural spots in this glorious protected area in southwest England. Though Exmoor can sometimes seem impossibly raw and untameable, people across the centuries have left their mark on the moor – and the history of our endeavours is etched in the landscape as well as being represented in castles, museums, bridges and mills throughout the region. From Dunster Castle, where the Luttrell Family constructed their majestic stronghold, to the manors, schoolrooms and malthouses of villages across the park, there’s a wealth of historic artefacts to discover. Tourism and industry also left their mark, in a small way: the fabulous Cliff Railway has ferried holidaymakers and goods between Lynton and Lynmouth for well over a century, powered only by water – the greenest mode of transport in the park? – while the restoration of the Lynton and Barnstaple Railway is a reminder of the golden age of steam. We’ve compiled details of organisations to help you discover these wonders for yourself – in the greenest possible fashion. Google map: shows the location and details of all the places to stay, local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities in our Green Travel Guide to Exmoor National Park: Green = Places to stay Blue = Local food & drink Yellow = Attractions Purple = Activities Places of interest in Exmoor National Park Dunster Castle Perched on a wooded eyrie gazing across its namesake village to the coast, Dunster Castle blends Medieval ambition – the 13th-century gateway is the oldest surviving element – with a Victorian ideal of fortified grandeur. Part fortress, part comfortable country house, it’s also a flagship green property for the National Trust, part solar-powered and maximising composting, recycling and efforts to reduce energy consumption. Mostly, though, it’s a chance to wander lush gardens, play king of the castle, delve into the crypt to learn about the resident bats, and explore the 600-year family history of the Luttrell family, inextricably linked with the village and surrounding area. nationaltrust.org.uk/dunster-castle-and-watermill Dulverton Guildhall Heritage & Arts Centre A small, ramblng complex of buildings (which, 200 years ago, comprised the stables, malthouse, courtyard and outbuildings for the Lamb Inn) houses a collection of archive photos, oral history and film footage that opens a window on Exmoor life. One of the four original Victorian cottages has been preserved to give a snapshot of the life of ‘Granny Baker’ at the turn of the 20th century – her kitchen, her bedroom, her laundry equipment (wince at the mangle!) with a charming commentary in her Somerset accent. The Gallery and main exhibition areas host changing displays, often featuring art or natural history. http://www.dulvertonheritagecentre.org.uk/ West Somerset Rural Life Museum Go back to school – and back in time – with a visit to this fascinating museum in the idyllic National Trust hamlet of Allerford. Housed in the old school house, built in 1821, the museum incorporates a replica schoolroom from that era (complete with original desks and benches!), offering an insight into educational mores of two centuries ago. Elsewhere, displays illustrate various domestic and trade topics – imagine taking on the laundry duties of a Victorian maid – as well as artefacts from across Exmoor, while the photographic archive reveals snapshots of local life over the past 200 years. allerfordmuseum.org.uk Dunster Water Mill The River Avill powers the region’s finest working water mill, alongside Exmoor National Park and just steps from Dunster Castle. Watch flour being milled as it was for hundreds of years, the wheat grain fed down to huge grinding stones. The attached museum features a fascinating collection of ancient agricultural machinery, once again demonstrating the efforts of farming and food production in years gone by. As well as selling the mill’s own stone-ground wholemeal flour, the Mill Shop is also stocked with home-made muesli and other local treats, and you can settle in for an indulgent cream tea in the adjacent tea room or riverside garden. nationaltrust.org.uk/dunster-castle-and-watermill Lynton and Barnstaple Railway Woody Bay was one of the original stations on the Lynton and Barnstaple railway, which was 19 miles long, much of it on a gradient of 1 in 50. It was built to the narrow gauge of one foot eleven and a half inches (600mm) and opened in 1898. Faced with increasing competition from road transport, it closed in 1935. The one-mile of track from Woody Bay to Killington Lane was reopened in stages between 2004 and 2007, and is currently the longest-closed section of a railway to be reopened anywhere in the world. From the carriage window there are views of the sweeping Exmoor landscape, and on a clear day you can see the coastline of Wales. The railway is owned by a Charitable Trust and is operated as a 'not for profit' business, with the majority of work undertaken by volunteers. lynton-rail.co.uk Lynton & Lynmouth Cliff Railway You step on, the brakes are released, and you glide up (or down). It’s that simple – yet this elegant water-powered Victorial railway is something of a work of genius. Designed by George Marks and opened in 1890, the vertiginous railway was intended to provide an easier access route for tourists and goods to reach clifftop Lynton from the harbour at Lynmouth. Powered only by water from the River Lyn, the railway has a carbon footprint the size of an ant’s, and a ride in one of the two racing-green carriages, albeit lasting scant minutes, is as charming a travel experience as you’ll encounter. cliffrailwaylynton.co.uk For information on characterful places to stay, local food and drink, and nearby outdoor activities, see our Green Traveller's Guide to Exmoor National Park

As part of our Green Traveller's Guide to Exmoor National Park, Paul Bloomfield picks out a selection of walking, wildlife and adventure activities in this glorious protected area in southwest England. Cliff, moor, river, hill, beach, wood: there’s a variety of habitat and landscape that makes Exmoor a hotspot for diverse activities. We’ve assembled a tantalising taster of what’s on offer: walking trails traversing remote areas and scaling vertiginous sea cliffs, high-octane activities and meditative fishing, rivers to be kayaked and lakes to be sailed. For those with a pair of binoculars and a modicum of curiosity, the local wildlife offers thrilling watching: red deer rut, Exmoor ponies graze, birds of prey soar. Animals in captivity also provide insights: learn about owls, visit Exmoor ponies, even take a llama for a trek. In this guide we’ve provided details of the local people who can introduce you to the aspects of the moor they themselves love: from safaris to coasteering and kayaking, stargazing and surfing. And we’ve provided a few tips to help you plan your own exploration on foot in our introduction to walking in the Park. Google map: shows the location and details of all the places to stay, local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities in our Green Travel Guide to Exmoor National Park: Green = Places to stay Blue = Local food & drink Yellow = Attractions Purple = Activities Activities in Exmoor National Park Exmoor Adventures There are few activities that sound quite as daft as coasteering: don wetsuit and helmet; leap into crashing surf; climb high onto rocks above sea; leap into waves; repeat. Yet it’s not only one of the most exhilarating adventures to be had along Exmoor’s shores, it also offers a unique perspective on arguably England’s most craggy, dramatic stretches of coastline, a weirdly addictive blend of bodysurfing, rock climbing and geology. Coasteering is among a comprehensive array of activities organised by Exmoor Adventures, including kayaking, rock climbing, mountain biking, abseiling and raft building – all of which emphasise the diverse nature of the Exmoor landscape. exmooradventures.co.uk Exmoor Pony Centre The Exmoor pony, a hardy, muscular breed, thrived on the moor for centuries, but changes in management, war and other factors caused the population of pure-bred animals to plummet to just a handful at the end of the Second World War. The Moorland Mousie Trust, based at the Exmoor Pony Centre, works to conserve and promote the Exmoor breed. Visitors are welcome at the centre to learn more about the breed and its history, meet a small community of animals, and even head out onto the moor on a trekking experience. exmoorponycentre.org.uk Exmoor Owl and Hawk Centre Though the moor’s regal red deer understandably grab the most attention, birdlife is also rich here – and this specialist centre, based at a delightful 15th-century National Trust farmhouse, offers the chance to learn about owls, hawks and eagles. Activities range from a visit to the owl garden, meeting a range of raptor species, to sessions flying trained birds – including a Bengal eagle owl and a twisting, diving Harris hawk. Photography days present opportunities for capturing intimate portraits, while owl evenings provide atmospheric encounters. The centre also offers alpaca walks and horse or pony trekking, as well as the characterful B&B accommodation and cream teas. Guests staying at the B&B get a reduced rate at the Exmoor Owl and Hawk Centre. exmoorfalconry.co.uk Exmoor Wildlife Safaris Each 2½-hour Land Rover safari takes a different route and, setting out at various times throughout the day, offer subtly varying perspectives on the moor and its wildlife. You may spot red, roe or fallow deer, muscular Exmoor ponies, flitting bats or other diverse species of woodland and open moor, as well as getting a flavour of agricultural aspects of life in the region. There’s also the opportunity to take advantage of Exmoor’s status as Europe’s first Dark Sky Reserve on a stargazing safari, as an expert astronomy guide helps you identify stars and constellations. exmoorwildlifesafaris.co.uk For information on characterful places to stay, local food and drink, and nearby visitor attractions, see our Green Traveller's Guide to Exmoor National Park

As part of our Green Traveller's Guide to the New Forest, Florence Fortnam picks out a selection of characterful places to stay, including hotels, B&Bs, self-catering and campsites in this glorious protected area in the south of England. With around 220 square miles of open countryside, the New Forest has a huge variety of eco-friendly accommodations and campsites to choose from, suiting all tastes and budgets. Rolling hillsides, ancient woodlands and tranquil lakes - its no wonder the New Forest is home to everything from luxury 5* country manors, through to traditional farmhouses and secluded campsites. What's more, each of the accommodations listed has been accredited by the Green Leaf Tourism Scheme (GLTS), having taken important steps in ensuring a more sustainable future - so whether you greet the day by tucking into a sumptuous New Forest Breakfast in Lymington, or pedal-power your own television in Brockenhurst, you're helping to ensure the future of this beautiful region. Google map: shows the location and details of all the places to stay, local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities in our Green Traveller's Guide to the New Forest: Green = Places to stay Blue = Local food & drink Yellow = Attractions Purple = Activities Places to stay in the New Forest The Montagu Arms A 17th century country house buried deep in the heart of the New Forest, overlooking the wonderful Beaulieu Palace. Each of the 22 bedrooms and suites is rich with traditional English character and by exploring a little you'll soon discover roaring log fires, ornate oak paneling and picturesque gardens. All three restaurants (including one with a Michelin star) do wonders with local produce and the New Forest breakfast is a real treat. Montagu is an effortlessly luxurious base from which to explore walking trails through ancient woodland, one hundred miles of cycle routes or to trek the open heathland on horseback. montaguarmshotel.co.uk Careys Manor Hotel & SenSpa Experience a world of pure relaxation and luxury in The New Forest, where world class spa facilities, luxurious bedrooms, versatile conference and function spaces and delicious dining options combine at this fabulous hotel. careysmanor.com Chewton Glen An English original... Chewton Glen is a luxury country house hotel, 12 tree-houses and a spa in 130 acres of Hampshire countryside on the edge of the New Forest National Park, from where it's a glorious 20 minute stroll to a wonderful sandy beach. chewtonglen.com Stanwell House Hotel A cosmopolitan and stylish boutique hotel situated in the heart of Lymington, ideally positioned minutes from the quay. The modern garden rooms look out over the lush terrace and, if you explore the oldest parts of the hotel, you’ll find the Georgian rooms, tastefully styled to complement the hotel's rich heritage. The rustic brick-walled Drydock bar acts as the perfect place to unwind with a cocktail or glass of champagne and the renowned seafood restaurant cooks up impressive dishes sourced almost solely from local fishermen. stanwellhousehotel.co.uk Cottage Lodge Enjoy the natural beauty of the splendid New Forest from the comfort of the charming Cottage Lodge, a lovely bed and breakfast (all rooms en suite) in Brockenhurst, within easy walking distance of country pubs, shops, bike hire & the railway station. Our reviewer Richard Hammond says: “Cottage Lodge is a cosy, smart B&B that deserves its AA-rated status as a luxury B&B. Christina is a ball of energy and fully committed to helping to reduce the impact of your stay on the environment and supporting local producers.” cottagelodge.co.uk The Blacksmith's House An unusual B&B in the heart of the New Forest National Park where you feel fully cared for but left in peace to enjoy the gorgeous surroundings. Excellent breakfast and baked goods on arrival, wonderful cosy atmosphere and home away from home. Our reviewer Lucy Symons says: "Seriously, a perfect spot if you have no car - you can arrive by railway and get around on the bus effortlessly. The New Forest is just begging for you to hire a bike or a Twizy and explore this beautiful area. A few people don't like letting themselves in, but I absolutely loved the feeling of trust and ability to explore Tracy’s place on my own." theblacksmithshouse.co.uk The Mill at Gordleton This 5*, privately owned restaurant also has 8 bedrooms including the Orchard Room, which comes complete with its own private terraced area. The 400 year-old mill has been lovingly converted into the top suite, with a sitting room overlooking the river and and a corner spa bath. At the restaurant, nearly all greens are grown in the herb garden and green house and the river allows for fishing of trout and salmon. Local sculptors have worked on the impressive gardens and recycled sculptures have been commissioned for each table. themillatgordleton.co.uk Daisybank Cottage Nestled right in the heart of the New Forest National Park, this boutique B&B prides itself on offering a luxurious cottage hideaway experience. Each of the five individually styled en-suite bedrooms makes the most of the cottage’s Victorian heritage, while the courtyard suite opens out onto a private, Spanish-style terrace. Daisybank has taken steps to reduce its carbon footprint, and the restaurant offers guests a fantastic New Forest Breakfast. With the coastal towns of Milford on Sea and Highcliffe nearby, there’s plenty to keep you busy. bedandbreakfast-newforest.co.uk Harvest House This spacious boutique Bed and Breakfast lies on the coastal border of the New Forest National Park, and boasts stunning panoramic views of the surrounding farmland. With three comfortably contemporary rooms available, you’re free to relax in front of the wood burner in the lounge with a drink from the well-stocked honesty bar. While it may be hidden in over an acre of woodland, Harvest House is only a 5 minutes walk from the village centre while the nearest beach is just 10 minutes away. harvesthouse-newforest.co.uk Alderholt Mill Deep in the Dorset countryside, on a small island formed by the river Allen lies this working water mill. There’s a range of comfortable accommodations sleeping parties of 2-7, and the large garden offers the chance to relax to the sound of trickling water features and chirping birds. Private fishing trips for Grayling and Trout on site, with an early breakfast included before setting out. Successfully restored in 1987, the mill is open to the public during the summer season weekends only, selling cream teas and other goodies made using flour produced on site. alderholtmill.co.uk Upper Kingston Farm Cottages A working farm right on the New Forest border is the setting for these five carefully restored and converted cottages. Each cottage is as energy efficient as possible - air source heat pumps heat the floors and provide hot water, and while it may be self-catered, you’ll find the ingredients for your first ‘New Forest Breakfast’ waiting for you in the fridge. From wandering the sands of the nearby beaches and horse riding through the forest to deep-sea fishing and countryside rambling, activities in the area are excitingly varied. upperkingstonfarmcottages.co.uk Hucklesbrook Farm Cottages Each of the four Hucklesbrook cottages is set within a colorful courtyard hidden behind a beautiful 17th Century farmhouse. Views from the South facing windows look over farmland, woodland and the New Forest to the east. Rooms are clean, light and warm and each cottage has a garden and private patio. Children will love the collection of friendly farm animals roaming the area (including 4 ponies and 3 ducks) and are free to collect the hen's eggs. A range of activities including pony trekking are available nearby. newforestholidaycottages.com Sandy Balls Family run since 1919, this impressive campsite presents breathtaking forest right on your doorstep. There’s a superb range of quality accommodation, from rustic woodland lodges and static holiday homes to Ready Tents and tepees, plus fully-serviced touring pitches – all hidden away under the treetops. Guests can walk, cycle, horse-ride, kayak, fish and even ice skate nearby and there's a comprehensive programme of activities for children. The site also boasts a restaurant, traditional English pub and supermarket. sandyballs.co.uk/accommodation Camping in the Forest Year-round caravan and camping holidays with a choice of 16 camping and caravanning sites set amongst the woodlands of the Forestry Commission. campingintheforest.co.uk For information on local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities, see our Green Traveller's Guide to the New Forest

As part of our Green Traveller's Guide to the New Forest, Florence Fortnam picks out a selection of walking, cycling, horse-riding and watersports activities in this glorious protected area in the south of England. The best way to experience the New Forest is simply to get out and explore - be it on foot, on water, on two wheels or on horseback. All throughout the New Forest there's the chance to take part in leisure activities of all types. For cyclists, 160km of waymarked cycle routes (easily accessible by train) challenge beginners and experts alike. Horse riders can benefit from a wealth of hacks and routes into the forest while it's just as easy to grab a map and ramble over the deer-filled heathland on foot. What's more, there's no reason to restrict yourself to land-based activities when you can try kayaking or canoeing up the Beaulieu River or explore the coastline whilst sailing. Google map: shows the location and details of all the places to stay, local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities in our Green Traveller's Guide to the New Forest: Green = Places to stay Blue = Local food & drink Yellow = Attractions Purple = Activities Activities in the New Forest New Forest Activities Choose from a range of activities as varied as archery and treasure trails. A perfect location from which to explore the beauty of the Beaulieu countryside and winding trails towards Brockenhurst and beyond. You can also try your hand at canoeing alongside trained professionals at the Beaulieu River Nature Reserve, learning the history and traditions of the river along the way. Alternatively, be a little more adventurous and take part in a two-hour guided kayaking tour, exploring hidden creaks along the Beaulieu river. newforestactivities.co.uk Cycle Experience A popular cycle hire service offering a range of bicycles (including new ‘electric bikes’) as well as guided tours. The website also features a range of manageable cycle routes including ‘Leafy Lanes’, a relaxing ride that explores the quiet lanes separating Brockenhurst, Boldre, Pilley and East End. newforestcyclehire.co.uk Country Lanes Offering cycle hire, cycling day trips, weekend breaks as well as longer biking holidays from a converted railway carriage alongside the platform. An overview of Country Lanes' own cycle routes is available online. countrylanes.co.uk Forest Leisure Cycling Based in Burley, Forest Leisure’s flagship route is the ‘Deer Sanctuary’ trail, which gives the chance to encounter deer, horses, various birds as you cycle up towards the Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary. Many other routes are available to view on the website. forestleisurecycling.co.uk Burley Villa School of Riding Offering riding lessons in both traditional and Western saddles ranging from 90 minute beginner lessons to adventure days and BBQ trails. Alternatively, there’s the chance to stay at Burley Villa B&B with 2 hour group riding sessions included. burleyvilla.co.uk Burley Manor Riding Stables Set in the grounds of the Burley Manor Hotel, Burley’s stables offer both 1 and 2 hour rides as well as special events such as rides to nearby pubs. forestparkridingstables.co.uk Forest Park Riding Stables Forest Park caters for all levels and each ride has several escorts so that everyone can ride to their own ability. 2-hour hacks are available for experienced riders and include several long canters through some spectacular scenery. forestparkridingstables.co.uk Bagnum Riding Stables An established family business complete with outdoor riding school, show jumps and a number of practice Cross Country Fences. Bagnum also offers 1 or 2 hour hacks through the New Forest as well as half hour walk outs available for children. bagnumridingstables.co.uk Ford Farm Stables Catering for both novice and experienced riders, Ford Farm also hold a regular children’s club on Saturdays as well as other days during the holidays. fordfarmstables.co.uk New Forest Water Park Offering two lakes in which to take part in a range of water sports, the Water Parks also boasts a campsite for those looking to stay overnight. Learn to waterski or wakeboard or try the inflatable banana and tyre rides. Large groups can enjoy themselves on the water and then indulge in a local BBQ. newforestwaterpark.co.uk For information on characterful places to stay, local food and drink, and nearby visitor attractions, see our Green Traveller's Guide to the New Forest

As part of our Green Traveller's Guide to the New Forest, Florence Fortnam picks out a selection of restaurants, tearooms and traditional pubs to find the best local food and drink in this glorious protected area in the south of England. From succulent local venison and smoked Fordingbridge trout to the freshest vegetables and herbs grown in restaurant gardens - almost every New Forest menu is peppered with ingredients that have been raised, grown and farmed within the forest itself. Whether you choose to visit an exclusive award-winning restaurant or a traditional thatched-roof pub there seems to be one shared belief - that the freshest New Forest ingredients make the very best dishes. New Forest Marque producers are teaming up with chefs to create outstanding cuisine that has travelled almost no distance to arrive on your plate. At one end of the culinary spectrum you'll discover hearty pub grub and delicious cask ales, at the other, the very latest Michelin-starred techniques - not to mention everything in between! Google map: shows the location and details of all the places to stay, local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities in our Green Traveller's Guide to the New Forest: Green = Places to stay Blue = Local food & drink Yellow = Attractions Purple = Activities Places to eat in the New Forest Le Blaireau Ideal for those looking to add a little je ne c’est quoi to their New Forest experience, Blaireau’s Brasserie and bar is situated in the grounds of the Carey’s Manor Hotel and offers an authentic French twist on local New Forest produce. The staff work hard to insert a little Parisian luxury into your visit, while the chef cooks up dishes such as cod tempura and Barbary duck breast using only the freshest organic ingredients. From French classics to nouvelle cuisine, the meals are wholly dependent on the fresh goods of the local markets. blaireaus.com Terrace Restaurant Overlooking the Montagu Arms’ fantastic country garden, the Terrace Restaurant offers both traditional and contemporary dishes cooked up by Michelin-starred chef Matthew Tomkinson. What’s more, Montagu’s strict ethical food policy means that each innovative dish is made using largely local and organic produce, including herbs and veg from the hotel’s kitchen garden. The impressive seven-course taster menu consists of the chef’s finest dishes, each accompanied by a well-matched glass of wine as nominated by Montagu’s specialist sommeliers. montaguarmshotel.co.uk/terrace_restaurant The Master Builder's At the centre of Lord Montagu’s Beaulieu estate, overlooking the tranquil river, sits the Master Builder’s. Also a hotel, there are two options for food here – the Yachtsman’s Bar and the Riverside restaurant. At the bar, organic cheeses and New Forest jams pepper the menu. In the restaurant, choose between free-range chicken, Lymington crab and the sumptuous ‘best catch’ dish. Expect carts loaded with award-winning cheeses, complete with home made apple and beetroot chutney and vintage ports. In the autumn, Master Builder's also offers a special Game Menu. themasterbuilders.co.uk Monty's Inn A rustic country fare on the grounds of the Montagu Arms hotel offering classic English favourites, including arguably the best Ploughman's in Hampshire using only the finest local cheeses. Monty’s serves a selection of award-winning, hand-pulled Ringwood ales. The sausages are supplied by Pondhead Farm and the steak locally-reared, while eggs are sourced from their own free-range chickens and the meat makes the short trip from Hampshire. Monty’s has just won its first AA Rosette for culinary excellence. montaguarmshotel.co.uk/montys_inn The Mill at Gordleton The restaurant serves delicious dishes using only the finest local produce, including New Forest venison and pork, depending on the season. In addition, they make all their bread, ice cream, soups and sauces on site. At the front of the hotel, a snug bar overlooks the river and offers a varied a la carte menu. In summer, enjoy country air on the gorgeous riverside terrace. In Winter, snuggle up in front of the cosy log fire. themillatgordleton.co.uk The Boathouse A newly refurbished bar and restaurant based on the idyllic setting of Hythe Marina. The Boathouse is a good choice for either lunch or dinner, or for simply enjoying a drink at the waterside bar. Head chef Gavin Barnes has carefully selected the menu in accordance with New Forest Marque guidelines and serves up such delicacies as Melton Mowbray pork pie, grilled Greenfields gammon steak and nicoise salad with Cornish sardines and soft-poached egg. boathousehythe.co.uk The Old Station Tearooms The specials board is never the same two days running at the Station House. From the baked pork belly to the steamed fillet of sea bass, the tea room endeavors to offer only the freshest local produce that you can enjoy either outside in the garden, or under the shade of the station canopy. For dessert there’s the famous gluten-free fruit scones with a dollop of local cream. Sitting alongside the old railway line, the setting is perfect for walkers, cyclists and even horse riders. stationhouseholmsley.com The Oak Inn This 17th century building was once a cider house before eventually evolving into an award-winning pub. Proudly serving locally produced ales from behind a small, wooden bar, the Oak Inn has won awards for its culinary delights. It serves venison from a local game keeper and local pork from a free range farm shop, free range eggs from a farm close by, as well as local cheeses. It also majors in seafood, with plenty of crab and lobster on the summer menu, plus locally sourced shellfish. fullers.co.uk/rte.asp The Pilgrim Inn The Pilgrim Inn consists of two beautiful, newly thatched buildings – one being home to the pub/restaurant while the other houses a selection of comfortable rooms. The pub prides itself on using local, seasonal and fresh produce, having recently won the Hampshire Dish of the Year award for its 28 day aged fillet steak served with a smoked bacon and cream sauce. The two buildings are just a step apart, and both are surrounded by lush gardens where you can relax whether you’re staying for a week or an afternoon. pilgriminnmarchwood.co.uk The Huntsmen of Brockenhurse A great example of a traditional forest inn, located in a pretty cottage garden and dating back to the 13th century. Cask ales are served at the bar, to be enjoyed in the natural surrounding of the beer garden. New Forest Marque produce spans the entire menu - the New Forest burger is made with beef sourced from the local Oakwood butcher, while the New forest treacle tart makes for a uniquely local dessert. Why not go the whole hog and visit on a Sunday to sample the delicious carvery. thehuntsmanofbrockenhurst.com The White Buck Inn A former country house with seven stylish refurbished bedrooms, The White Buck is set in two and a half acres in the heart of the New Forest, a wonderful location for a relaxing stay. Well known for fine food and cask ales, the inn combines rustic charm with a traditional atmosphere and attractive period-style bars. Owners Claire and Dave deliver an excellent range of pub classics, many including fresh New Forest ingredients, such as Keeper's and Hunter's salads, spinach and wild mushroom lasagne and Jilly's daily changing short crust pie. whitebuckburley.co.uk For information on characterful places to stay, nearby visitor attractions and activities, see our Green Traveller's Guide to the New Forest

As part of our Green Traveller's Guide to the Isle of Wight, Rhiannon Batten picks out a selection of walking, cycling & adventure activities on this glorious island off the south coast of England. From rolling chalk downs, creeks and woodlands to towering cliffs and sandy beaches, there’s one thing most grockles (visitors), overners (incomers) and caulkheads (locals) – as the local dialect describes them – agree on; the Isle of Wight has a range of landscapes much greater than the sum of its 147 square miles would suggest. Local management, preservation and nature organisations have done an excellent job in linking these distinctive settings via a range of walking paths, cycle trails and (bike friendly) bus routes, and in opening up the island’s glorious green spaces to visitors in imaginative new ways. For the holidaymaker, that means you don’t have to dig very deep to find out where the best places are to go birdspotting, tree-climbing or even just picnicking by a waterfall – or how to get there. And the icing on the proverbial cake is the coastline. With 57 miles of it there’s an understandably wide variety of beaches to choose from on the Isle of Wight, whether you want to spend your time on the shore soaking up the sun from the comfort of a beachside bar or get straight into the water and try your hand at surfing, paddle boarding or just swimming. More reason to take to the water? Between them the Isle of Wight’s beaches won 17 Blue Flag and Seaside Awards in 2013 – more than any other English destination. Google map: shows the location and details of all the places to stay, local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities in our Green Traveller's Guide to the Isle of Wight: Green = Places to stay Blue = Local food & drink Yellow = Attractions Purple = Activities Activities in the Isle of Wight Isle of Wight Walking Festival With over 500 miles of footpaths wending around fields, woodlands, cliffs, beaches and villages, walking is a great way to discover the Isle of Wight. If you’re not sure where to start, try the Isle of Wight Walking Festival. The largest such event in the UK, it runs twice a year and offers a programme of over 250 led walks. From food trails on foot to speed-dating strolls, nature trails and a ramble between the island’s carnival towns and villages you should find plenty to tempt you into lacing up your boots. isleofwightwalkingfestival.co.uk Bicycle Island The Isle of Wight has over 500 miles of cycle and bridleways weaving their way through dramatic and contrasting landscapes. The “Bicycle Island” initiative aims to offer something for every cyclist, from multi-day tours to relaxing afternoon rides. This year there are new cycle ways, bike-carrying buses, additional bike hire, baggage transfer, and new cycle parking across the Island. visitisleofwight.co.uk/bicycle-island The Carnival Trail A new long distance trail on the island, linking all the Carnival Towns and Villages together in a single 100-mile route. Each leg of the five day walk links well known places and scenic landscapes in a celebration of the island's carnival heritage. You can join the whole 5 day walk, a single day, or just for part of any day. thenewcarnivalcompany.com Red Squirrel Trail A mostly off-road cycle route through areas where specialist wildlife abound. The first section from Cowes to Newport is through prime Red Squirrel woodland habitat - there is a red squirrel and bird hide next to the route at Alverstone Nature Reserve and you can see Red Squirrels at the feed boxes at the Garlic farm at Newchurch (just off the route and a great place for a coffee break!). The 'Troll' section is a short stretch that has a series of bridges where children can look out for river wildlife such as Grey wagtails. The 'Sunshine loop' section of the trial is so-called because this area apparently receives record sunshine hours in the UK. It is the best place to see skyward birds such as Buzzards, kestrels and skylarks. visitisleofwight.co.uk/bicycle-island/red-squirrel-trail Isle of Wight Coastal Path Few destinations in the UK can offer the wide variety of terrain that the Isle of Wight does. If you’re in search of a walking route to remember, however, the island’s Coastal Path is a really unique way to see the island. Covering 67 miles in total, with surprisingly few really steep sections on route, you can do it in one go or tackle its six 8 - 16 mile sections separately. Along the way you’ll get an insight into much of the island’s history as well as its striking chalk landscapes. Highlights along the way include the famous Needles. visitisleofwight.co.uk/things-to-do/walking Inland Trails From the 14-mile Tennyson Trail, which links Carisbrooke and Alum Bay via much of the territory Tennyson would have walked when he lived at Farringford House, to the seven-mile Shepherds Trail which runs between Carisbrooke Priory and Shepherd’s Chine, there are eight well-trodden inland trails that cover the island – more than enough to keep you and your boots happy for a week. visitisleofwight.co.uk/things-to-do/walking/walking-routes Walking breaks If you prefer to have all the details taken care of before you go, Wight Walks offers a range of self-guided walking trips across the island. From short, three-night breaks to week-long walking holidays or even 10-day hikes, all the island’s best-loved trails are covered (as well as some lesser known rambling possibilities), and accommodation, breakfasts, luggage transfers and trail packs are included. wightwalks.co.uk Bike hire Based in Yarmouth but able to deliver hire bikes across the island, Wight Cycle Hire is the place to start if you’re looking to get around the island on two wheels and haven’t brought your own bike with you. The company’s wide range of bikes are all under two years old and come with helmets, locks, repair kits and island-wide mechanical support. Not sure where to start? They can also set you up with group rides, guided rides, cycle training or just a list of (and trail guides for) recommended routes. wightcyclehire.co.uk Electric bikes Want to join the whole family for a day’s bike ride but not sure you’ll be able to keep up? Then hire an electric bike from Axcess in Sandown or Ventnor and let your wheels take the strain. Available by the hour, half day, day or week, each bike comes with panniers, lock, battery charger and helmet and you can re-charge its battery for free when you need to at various points throughout the island. axcess-electric-bikes.co.uk Isle of Wight Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Designated in 1963 and covering around half the island, the AONB extends across much of the island’s south-west and north-west coast as well as its central and southern downlands. Dominated by chalk, including the bright white stacks of the Needles, it also covers salt marshes and mudflats along the Hamstead Heritage Coast, the sandy bays, cliffs and wooded ‘chines’ of the Tennyson Heritage Coast and areas of heathland, hay meadows and creeks. While the AONB isn’t a destination in itself, per se, as a major player in the island’s countryside tourism it’s likely you’ll spend plenty of time within it during your visit. wightaonb.org.uk Ventnor Botanic Garden Fittingly for a café in a garden, Ventnor’s Plantation Room Café makes the most of the surrounding herbs, salads, vegetables and fruit for its daily menu of baguettes, soups, stews and cakes and its hot Sunday lunches. This light, bright space is a great place for a cuppa overlooking the foliage – choose from its lengthy list of loose-leaf teas (served in glass teapots) and fresh coffees or go for a Tropic Ale, brewed with hops grown in the grounds. In the summer months, the space below the café opens as a restaurant, Edulis. Its name means ‘edible plant’ in Latin and that’s it’s mission, with a strong focus on locally grown ingredients. Although the restaurant isn’t normally open in the evenings, keep an eye out for occasional dinners and events. botanic.co.uk Fossil hunting With its abundant fossil discoveries it’s little wonder that the Isle of Wight is known as one of the best spots in the UK to find out more about dinosaurs. If you’d rather do that outdoors than in,there are more options than you can shake a Sauropod skeleton at. Download the Dinosaur Island Trail app at one of six coastal locations and you can snap yourself with images of virtual dinosaurs at sites where remains have been discovered. Or find out more by joining a guided fossil-hunting walk around the island’s beaches with one of several local dinosaur experts. visitisleofwight.co.uk/dinosaur-island/fossil-hunts Newtown National Nature Reserve The only National Nature Reserve on the Isle of Wight, National Trust-managed Newtown is the place to go if you fancy a walk through flower-scattered hay meadows, ancient woods, salt marshes and alongside a sailing harbour. As suitable for wildlife-watching as it is for walkers, red squirrels, bluebells, dragonflies, rare-breed Hebridean sheep and black-tailed Godwits are just some of the attractions. If you’re not sure where to start, make your way, softly, towards Mercia Seabroke bird hide and, if you’re lucky, you’ll find a volunteer waiting to impart their knowledge. The hide is also wheelchair-accessible. bit.ly/QxYrJr Shanklin Chine In operation since 1817, Shanklin Chine is justly proud of its long heritage on the island’s tourist trail. A leafy enclave of waterfalls, woodland and shady walks, it has been famously written about, drawn or painted by an impressive roster of artists and writers, among them Keats and Turner. Come on a sunny afternoon and while away the hours strolling through the trees, picnicking by a waterfall, following a nature trail or heading down to Fisherman’s Cottage, a pub on the beach at the foot of the chine for a pint on the shore. shanklinchine.co.uk Mottistone Gardens They may be managed by the National Trust and set in the grounds of a 16th century manor house that takes its name from the island’s only Neolithic monument, the Longstone, but Mottistone Gardens is much more contemporary than first appearances suggest. This 20th century garden has been specifically designed to test how plants will adapt to climate change, with olive trees and other Mediterranean plants in attendance alongside colourful flowerbeds and an organic kitchen garden. nationaltrust.org.uk/mottistone-gardens Goodleaf Tree Climbing Whether you’re eight or 80, contact Goodleaf and you’ll have a brilliant morning or afternoon out in Ryde learning how to shin up a tree safely with an experienced instructor on hand. Explore the local scenery and wildlife from a birds-eye perspective or, if you feel like a rest at the top, take a snooze with a view from one if the company’s tree hammocks. goodleaf.co.uk iSurf If you or your children want to try surfing or paddle boarding while you’re on the Isle of Wight but you’re not sure your local beach will have waves worth strapping on a wetsuit for, help is at hand from iSurf. This mobile surf school provides tuition and equipment at various locations around the island, wherever the weather promises the best conditions. iowsurf.com Watersports on the Isle of Wight From windsurfing and body boarding to kayaking, dinghy sailing and surfing, Wight Waters activity centre is based in Ventnor but operates largely in Sandown Bay. Though it caters for families and individuals it’s also great for groups; ask and they’ll happily set you up with a post-surf barbecue on the beach, with beach cricket, Frisbee or volleyball thrown in. wightwaters.com Paragliding For those with a head for heights, High Adventure paragliding is a great place to give the sport a try, whether you want to go it alone or try a tandem flight. Established in the late 1980s, the company has its own teaching sites, meaning quieter – and safer – skies to practise in. And with its location in the far south of the UK, there tend to be more flying days here than in many other parts of the UK. highadventureparagliding.co.uk Horse riding From a half hour group lesson to 90-minute hacks around the West Wight countryside for more experienced riders, this stables between Freshwater and Yarmouth makes for a great morning or afternoon out. If you’re less than confident in the saddle, they also offer short pony rides around the farm for £10 so you can see whether you feel up to a longer ride before committing. hillfarmstables.com Sandown Along with adjacent Shanklin, this long arc of sand is one of the best places on the island for traditional seaside resort atmosphere. Think deckchairs, sandcastles, beach cafes, amusement arcades and children’s play areas. Everything, in short, for a family day out by the sea. Recipient of Blue Flag award. visitisleofwight.co.uk/things-to-do/sandown-beach-p970901 Ventnor The closest the Isle of Wight gets to the Amalfi Coast, this pretty sand and shingle beach, with rocks at each end, and the town clambering up the hillside behind it, boasts easy access to cafes, restaurants and pubs. Recipient of the Blue Flag Award. visitisleofwight.co.uk/explore/towns/ventnor Ryde A wide stretch of open sand that’s ideal for a game of beach rounders, part of the appeal of this beach is its proximity to Ryde’s cafes, pubs and toilets. If you prefer fresh water to salt, there’s a community-run swimming pool just back from the beach that has a retractable roof for sunny days. Recipient of the Blue Flag Award. rydetowncouncil.gov.uk Compton Bay One of the most accessible beaches on the island, especially for walkers detouring off the coastal path, the wide arc of windswept sand at surfer- and windsurfer-friendly Compton Bay is nicely undeveloped. There may be no toilets or cafes here (ice cream vans normally set up shop in the summer months) but it’s the untamed feel that makes this beach so attractive. visitisleofwight.co.uk/things-to-do/compton-bay-p968911 Colwell Bay A small, pretty beach on the island’s quieter west coast, with lovely views of the Solent, Colwell Bay is great for families. There are toilets nearby, cafes at hand and a gently sloping stretch of sand that leads into beautifully clear water. Recipient of the Blue Flag Award. colwellbay.co.uk/beach/ Bembridge If you’re in search of an old-fashioned, unspoilt day out by the sea, try Bembridge, on the east coast. A mix of sand and pebble with numerous rockpools it’s popular with families yet still quieter than the big resort beaches. visitisleofwight.co.uk/things-to-do/bembridge-lane-end-beach-p970461 Freshwater Bay This small pebble cove with tall cliffs at either end is a summer hit with visiting families, with toilets and cafés close by and a dramatic setting. If you’ve spent the day walking on the springy downs up above it’s a good spot for a cooling post-hike dip. visitisleofwight.co.uk/things-to-do/freshwater-bay-p969921 Seagrove Bay Most visitors walk in to this pebble beach from the adjacent village. A café, toilets and rockpools provide the holy trinity of facilities for families in search of a stress-free day out by the sea and the pebbles mean it’s often quieter than some of the island’s bigger, sandier beaches. visitisleofwight.co.uk/things-to-do/seagrove-beach-p991711 Steephill Cove It’s an easy, if steep, walk to this beach from the Botanic Garden at Ventnor. And well worth it, with a sandy beach, rockpools galore and two of the loveliest places to tuck into seafood on the island (see ‘places to eat’). steephillcove-isleofwight.co.uk/ For information on local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities, see our Green Traveller's Guide to the Isle of Wight

As part of our Green Traveller's Guide to the Isle of Wight, Rhiannon Batten picks out a selection of heritage, shopping, festivals and family fun on this glorious island off the south coast of England. From Royal residences and listed windmills to family-friendly music festivals and a tour of the island’s artists’ studios, whether it’s history, music, art or even shopping that excites you, the Isle of Wight comes up trumps every time. Its strategic position in the Solent as a kind of floating full stop to the UK means that the Isle of Wight has an especially rich maritime and military history. Whether you want to explore that by taking a guided tour of the Needles Old Battery or by knocking back cocktails during Cowes Week as a flotilla of yachts sails by on the horizon, it’s all there for the enjoying. Understandably, given this history, many of the island’s attractions were built as lookouts, making them brilliant spots for picnics with a view – or lots of climbing up ancient staircases if you have fidgety children in tow – today. Swim off the private beach that Queen Victoria once bathed from, go hunting for fossils on beaches once trampled by dinosaurs, organise a game of bowls on the green Charles I used to play on, drink wine from vineyards once cultivated by the Romans and hear how the mischievous but benevolent Ferguson’s Gang saved one of the island’s most significant buildings for the nation. Then rest your legs with a night at a pop-up opera, an afternoon painting your own pottery or a ride on a restored steam train. Google map: shows the location and details of all the places to stay, local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities in our Green Traveller's Guide to the Isle of Wight: Green = Places to stay Blue = Local food & drink Yellow = Attractions Purple = Activities Places of interest in the Isle of Wight Osborne House The proverbial jewel in the island’s crown, Queen Victoria’s stately Italianate summer residence was designed by Prince Albert (apparently the views of the Solent reminded him of the Bay of Naples), and is by far the grandest building on the island. Inside, tour the lavish state rooms, nosey through the more intimate family rooms and make sure you see the stand-out Durbar Room with its elaborate plasterwork ceiling, akin to a banqueting table of upside down wedding cakes. Since 2012, visitors have also been able to swim off Queen Victoria’s private beach, 20 minutes’ walk from the house. Be inspired by a visit to the newly refurbished Swiss Cottage: buidling started in 1853 under the direction of Prince Albert for his nine young children so that the neophyte royals could experience being 'ordinary citizens' and was carved with improving quotations in German like 'You will carry your load more easily if you add patience to the burden', it now houses a musem filled with strange and wonderful objects from around the world set in a gorgeous garden. english-heritage.org.uk/daysout/properties/osborne Bembridge Windmill There aren’t many places in the UK these days where you can hear a windmill’s sails creaking on a windy day but this is one of them. A Grade I listed monument, and the only surviving windmill on the island, it was built around 1700 and in working use until 1913. Visits here are topsy turvy – you climb to the top then see how the machinery operated as you work your way back down its four floors. nationaltrust.org.uk/bembridge-windmill/ Carisbrooke Castle Famously used as a prison for Charles I in the months leading up to his execution, this motte and bailey castle is a little more welcoming to visitors these days. Within the castle and its surroundings are a Great Hall, a chapel, a museum, an Edwardian-style garden and a clutch of resident donkeys. There’s plenty of space for younger visitors to run around and let off steam or try your hand at a game of bowls on the same green that Charles I used. english-heritage.org.uk/daysout/properties/carisbrooke-castle/ The Needles Old Battery There are few places on the island where you can get as good an insight into the Isle of Wight’s seafaring history and strategic military heritage as the Needles Old Battery. Inside this Victorian fort a series of exhibitions expertly leads you through its dramatic story, and don’t miss the underground tunnel which leads to a searchlight emplacement overlooking the Needles rocks. The nearby New Battery has its tales to tell, too. Not least when British-made rockets were secretly tested here during the Cold War. nationaltrust.org.uk/needles-old-battery-and-new-battery/ Bembridge Fort One of the Palmerston forts built in Britain in the late 19th century, as a response to the supposed threat of invasion by the French Navy, this one is currently being restored by the National Trust. Open for pre-bookable volunteer-led tours on Tuesdays throughout the summer it’s not only a chance to see restoration work in progress but also a memorable starting point for walks on Bembridge and Culver Downs. nationaltrust.org.uk/bembridge-fort/ Brading Roman Villa Hadrian’s Wall may be, arguably, the most famous Roman ruin in Britain but you don’t have to go nearly so far north to get an insight into our ancient conquerors. Remnants of walls, mosaics and a hypocaust underfloor heating system from this 1st century house can all be seen here on the Isle of Wight. It’s family-friendly, too, with a Roman garden and meadow trail to explore and, if you’re lucky, the chance to dress up as an emperor or gladiator. While you’re there, stop off at the neighbouring vineyard. Though they’ve since been replanted, vines are thought to have been grown on the site by the Romans bradingromanvilla.org.uk Yarmouth Castle The last, and most refined, of Henry VIII's coastal defences, Yarmouth Castle was one of the first in England to have an 'arrowhead'-style artillery bastion rather than a more rounded shape. Finished after his death, in 1547, the castle looks anything but intimidating today, though the exhibition of local shipwrecks is pretty sobering. Perched right by the Solent’s edge, with a carpet of soft green grass, it’s a glorious spot for a picnic. And if it gives you an appetite for more of Henry VIII’s handiwork, you can toddle two miles down the coast afterwards to explore Hurst Castle (also English heritage). english-heritage.org.uk/daysout/properties/yarmouth-castle/ Newtown Old Town Hall An improbably elegant building for a rural hamlet, this one-time town hall points to former glories as the centre of a borough important enough to have sponsored two MPs. Now managed by the National Trust it was famously saved for the nation in the 1930s by Ferguson’s Gang. This group of anonymous and mischievous female benefactors spoke like pirates and adopted the National Trust as their funding mission; one was finally ‘outed’ on her death in 1996 as Dr Margaret Steuart Pollard, a Sanskrit scholar, Cornish bard, historian and great-niece of Gladstone. nationaltrust.org.uk/newtown-old-town-hall/ Isle of Wight Festival In 1968, a group of entrepreneurial islanders organised the Isle of Wight Festival of Music to raise funds for a public swimming pool. It didn’t make a profit, sadly, but it did help change the UK’s musical landscape. Two years later Jimi Hendrix famously rocked the island at the festival’s third outing, and although the festival then disappeared until its relaunch in 2002, it set the scene for Britain’s love affair with music festivals. Now a highlight of the nation’s cultural calendar, the festival takes place each June, with recent headline acts including The Rolling Stones, Coldplay, Kaiser Chiefs, Stereophonics, Paul McCartney, Paul Weller and The Stone Roses. isleofwightfestival.com Bestival If the Isle of Wight festival heralds the start of the UK’s festival season, this boutique festival plays a fond farewell to it. Held each September and organised by DJ and record producer Rob da Bank. As the boutique label implies, it’s a more intimate size than the Isle of Wight festival, with a more alternative musical offering, a focus on vegetarian food and fancy dress, support for social and environmental causes (Bike to Bestival and Swim to Bestival are two of its carbon-saving initiatives) and a family-friendly spin-off, Camp Bestival. bestival.net International Cowes Week Not culture as you know it, perhaps, but sailing is one of the most well known local traditions and Cowes Week is one of the world’s longest-running regattas. Held in the Solent each August, if you want to be in on the action, make your way to Cowes for live music, cocktails, crab salads and views of the racing. aamcowesweek.co.uk Isle of Wight Arts With its sun-soaked skies and coastal landscapes it’s little surprise that the Isle of Wight has been home to more than its fair share of artists over the years. To catch some of the current crop in the act, time a trip for July, to coincide with the annual Open Studios weekends, which take place in the east and west of the island over two weekends. Meet artists and makers whose doors are not usually open to the public, buy work direct from its creator or simply hop from studio to studio through some of the island’s most delightful scenery. isleofwightarts.com Dimbola The former home and studio of pioneering photographer Julia Margaret Cameron, Dimbola was named after her family’s plantation in Sri Lanka. Now seeing service as a gallery and museum, most of the displays relate to Cameron’s own work and life but a lively program of changing exhibitions means there’s always something to see however regular a visitor you are. And another excuse to stop off at the on-site tea room to try the excellent homemade cakes. dimbola.co.uk Chessell Pottery Barns Paint-your-own pottery cafes are two-a-penny these days but Emma Bridgwater’s the Pottery Café was one of the first. The company now runs three London studios as well as this one in conjunction with Chessell Pottery on the Isle of Wight. Choose one of the Emma Bridgwater shapes (all made in the UK) and paint your own design or, if you’re not the creative type, pick up some of the pottery’s own strawberry patterned Chessell Ware in the adjacent shop. chessellpotterybarns.co.uk Quay Arts Housed in 19th century brewery warehouse complex, in the centre of Newport, this multi-tasking arts venue was opened in 1997 to provide a focal point for the island’s creative drive. See the latest independent films, watch a theatre, dance or music performance, pick up a souvenir in the Crafts Council-listed shop, catch the latest exhibition of paintings, sign up for a workshop or just stop off for a pint of local ale or a bowl of soup in the café quayarts.org Pop Up Opera It’s a clever idea: take young, talented opera singers (often more convincing as their performances’ youthful leads than their more established – and rotund – counterparts) and let them loose to gain experience around Britain in unconventional, and informal, venues that appeal to broader audiences. One of the company’s summer haunts is the island’s Garlic Farm but you’ll have to be quick if you want to grab a ticket. thegarlicfarm.co.uk Dinosaur Isle A purpose-built, interactive museum Dinosaur Isle is designed in the shape of a giant pterodactyl to house the island’s rich collections of geology and fossils. An informative introduction takes you back to the time when dinosaurs roamed on what is now the Isle of Wight. You’re then free to explore over 1000 fossils, skeletal re-constructions, life sized re-constructions and two animatronic dinosaurs. Eager to find out more? Book in for one of the attraction’s guided fossil walks dinosaurisle.com Isle of Wight Steam Railway Open from March to November, though much more widely during high summer, this heritage railway offers plenty of scope for a steam-powered day out. From rides along the rails to a new visitor attraction housing the railway’s rolling stock, a woodland walk and children’s play area, it’s one of the best-loved attractions on the island. iwsteamrailway.co.uk Bembridge Lifeboat Station It may be a working lifeboat station but that doesn’t stop Bembridge Lifeboat Station opening to visitors at certain times. Approached via a causeway and manned by volunteers, they’ll let your children have a look at the lifeboat and, if they’re lucky, dress up as a lifeboat man or woman. Don’t forget to ask when the crew are training if you want to see the boat being launched. There’s also a well-stocked shop. bembridgelifeboat.org.uk Robin Hill Adventure Park & Gardens Unlike its sister attraction Blackgang Chine, which focuses on rides and slides, this leafy space is based firmly on nature. There are rides here, too - among them a toboggan run and train ride - but there are also ‘troll’ bridges across ponds, rope towers to climb, an adventure playground, a butterfly garden and a treehouse packed with information about local wildlife. Still need to let off steam? Go wild in the park’s eight acres of woodland gardens. robin-hill.com St Catherine’s Lighthouse Warning lights for ships have been in this point, the most southerly on the island, since the 14th century but the iconic octagonal tower of today’s St Catherine's Lighthouse dates from 1838, following the nearby wrecking of The Clarendon ship. Older children will love the volunteer-led, 40-minute tours here, which involve a climb up the 94 steps to the lantern at the top. Park near the Buddle Inn and walk in after lunch or, if it’s a sunny day, pack a picnic and eat it overlooking the sea. It’s also worth stopping off at nearby St Catherine’s Oratory, a pepperpot-shaped medieval lighthouse a couple of miles away. trinityhouse.co.uk Coleman’s Farm Park Giant ice creams aside, there’s nothing like a farm visit to put smiles on younger children’s faces during a countryside holiday. And while this farm park, outside Newport, isn’t the most sophisticated one you’ll ever see, there are lambs to pet, a model railway, pedal tractor park and a playbarn complete with hayloft, zip slide, swings, slides, tunnels, pits and climbing wall. colemansfarmpark.co.uk Classic Boat Museum If your children are starting to learn port from starboard and tacking from jibing take them off to this East Cowes museum to give them a headstart on sailing history. It’s one of the best value attractions on the island, with 50 heritage boats to discover, among them a modern Olympic vessel and a collapsible lifeboat dating back to the 1890s. classicboatmuseum.org Made on the Isle of Wight When the owners of this store, Serena and Robin Courage, first visited the Isle of Wight they were wowed by the island’s talent. From its local food producers to its artists, potters, jewellers, photographers, musicians, textile designers, writers and cosmetics companies, the island was producing some wonderful local buys. What it didn’t have was a one-stop shop where visitors like them could find it all under one roof. So they built one. Now breezily designed in seaside blue and white, the shop stocks the fruit of over 200 local businesses, and is home to a café besides. If you’re feeling lazy it’s a brilliant place to find a souvenir. madeonisleofwight.com Arreton Barns Home to Farmer Jack’s farm shop and the Dairyman’s Daughter pub village-like collection of barns is also home to some great local shopping. Decorative glass is one of its most popular items but other local present-buying possibilities include bowls and platters made with local timber, organic skincare and soaps made from locally grown lavender and homemade fudge. If you want to get your hands dirty, many of the shop owners offer short courses and workshops for visitors. arretonbarns.co.uk For information on local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities, see our Green Traveller's Guide to the Isle of Wight

As part of our Green Traveller's Guide to the Isle of Wight, Rhiannon Batten picks out a selection of cafés, restaurants and local food across this glorious island on the south coast of England. When ferry operator Wightlink first launched the Wight Taste Trail in 2007 it was blazing a deliciously untrodden path. Designed to give tourists a better insight into the island’s award-winning food producers, tea rooms and restaurants – and practical information on how to track them down – food tourism beyond a few cookery courses was only just emerging as a trend. Fast forward to 2013 and, when the most recent edition of the Wight Taste Trail was launched, no UK destination worth its salt was without its own self-guided gourmet tour. Fortunately, the Isle of Wight has kept ahead of the game. Campaigns to keep local dairy herds thriving (and for local supermarkets to stock local milk), a new ice cream company making lickably sweet flavours from local ingredients, burgeoning local baking and farm shop movements and a band of restaurateurs that refuses to rest on its laurels has helped to keep this small island’s food scene remarkably fresh and spry. From farm stores, delis and cafes to pop-up wood-fired pizza trucks, dining pubs and restaurants, unpretentious food that’s big on local flavours is the dish of the day on the Isle of Wight. Google map: shows the location and details of all the places to stay, local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities in our Green Traveller's Guide to the Isle of Wight: Green = Places to stay Blue = Local food & drink Yellow = Attractions Purple = Activities Places to eat in the Isle of Wight Calbourne Water Mill This historic working water mill is home to a motley collection of attractions, from a pottery and museum to holiday accommodation and a licensed café. At 3pm each day there’s a milling demonstration for visitors but, if you really want to get a flavour of what the mill produces, head to the on-site shop and choose from a range of traditional stoneground flours as well as porridge oats and mueslis. calbournewatermill.co.uk The Crab Shed This humble seaside shack restaurant in pretty Steephill Cove is the place to go if you’re after crab, lobster or mackerel caught the same morning from a boat just in front of your table. Open seasonally, the menu runs from crab pasties and mackerel ciabattas to lobster salad. Just make sure you get there early; with its no-bookings policy there’s often a scramble for seats in high season. steephillcove-isleofwight.co.uk Farmers’ Markets If you want to meet the people who made it as well as buy local produce, farmers’ markets are hard to beat. And the Isle of Wight’s two biggest, regular markets - at Newport on Fridays and in Ryde on Saturdays – are no exception. Talk to beekeeper Mary Case about how a hive’s location alters the taste of her honeys, ask The Tomato Stall team which of its 40 varieties is best for you, choose from Sharon Orchard’s five different locally made ciders or nobble Brownrigg Poultry for their best wild partridge recipe suggestions. islandfarmersmarket.co.uk Farmer Jacks From locally made pies, oils and Isle of Wight Blue cheese to seasonal specialities like asparagus, cherries, apricots, strawberries, cavolo nero and sweetcorn, Farmer Jacks is one of the biggest and best farm shops on the island. A joint venture between two long-standing Isle of Wight farmers, the business has grown into a well-oiled food-shopping machine, opening purpose-built premises for its in-house butcher, delicatessen and food hall and expanding its range to cover breads and pastries from The Island Bakers and gourmet readymeals. farmerjacks.co.uk Briddlesford Lodge Farm Shop Set in a former milking parlour, the stalls at this farm shop are now filled with local fruit, vegetables, preserves, chutneys and, of course, a great dairy selection, including cheeses, butter and milk straight from the owners’ herd of Guernseys. Meat is another speciality, with the shop’s range including beef from nearby Cheverton Farm, pork from Combley Farm and ethically produced veal from Briddlesford itself. Try before you buy at the onsite Bluebells Café, which serves food made with much of the produce on sale in the shop. Or book in for one of its occasional evening dinners for good food, live music and a first-hand taste of island hospitality. briddlesford.co.uk Bembridge Fish Store From businessman to B&B owner, owner of the Bembridge Fish Store Mike Curtis has plenty of life experience behind him but it’s a passion for fish that runs deepest. He is evangelical about introducing visitors to the wonders of fish caught, cooked and eaten the same day - fish that has put muscle on in the choppy ocean waters rather than swimming a few laps of a fish farm and which is sustainably caught – and his stock ranges from wild bass, bream, red and grey mullet, brill, turbot and Dover sole to crab, lobster, prawns and mackerel. Served in many of the island’s restaurants, if you want to try it yourself, you’ll find it all on sale in his shop, along with fish pies, crab cakes and more. bembridgefish.co.uk Ventnor Botanic Garden Fittingly for a café in a garden, Ventnor’s Plantation Room Café makes the most of the surrounding herbs, salads, vegetables and fruit for its daily menu of baguettes, soups, stews and cakes and its hot Sunday lunches. This light, bright space is a great place for a cuppa overlooking the foliage – choose from its lengthy list of loose-leaf teas (served in glass teapots) and fresh coffees or go for a Tropic Ale, brewed with hops grown in the grounds. In the summer months, the space below the café opens as a restaurant, Edulis. Its name means ‘edible plant’ in Latin and that’s it’s mission, with a strong focus on locally grown ingredients. Although the restaurant isn’t normally open in the evenings, keep an eye out for occasional dinners and events. botanic.co.uk The Garlic Farm Restaurant When it comes to growing garlic Colin Boswell knows his onions. His mother first started growing Solent Wight garlic in the 1950s and Colin himself has been cultivating the stuff for 40 years. In his Garlic Farm shop, you can choose from 12 different, seasonal, varieties as well as pickles, chutneys, butters and even garlic-laced beer. As well as managing six holiday cottages, a herd of Highland cattle and a clutch of Buff Orpington chickens, Colin and his wife Jenny run an on-site restaurant. Open for breakfasts and lunches, the farm’s garlic makes its way into much of the menu. Not least its delicious mezze platters, heaped with hummus, roasted garlic, sunblush tomatoes, Feta, falafel, baby corn fritters, garlic and cumin seed dip and more. thegarlicfarm.co.uk Cantina Owner Klaus Kuhnke may be an expert baker (his breads and pastries have made him a stalwart of the London farmers’ market scene, not to mention his stints with Prufrock Coffee, but at this café, bakery and xx in Ventnor the emphasis is on all things Italian. Go for slow-cooked beans and ham and eggs on sourdough for breakfast, fresh quiche and salad for lunch or pizza and cocktails in the evening. cantinaventnor.co.uk The Beach Hut Cafe Only open from March to September, this little foodie bolthole sensibly sticks to a remit of fresh seafood and veggie treats. From Spanish-style brunches (roast tomatoes on ciabatta rather than bacon butties) to fresh mackerel salads and the hut speciality, crab ramekins, all are cooked fresh to order and served in unpretentious surroundings (take your own wine and be warned that it’s a 10-minute walk along the beach to the nearest loo). At weekends in peak season they also open for evening suppers and seafood barbecues. isleofwightbeachcafe.co.uk Quay Arts Café Head inside this converted warehouse for a Fairtrade coffee or a bowl of homemade chilli and a gawp at the local artwork livening up the brickwork or go in summer and sit out on the terrace watching boats along the adjacent River Medina as you tuck into a fresh crab salad. Once you’ve had your fill, explore the on-site galleries, do some shopping at the Crafts Council-listed shop or book a ticket for one of the live music, theatre performances or film screenings. quayarts.org The Beach Café Osborne House’s Terrace Restaurant may be a safe bet for a decadent lunch or a traditional afternoon tea but if you’re after something more casual while visiting Queen Victoria’s former summer retreat head to the beach. After dipping a toe in the water or strolling along the shore HRH once bathed on, take a seat at the Beach Café here and cool down with a scoop or two of island-made Minghella ice cream . The only trouble you’ll have is choosing between flavours, from blackcurrant and Pear William sorbets to heritage vanilla and rhubarb fool ice creams. english-heritage.org.uk The Taverners Take an old flagstone and wood-floored, country inn. Throw in a chef who used to run the kitchen at London’s Haymarket Hotel but has a passion for unpretentious cooking made with ingredients grown, fished, foraged or hunted on the island (some of it in their own vegetable patch). Add a good range of real ales (including the Taverners’ own brew) and an on-site shop selling homemade treats and island goods and you’ve got a gastropub that can give the island’s best restaurants a run for their money. Just make sure you save room for dessert; from the warm Godshill cherry bakewell to their signature Tiramisu, puddings here are no afterthought. If you’re a cider fan, stop off at the nearby Godshill Cider Company while you’re in the area to pick up some liquid souvenirs thetavernersgodshill.co.uk The Sun Inn What could be better than supping a pint of local cider in a beer garden with sweeping views of the sea? In winter, get there early to grab a table by the huge wood-burning stove in the bar rather than in the less characterful restaurant and choose from a menu of pub favourites – chilli, pies, curries and pasta – made with more than a nod to island produce. If you’ve got a four-legged friend with you, ask for their special menu of dogs’ dinners and treats. characterinns.co.uk/the-sun-inn The Boathouse As the name suggests, this pretty blue-painted pub with rooms directly overlooks the Solent. It’s a smart spot for watching boats drift by, or for retreating to for a pint of local beer after a day spent sunning yourself on Puckpool Sands but the main draw is the food. Much of it is made with island produce, from pints of prawns to local ham, egg and chips and steamed clams in Isle of Wight ale with garlic and parsley. theboathouseiow.co.uk The Hambrough Long-time chef patron Robert Thompson created much drama on the island in 2013 when he left The Hambrough restaurant with rooms and its sister restaurant The Pond Café (see below). Fortunately, both businesses have continued to thrive, The Hambrough in particular serving up its recipe for sophisticated, sustainably sourced, seasonal menus with new vitality. Dishes such as island-smoked pollack with roast mussels, spices and coconut, salt baked beetroot with, nuts, seeds and spiced curd, and dressed Ventnor crab salad with saffron, swede and lemon confit make this a mecca for visiting gourmands. thehambrough.com The Seaview Hotel Now heading up the kitchen at the Seaview after nearly two decades at the Royal Hotel, chef Alan Staley knows more than most about the island’s produce. With his focus on simple, unfussy cooking and quality ingredients it helps that he has the Seaview’s own farm produce to play with, from deer, cattle, pigs and hens to herbs and vegetables. Indeed, both restaurants here - the Victorian restaurant and more contemporary Sunshine restaurant - are around 75% self-sufficient. If you’re after a classic fish soup, confit duck or venison stew, this is the place to find it. seaviewhotel.co.uk The Little Gloster Friendly staff, killer sea views, gorgeously simple décor (think wooden tables and floors and a long painted bar) and fabulous food; with a little inspiration drawn from his Danish grandmother, the Little Gloster’s chef-owner Ben Cooke has created a corner of Scandi chic in Gurnard. On sunny days find a table out on the verandah and toast the summer with a homemade, fennel-flavoured aquavit and a smoked duck and goats cheese salad, potato and Isle of Wight soft cheese croquettes with roasted butternut squash or chargrilled local sirloin steak. It’s the fish and seafood that really sing here, though. Try the home-cured gravadlax, the crab bisque or the seafood platter and don’t scrimp on dessert; the apple tart tatin is worth the journey alone. thelittlegloster.com The Boathouse Open in the summer months only, this Steephill Cove seafood restaurant is as close to St Tropez as the Isle of Wight gets. Book a table on the terrace and while away a long lunch overlooking the water under the shade of an umbrella. Order a bottle of chilled white and feast on lobster or fish brought in that morning by fisherman-owner Mark Wheeler and his brother Jimmy. steephill-cove.co.uk The Priory Bay The Oyster restauruant focuses on cooking with locally sourced food. With a fabulous and complicated menu available, you can also just grab a burger. ariaresorts.co.uk Fine Nammet It might sound like something you would find on a Middle Eastern mezze but Nammet is an old local word, originally meaning the bread, cheese and beer eaten out in the hay fields by workers but now more generally used to mean lunch or even just ‘food’. Don’t waste time arguing about the correct translation of this restaurant’s name though. Instead focus on the modern British cooking. Opened in 2013, meat, fish and veg are sourced from local farms, fields and seas - signature dishes include Dunsbury Farm lamb infused with lavender flowers and served with rosemary mash – and, commendably, there’s an extensive choice of wines by the glass. It also does great local cheeseboards. http://finenammet.co.uk/ The Pond Café This homely-looking building set overlooking the village pond in pretty Bonchurch may appear to be a tearoom but step inside and you’ll find it’s actually a rather swish little restaurant. Albeit a more casual affair than its big sister, The Hambrough, with an emphasis on modern European (largely Italian) food. Choose from antipasto platters and soups for lunch and the likes of catch of the day with purple cannellini bean mash and salsa verde for dinner. If you’re in the mood for something simpler, they also do delicious stone-baked pizzas. thehambrough.com/the-pond-cafe/ The Garden Restaurant Sometimes home-cooked comfort food is the order of the day and this family-friendly restaurant in the grounds of Farringford, Tennyson’s one-time home, certainly fulfils the brief. Its staple is the wood-fried pizza, available in flavours ranging from your classic American hot to a Bianca with Mozzarella, local blue cheese, oregano and chilli. If you’re not a pizza nut there are plenty of other options, from cottage pie to prawn and crab linguini, and what isn’t grown in the on-site kitchen garden is often sourced from elsewhere on the island. farringford.co.uk Lockslane Run with great dedication by partners Catherine Bachelor and Dawn Hodge, this Bembridge bistro is small in size but big on flavour. Much of what chef Catherine cooks is sourced locally, including fish from Bembridge Fish Store and poultry from Brownrigg, and service is sharp and friendly. The weekly specials board is temptation in chalk form while classic dishes include black pudding and pickled pear on wild rocket, twice-baked Gallybagger soufflé and pan-fried fillet of local wild sea bass on cauliflower purée with Bombay potatoes and cauliflower pickle. lockslane.com The Hut Steephill Cove and the Beach Hut Cafe aside, the Isle of Wight has been surprisingly scarce on cool beach cafes selling fresh fish and sundowners. Or at least it has been until now. In 2013 this seasonal restaurant opened right by the sand at Colwell Bay with simple wooden tables, a range of shabby chic sunhats to borrow if you can’t find a spot beneath a suitably shady umbrella and a menu that ranges from pork belly with clams to island tomato salads and lobster and chips. If you sail up and anchor in the bay they’ll come and pick you up in their own boat. thehutcolwell.co.uk For information on places to stay, nearby visitor attractions and activities, see our Green Traveller's Guide to the Isle of Wight

As part of our Green Traveller's Guide to the Isle of Wight, Rhiannon Batten picks out a selection of B&Bs, hotels, self-catering accommodation and campsites on this glorious island off the south coast of England. It may be only 23 miles by 13 miles but the Isle of Wight punches above its weight when it comes to the choice of accommodation on offer within its diminutive terrain. The island has embraced the development of boutique B&Bs, shown itself a leader in producing self-catering cottages with originality and style and even branched out into bedrooms in treehouses. And while the island’s grand dame hotels continue to set high standards of service and comfort, they’ve also cottoned on to the smaller touches that make a big splash when it comes to setting themselves apart. Not least of them being a passion for the local environment, culture and produce. Many of the island’s accommodation providers actively promote interesting ways to explore the fabulous scenery that surrounds them, from bike rides along the quietest country lanes with a convivial guide to clifftop hikes complete with picnics of local goodies. Google map: shows the location and details of all the places to stay, local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities in our Green Traveller's Guide to the Isle of Wight: Green = Places to stay Blue = Local food & drink Yellow = Attractions Purple = Activities Places to stay in the Isle of Wight Bedford Lodge, Shanklin, Isle of Wight, UK The Bedford Lodge is situated on a leafy avenue in the heart of picturesque Shanklin Old Village, close to quaint village shops, thatched pubs and excellent eateries. Just minutes from the sea and close to the bus and train routes. bedfordlodge.co.uk Brook House, Isle of Wight, England A 20-minute amble from the nearest beach and surrounded by three acres of glorious gardens, this period guesthouse is kept cosy with the help of a biomass boiler. brookhouseiow.co.uk North Court, Isle of Wight, England Book one of the seven en-suite guest rooms in this stately Jacobean manor house and you’ll find each one has its own period charm, whether that’s a clawfoot bath or ancient panelling. northcourt.info The Little Gloster, Isle of Wight, England A recipe for the perfect foodie seaside break: a seaside bar and restaurant run by a Danish chef passionate about his locally produced ingredients, within Scandinavian-style three-room B&B. thelittlegloster.com Shepherd's Hut by Secret Pond, Isle of Wight, England Take a secluded, woodland site on an organic farm. Throw in a ‘secret’ pond. Add a Shepherd’s Hut supplied with a bed and a wood-burning stove and you’ve got a recipe for the perfect off-grid escape. godshillparkfarm.net The Old House, Isle of Wight, England This place certainly lives up to its name. Part of Gotten Manor’s collection of character-packed accommodation – visitors can also opt for self-catering – parts of the building date back to the 14th century. gottenmanor.co.uk Lisle Combe, Isle of Wight, England Built in 1815 by Lord Yarborough as a country retreat for his brother, Captain Pelham, and now owned by the descendants of poet Alfred Noyes, Lisle Combe stands proudly above the island’s south coast. lislecombe.co.uk The George Hotel, Isle of Wight, England Whether soaking them up from behind the brasserie’s huge glass windows or from a table out on the terrace, you’ll find it hard not to be distracted from your supper by the fabulous views of the Solent – and Hampshire beyond it. thegeorge.co.uk The Hambrough, Isle of Wight, England Technically more of a high-end restaurant with rooms than a hotel, all but one of the bedrooms at this chic hideaway overlooks the sea. Book in for a decadent dinner at the restaurant and then stumble upstairs to bed to afterwards. thehambrough.com Priory Bay Hotel, Isle of Wight, England Set on a 70-acre estate, complete with outdoor swimming pool and private beach, the eclectic range of rooms varies from an oak-beamed attic suite to modern seaside-style apartments to an opulent boudoir lined with 14th-century panelling. ariaresorts.co.uk Seaview, Isle of Wight, England The hotel’s 13 bedrooms are split between a modern annexe and a former bank building and all are individually decorated, some with nautical blue and white, others with hints of driftwood or flashes of hot pink. seaviewhotel.co.uk Hillside Hotel, Isle of Wight, England Hillside prides itself on its painstakingly crisp service and, with its light, neutral décor, bleached wood garden furniture and individual goose down duvets on double beds, this 12-bedroom bolthole wouldn’t look out of place in an episode of Borgen. hillsideventnor.co.uk Brookside Cottage, Shorwell, Isle of Wight, UK Delightful cottage in centre of picturesque Shorwell village, 2 miles from the sea. Well furnished with all modern comforts. Beautiful garden with babbling brook. Ferry inclusive deal available, including for foot ferry passengers. westwightcottages.co.uk 2 The Granary, Brighstone, Isle of Wight A charming, grade II listed, 4 star, Isle of Wight holiday cottage, originally part of Brighstone Mill. The cottage is located beside a quiet lane on edge of popular village of Brighstone, 1/2 mile from sea. Upside down layout with enclosed garden. westwightcottages.co.uk The Lighthouse, Isle of Wight, England One of three cottages at Steephill Cove managed by the same owners, the Lighthouse, as the name suggests has wonderful coastal views, especially from its octagonal kitchen-diner and wide decked terrace. steephill-cove.co.uk Ramillies, Isle of Wight, England Sleeping up to six, in three bedrooms, the walls and tables of this Victorian seaside villa are draped with such a wide array of collectables that if you took time to admire them all you might never make it out of the door. antoniaspearls.co.uk Into The Woods, Isle of Wight, England Up on the north coast, surrounded by farmland and woods, the Treehouse sleeps up to six and is one for style-minded treehuggers. isleofwighttreehouse.com The Chalet, Isle of Wight, England A two-minute hop to the beach in Fishbourne, this simple timber cabin sleeps two. It’s a compact little space, with a cosy en-suite bedroom and an open-plan kitchen, living area and dining room. sykescottages.co.uk Pavilion Cottage, Isle of Wight, England Set in the grounds of Osborne House, Queen Victoria’s majestic island home, this one-time cricket pavilion now sees service as a comfortable, and very contemporary, two-bedroom cottage. english-heritage.org.uk Calbourne Watermill Cottages, Isle of Wight, England The only working water mill on the Isle of Wight, Calbourne has plenty of history. Dating back to the Domesday Book and surrounded by oak woodland, with its café, shop, mill tours and pottery it’s a popular spot for many of the island’s daytripppers. calbournewatermill.co.uk The Old Club House, Isle of Wight, England The National Trust manages 15 historic holiday cottages on the island, from a 1970s lovenest with dramatic sea views to an old stone farmhouse tucked in a bucolic valley. This one, sleeping five, is a former golf clubhouse. nationaltrust.org.uk Undermount, Isle of Wight, England In foodie Bonchurch, home to a good pub and the renowned Pond Café, this three-bedroom house is part of a large Victorian mansion overlooking the sea. undermountbonchurch.co.uk Whitwell Station, Isle of Wight, England If you’ve ever passed a tumbledown former railway station and fantasised about breathing life back into it, let these three cottages be your inspiration. whitwellstation.co.uk 'The Shack' - Vintage Vacations, Isle of Wight Located in a dingly dell on the Isle of Wight (in a secret location near Cowes) "the shack", bijoux but perfectly formed, has two bedrooms, a kitchette and is peaceful and within reach of the beach, with a bbq, swing and hammock in a private garden. theshacks.co.uk/the-shack The Mission, Isle of Wight, England A converted tin Mission Hall circa 1890, now a highly original four-bedroom holiday home in the Isle of Wight. Sleeps up to 8 in retro seaside splendour. One of a kind! theshacks.co.uk/the-mission Ninham Country Holidays, Isle of Wight, England Surrounded by 120 acres of woodland, fields and farmland, and only a mile and a half from Shanklin, the site has two nicely spaced camping areas, two self-catering properties and a clutch of mobile homes to rent. ninham-holidays.co.uk Silver Glades, Isle of Wight, England On first appearance this site, two and a half miles east of Yarmouth, looks like any other traditional, family-owned static caravan park. Delve a bit deeper, though, and you’ll find it’s an intimate kind of place. silvergladesiow.co.uk Vintage Vacations, Isle of Wight, England 13 original American vintage and five British caravans in a secluded green field near Ryde on the Isle of Wight. Trailers are kitted out with fully equipped kitchens, hot showers, vintage boardgames, crotchet blankets and amusing retro knick-knacks. vintagevacations.co.uk For information on local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities, see our Green Traveller's Guide to the Isle of Wight

As part of our Green Traveller's Guide to Dorset, Harriet O'Brien picks out a selection of characterful places to stay, including B&Bs, hotels, self-catering and campsite, in this glorious Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in southern England. Finding a place to rest your head in Dorset is not difficult – the AONB is peppered with beautiful places to stay, from lovely self-catering cottages, to warm and cosy B&Bs, and to family-friendly campsites and charming hotels. Whether you're after a home-from-home B&B experience with owners on hand for local recommendations, a remote cottage with sweeping valley views where children can run riot, or a romantic break for two in a luxury hotel, we're pretty sure you'll be able to find something that suits you in our collection of green and gorgeous places to stay. Google map: shows the location and details of all the places to stay, local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities in our Green Travel Guide to Dorset: Green = Places to stay Blue = Local food & drink Yellow = Attractions Purple = Activities Places to stay in Dorset Crafty Camping and Treehouse Luxury, adult only glamping in a magical woodland setting. Hand crafted yurts, tipi, treehouse and shepherds hut with en-suite, proper flushing loos, piping hot 'tree showers' and a sauna yurt and 'Out of Africa' field kitchen with wood fired pizza oven. Guests enjoy the privacy of their own clearing in this magical woodland with their own deck, bbq, hammock and table and chairs. Communal facilities include a fully equipped catering kitchen, traditional games yurt and sauna complex. Crafty Camping is all about peace and quiet in a natural environment. The Jurassic Coast (World Heritage Site) is just 10 miles away at Lyme Regis as is River Cottage HQ and Canteen at Axminster. Our reviewer Anita Pati says: "A wonderful, woodland grotto of luxury outdoor living ideal for semi-urbanite adults who don’t want to get their hands mucky doing real camping. From the visitors book: “The perfect balance of luxury with being in the elements." mallinson.co.uk Monkton Wyld Court A welcoming B&B and campsite, amid rolling hills and within walking distance of the Jurassic coast. Visitors return time and again, secure in the knowledge that the hosts are doing everything they can to make their stay a green and relaxing one. Solar thermal and photovoltaic panels are used on site and the common areas are heated by wood burners. A number of guest rooms are heated by radiators from the new solar and wood-fired boiler system. They have separate bins for recycling, cooked food, compost and landfill. Rainwater is collected for the organic vegetable and fruit gardens where much of Monkton’s produce is grown. Monkton Wyld Court has a number of compost loos; two of which have won awards for design, construction and best views! Only environmentally friendly cleaning products and natural toiletries can be used on site – they have a reed bed sewage system which would be damaged by anything else. All produce is seasonal, local and organic (from the onsite walled garden and other area smallholders) and dry goods are purchased in bulk through a regional organic wholesale distributor. They also serve milk, yogurt and cheese from their own grass fed and hand milked jersey cows, Milou and Follie. Preserves are made from their own produce and traditionally pressed juice from their own apples. The eggs come from their chickens or other local free range suppliers. To minimise their impact on the natural environment and biodiversity including the nearby protected areas, Exmoor and Dartmoor National Park, Guests are encouraged to arrive by foot, bicycle or public transport. Station pickups may be available for the cost of petrol (a vast reduction from taxi rates) to encourage travel by train. monktonwyldcourt.co.uk YHA Lulworth Cove Just a one-mile walk from the glorious Lulworth Cove, this hostel is also well positioned for walking the South West Coast Path. As well as standard single dorm beds you can hire private rooms, plus it includes a licensed restaurant. You can also camp by the side of the hostel. Discover the Jurassic Coast, walk to Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door, learn about fossils in the fascinating World Heritage Centre and explore Lulworth Castle. yha.org.uk/hostel/yha-lulworth-cove YHA Swanage Swanage is the perfect spot for a family beach break and this elegant Victorian villa offers bargain accommodation in the heart of it all. Sleeping up to 101 people (4 in private rooms and the rest scattered across 3 - 8 bed dorms) with splendid views across Swanage Bay it is minutes from a safe, sandy Blue Flag beach for a frolic with your buckets and spades. Keep an eye out for dinosaur footprints along this stretch of Jurassic Coast! The hostel is just a few minutes walk from the town centre and you’ll find excellent food available in the licensed restaurant. During term time, you may want to avoid the weekdays as frequently you may find yourself cheek by jowl with school trip groups. Access is via a very steep hill. yha.org.uk/hostel/yha-swanage YHA Litton Cheney There’s a great combination of character and setting at this 22-bed hostel (a six-bed dormitory, three four-bed rooms, and two doubles). It has been fashioned from a former dairy and sits above a brook to the south of a picturesque village of thatched cottages. It couldn’t be better positioned for walkers, with the South West Coast Path running almost directly behind the building. Chesil Beach and Abbotsbury Swannery are nearby, so it’s a good base for families, too. The hostel doesn’t have a café, but there’s a well equipped kitchen while the White Horse next door offers a happy combination of log fires and traditional pub food. yha.org.uk/hostel/yha-litton-cheney Tom's Field Close to the sea, this well-positioned campsite has many attributes, including ease of access by public transport. The Purbeck Breezer bus (no 40) between Swanage and Poole stops at Langton Matravers, with Tom’s Field just to the south. Once installed you can walk out along the Jurassic Coast: Swanage and Studland Bay are close by. Or visit the Steam Railway, Putlake Adventure Farm and Corfe Castle. Facilities include a shop and a breakfast café, while the village offers two pubs. There’s a dynamic approach to the environment, with summer workshops from butterfly conservation to beekeeping and a policy that ranges from recycling everything possible to limiting the use of artificial light – so take a torch. tomsfieldcamping.co.uk Marston Holiday Flats Marston, three self catering holiday apartments, is set on the clifftop at the north end of Swanage Beach in the beautiful county of Dorset. A great base for family holidays, walkers, bird watchers and cyclists - pets are very welcome too! Welcome pack contains coffee and sugar which are Fair Trade, Dorset Tea and Dorset Flapjacks, the milk is sourced from Craig's Dairy in Ossmington near Weymouth. Locally produced chocolates and wine are provided for special occassions. There are also close links with the Purbeck Deli which can provide hampers of local produce for any celebration. Information and links on the website for public transport and how to plan a journey to Swanage. There are also many ideas for car-free days visiting the many and varied attractions in the surrounding area. Operating a customer pay-back scheme, Marston supports the Jurassic Coast Trust, matching the amount donated by guests. Part of the organsing committee for the Swanage Walking Festival, now entering its fourth year, Marston holds a Gold Award from GTBS. marstonholidayflats.co.uk Norburton Hall Just above the centre of Burton Bradstock, Norburton Hall began as a farmhouse. In 1902 it was redevised as an Arts and Crafts country residence with sweeping grounds. When Karen and David Venn acquired it in 2005 they converted the outbuildings into five rental cottages sleeping from two to 18. These they run with much zeal for environmental matters. They offer breakfast boxes with wonderful local produce, and encourage guests to explore on foot – the sea is a 20-minute amble away. This is a generous place: most of the accommodation is quietly stylish and the gardens are gorgeous, complete with pond, chickens, and lots of pretty sitting out places. norburtonhall.com Beech Cottage Stand on the terrace of this handsome stone-and-slate house and you take in wonderful views over Kingcombe Meadows nature reserve. Sleeping up to nine, the prettily secluded property is about 10 miles from Bridport and is well devised for small groups: there’s a spacious sitting room with woodburning stove; a conservatory ideally positioned for watching great sunsets; a well equipped kitchen (from the window you may see deer grazing); and five bedrooms – one suitable for wheelchair use. Beech Cottage is part of the Kingcombe Centre, which is run by the Dorset Wildlife Trust and offers inspirational courses on the natural world from a separate complex. kingcombe.org/beechcottage Bookham Court You stay in quite some style at this working farm where four cottages, sleeping from four to 10, have been sympathetically converted from outhouses, all with underfloor heating and features such as woodburning stoves and barbecues. (Meantime the farmhouse offers B&B in a double/family room.) Bookham Court is also a terrific sanctuary for wildlife watching. There’s a heated hide for observing badgers; there are about 40 bird boxes for kestrels, owls and more; and there are well marked walking trails. The 650-acre farm is between Dorchester and Sherborne and lies on the edge of the South Wessex Downs. bookhamcourt.co.uk Channel View Guest House A terrific bed and breakfast, based on fresh local produce, in warm and comfortable surroundings described by many previous guests as a 'home from home'. Situated on Weymouth seafront directly opposite the award winning central beach. Our reviewer Lynn Morris says: "The Channel Guest House is one of many on Weymouth's picture perfect Esplanade but the friendly owners give it a family feel and will genuinely do their level best to make your stay as comfortable as possible." channelviewweymouth.co.uk The Pig on the Beach Formerly the Manor House Hotel, the building has a glorious location over Studland Bay and this latest venture offers 23 revamped, uber-stylish bedrooms along with a spa and other luxuries. It is the ethos of the owners, though, that is creating the big buzz, particularly over the food factor. The Pig hotels (in the New Forest, in Southampton, and near Bath) delight in emphasising really fresh ingredients and in supporting local producers. Much of it is grown in their own kitchen garden, and the rest is sourced within 25 miles - a true taste of the finest and freshest food the area has to offer. thepighotel.com/on-the-beach/explore Highway Farm There’s an appealing mix of attributes here: superlative views over Eype Downs towards the sea in one direction and up to lovely Colmers Hill in another; glorious breakfasts, served whenever possible on the patio; and easy access to some of the most iconic features of Dorset. You’re within walking distance of the South West Coast Path and the high point of Golden Cap, while the beaches of Eype and Seatown are both a mile and a half away. Owners John and Pauline Bale exude enthusiasm for the area, and in addition to offering four comfy B&B rooms they run country living workshops such as hedgerow basket making. highwayfarm.co.uk For information on local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities, see our Green Traveller's Guide to Dorset

As part of our Green Traveller's Guide to Dorset, Harriet O'Brien picks out a selection of restaurants, cafés and markets to find the best local food and drink in this glorious Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in southern England. Dorset Food & Drink was launched in 2013 to bring together everyone proud to be growing, making, selling, serving, supporting and buying Dorset food and drink. From Dorset-reared beef to crab, lobster and mussels collected along the coast, to creamy local cheeses, and breweries and vineyards scattered throughout the AONB – if sampling local flavours is high on your holiday to-do list, Dorset won't disappoint. The AONB has a thriving café culture and you won't be short of places to wind down in after a day roaming around the coast or countryside, from local tea shops to Michelin-starred restaurants. And when tired limbs yearn for something a little stronger, one of these cosy pubs should be just the thing. Google map: shows the location and details of all the places to stay, local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities in our Green Travel Guide to Dorset: Green = Places to stay Blue = Local food & drink Yellow = Attractions Purple = Activities Places to eat in Dorset Hix Oyster and Fish House When you’ve got the best, keep things simple: that’s very much the concept behind this celebration of fish. Owned and run by restaurateur Mark Hix, this operation is housed in a sleekly decorated shed with superb views over the famous Cobb of Lyme Regis. It serves mouth-tinglingly fresh Brown Sea Island and Portland Pearl oysters as well as the likes of just-caught pollock and sprats. Dorset-born Hix (his grandfather was the mayor of Bridport) is in the kitchen here most weekends - down from his other enterprises in London - and can sometimes be spotted in his boat fishing for bass and mackerel in the bay. hixoysterandfishhouse.co.uk The Three Horseshoes Tucked into the deep folds of western Dorset, Powerstock is a picturesque village close to the Iron Age fort at Eggardon Hill and next to Powerstock Common - part of Dorset Wildlife Reserve. Its robust-looking pub was built in 1906 and offers a lovely terrace with sweeping views, live music on many evenings and, best of all, exceptional food. Proprietor Karl Bashford is a talented chef and makes inspired use of local ingredients: starters might include West Bay scallops with sea cabbage and cider apple, while mains could feature roast fillet of cod with cod cheek scampi. Most of the herbs and veg come from the pub’s ever-expanding vegetable garden. threeshoesdorset.co.uk The Acorn Inn This mellow stone coaching inn is straight out of Thomas Hardy. It’s mentioned, as The Sow-and-Acorn, in Tess of the D’Urbervilles, meantime its picturesque setting of Evershot village is Hardy’s Evershead. In the seminal story Tess, in fact, avoids stopping here – and that would be a great shame today, for the food is a treat. The menu features the likes of Mediterranean fish stew with local mussels as well as such slow-cooked delights such as braised pork belly with cider. They pride themselves on sustainability and using local produce here. And, apart from the dining room, they manage to keep a real pub atmosphere too, with a proper old skittles alley and an obvious enthusiasm for regional ales. acorn-inn.co.uk The Bull Hotel You’re right in the heart of arty, foodie Bridport at this Georgian coaching inn with chic flourishes. From its deep-blue exterior to its 19 super-stylish bedrooms, The Bull is very much a modern boutique establishment. But don’t let the good looks deflect too much attention from the food factor – which is top class. In the informal dining room chef George Marsh serves great bistro dishes very much based on local produce, such as moules frites, Lyme Bay scallops and West Country steaks. All the bread is freshly baked, and the tea-time scones, too. On a Friday night The Bull’s Venner Bar becomes a haven of gourmet wonder, serving wonderful little canapés with drinks. thebullhotel.co.uk The Stable In 2009 the old stable block of Bridport’s Bull hotel was transformed into a cider house and gourmet pizza outfit. It’s a tremendously convivial place, offering a host of perries and ciders – try Orchard Pig Explorer or Lyme Bay Scrumpy – along with ambrosial pizzas such as Lamb Roast (with local lamb, mint and Ford Farm goat cheddar) and Bucky Doo (with herb roast potatoes and local blue cheese). The Stable has proved such a success that other outlets (with the same name) have since opened in Weymouth, Poole, Bristol, Bath and Fistral Beach in Cornwall. stablepizza.com Sienna This deceptively modest looking little place on Dorchester’s high street is the country’s smallest Michelin-star restaurant. The zeal of owners Russell and Elena Brown is palpable – he’s in the kitchen, she’s front of house – and they take enormous pride and pleasure in sourcing their ingredients from the best possible outlets: fish and shellfish from Samways Fish Merchants in Bridport; coffee supplied by Café Rico in Weymouth; beef and veal from farm-assured Jurassic Coast Meats at Winfrith Newburgh. Expect the likes of pan-fried brill with squid and chorizo, and West Country venison saddle with celeriac and pear, or opt for the exquisite seven-course tasting menu for dinner. siennarestaurant.co.uk The Half Moon Set in a small village between Bridport and Beaminster, the Half Moon looks from the outside like a traditional thatched pub; indeed inside it oozes atmosphere with log fires and old oak beams. A blackboard by the bar gives the first indication of quite what an epicurean enterprise this is, with a long list of all the local suppliers used, from Palmers Brewery in Bridport to Woodford Leaves in Dorchester. Owner and chef Dan Clarke takes evident delight in creating dishes that reflect the very best of the season, so you might find venison Wellington on the menu, or just-caught hake. thehalfmoonmelplash.com Durnovaria Wine Bar Since it opened towards the end of 2013, Durnovaria has become a lively community hub for Dorchester (and indeed it takes its name from the Roman title for the town). Housed in an iconic, Victorian redbrick building that was once a post office, it is an all-encompassing space staging regular events that promote local artists and musicians. It is both a café and a wine bar serving charcuterie from Capreolus smokehouse in Rampisham; cheeses from Ford Farm on the Ashley Chase Estate; pies - such as rabbit, gin and lemon - from Bridport Gourmet Pies; and glorious Dorset apple cake. durnovariabar.co.uk Riverside Restaurant Located just above the River Brit in Bridport’s West Bay, the Riverside is a Dorset institution with a terrific reputation and a passionate commitment to sustainability. Arthur and Janet Watson started developing it from a small café in the mid 60s, and they continue to own and oversee it today. It’s still something of a no-frills place, with wooden tables and cheerful blue-and-white décor - and with the emphasis very much on the menu. Of course what’s on offer depends almost entirely on market availability and local landings. Expect the likes of pan-fried turbot fillet with cumin-fried potatoes and roasted sea bass with garlic mash. thefishrestaurant-westbay.co.uk The Potting Shed, Poundbury Set in Dorchester’s evolving extension of Poundbury, next to the Poundbury Garden Centre, The Potting Shed is a country-chic deli and café with upcycled furniture and shelves made from reclaimed wood and packing boxes. It’s a sister operation to enormously successful Olives et Al in Sturminster Newton, which was devised by Giles and Annie Henschel after they’d spent a year travelling around Mediterranean Europe. Olives and olive oil of course feature large here, but so does local produce from cheese to apple cake. Sit inside or out and tuck into a Deli Grazing Board with Dorset Blue Vinny cheese, olives, dolmades and just-made bread, or try a Potting Shed pie with locally grown salad. olivesetal.co.uk Downhouse Farm Café Cream teas and great comfort-food lunches are served at this bucolic farm café. And you’ll take in terrific views, too. Downhouse Farm is in the National Trust’s Golden Cap Estate, and its garden café is set high over Lyme Bay. Walk the coastal path between Seatown and Eype and you’ll see signs to the farm – it’s well worth the slight diversion. You tap into a tremendous zeal for organics and local produce here: the vegetables and herbs are from the kitchen garden; the meat (apart from chicken) is from the farm; the cheese and clotted cream are from nearby Hangers Diary. downhousefarm.org Hive Beach Café It began life years ago as a simple shed on the shore, it’s grown and grown to become a landmark on Burton Bradstock’s beach, yet Hive Beach Café remains wonderfully true to its original concept of serving fresh, sustainably caught fish, often brought in straight off the beach. And there’s plenty more, too, from wonderful scones to great cakes and even dog biscuits (local dog walkers make a beeline here after morning excursions). This is a breakfast and lunch place, serving meals outdoors all year long, but with canvas awning offering cover. You take in the sea scape of the National Trust beach while you have coffee, or lunch on anything from just-caught mackerel to Portland oysters. hivebeachcafe.co.uk The Salt Pig In the heart of handsome little Wareham, this operation is epicurean Dorset through and through. In 2009 James Warren started The Salt Pig as a deli devoted to Dorset. He has since added a fishmonger section, an off licence and a brilliant café. It’s still a tiny, charmingly intimate outfit, with café five tables at the front and a few more tucked into the drinks section at back. There’s a great range of bread from Long Crichel Bakery, there are lavish cakes, and while the lunchtime menu changes daily it usually includes starters of Dorset charcuterie. Mains might include local venison and whole baked plaice, just-in of course. thesaltpig.co.uk Gold Hill Organic Farm This vegetable farm and shop in northern Dorset is very much a hub for local producers. Artists too. Its courtyard is home to the studios of glassblower Emsie Sharp and painter Rachel Sargent while cheesemaker James McCall creates James’s Cheeses here. The shop is stocked with Ajar jams, Christine’s Puddings, Stoate’s flour and more as well as Gold Hill’s veg - and visitors are welcome to tour the farm beyond. A stylish café adjoins the shop and offers soups, cakes and salads made mainly from Gold Hill’s own produce. It doubles as a craft shop and the displays of glass and ceramics add to its appealing atmosphere. Open Thursdays to Saturdays until 4pm and Sundays until 2pm. goldhillorganicfarm.com Capreolus Fine Foods In just three years, David Richards’s passion for smoking meat had turned from a casual hobby into an award-winning smokehouse business. From humble beginnings in their farmhouse kitchen in Dorchester, this husband and wife enterprise now supplies restaurants, delis and eateries with their delicious products, which range from sausage, chorizo and salami to venison, duck and beef, all of which are smoked using age-old traditional smoking techniques. They’ve got armfuls of awards for their products, including the prestigious Taste of Dorset Innovation Award 2011. capreolusfinefoods.co.uk Dorset Shellfish “From our pots to your plate”, reads their slogan, which just about sums this Weymouth-based business up. Graham and son catch crab and bass from their boats Nil Desperandum and Marauder, ensuring that anything caught that’s not large enough is returned to the sea. Their freshly dressed crab, crab pates and soups, which you can pick up at various farmers’ markets, food festivals and shows which are dotted around the region. dorset-shellfish.co.uk Washingpool Farm Shop Just outside Bridport, this 80-acre farm is a thriving enterprise with produce ranging from veg to Ruby Red beef cattle and free-range pigs. The much applauded farm shop here was established a decade ago and, quite apart from stocking the farm’s own produce, has been a pioneer in selling and promoting local foods: this is the go-to shop for a great range of the region’s best ingredients. There are a host of Dorset cheeses; there are Saison salts from the very local little cottage industry on the doorstep; there are Dorset Knobs and other biscuit products from Moores; and there’s a wonderful section of quail, duck, goose and hen eggs. washingpool.co.uk The Game Larder The Game Larder buys from 28 Dorset shoots, processes the meat – plucking, butchering, packaging – and then supplies it to restaurants, retailers or direct to the public. It’s proved so successful that in addition to its core range of seasonal pheasant, partridge, rabbit, pigeon and venison the company has added sausages, burgers, quails eggs and also beef, lamb and pork from (very) selected local Dorset farms. Buy direct from the company’s base, Crab Farm, and from sister company The Dorset Larder in Blandford. The Game Larder also supplies farm shops, independent butchers, pubs and restaurants across the county. thedorsetgamelarder.co.uk Bride Valley Farm Shop There’s a great array of beef, pork and charcuterie as well as local chutneys, pickles, honey, jams, veg, and dairy products at this foodie trove in the centre of charming Abbotsbury. It is the retail arm of Longlands Farm near Dorchester, which is home to Dorset Longhorn cattle. These docile creatures with fearsome looking headgear graze a great swathe of rolling chalkland that is managed for conservation and so free of herbicides, adding to the renowned quality of the meat produced. Longlands Farm also cures the bacon and ham from the neighbouring pig farm and this is available in the shop. www.dorsetlonghorn.co.uk Felicity’s Farm Shop In 2010 Felicity Perkin created this large store out of a former garage, and she swiftly acquired a keen customer base. There’s a wonderfully eclectic range here, from lots of seasonal fruit and veg supplied by local growers in Marshwood Vale to cheddar from Truckles of West Dorset, Mighty Hop beers from Lyme Regis, and beef from Manor Court Farm near Bridport. You’ll also find a range of locally produced gifts, gardening gear and bird food as well as teas, coffees, freshly made bread and a daily hotpot you can consume at trestle tables outside, taking in views across to the Golden Cap. felicitysfarmshop.co.uk For information on characterful places to stay, nearby visitor attractions and activities, see our Green Traveller's Guide to Dorset

As part of our Green Traveller's Guide to Dorset, Harriet O'Brien picks out a selection of water sports, walking and cycling in this glorious Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in southern England. If you're after a varied landscape, a protected area that combines seascapes, rolling hills, and quaint hamlets, you can't do much better than Dorset. From the South West Coast Path to demanding off-road cycle trails, the region has plenty to keep walkers and cyclists busy, but If you want to take in the beauty of the landscape at a more leisurely pace, there is mile upon mile of relatively flat routes, bridle paths and footpaths, making it easy to get around the AONB under your own steam. Whether you're visiting in the midst of winter or the peak of summer, whether you're blessed with blue skies or have to endure heavy clouds, the coast, countryside and character-packed villages of one of England's most beautiful regions have plenty to keep you entertained. Google map: shows the location and details of all the places to stay, local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities in our Green Travel Guide to Dorset: Green = Places to stay Blue = Local food & drink Yellow = Attractions Purple = Activities Activities in Dorset Cycle – almost everywhere Dorset offers a wealth biking challenges, from deep valleys and steep contours in the west to rolling chalk lands further north. So first choose your terrain and gradient. Then pick a trail. The Dorset section of the 1 South West website (www.1SW.org.uk) presents a terrific choice of off-road options. The Dorset AONB has devised The West Dorset Pedal, five (free) downloadable trails from 11 to 17 miles that take in artists’ studios and great places to eat. Meantime if those Dorset hills seem a bit much, Marshwood Trails rents out electric as well as regular bikes. dorsetaonb.org.uk/explore/walkingcyclingandriding/16-cycling Information on Cycling in the Dorset AONB Cycling around Dorset is strenuous and rewarding in equal measures, dipping down into coastal towns before climbing out the other side, with fabulous views of coast and country the whole way. The AONB may have more than its fair share of tricky terrain, but don’t let the thought of steep inclines put you off bringing your bike. If you want to steer clear of hills then you’ll find plenty of flat trails and routes throughout the county that make perfect cycling routes for all ages and abilities. But, if it is challenging cycling you’re after, then Dorset offers plenty of exhilarating descents and off-roading opportunities, too. If you're not sure where to start when it comes to chosing your cycle route in Dorset, South West Cycle Adventure is a good place to begin. The comprehensive site promotes off-road routes throughout the AONB. If you fancy the idea of peddling your way around the AONB, but are put off by the steep ascents (and Dorset definitely has more than its fair share of hills), why not let an electric bike take the strain? Marshwood Trails specialises in electric bike tours, offering guided tours in groups which cater for all levels of fitness and ability. There are various routes to chose from – the 15-mile 'Marshwood' route follows a string of Iron Age forts, whilst the 'Bride Valley' trail follows the coastline for part of the way – you will be treated to tales of smuggling en route. If you want to explore by yourself, they also hire bikes by the half-day or day. Sustrans Route 2 currently links Dover and St Austell, and for most of Dorset section hugs the Jurassic Coast. It's a great way to explore the area and is signposted the whole way. The North Dorset Trailway is made up of sections of the old Somerset and Dorset Railway linking Bristol, Bournemouth and Christchurch. This flat, traffic-free route has lots of interesting places to visit en route, from heritage sites and beauty spots, to intriguing villages and welcoming pubs, inns and cafés. You can join and leave the route at various points along the way, making it an ideal cycle path for families. The Petit Tour de Manche is an epic 450-mile journey which hugs the Dorset coastline before hopping over the channel to continue its route along the Brittany and Normandy coast. The British part of the route follows the National Cycle Network routes 26 and 2, following a combination of country roads and greenways. It's flat and accessible, making it ideal for families. Walk at Durlston Country Park A 20-minute walk uphill from the centre of Swanage, Durlston Country Park offers 280 acres of dramatic coastal scenery. It was devised in the 1880s as a resource for the local community by local magnate George Burt. He built a castle here as a tourist attraction and, following restoration in 2011, so it still is today. It’s the hub of the park, containing interactive computers and displays about the natural life here: 500 varieties of wildflower; 250 species of bird; 500 types of moth. On some days you may see puffins and dolphins. There are a number of clearly marked trails, with printed guides available to buy. The park is open (free) daily sunrise to sunset. www.durlston.co.uk Hike along the South West Coast Path Take in some of Dorset’s 71 miles of the South West Coast Path between Poole Harbour and the western reaches of Lyme Regis. This is largely cliff country, spectacular and high in the west, decreasing eastwards down to the shingle of Chesil Beach, and then rising dramatically again around Lulworth. The most spectacular – and challenging – sections are between Lyme Regis and Burton Bradstock, and Lulworth Cove and Kimmeridge Bay. Take in a section by walking one way and catching a bus back: the X53 allows access to much of the path between Abbotsbury and Lyme Regis, while the X43 runs between Lulworth and Swanage. Bus details on dorsetforyou.com; southwestcoastpath.com Hike along the Wessex Ridgeway Here’s a path to take you high through the rural heart of Dorset. The Wessex Ridgeway is a 62-mile trail from northern Ashmore (at 700 feet the highest village in the county) to the south west coast at Lyme Regis. Most of the route is along a great chalk ridge - formed 100 million years ago and offering wonderful views. Highlights include Hambledon Hill Iron Age fort and the fringes of the Blackmore Vale; the Dorsetshire Gap, an intersection of five ancient paths near the village of Melcombe Bingham; and Marshwood Vale with its patchwork of ancient fields and thick hedgerows. dorsetforyou.com/wessexridgeway Follow the Smugglers’ Trail Stories of Dorset’s 17th- and 18th-century smugglers abound along coast. The tale of Jake Diamond, from the gang of notorious smuggling ‘king’ Isaac Gulliver, is the subject of a lively, one-mile audio trail downloadable to an android device. You then follow it at Stonebarrow Hill above Charmouth, and with crayon rubbings to be made at nine stops the walk becomes something of a treasure hunt. It’s been put together for children but adults find it equally intriguing. Part of the National Trust’s Golden Cap Estate, Stonebarrow Hill is wonderfully rich in bird and plant life and offers great views over cliffs and sea. The trail is also available as a free app from iTunes, see Stonebarrow Hill Smugglers. dorsetaonb.org.uk/explore/a-time-and-a-place/smugglers/61-smugglers-in-dorset Snorkel in Kimmeridge Bay Five miles west of Swanage, the marine reserve of Kimmeridge Bay is a place of extraordinary geology - and attendant sea life. It is made up of clearly defined beds of limestones and shales and has a large wave-cut platform known as The Flats. It also produces oil – on cliffs to the west you’ll see BP’s nodding donkey pump. Don’t be put off by this, the rocks and cliffs are dramatic while the underwater world is magical. A marine centre run by Dorset Wildlife Trust orchestrates a snorkelling trail for which waterproof guides to the colourful seaweeds and other marine life are available as well as hire of masks and snorkels. The trail is open May to September. www.dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk Kayak in Studland Bay For all the summer crowds at Studland Bay, quiet reaches of water are home to sea grass meadows that shelter seahorses, pipefishes, flatfish and more. The best way to explore this wildlife-rich environment is on a kayak safari, particularly on a calm day when you’ll be able to see well below the surface of Studland’s clear waters. 'Fore / Adventure' has teamed up with Dorset Wildlife Trust to create a wildlife trail that starts at Middle Beach. Waterproof guides can be bought at the National Trust shop at Knoll Beach and at the Sea School at Middle Beach which also offers kayak hire and tours. foreadventure.co.uk For information on characterful places to stay, local food and drink, and nearby visitor attractions, see our Green Traveller's Guide to Dorset

As part of our Green Traveller's Guide to Dorset, Harriet O'Brien picks out a selection of cultural and heritage visitor centres and villages in this glorious Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in southern England. No visit to Dorset would be complete without a trip to the Jurassic Coast, whose beautiful cliffs line the AONB. There's no doubt that the coastline is stunning and definitely deserving of the attention it receives from visitors to the region, but there is a whole host of other exciting and entertaining things to see and do in the area which will reward the visitor who hangs around a little longer. When the sun is shining, there are rolling valleys and villages of chocolate-box cuteness to explore, fascinating visitor centres and pockets of peace and tranquility found in public gardens and impressive castles. With so much to do in the great outdoors, it can be difficult to take yourself inside, but there are also some fascinating museums detailing the region's history, geology and archaeology which will keep the family amused on rainy days. Google map: shows the location and details of all the places to stay, local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities in our Green Travel Guide to Dorset: Green = Places to stay Blue = Local food & drink Yellow = Attractions Purple = Activities Places to visit in Dorset Hill forts Predating the arrival of the Romans, hillforts are some of Britain’s most ancient constructions, striking defensive earthworks usually set around the contours of the highest point of an area. Dorset is liberally peppered with these structures – there are at least 30 in the county. These are glorious places to visit: access is free, you’ll take in amazing views and you’ll be absorbing something of the Bronze Age or Iron Age past. Some of the best sites in Dorset include Hambledon Hill on chalk land near Child Okeford; Pilsdon Pen commanding spectacular views over Marshwood Vale; and nearby Eggardon Hill beautifully sited above the village of Powerstock. dorsetaonb.org.uk/explore/a-time-and-a-place Maiden Castle This has to be the ultimate hill fort. About two miles south west of Dorchester, Maiden Castle is a great complex of ramparts and ditches that enclose an area about the size of 50 football pitches. It is the biggest hill fort in Britain, and by some definitions the largest one in Europe. What you see are the vestiges of a vast fortified structure that was laid out in about 600BC over the remains of a Neolithic settlement. The long and fascinating history here is explained in noticeboards around the site, and from them you will read about all the excavations here – these even unearthed a small Roman temple dating from the 4th century AD. www.english-heritage.org.uk/daysout/properties/maiden-castle Cerne Giant One of the most striking sights in Dorset, this is also one of the most controversial. A naked figure is etched in chalk into the hillside above the village of Cerne Abbas. He’s a man, and he’s 180ft tall. Such are the only sure facts. Whether he’s really ancient is unclear: earliest records found about him date from the 1700s. Yet he may well be a pre-Roman figure for he stands near Iron Age earthworks. He may be a fertility symbol but equally he could be the god Hercules, complete with club. The best panoramic view is from the A352 above Cerne Abbas. You can also take a close-up look via a footpath running from the village. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cerne-giant Cerne Abbas This is very much a contender for the title of prettiest village in Dorset. Take in the Cerne Giant on the overlooking hill here, but also head into the valley to explore. A collection of thatch, flint and half-timbered houses by the River Cerne, the village grew up around a great Benedictine Abbey. A few haunting parts of this religious settlement remain, the rest was destroyed in the Reformation. In addition, don’t miss St Mary’s church dating from the 14th century; lovely Abbey Street; two old coaching inns – the New Inn (dating from 1725) and the Giant Inn complete with skittles alley; and a delightfully old-fashioned dress fabric shop, The Old Saddler. dorsetforyou.com/cerneabbas Lulworth Cove You’re in a geological wonderworld here. Lulworth Cove is a perfect, and picturesque, horseshoe-shaped bay fringed with cliffs composed of Purbeck and Portland stone, greensand and wealdon clay which in many areas are layered in vertical stripes. At the Lulworth Heritage Centre you’ll learn how they were formed and you should also make time to see the absorbing exhibition here about the fossils found in the area. Then take a walk along the shingle cove outside, and for further beaches and geological spectacle, follow the steep cliffside path over to the great coastal arch of 150-million-year-old Durdle Door. lulworth.com The Jurassic Coast A remarkable stretch of seashore in Dorset and Devon, the Jurassic Coast is so called because right there at your feet is extraordinary evidence of about 185 million years of evolution, with fossils and dinosaur footprints to be found along spectacular limestone cliffs and coves. In 2001 it was declared a World Heritage Site - so it’s on a par with the Great Barrier Reef and the Grand Canyon. The lion’s share of the Jurassic Coast lies in Dorset, and all 71 miles of it here can be walked thanks to the fact that the South West Coast Path runs its entire length from Poole to Lyme Regis. jurassiccoast.com Studland Bay British beaches don’t come more classically appealing than those along the three-mile sandy stretch of Studland Bay. Lying between the cliff stacks of Old Harry Rocks in the south and the opening of Poole Harbour in the north, Studland Bay is a sheltered, unspoilt haven, perfect for gentle sandcastle excursions. What’s more, backed by the sand dunes of the Studland Bay Nature Reserve, there is also good wildlife spotting here. You can find out about the area’s lizards, dragonflies, birds and more at the National Trust’s Discovery Centre moreorless midway along at Knoll Beach (note that a well-marked sector of this area is a celebrated naturist zone). nationaltrust.org.uk/studland-beach Fossils at Charmouth The village of Charmouth lies at the heart of the Jurassic Coast and is effectively the fossil capital of the region. Head to the Charmouth Heritage Centre on the beach to see inspiringly devised displays on the region’s rocks, its geology and its marine life. You’ll see the coiled shells of ammonites found locally, you’ll inevitably gaze amazed at fossils of apparently shark-like ichthyosaurs and you’ll find out about the fragile nature of the cliffs here (and the dangers of mudflows and landslides). Enthusiastic wardens at the centre run guided fossil hunting walks and also marine ventures looking at the fascinating creatures living in rock pools. charmouth.org/chcc Chesil Beach This iconic barrier beach is an 18-mile stretch of shingle protecting not only the land behind it but eight-mile long, wildlife-rich Fleet Lagoon too. It is composed of about 100 million pebbles that shelve steeply seaward and (here’s an amazing feat) that are very neatly graded in size: it is said that true local seamen know exactly where they are on the beach simply by looking at the size of the pebbles – fist-sized near Portland at one end, pea-sized by West Bay at the other. A newly redevised visitor centre on Portland Road in Portland offers lots of information on the geology and wildlife of the Chesil Beach area and runs a host of events throughout the year. www.dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk/chesil-beach-centre Brownsea Island With its scampering red squirrels and flamboyant peacocks, Brownsea Island is an arcadian world-apart. Set in Poole Harbour, this mile-long patch of land has variously been a military stronghold, the centre of a fishing community, a model farm, and a private estate. In the 1960s was taken on by the National Trust who run it as a wildlife reserve – and also lease much of the northern half of the island to the Dorset Wildlife Trust. Accessible by boat from Poole Quay and Sandbanks, this very peaceful place supports a great range of birds from oystercatchers to kingfishers, and is awash with butterflies and dragonflies in summer. nationaltrust.org.uk/brownsea-island Kingcombe Centre Stimulating yet utterly tranquil, the Kingcombe Centre is a remarkable establishment that runs a day and residential courses with an overall environmental theme. These range from willow workshops and bat licence training to autumn fungus forays. The setting on a working farm between Maiden Newton and Beaminster is superb, and the centre has its own livestock and even honey bees. It is run by the Dorset Wildlife Trust and offers accommodation in a beautifully converted cowshed with 11 comfortable bedrooms and heating by fuel pellet sustainable technology. Meals are served in Kingcombe’s excellent conservatory café whose menu is based on sustainably produced local foods and Fairtrade items. kingcombe.org.uk Abbotsbury Set behind the fabulous Chesil Bank, Abbotsbury’s cluster of historic sites – most notably its 14th-century chapel – draw in history buffs from far and wide. But the pretty village also has its fair share of studios, galleries and shops, making it the perfect stop off for a gentle spot of window shopping, and there are plenty of bakeries, tea rooms, pubs and delis for hungry souls. Other visitor attractions in the village include a swannery, a children’s farm, and the subtropical gardens – a twenty-acre garden filled with fascinating, exotic plants and flowers. For great views of the Chesil Bank, Lyme village and the coastline, climb Abbotsbury Hill at the edge of the village. abbotsbury.co.uk Bridport From cultural events and exhibitions, to vintage shows and farmers’ markets, there’s always something going on in this oft-overlooked but lively little town, also known as the gateway town for the Jurassic Coast. The town’s history is based on rope and net making trade, and even today this industry is going strong – you can swot up on the history of the industry at the Bridport Museum, which displays artefacts from the Roman period to the present day. Lyme Regis Perhaps Dorset’s most famous coastal town – the ‘Pearl of Dorset’ – needs little introduction. With its historic cobb, beach-hut-lined promenade, pretty Broad Street crammed with cute and quirky shops and the stunning Jurassic Coast on its doorstep, Lyme Regis has been welcoming holiday makers for centuries. There are literary connections aplenty (John Fowles’ The French Lieutenant’s Woman, Jane Austen’s Persuasion), and if food is your thing then you’ll be spoilt for choice in all the seafood restaurants, cosy pubs, markets and summer foodie events in the area. Milton Abbas This tiny little village, with rows of identical thatched cottages lining the main street, flanked to the front by grassy greens, has to be one of the prettiest village in Dorset. Try to time your visit with the street fair (held every two years; the next fair will be in July 2015), when the village comes alive with music, dancing, farmers’ markets and craft stalls as residents don 18th-century dress to celebrate the rebuilding of the village 225 years ago. Wareham Whether you’re into walking, cycling, bird watching, or boating, Wareham has it all. The town has a rich history dating back to 700AD, all of which can be absorbed in the town’s fascinating museum. There are interesting shops to peruse, some great eateries where you can enjoy delicious local produce. The town’s Saxon walls, which date to the 9th century, surround the town on three sides and can be walked around entirely. Beyond the walls, beautiful countryside stretches out in all directions, crisscrossed with a network of trails for walkers and cyclists. Corfe Castle It would be difficult to find a more evocative and romantic ruin than Corfe Castle, with the remains of its tower forming a dramatic silhouette atop a hill above the Purbeck peninsula. A defensive site as far back as Roman times, the castle had many incarnations, and was destroyed by Parliamentarian troops in the Civil War after valiant resistance by the widowed Royalist owner Lady Bankes. Take in its bailey, keep and walls with arrow slits, then stroll down to the picturesque village of the same name, just below, and stop for lunch or a drink at one of the three pubs there. nationaltrust.org.uk/corfe-castle Hardy country Appreciation of Dorset’s landscape today has been much shaped by Thomas Hardy’s works. Head to the Dorchester area to see three seminal sites connected with the writer. The cob-and-thatch cottage where he was born in 1840 is now run by the National Trust and furnished much as it would have been in the author’s day. A few miles away in Dorchester another of Hardy’s homes is also run by the National Trust. Max Gate was designed by Hardy (who trained as an architect) in 1885 and it was here that he wrote many novels including Tess of the d’Urbervilles. Meantime at the Dorset County Museum in the centre of Dorchester you can explore a section devoted to Hardy. hardycountry.org For information on characterful places to stay, local food and drink, and nearby visitor attractions, see our, see our Green Traveller's Guide to Dorset

As part of our Green Traveller's Guide to Dedham Vale, Paul Bloomfield picks out a selection of hotels, B&Bs, self-catering and campsites in this glorious Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in southeast England. Whether you’re after a charming country cottage, a boutique hotel or peaceful, riverside campsite, visitors come to this part of the world to get lost in the gentle landscapes and immerse themselves in its history and culture. We’ve put together a list of our top picks for green places to stay, and there is something here to suit everyone from families to couples, adventure seekers to culture vultures. Each place we have listed is committed to conserving the stunning natural environment that attracts so many people here. So whatever matters most to you, whether it’s starting the day with a full English breakfast of locally reared sausages and freshly laid eggs, or being able to set out on foot and explore right from your front door, we’ve got it covered. Google map: shows the location and details of all the places to stay, local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities in our Green Travel Guide to Dedham Vale: Green = Places to stay Blue = Local food & drink Yellow = Attractions Purple = Activities Places to stay in Dedham Vale Bedford Lodge Hotel, Newmarket, United Kingdom A characterful Georgian hunting lodge on the edge of Newmarket which mixes history and tradition with contemporary comfort and touches of luxury. The award-winning restaurant serves an eclectic menu of local, seasonal ingredients. bedfordlodgehotel.co.uk Lattice Lodge, Ipswich, Suffolk, England A 4-Star, Silver Award urban eco-friendly B&B, which prides itself on its friendliness, cleanliness and use of local produce and suppliers. latticelodge.co.uk The Angel Inn, Dedham Vale, England The Angel Inn is a lovely, traditional country pub in Stoke by Nayland, in the heart of the Dedham Vale AONB. There are six boutique bedrooms, all with en-suite and beautifully styled to reflect the history of this Grade II listed building. angelinnsuffolk.co.uk Rosemary B&B, Dedham Vale, England You’ll find this pretty B&B is in the village of East Bergholt, childhood home of John Constable and right at the heart of Dedham Vale. It has three cosy twin-bedded rooms, each with a washbasin, TV and tea-making facilities. rosemarybnb.wordpress.com Maison Talbooth, Dedham Vale, England Maison Talbooth is a hotel with added wow factor: 12 suites with a super kingsize bed, Egyptian cotton sheets, goose feather duvets and luxurious duvets, plus pool house, award-winning restaurant and fabulous new spa milsomhotels.com Rushbanks Farm Campsite, Dedham Vale, Essex Just a short distance along the River Stour from the pretty 15th-century village of Nayland is Rushbanks, the only official campsite in Dedham Vale. It’s a peaceful, family-friendly site with simple facilities and is particularly good for boaters. rushbankscampsite.co.uk The Grove Cottages, Dedham Vale, Essex 28 self-catering cottages, huts and barns, each with their own unique character and set in peaceful country surroundings in the beautiful Dedham Vale countryside, suitable for couples, larger groups and families. grove-cottages.co.uk Larch & Spruce Cottages, Dedham Vale, Essex Two Scandinavian-style cottages sleeping up to four situated in a field in the Box Valley. Footpaths from the doorstep, the South Suffolk cycle route close by and great food at the16th-century White Horse Inn pub next door. edwardstonewhitehorse.co.uk Gladwins Farm, Dedham Vale, England Nine cottages converted from traditional farm buildings into comfortable accommodation for between 2-8 people. Lovely original features, private patios, and 22 wonderful acres of rolling countryside to explore on foot or by bike. gladwinsfarm.co.uk The Threshing Barn, Dedham Vale, England One of two beautifully converted properties in the grounds of Lamarsh Hall, a 15th-century home in the peaceful village of Lamarsh. Fresh produce from owner Helen's veg garden, footpaths galore and Gainsborough's house moments away. holidaycottages.net For information on local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities, see our Green Traveller's Guide to Dedham Vale

As part of our Green Traveller's Guide to Dedham Vale, Paul Bloomfield picks out a selection of museums, natural spaces and historic buildings in this glorious Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in southeast England. Art galleries, nature reserves and historic buildings: the Dedham Vale AONB and Stour Valley has a wealth of captivating and enriching places and spaces. From the historic Flatford Mill, with its unique links with John Constable, to Gainsborough’s birthplace and Sir Alfred Munning’s preserved studio at Castle House, this area is rich in cultural history and justly proud of its connections with world famous painters and writers. Alternatively, get lost in the area’s natural spaces, from the wildlife-rich woodland at Arger Fen and Spouse’s Vale nature reserve, to the unique gardens and arboretum at East Bergholt Place, or the scenic walking trails that wind through the lakes and meadows of Carter’s Vineyards. Google map: shows the location and details of all the places to stay, local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities in our Green Travel Guide to Dedham Vale: Green = Places to stay Blue = Local food & drink Yellow = Attractions Purple = Activities Places of interest in Dedham Vale Gainsborough’s House Get a unique insight into the life and work of Thomas Gainsborough, who was born and raised in Sudbury. His former home dates from around 1500 and is packed with special architectural features including a Georgian façade added by his father. Browse the permanent collection which covers the artist’s entire career from the 1750s to the 1780s, as well as works by his contemporaries including his nephew and studio assistant, Gainsborough Dupont. Afterwards, wander round the garden which is planted up with flowers, herbs and shrubs that reflect what would have been grown there during Gainsborough’s lifetime, and also contains a Mulberry tree thought to date back to the reign of James I. There is also a charming little café in the gift shop serving cakes, teas and coffee. gainsborough.org Dedham Art and Craft Centre Housed in a converted church, the Dedham Art and Craft Centre has three floors of shops and stalls, showcasing the work of over 30 local artisans. Pick up some ceramics, paintings, textile art and woodcraft, or even clothing, jewellery, books and cards. When you’ve finished browsing, the tearoom has a tempting vegetarian menu of freshly prepared food, from light lunches to mouth watering cakes and scones. dedhamartandcraftcentre.co.uk Churches in Dedham Vale There are church towers all over the Dedham Vale landscape, some iconic and imposing and others unassuming and quietly blending in with the landscape. Two of the best known are Dedham Parish Church, and St Mary’s in East Bergholt. In Dedham, a church building has been on the same site since 1492 and it very much marks the heart of the village. The 131ft tower is clearly visible all around the area and it featured in many of John Constable’s drawings and paintings, though some experts say that he often added a little extra height for dramatic effect. The Constable connection continues inside the church where you can see one of his paintings, The Ascension, which is on permanent display. The church is East Bergholt also has links to the Constable family, as both his parents are buried here and inside there is a plaque commemorating the life of his wife Maria. Constable was born and raised in East Bergholt, and met his future wife in the village where she lived just a few doors away. In the church yard, take a peek inside the unusual bell cage. It was constructed as a temporary measure in 1521 to house the church bells whilst the tower was being built, but the tower was never completed and the bells are still housed and rung by hand inside the cage to this day. The Munnings Collection Visit Castle House and you’ll discover the largest single collection of works by Sir Alfred Munnings. He lived here for over 40 years, and whilst Munnings was perhaps best known for his paintings of racehorses, he also had a passion for landscapes and prolifically painted the local countryside and the characters that lived there. After visiting the house, take a walk around the beautiful grounds and enjoy some tea and cake in the recently opened tea rooms. Also don’t miss Munnings’ studio which contains more of his works and painting materials, and gives a unique insight into how he worked as an artist. siralfredmunnings.co.uk Flatford This cluster of buildings now bustles with visitors, but once upon a time it hummed with activity as the site of a working water mill and busy waterway where horse drawn barges would travel up and down the River Stour through the locks and on to local market towns. The now Grade I listed watermill was owned by the Constable family and next door is the Miller’s cottage, belonging to Willy Lott which appears in John Constable’s The Haywain. Wander around the hamlet, taking in the views that Constable would have painted and pop in to the exhibition at 16th century Bridge Cottage just down the lane to learn more about Constable’s links with the area. There is also a National Trust tea shop next door, and opposite is a newly opened RSPB wildlife garden and National Trust visitor centre. nationaltrust.org.uk/flatford East Bergholt Place, Place for Plants Described as ‘The Cornish Garden of Suffolk’, this beautiful 20 acre garden and arboretum’s origins date back to the early 20th century. The current owner’s great grandfather Charles Eley laid out the foundations of what would become a stunning and unusual collection of rhododendrons, camellias, spring bulbs, shrubs and trees, many of which were gathered by renowned Scottish plant collector, George Forrest. Start off your visit in the Plant Centre, which is housed in a Victorian walled garden and has plenty of helpful staff on hand to help you choose from the huge selection of plants. You’ll need to buy a ticket to access the garden but it’s well worth the investment. You’ll discover stunning displays of flowers, particularly in spring, many unusual flowering trees and also the national collection of deciduous euonymus. Restore yourself in The Jubilee Tearoom on the way out, with a cup of tea and slice of cake. placeforplants.co.uk Cattawade Picnic Site This picnic site on the banks of the River Stour makes a great base for all kinds of outdoorsy activities, whether it’s a spot of fishing, launching a canoe from the purpose-built platforms, or heading off down the Stour Valley Path which passes by the car park and continues on to Newmarket. Alternatively you could just relax with a picnic, but keep a pair of binoculars handy to watch out for the wide variety of wading birds that take up residence on the internationally important Cattawade Marshes. dedhamvalestourvalley.org For information on local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities, see our Green Traveller's Guide to Dedham Vale

As part of our Green Traveller's Guide to Dedham Vale, Paul Bloomfield picks out a selection of restaurants, cafés, inns and farm shops for local food and drink in this glorious Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in southeast England. Whether it’s locally reared pork, freshly caught oysters, or fruit and vegetables grown and picked from the neighbouring fields that gets your taste buds going, you’ll find an abundance of delicious, local, quality food here in Dedham Vale. Much of the area has been farmed for hundreds of years, and locals take great pride in showcasing the very best of their food and drink, including some household names like Copella apple juice and Tiptree jam. We’ve selected the best cafés, inns, farmers' markets and delicatessens in the area, including award-winning gastro pubs and family-run farm shops. Wherever you choose to eat or shop, you can be sure that you’ll be putting something back into the local area, reducing your food miles, and discovering some truly special produce, all at the same time! Google map: shows the location and details of all the places to stay, local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities in our Green Travel Guide to Dedham Vale: Green = Places to stay Blue = Local food & drink Yellow = Attractions Purple = Activities Places to eat in Dedham Vale Milsoms Restaurant With its stylish décor and friendly staff, Milsoms is the perfect spot for a relaxed coffee, lunch or celebratory dinner. The menu reflects what’s available locally, whether it’s Suffolk pork schnitzel and Dedham Vale steak, and they use organic produce wherever possible. The two-tiered restaurant offers indoor and outdoor seating options, but the ‘sail’ covered terrace, with its glorious garden setting and 160 year old Sequoia tree, might just have the edge as the perfect place to unwind with a glass of wine. milsomhotels.com Crown Inn The Crown Inn, in the charming village of Stoke by Nayland, serves up delicious home cooked food from a constantly changing menu that reflects the changing seasons. There’s lamb from the Colne Valley, oysters from the Blackwater Estuary, free range Gloucester Old Spot pork from John Coleman and local potatoes by the sackful from the Schwier family. Tuck in to a traditional Sunday roast, or just relax by the bar with a pint of real ale or glass of wine from their varied selection of new and rare wines. The Crown prides itself on having a warm and welcoming atmosphere, and you may find yourself enjoying the food and ambience so much you’ll want to book yourself in to one of their 11 stylish bedrooms to prolong the Crown Inn experience a little bit longer. crowninn.net The Angel Inn With its traditional country pub atmosphere, open fires and oak beams, this Grade II listed building retains the feeling of old coaching inn combined with stylish modern touches and a menu that’s bang up-to-date. Head Chef Adam changes his selection of dishes to reflect what’s available locally, and you could be trying freshly caught sea trout one week and roast Suffolk beef the next, accompanied with locally grown vegetables and washed down with a pint of guest ale from one of the regional breweries. angelinnsuffolk.co.uk The Anchor Inn If you’d been sitting on the river bank here in the 1900s, you might have witnessed a ‘tub and shovel’ race where competitors, balancing on a half barrel, raced their way across using a shovel as a paddle. These days, you’re more likely to be sat amongst fellow diners, enjoying a meal on the outdoor terrace of The Anchor Inn and watching swans float by. Take your pick from their daily menu of seasonal dishes that reflect the best available produce of the region, from farmhouse sausages to Suffolk cheeses and the Anchor Inn’s famous smoked platter with a range of locally sourced meats, fish and cheeses that are all smoked in-house. There is also an extensive wine list and choice of regional ales, including the Inn’s own ‘Anchor Ale’ which is brewed in nearby Hadleigh. anchornayland.co.uk The Edwardstone White Horse Inn Created mostly using ingredients grown on site, the dishes served here are as local and organic as it gets and even cooked on eco friendly induction hobs. The owners grow as produce as much as they can in the kitchen garden and use local butchers for all their meat. Next door is the White Horse micro brewery, which produces their very own brand of Suffolk ale and is a huge hit with real ale enthusiasts. It’s easy to see why the pub has been featured in so many guides including the Good Beer Guide and as CAMRA’s ‘Pub of the month’. The pub’s pretty, rural location means it is easily reached via the many footpaths and cycle routes in the area, and it acts as the main social hub of the village hosting live music nights and beer festivals. edwardstonewhitehorse.co.uk National Trust tearoom, Flatford The National Trust is almost synonymous with cream teas, but the tea room at Flatford now offers so much more than just scones and jam, delicious though they are. With new Catering Manager Russell Clement at the helm, there are big plans for the menu here in response to the public’s increased interest in where their ingredients come form. The nearby 16th century Valley Farm already supplies fresh vegetables and herbs from its fully restored kitchen garden for sandwiches and salads, and local honey and preserves are served alongside delicious homemade cakes. Russell hopes to soon add smoked fish and meat from smokeries just down the road, and to keep developing a seasonal menu that is quintessentially East Anglian. nationaltrust.org.uk/flatford Lower Dairy Farm Shop Lower Dairy Farm has been run by the Taylor family since the 1950’s, and in the 1980’s they started producing tasty, 28 day aged beef from their own, grass fed, Hereford Aberdeen Angus herd. The beef is available in their farm shop alongside their free range pork sausages, seasonal home grown fruit and vegetables, all sorts of jams and preserves and even ice cream. There are also freshly laid eggs from the farm hens and if you want to explore a little further, you can go and meet the farm’s menagerie of animals including new born calves, piglets, deer, and Humbug the dog. lowerdairyfarm.co.uk Hall Farm Shop This award winning farm shop is stocked with all kinds of delicious produce from the farm itself and nearby suppliers, including cakes baked on site and home reared beef and lamb. Hall Farm has been run by the same family for three generations, and they decided to open the farm shop in 2001 following huge demand from locals for high quality, local produce. The deli and cheese counter are also worth a visit, especially if you’re shopping for a picnic or packed lunch, to stock up on fabulous homemade sausage rolls, pies, filled baguettes and cheeses. Following the shop’s success, a café and restaurant followed in 2006 which is housed in the converted old cattle byre. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a morning coffee or afternoon cake on the terrace, overlooking the fields where the farm’s ponies, cattle and sheep graze. hallfarmshop.co.uk For information on places to stay, nearby visitor attractions and activities, see our Green Traveller's Guide to Dedham Vale

As part of our Green Traveller's Guide to Dedham Vale, Paul Bloomfield picks out a selection of walks, cycle rides, watersports and courses in this glorious Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in southeast England. Don’t be deceived by the gentle countryside and relaxed pace of life here - there are plenty of adventures to be had in Dedham Vale AONB and Stour Valley. Whether you’re a walker or a cyclist, wanting to mess about in boats or expand your creative horizons, there will something here to keep your mind and body fully active. Head off on foot down the 60-mile Stour Valley Path, explore the rural country lanes and picturesque villages by bike, or take to a Canadian canoe and navigate your way down the River Stour to get up close with the local wildlife. Learn some rural skills and traditional crafts like stone carving and cider making, deepen your knowledge of natural history with a course on botany or birdwatching, or take inspiration from the landscape and learn to capture the same beautiful scenes as Constable, Gainsborough and Munnings on a residential art course. Google map: shows the location and details of all the places to stay, local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities in our Green Travel Guide to Dedham Vale: Green = Places to stay Blue = Local food & drink Yellow = Attractions Purple = Activities Activities in Dedham Vale River Stour Trust River Trips Take a ride down the river in one of these elegant electric boats, run by the River Stour Trust between spring to autumn. The launches, Kathleen, Rosette and Stour Trusty II all come with a traditional Edwardian style canopy and can carry up to eight adult passengers, whilst the Francis J is also specially adapted for wheelchair access. Hop on from Sudbury, Great Henny or Great Cornard and stop off for a spot of lunch at the Henny Swan pub. riverstourtrust.org/river-trips/ Nomad Sea Kayaking The ultimate way to explore the coastline and estuaries of Essex has to be by sea kayak. You’ll be able to reach remote spots and get up close to the wildlife in a way that just isn’t possible in a larger craft. Even if you’ve never tried it before, the guides at Nomad Sea Kayaking can provide all the equipment and take you out for an afternoon or a whole weekend for trips along the Essex and Suffolk coast. nomadseakayaking.co.uk Flatford Field Studies Centre You may already recognise Flatford Mill from the paintings of John Constable, especially the most famous of them all, The Haywain. These days however, the buildings are used by the Field Studies Council to run educational courses about environmental issues for school and college students as well as individuals and families. Learn how to identify birds, trees, and coastal plants, or even try your hand at freelance writing about wildlife. Get creative with watercolours and sketching, or get your camera out and capture some stunning autumn colour. The centre offers all the classroom facilities and equipment you’ll need plus on site accommodation, or there is a list of recommended local B&B’s. field-studies-council.org Fountain House and Dedham Hall This 15th century manor house is the perfect place to hone your artistic talents. Set in the serene, Essex countryside just outside Dedham, Fountain House offers accommodation, delicious food and art courses run by professional artists. Some courses are based in the on-site studio, whilst others will take you out into the landscape that has inspired so many artists in the past. The accommodation is comfortable and characterful, and the restaurant which overlooks the pond is renowned in the area for its imaginative recipes and adventurous wine list. dedhamhall.co.uk For information on places to stay, local food and drink, and nearby visitor attractions, see our Green Traveller's Guide to Dedham Vale

As we launch our Green Traveller's Guide to East Devon, Jackie King picks out a selection of characterful places to stay in this glorious Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in southwest England. East Devon is blessed with a beautiful, World Heritage coastline, stunning undulating countryside, and lots of pretty towns and villages. It's no surprise to discover, therefore, that there are some fantastic places to stay scattered throughout the AONB. Whether it’s splendid self-catering accommodation, such as an Arts & Crafts mansion restored to its one hundred-year old grandeur, standing atop a cliff, a wisteria-clad B&B in a genteel town, a grande dame of a hotel or a campsite full of activities and fun deep in the rolling hills, there are places to stay in East Devon to suit every budget and style. We have chosen some of the greenest places to stay: there's a B&B with solar-powered electricity, a luxury hideaway that gives guests a discount if they arrive on public transport, and plenty of wood-burning stoves and locally-sourced breakfasts, too! Google map: shows the location and details of all the places to stay, local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities in our Green Travel Guide to East Devon: Green = Places to stay Blue = Local food & drink Yellow = Attractions Purple = Activities Places to stay in East Devon Hedgehog Corner, Devon, England Adult-only B&B and (separate) child friendly holiday cottage that sleep 6 very close to Hugh Fearnley Whittingstall's River Cottage HQ. Just 3 minutes drive to Lyme Regis on the Jurassic Coast. Hedgehog Corner has been awarded Silver from the GTBS for their sustainability efforts. The B&B is fully insulated and all appliances are A rated. All waste is recycled as much as possible. The toilets are all dual flush. Cleaning products and toiletries are all eco friendly. Food and complimentary products are locally sourced as much as possible. Guests are encouraged to arrive by public transport or on foot by the coastal footpath. The owners support local photographers and artists by purchasing and displaying their artwork on the walls throughout the B&B. hedgehogcorner.co.uk Larkbeare Grange With lovely antiques, finest Egyptian cotton sheets, open-fires and expensive toiletries, this splendid wisteria-clad four-bedroom B&B offers a touch of class. Surrounded by eight acres of land, including picturesque orchards, Larkbeare Grange is green in more ways than one: some of your electricity comes from solar power and there are bicycles to borrow. larkbeare.net The Salty Monk This restaurant-with-rooms has six individually decorated bedrooms. King-size beds, freestanding baths and power showers, private courtyards and garden views are just some of the features you can choose. All rooms have wi-fi, tea- and coffee-making with homemade biscuits, chilled bottled water and, erm, a teddy-bear on the bed. Take him down to breakfast and you might be able to blag extra portions. saltymonk.co.uk The Nest A genuine tree house set 30 feet up an English oak tree, within an ancient broadleaved wood. Situated on a small family run farm in the Blackdown Hills, Devon, close to the Jurassic Coast, Taunton, Exeter and Dartmoor. Ideal for couples looking to escape from everyday life. Complete with fully equipped kitchen, dining, living area, bedroom, bathroom and balcony. Heated by wood burning stove. We have recently planted over 700 trees which will more than replace those taken for firewood. treeholidays.co.uk Mazzard Farm cottages Situated just 15 minutes from the Jurassic Coast at Sidmouth, half way up East Hill, are 17 acres of old apple farm, now home to six contemporary cottages, gardens, an orchard, private woods, play areas and a large courtyard with picnic tables and BBQ. It is heaven for children and relaxing for grown-ups, what with pampering treatments from Jacqueline (Indian head massages, Japanese facials) and heaps to do. Our reviewed Holly Gee said: "Ruud and Jacqueline have done their best to ensure that there is never a dull moment at Mazzard Farm. Any child would probably be happy enough to go no further than the farm for a whole week." mazzardfarm.com Upcott, the Gallery and Gospel Hall Close to the fishing village of Beer, wonderfully luxurious self-catering houses with sea views of Lyme Bay. Beautiful & peaceful setting on a quiet coastal road with no light pollution, perfect for star-gazing! Five-star luxury & green credentials. Our reviewer Paul Miles says: "Upcott is a dream holiday home combining the comfort and style of a boutique hotel with the freedom and fun of self-catering. From bedrooms or terrace, you could be lost in the view for a lifetime. Inside, Liz and Mal’s eco-friendly renovation of the property has been done with such love and care that, whether the sun is sparkling off the ocean or the wind roaring through the trees, the house resonates a peaceful contentedness." devonretreat.com Coombe Farm & Woodlands Trust Nestled in organic farmland and mixed woodland in the heart of the beautiful Devon countryside, Coombe is a charming, grade 2* listed, 16-17th century cob and thatch farmhouse in a sheltered valley offering a unique, wonderful holiday environment. coombefarmwoods.co.uk Cranberries Luxury Hideaway With air-source and ground-source heat pumps, wood-burning stoves using logs from their own woodland, a large area of solar PV panels, a 5% discount for those arriving by public transport, bikes for hire (arrange in advance), Cranberries stresses its green credentials. The five properties, Grade II listed stone farm buildings dating from the 18th century, have been sensitively restored with local labour and sleep from 2 to 16. There are 100 acres of private land to explore and views over the Axe valley towards the sea from the postcard perfect hilltop village of Kilmington. Cranberries sets a new trend in self-catering in that they offer stays of just one night and rates are the same all year. cranberrieshideaway.co.uk Lea Hill Mossy thatched roofs, wisteria-clad walls, views of rolling countryside and dinky rooms with beams and low ceilings: the six properties of Lea Hill are chocolate box sweet. Whether it’s the upstairs, one-bedroom Kingfisher apartment or two-bedroom Nuthatch, these cottages, each with their own enclosed garden, offer you a taste of remote, bucolic bliss. When you know that about 50% of the electricity comes from renewables – solar PV panels – it’s like gorging on strawberry creams with half the calories. leahill.co.uk Holyford Yurt Nestled in the beautiful Axe Valley in Devon, this family-friendly, lone yurt pitched in a smallholding offers homegrown fruit and veg, earth oven, solar showers and is close to beaches and nature reserves. Grab your backpack and jump on a train to Axminster where you can transfer to one of the regular buses from Axminster to Colyford (AVMT's 885 route). The bus stop is about a 10 minute walk from Holyford Yurt. All on its own, it stands on a family smallholding with views over the beautiful Axe valley, next to ancient woodland and close to Jurassic coast beaches. The owners grow (organically) as much as possible and operate a small local vegetable box scheme – all produce is available for free for guests during their stay. They offer home-cooked meals using their own produce and other local produce (for an additional charge), and sell homemade preserves, pickles and apple juice. They fish locally and can provide fish when they have a good catch! Holyford is the perfect base for days spent walking, cycling, fishing, kayaking and swimming. The owners can provide OS maps and information on local walking and bike routes. homemadeholidays.co.uk