Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Cadbury Heath, England to East Devon, England

Driving from one place to another can prove to be a mundane and monotonous task. However, if you know the right places to take a pit stop, a road trip can turn into an exciting adventure. This article will guide you through five unexpected places to stop on a drive from Cadbury Heath, England to East Devon, England.

The journey from Cadbury Heath to East Devon covers approximately 110 miles and takes around two hours. The route meanders along the M5 motorway, passes through the county town of Taunton, and leads to the beautiful coastal town of Sidmouth. If you are in the mood for a scenic drive and wish to break your journey with memorable pit stops, here are some places to visit.

The Halfway Point - Burnham-on-Sea, Somerset

Before we move on to the fun-filled pit stops, let's talk about the halfway point - Burnham-on-Sea. Located in Somerset, Burnham-on-Sea is renowned for its clean and expansive beaches. Here, you can take a stroll along the promenade and enjoy the refreshing ocean breeze. The town is also home to the RNLI Lifeboat Station, where you can see the dedicated volunteers in action.

1. A Pit Stop at Cheddar Gorge, Somerset

Cheddar Gorge, situated at the edge of the Mendip Hills, offers an experience like no other. The gorge boasts stunning stalactite caves and a 400-feet deep canyon, which was created by Ice Age meltwater. The visitors can take a tour of the caves, learn about the history and geology of the region, or take part in a climbing or caving activity. The town of Cheddar, situated at the foot of the gorge, is famous for its namesake cheese. Be sure to try out some of the locally-produced cheese before leaving.

Favorite Food to Eat: A slice of hot cheddar cheese pie with some local cider adds to the rugged experience.

2. Visit Barrington Court, Somerset

If you want to take a stroll down history lane, Barrington Court is just the place for you. The estate was built in the late 16th century and was purchased by the National Trust in 1907. The house offers magnificent displays of early Tudor and Georgian architecture, and there's a vast collection of textiles, ceramics, and furniture pieces. The gardens, designed by Gertrude Jekyll and maintained by the head gardener at Barrington Court, are equally stunning and are divided into various chambers based on different themes.

Favorite Food to Eat: A picnic with some delicious scotch eggs and pork pies from nearby farm shops.

3. Enjoy a Cozy Evening at The Rugglestone Inn, Devon

The Rugglestone Inn, situated in Widecombe in the Moor, is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy some quality time in a cozy environment. The Inn offers a wide variety of beverages, including local ales, and a menu featuring locally-sourced produce. The interior of the Inn features a rustic and welcoming ambiance, with a wood-burning stove and intricate decor that adds to the cozy atmosphere.

Favorite Food to Eat: A bowl of hearty homemade soup with some crusty bread.

4. Take a Hike at Sidmouth, Devon

Sidmouth, a coastal town in Devon, offers a stunning combination of natural beauty and picturesque town areas. The town's pebble beach is particularly renowned, and the view of the cliffs from the beach is something that you shouldn't miss. The town is home to the Jurassic Coast Visitor Center, where you can learn about the history of the Jurassic Coast. If you're up for a challenge, the town offers various hiking trails that will take you through the scenic cliffs and valleys.

Favorite Food to Eat: A portion of fish and chips from one of the town's beachside stalls.

5. Go Museum Hunting in Exeter, Devon

Exeter, known for its rich medieval history, offers an experience like no other. The town is home to various museums that showcase different aspects of the town's history. These include the Royal Albert Memorial Museum, which offers a vast variety of art pieces and exhibition displays, the Exeter Underground Passages, which offer a unique experience of the city's underground water system, and the Exeter Cathedral, one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in the United Kingdom.

Favorite Food to Eat: After a long day of exploring, a delightful portion of Devonshire Clotted cream tea makes for a perfect reward.

Conclusion

While driving may seem tedious, it provides the opportunity to stop and appreciate some hidden gems that the UK has to offer. From Cheddar Gorge's rugged beauty to Exeter's medieval history, this road trip is packed with some of the United Kingdom's best gems. So, pack a bag and hit the road for a fun-filled trip.