Are you looking to mix things up while visiting Butlin’s Minehead?
While the Butlin’s Minehead resort offers plenty of activities on site, it can also be worth taking time to explore the local area.
In this post I take a look at some of the best local attractions within a one hour drive of Butlin’s Minehead location.
Before our first ever trip to Butlin’s Minehead back in 2022, I spent a lot of time researching things to do in the local area.
I wasn’t entirely convinced there would be enough to keep us busy on site, so I wanted plenty of backup ideas just in case.
Well, I couldn’t have been more wrong! We found there was more than enough to keep us entertained at Butlin’s itself. That said, I know lots of people enjoy returning regularly and like to use their trip as a chance to explore a bit further afield.
In fact, midweek breaks at Butlin’s can be so reasonably priced that it also makes a great base for discovering everything West Somerset has to offer—even if you’re not planning to use all the onsite facilities.
With that in mind, I’ve kept most of the recommendations within an hour of the Minehead resort, with a few options also included for those without a car.
And for anyone happy to travel a little further, I’ve added a couple of extra ideas towards the end of the post.
These are all full-day trips worth making the most of because if you’re travelling over an hour on holiday, it really does need to be worth it!
All prices mentioned in this post are a guide and are subject to change by the attraction. Travel times are a rough guide and depend on traffic levels.
Butlin’s Vs Center Parcs; Which Is Better?
Butlin’s Packing List (2026) What You Actually Need to Take
Butlin’s Minehead Comfort Plus (previously Gold) Apartment Review
Butlin’s Minehead Comfort Apartment Review
Premium Dining At Butlin’s Minehead
What Is The WIFI Like At Butlin’s Minehead?
Butlin’s Minehead Review Spooktober Half Term
Best Things to Do Near Butlin’s Minehead (Quick Picks)
Best theme park: Crealy (travel time 1hr 20)
Best free activity: Donniford Farm
Best beach: Minehead Beach
Best for rainy days: Avenue Cinema
23 Awesome Things To Do Near Devon Cliffs Holiday Park
Minehead Beach
No driving required
Minehead Beach stretches right along the town’s seafront, and the section opposite Butlin’s Minehead is the most popular and easiest to get to for visitors staying at the resort.
It’s a wide, pebble-and-sand beach with plenty of space for paddling, beach games, or simply sitting and enjoying the views across the Bristol Channel.
Just behind the beach you’ll find the promenade, cafés, and easy access back into town.
If you enjoy this kind of content, take a look at my UK Holidays & Days Out Hub for more inspiration
Exmoor Explorer Bus (formerly Exmoor Coaster)
No driving required – Open top bus operates during parts of July and August
Explore the local coastline while travelling in style – definitely one of the best ways to take in those scenic views.
This seasonal service runs daily from late May through to the end of August, linking Minehead and Ilfracombe via Porlock and Lynmouth.
Open top busses typically run from the end of July through all of August
With around four departures a day, it’s an easy option if you’re staying at Butlin’s Minehead, especially if you’re arriving by public transport and want to explore further afield without needing a car.
It could also work out cheaper than driving once you factor in fuel and parking, particularly at busy coastal spots.
A single journey costs around £3, making it one of the cheapest scenic coastal bus rides in the UK. Child fares are the same as adults, while under fives and concession pass holders can travel for free.
Always double check bus times before travelling as services can sometimes be limited due to inclement weather.
The Avenue Cinema, Minehead
5 minute drive, 15 minute walk – Best for rainy days
While there’s plenty to keep you busy at Butlin’s Minehead, sometimes it’s nice to head out for a change of scene.
Avenue Cinema in Minehead town centre is a great nearby option for a rainy day. When the weather turns, indoor spaces at Butlin’s can get noticeably busier, so slipping out to a quieter local cinema like this can be a really good alternative.
Tickets are usually very reasonably priced and often cheaper than the big chain cinemas, making it a solid choice if you’re trying to keep costs down while still getting a relaxed time out.
As far as I can see, this cinema does not accept Meerkat Movies vouchers.
West Somerset Railway
4 minute drive, 7 minute walk
This heritage steam railway is the longest in the UK and runs through some beautiful countryside between Minehead and Bishops Lydeard,
It’s a real treat for anyone who loves trains!
The experience is very much about the ride itself rather than the destination.
Bishops Lydeard is a pleasant enough village, but there isn’t a huge amount to do there especially for very young children, so this is really more of a ‘turn up, enjoy the journey, and head back’ kind of outing.
Tickets are on the expensive side compared to other attractions, especially for families, but for train enthusiasts both young and old it can absolutely feel worth it.
Adult tickets from Minehead to Bishops Lydeard are around £25.50 one way, or £38 return.
Child fares (ages 5–15) are usually around £13 single / £19 return, while under-5s travel free with a paying adult.
There are also “family saver” tickets if you’re travelling as a group, which can offer better value, but you’re still generally looking at around £70–£95+ for a full family return depending on journey length.
West Somerset Heritage Railway
Dunster Castle & Village
8 Minutes Drive from Butlin’s Minehead
Dunster Castle and the surrounding village of Dunster are one of the most popular days out near Butlin’s Minehead.
Perched on a hill overlooking the Somerset countryside, Dunster Castle is a striking National Trust property with beautifully kept gardens, wooded terraces, and sweeping views towards the coast.
Inside the castle itself, you’ll find a mix of medieval history and later Victorian alterations, while outside the gardens are just are also a highlight.
You’ll find some lovely children’s play areas located in the woodlands below the castle and on your way to finding them you can spend time at the small working water mill.
Entry to Dunster Castle is free for National Trust members or you can take a look at current prices on the National Trust Website.
Just below the castle, Dunster village feels like stepping back in time.
It’s full of cobbled streets, independent shops, tearooms, and historic buildings, including the iconic Yarn Market at its centre.
It’s small enough to explore at a relaxed pace, making it easy to combine with a castle visit for a full half-day or leisurely afternoon.
There is no fee to enter the village itself, however you will need to pay for parking.
Dunster Castle is a great option if you want something a little more cultural and it works especially well as it’s only a short drive from Minehead.
Tropiquaria Zoo
16 minute drive from Butlin’s Minehead
Located at Washford Cross, you may well have spotted Tropiquaria Zoo on your way into Minehead – it’s quite distinctive thanks to the nearby radio masts and the two wooden pirate ship play areas that can be seen from the main road.
At Tropiquaria Zoo, you can get up close with a wide range of animals, including snakes and tortoises in the reptile house, axolotls in the aquarium, and wallabies, raccoons, and otters in the outdoor enclosures.
There are also both indoor and outdoor play areas, along with an on-site café/restaurant, making it an easy option whatever the weather.
For us personally, it feels more like a half-day visit rather than a full-day attraction, but it’s still well worth a stop if you want something a bit different from the hustle and bustle of Butlin’s for a few hours.
Tickets are usually available on the day, so there’s no need to book in advance unless you prefer to. Just be aware that online tickets can take up to 24 hours to process, so they shouldn’t be bought on the same day you plan to visit.
| Ticket type | Price |
|---|---|
| Adult (16+ yrs) | £16.95 |
| OAP (66+ yrs) | £14.95 |
| Child (2–15 yrs) | £12.95 |
| Disabled Adult (16+ yrs) | £14.95 |
| Disabled Child (2–15 yrs) | £11.45 |
Porlock & Porlock Weir
24 minute drive from Butlin’s Minehead
If you’re looking for quieter things to do near Butlin’s Minehead, a visit to Porlock and nearby Porlock Weir offers a much slower pace compared to some of the more family-focused attractions mentioned in this list.
Despite being just a short distance apart, they feel quite different.
Porlock is a traditional village with independent shops, cafés, and plenty of history, while Porlock Weir is a small harbour area with lovely coastal views, a few places to eat, and a peaceful, tucked-away feel.
There isn’t a huge amount here specifically aimed at younger children, so it may not be the first choice if you’re travelling with kids who want lots of activities.
That said, it’s a great option if you’re visiting with grandparents, or just fancy a more relaxed afternoon away from the busier atmosphere of the Butlin’s resort.
Doniford Farm Park
24 minute drive from Butlin’s
Doniford Farm Park is a great budget-friendly option near Butlin’s Minehead, as entry to the farm itself is free.
You can feed a range of animals, including donkeys, alpacas, and chickens, with food available for a small fee from the farm shop.
One thing we really liked is that the animal area is set out as an enclosed loop, which makes it ideal for toddlers to explore safely.
There’s also a soft play area inside the café for an additional charge.
While Butlin’s does have soft play, it’s fairly small, age-restricted, and can get very busy, so this is a good alternative if you fancy a few quieter hours away from the main resort.
One thing to be aware of is that Doniford Farm Park has a strict no outside food policy, even for those with allergies, so you won’t be able to bring packed lunches or snacks.
If you’re trying to keep costs down, it’s worth eating beforehand or combining your visit with a beach picnic before or after.
Food and drink are available to buy on site.
Kilve Beach
36 Minute Drive From Butlin’s Minehead
Kilve Beach is one of my favourite beaches along this stretch of coastline. It’s mostly rocky, with a few smaller patches of sand dotted throughout.
It’s a great spot for all kinds of seaside adventures – think fossil hunting, rock pooling, and searching for shells.
Buckets and spades are still worth bringing, but it’s good to know the sandy areas are fairly limited.
You’ll need to pay for parking when you leave, and there are toilets available in the car park, although they’re a short walk from the beach itself, so it’s worth making every one have try before you head down there.
It’s also worth noting that Kilve is a pebble beach, so it’s not particularly accessible for those with mobility needs.
Finally, there’s a small tea room just by the car park, which is perfect for a quick drink or snack before heading off.
Other beaches in easy driving distance to Minehead:
Kilve isn’t the only beach along this coastal stretch. Here are a few others that are within easy driving distance of Butlin’s Minehead.
Some of these beaches are quite secluded and have limited facilities which is worth bearing in mind if you plan to visit with small children.
East Quantoxhead – a little further along from Kilve and often quieter, steps lead down to the beach.
Blue Anchor Bay – sand and shingle beach perfect for long walks.
Watchet Beach & Harbour – offers a relaxed seaside stop with a small pebble beach, colourful marina views, and a gentle, traditional harbour-town feel
Ramscombe Picnic Area, Quantock Hills
40 minute Drive
Ramscombe Picnic Area located in the Quantock Hills is probably my personal favourite on this list. We don’t live too far from Butlin’s Minehead, so it’s somewhere we visit quite often, especially during the summer months.
The main draw for us is the huge grassy meadow, which has a lovely shallow stream running alongside it.
Children will happily spend hours here, paddling in the water, building dams in the stream, exploring the woods, or playing games on the grass. It’s the kind of place where you can take a picnic, pack a football, and definitely don’t forget the wellies!
There is a small charge for parking, and toilets are available on site.
In fact, once you reach the toilets next to the small car park, you know you’re in the right place – just look to your right and you’ll see the meadow stretching down the slope.
There is a second car park a little further along, and the road loops around to form a one-way system back to the exit. It’s worth stopping at Street Bean Coffee Co on the way out for a well-earned coffee and treat.
Parking does fill up quickly on sunny days, so arriving early in the summer months is definitely recommended. There are also lots of walking routes in this area if you fancy stretching your legs!
Lynton & Lynmouth Cliff Railway
45 Minute Drive from Butlin’s Minehead
If you’re looking for memorable things to do near Butlin’s Minehead, you could opt for a trip along the coast to Lynton and Lynmouth.
One of the main attractions here is the Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway, a historic water-powered railway that links the twin villages of Lynton and Lynmouth.
Dating back to Victorian times, it carries passengers up and down the steep cliffside, offering a short but memorable journey with fantastic coastal views at the top.
At the top, you’ll find panoramic views across the coast and Exmoor, while Lynmouth below has a pretty harbour, riverside walks, and plenty of small cafés and shops to explore.
Opening times can vary throughout the summer months, so it’s worth checking before you travel – especially if you’ve left your car at Lynton and want to head back up before the railway closes at the end of the day.
Tickets cost around £4 for adults and £2.50 for children with additional fees for dogs and bicycles.
Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway
Taunton – Somerset County Town
50 minute drive from Butlin’s Minehead
Taunton is around a fifty-minute drive from Butlin’s Minehead, and while there isn’t one single attraction that would necessarily fill a whole day on its own, there are plenty of smaller stops that make it well worth the trip.
Continue Arcade – If you’re fed up with spending money on arcade games at Butlin’s, this is a great alternative.
All machines are set to free play, so you pay one entry price and can play for as long as you like. For a small additional fee, you can also leave and return later in the day, which makes it quite flexible.
Vivary Park – This Victorian park has a lot going on, including two children’s play areas, beautifully kept gardens, and a café and ice cream stand.
There’s also mini golf, plus high and low ropes adventure courses for a small charge.
You can also feed the ducks, watch the squirrels, or just relax by the water fountain.
The Museum of Somerset – Located in the heart of Taunton, this museum explores the history of the town and surrounding area.
It’s very family-friendly, with activities like drawing and dressing up for children. Entry is free, though donations are welcome.
High street shopping – Taunton has a strong mix of well-known brands including Primark, New Look, Joules, TK Maxx, FatFace, M&S, The Entertainer, JD Sports, The Works, and Boots.
Taunton Independent Quarter – A great area for something a bit different, featuring independent shops and locally made products. My personal favourites include Rocket & Bird and The Little Cheese Shop.
Places To Visit Over An Hour From Butlin’s Minehead
Crealy Theme Park
1 hour 20 Minutes from Butlin’s Minehead
Crealy will always be my top pick for a theme park day out in the South West. While the travel time from Butlin’s is well over an hour, it’s worth it for everything that Crealy has to offer, inlcuding rides, huge indoor and outdoor adventure play areas, soft play for toddlers, water slides and animal encounters as well as shows throughout the day.
You can easily spend a full day here and they often run offers throughout the summer that offer a free return pass for the following seven days.
| Ticket Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Individual | £26.50 |
| Family of 4 | £98.00 |
| Family of 5 | £117.50 |
| OAP / Blue Light | £24.50 |
| Under 92cm | Free |
Puxton Park, Nr Weston-Super-Mare
1 Hour 20 Minutes
While Puxton Park doesn’t have quite as much to offer as Crealy, I do think it makes a great stop if you’re travelling back up the M5 on your way home from Butlin’s Minehead.
There is plenty to do here for kids, including an indoor soft play, inflatable bouncy pillows, train rides, adventure play areas, high/low ropes course, bumper boats and an animal barn.
| Ticket Type | Low Peak Price | High Peak Price |
|---|---|---|
| Adult | £14.95 | £18.95 |
| Child (2–16 yrs) | £12.95 | £16.95 |
| Concession (Over 60s / disabled) | £13.95 | £17.95 |
| Under 2 | Free | Free |
I really hope this post helps you to find some lovely things to do near Butlin’s Minehead! Have I missed your favourite? Let me know in the comments and I can get it added.
