The Best Road Trip: Basingstoke and Deane to Mendip District
The drive from Basingstoke and Deane in Hampshire to Mendip District in Somerset takes approximately two hours, making it a perfect weekend getaway destination. The journey promises picturesque views of the countryside and a rich cultural experience. In this post, we have curated a list of the top places to see when you're on this road trip.
Stop 1: Stonehenge
No road trip to Mendip District is complete without visiting the iconic Stonehenge. Located on the Salisbury Plains, this prehistoric monument remains shrouded in mystery even to this day. Stonehenge is believed to have been constructed around 3000 BC and continues to awe visitors with its fascinating history.
Stop 2: Stourhead
Stourhead, often referred to as the 'Perfect English Landscape,' is an 18th-century estate located in Wiltshire. The landscape overlooks the serene lake and offers stunning views of the countryside. The estate has a Palladian Mansion, a 1,000-acre garden, and an ornate Anglo-Chinese garden.
Stop 3: Glastonbury
Glastonbury is synonymous with the Glastonbury Festival, but this quaint town has much more to offer. It is home to Glastonbury Tor, a prominent landmark overlooking the town and believed to be a spiritual center. Glastonbury Abbey, a ruined monastery dating back to the 7th century, and Chalice Well, a natural spring, are other attractions to visit.
Stop 4: Wookey Hole Caves
Wookey Hole Caves are limestone caves located in Somerset and are a popular tourist destination. The caves have dramatic underground rock formations with pools, waterfalls, and stalagmites. The Wookey Hole Caves also house the Witch of Wookey, a legendary mythological creature believed to have terrorized the town in the past.
Stop 5: Cheddar Gorge
The Cheddar Gorge is a spectacular limestone gorge in the Mendip Hills, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The gorge has dramatic cliffs, several caves, hiking trails, and the Cheddar Man Museum, which tells the story of the oldest complete human skeleton ever discovered in the UK.
Stop 6: Bath
A road trip to Mendip District is incomplete without a visit to the historic city of Bath. Bath is famous for its Roman Baths, which date back to 70 AD and are a testament to the city's Roman heritage. The city has a Gothic Abbey, Georgian architecture, and the famous Royal Crescent, a row of 30 terrace houses that have been preserved to perfection.
Conclusion
The road trip from Basingstoke and Deane to the Mendip District promises a delightful mix of history, culture, and natural landscapes. This list features some of the top places to explore and must-visit destinations in Somerset. Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover, or merely seeking an escape, this road trip is sure to satisfy all your cravings. So, pack your bags, fuel up your car, and hit the road to this beautiful destination.