Explore the area
The Area
Somerset, Devon and Dorset — all within five minutes of your front door.
Tatworth sits in a remarkable corner of southern England where three counties meet within minutes of each other. From Lakehayes, you can drive into Devon, cross into Dorset, or explore some of Somerset's finest countryside — all without needing to go far. The Jurassic Coast, one of the world's most dramatic stretches of coastline, is about thirty minutes away. The Blackdown Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty starts on the doorstep.
The coast
The Jurassic Coast
One of the world's great stretches of coastline — 95 miles of dramatic cliffs, fossil beaches and harbour towns, all a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From Lakehayes, the closest points are:
- Charmouth (25 min) — A favourite for fossil hunting, with one of the best sandy beaches on the Jurassic Coast. Family-friendly and well-served.
- Lyme Regis (30 min) — The most famous town on the Jurassic Coast. The harbour, independent shops, excellent restaurants and a beautiful shingle beach.
- West Bay (35 min) — The iconic golden sandstone cliffs, a pretty harbour and the starting point for exploring Chesil Beach.
- Bridport (35 min) — A vibrant market town behind the coast, full of independent shops, a Saturday market and some excellent cafes and pubs.
Countryside
Blackdown Hills & walking
The Blackdown Hills AONB stretches across the Somerset and Devon border, offering gentle ridge walks with sweeping views across three counties. The walking starts from the doorstep at Lakehayes — the grounds include a stream, a paddock and a one-acre garden that leads directly into the countryside.
The broader area offers a mix of rolling farmland, wooded valleys and quiet lanes well suited to walking and cycling. There are several marked walking routes from Tatworth and the surrounding villages.
Food & drink
Eating and drinking nearby
The village pub
An award-winning village pub is just a five-minute stroll from the cottages — one of the genuine pleasures of staying at Lakehayes. Walk there in the evening, no need to drive.
Farm shops & local produce
The area around Chard and the Blackdown Hills is rich in farm shops, local bakeries and markets. Bridport's Saturday market is one of the best in the South West for local produce, crafts and street food.
Restaurants & cafes
Lyme Regis, Bridport and Charmouth all have excellent independent restaurants, fish and chip shops and cafes. Taunton and Exeter offer more for a special occasion dinner.
Nearby towns
Towns within easy reach
Chard
10 minThe nearest town. Good for day-to-day essentials — supermarket, pharmacy, GP, hardware. A useful base without being far from the countryside.
Taunton
40 minThe county town of Somerset. Shopping, restaurants, cinema, a beautiful castle and museum, and good transport links by train.
Exeter
50 minA proper city day trip. Cathedral close, independent shops, excellent restaurants, galleries and a lively food scene. Well worth the drive.
Ready to explore?
Book your stay at Lakehayes and discover Somerset, Devon and Dorset from one perfect base.
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