Prestoller House ~ Bed and Breakfast in Axminster

Places to visit around Axminster

Axminster is a small attractive market town, surrounded by beautiful countryside. Whilst most tourists flock to the busy seaside towns, for good reason, they often by-pass the smaller, interesting villages and towns inland. The ancient town of Axminster is ideally situated to explore many of east Devon's, south Somerset's and west Dorset's hidden gems, just a walk or short drive away.

Axminster was founded by Celts in about 300 bc and the only ancient building still standing is the Saxon church of St. Mary on Minster Green in the centre of the town. Today Axminster is probably best known for it's more recent history as the home of the quality carpet maker started in 1755, by Thomas Whitty. The factory can be viewed by guided tours.

To the south, the Saxon towns of Colyton an Colyford are worth a visit and you can enjoy a fascinating history walk during the summer months. Both towns offer a variety of interesting small shops. Catching the Seaton tram is a unique and enjoyable way of visiting these towns and marveling at the spectacular flora and fauna, especially the bird life along the River Axe.

We are five and a half miles from Lyme Regis with its spectacular 'Cobb' harbour wall (right), a sandy beach and many interesting shops. Within a 30 minute drive west are the picturesque coastal villages of Beer, Branscombe and Axmouth with its lovely harbour, Charmouth, Seatown and the attractive, bustling market town of Bridport. The recently designated World Heritage coastline, now called The Jurassic Coast, stretches 95 miles from east Devon into Dorset.

The South West Coast Path follows the cliff line for most of the beautiful coastline, affording wonderful views for many miles to the east and west. To the west of Lyme Regis the path winds it's way through the glorious wilderness known as the undercliff, an unspoiled wooded haven for wildlife stretching 8 miles to Axmouth.

Further afield, to the north is the wildlife park at Cricket St.Thomas, in the grounds of the beautiful manor house (of 'To the Manor Born' fame) provides endless fun for children young and old and for thrill seekers Crealy Theme Park just outside Exeter offers exciting rides and adventure playgrounds. For a more tranquil day out, Bicton Park Botanical Gardens are lovely and well worth a sedate visit.

There are many other attractions and parks in the area and we provide lots of information leaflets in the guest suite at Prestoller House but if there are specific things you would like to see or do during your stay, you can contact me and I'll endeavor to help plan your itinerary.

Meg Brewer