Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Chichester to St. Austell

Are you planning a road trip from Chichester to St. Austell? While this drive can take up to 4 hours, don't let it discourage you from taking this beautiful route. With plenty of picturesque towns and stunning natural scenery, there are several hidden gems waiting to be discovered. So, pack your bags, fill up your gas tank, and get ready for an adventure as we explore five unexpected places to stop on your journey!

Halfway Point: Chard, SOM

Before we dive into our stops, let's talk about the halfway point of this drive - Chard, SOM. Chard is a quiet market town located in Somerset, England. With an interesting history and stunning architecture, it is worth taking a break from your drive to explore. You can visit the Holyrood Lace Shop and Museum, where you can learn about the history of lace in Chard, or take a stroll through the picturesque Fore Street. Don't forget to visit the Chard Museum to understand more about this charming little town.

1. Salisbury, WIL

Salisbury is a beautiful city with a rich history dating back over 5,000 years. Highlighted by the iconic Salisbury Cathedral, this city is a great stop on any road trip. Start by visiting the Salisbury Cathedral, which was completed in 1258 and boasts the tallest spire in the UK. Then, take a stroll through the town center, where you will find St Thomas's Church and the Salisbury Museum. Grab a bite to eat at the cozy Chapter House Inn, and enjoy classic pub food with a glass of beer.

2. Cerne Abbas, DOR

Cerne Abbas is a quaint village located in the county of Dorset, England. The village is most famous for its iconic Cerne Abbas Giant, a chalk figure carved into the hillside, standing at 55 meters tall. Start your visit by viewing the giant from the Cerne Abbas Viewpoint, where it is best visible. Then, take a stroll through the village center, where you will find a variety of quaint shops and cafes. For lunch, head to The Royal Oak pub for traditional pub food, including fish and chips and steak and ale pie.

3. Dartmoor National Park, DEV

Located in Devon, England, the Dartmoor National Park is a stunning site that should not be missed. With vast stretches of heather-covered moorland, deep wooded valleys, and fast-flowing rivers, Dartmoor National Park is a nature lover's paradise. Take a walk along one of the many hiking trails, and explore the unique landscapes and wildlife. For a unique dining experience, head to the Rugglestone Inn, a traditional Dartmoor pub, for some hearty pub fare like their famous steak and ale pie.

4. Tintagel, CON

Tintagel is a charming village located on the north coast of Cornwall. Most famous for its associations with King Arthur, Tintagel is the perfect place to visit for anyone interested in history. Visit the Tintagel Castle, where you can take a walk across the dramatic footbridge that spans the two cliffs or visit St Materiana's Church. After exploring the town, head to The Cornishman Inn for some traditional Cornish food, including fish and chips and the famous Cornish pasty.

5. Bodmin Moor, CON

Bodmin Moor is a rugged landscape located in Cornwall, characterized by its vast stretches of rolling hills and eerie moorland. Despite being one of the lesser-known stops on our list, Bodmin Moor is an incredible site worth visiting. Take a walk through the moor, and keep an eye out for the unique wildlife, including Dartmoor ponies and the elusive curlew. For lunch, head to Jamaica Inn, a historic coaching inn, which has been serving travelers for over 300 years. Try their delicious Cornish cream tea with scones and clotted cream.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a road trip from Chichester to St. Austell is not just about the destination but the journey. With our five unexpected places to stop, you can experience nature, history, and delight in the local cuisine. So, take this road trip, and explore the hidden gems of England that we've included in our list. You will cherish the memories for a lifetime.