Tilbury Farm

If strolls around stately homes on your own two feet sound excellent, the mid-16th-century Cothelstone Manor is five minutes’ drive, while the country house of Fyne Court – now at the centre of a National Trust-protected nature reserve for outdoor explores – is 10 minutes away. Wander to the Walled Gardens of Cannington (and have a couple of scones at its tea rooms) or take on the trails of Exmoor (both 20 minutes’ drive) for rural roams. If you’re in the national park as darkness falls, make sure to turn your eyes skyward for the spectacular celestial displays in this dark skies reserve. Other Somerset-specific pursuits to tick off your list include tours and tastings of Sheppy’s Cider (20 minutes), an activity best experienced after trips to seaside towns such as Watchet 25 minutes away and Blue Anchor (half an hour), or lakeside ambles around Wimbleball with its nature paths, cycle trails, archery, windsurfing and kayaking, rather than before...