The good people at Victory Leisure Homes have shared with us their guide to leisure activities in the west of England. We hope it gives you some inspiration if you have a caravan or lodge in that region – or if you’re going exploring...

Here at Victory we love a staycation – especially when, after a day of exploration, we can kick back and relax in a holiday home or lodge. Here are our favourite spots to make the most out of the stunning South West.

1. DELIGHTFUL DORSET

With coastlines that rival the Med, you’ll be spoilt by the views in Dorset. If strolling across the beach is your thing, Bournemouth beach has been voted Best of the Best by Trip advisor so it’s well worth a visit. There’s also wildlife aplenty at Brownsea Island, a dramatic lagoon in Poole Harbour, where you might spot a red squirrel hidden in the woodland. For more wildlife experiences, Monkey World is nearby where you can get up close and personal with our cheeky ape ancestors.

Finally, after a hard day exploring the coast why not make a stop at Palmers Brewery? The only remaining thatched brewery in the UK, thousands flock there every year to sample their ales.

2. STRIKING SOMERSET

With history oozing from its veins, Somerset is perfect for stepping back in time. Known for its lively music festival, Glastonbury is also known for its Tor – a striking hill that is a great challenge for hikers. If you prefer a less challenging walk, Stonehenge isn’t far from Somerset and you’ll get some enviable Instagrammable pictures! And if walking isn’t your thing the West Somerset railway takes you on a 20 mile steam train ride through coast and country.

3. GLORIOUS GLOUCESTERSHIRE

Famed for its magnificent views over the River Wye, Symonds Yat Rock is world famous. With birds of prey, an ancient fort, and a log cabin café – you could spend the whole day there. Don’t forget your bike! If you’re an adrenaline junkie, you could go for a ride in a hot air balloon with Elite Air who promise spectacular views across Gloucestershire and beyond. If a relaxing afternoon sampling gin is more your thing, the 6 O’clock Gin Distillery won’t disappoint. They’ll show you the sights, smells and sounds that go into making the perfect gin and you’ll get to sample a few glasses on your way round.

4. WONDERFUL WILTSHIRE

Home to Britain’s tallest spire, the original Magna Carta, and the world’s oldest working mechanical clock, Salisbury Cathedral is a sight to behold. Surrounded by sprawling greenery, you’ll need to give yourself a couple of hours to appreciate all of its beauty. Classic cars are the star of the show at the Atwell Wilson Motor Museum. With over 100 exhibits, ranging from cars and motorcycles, to lorries and bicycles, your inner petrol-head will be in awe. But if it’s trains you like, the Museum of the Great Western Railway is the place to go. Finally, if wildlife is your passion you can’t miss Longleat Safari Park – but be careful, the monkeys love to hitch a ride on your car!

5. OUTSTANDING OXFORDSHIRE

If you prefer to do the cooking yourself, the Raymond Blanc Cookery School is the place for you. Whether you’re young, old, a novice or expert, you’ll learn world famous French cuisine that you can impress your holiday home guests with. For the academics amongst you, the Oxford University Museum of Natural History is a great day out with dodos, dinosaurs and displays aplenty you’re guaranteed to learn something new. And if you’re a shopaholic, nearby Bicester Village is the perfect place to snap up a bargain. With world leading brands like The White Company and Under Armour, on sale all year round you’ll be spoilt for choice.

6. HIGH-CLASS HAMPSHIRE

If you fancy yourself as a lord or lady, Highclere Castle is a short drive from Oxfordshire. The filming location of Downton Abbey, Highclere is considered one of the finest Victorian homes still in existence. Why not book a tour and treat yourself to the ultimate Lady Crawley afternoon tea? Milestones Living History Museum is one for the history buffs. Explore the museum’s streets, buy a ration of sweets from their 1940s sweet shop, or have a go in their penny arcade. For even more history you can visit The Mary Rose ship, a firm favourite of Henry VIII, or the Solent Sky Museum to learn about the history of some of the greatest planes including the mighty Spitfire.