Travel Archives - ShaneMcDonald.ie

5 Sports Stadiums to Visit in the USA

by Shane McDonald | Nov 14, 2024 | Travel

We here in Ireland love our sports, there’s no doubt about that. Across the country, there are some incredible sports stadiums with a raucous atmosphere and some beautiful architecture. But if you’re traveling to the USA sometime in the future, we highly recommend you check out the sports stadiums there – because everything just gets a little more intense.

We’re not putting ourselves down, by the way. In the US, everything is done bigger. Their sports stadiums are big, the atmosphere is fiery, the sports are fiercely competitive, and the fans are, shall we say, passionate! Visiting one of these stadiums can give you an idea of how things are done differently, while also allowing you to soak in the unique culture that has formed around American sports over the last half-century. With this in mind, here are X of our favorite sports stadiums in the US and why you should pay them a visit.

T-Mobile Arena, Las Vegas

We want to start on the famous Las Vegas Strip – and no, not just because online betting is available in Nevada! This is one of the most incredible modern venues that hosts the NHL’s Vegas Golden Knights, as well as a variety of other high-profile sporting events, including boxing matches. The arena’s state-of-the-art facilities and vibrant atmosphere make it a top destination for sports fans. And the chance to make some online bets helps a little too!

Fenway Park, Boston

This is one of the oldest baseball stadiums in the country, renowned for its steep history and architectural charm. It’s also been home to the Boston Red Sox since 1912, so attending a game here is a little like stepping back in time – where you can enjoy classic ballpark fare and the passionate energy of Red Sox Nation!

Lambeau Field, Green Bay

Known as the ‘Frozen Tundra’, Lambeau Field is the legendary home of the Green Bay Packers. With a state-of-the-art atrium and a Hall of Fame that showcases the legacy of one of the NFL’s most storied franchises, it’s certainly worth a visit if you’re a football fan or simply someone who appreciates rich sporting history – the atrium also features impressive displays of memorabilia, highlighting the achievements of legendary players and historic moments.

Yankee Stadium, New York City

Ah, the Yankees. While the team itself loves to keep its fans on their toes, the Yankee Stadium has been a solid shrine to baseball history and culture for over fifteen years now. Opened in 2009, the stadium is a gorgeous modern piece of design, complete with fascinating monuments and even a museum. If you choose to go here, however, we’d recommend wearing a Yankees shirt, and not an opposing team. Let’s just say, New Yorkers can get extra passionate!

AT&T Stadium, Arlington

Home to the Dallas Cowboys, the AT&T Stadium is an architectural marvel that boasts one of the largest high-definition video screens in the world. Even if you have one of the furthest seats, you’re not going to miss any of the action, and the stadium offers a particularly luxurious experience with a number of upscale dining amenities. Beyond American football, the stadium also hosts a number of major concerts and events, making it a great spot even if you’re not the biggest sports fan. But we’d recommend visiting during a game, especially if you want to be embedded in an atmosphere you’ll never forget.

Conclusion

These are just a few of the stadiums we think you should visit, but there are many more. Whether it’s the Rose Bowl, Nassau Coliseum, Allegiant Stadium, or the United Center, you’re sure to find an electrifying experience that will be hard to top. Until you come back to Croke Park during the championships, that is!

Tipping in Ireland – Is it Done? Will it become the Norm?

by Shane McDonald | Oct 17, 2024 | Ireland, Lifestyle, Travel

I only heard a discussion yesterday on Newstalk FM (Ireland) about Tipping and it prompted me to write this article.

Do you tip in restaurants in the UK & Ireland? Did you know that Tipping actually originated in Europe and became widespread in the United States in the late 19th century? Initially, tipping was seen as a way to reward exceptional service, allowing customers to directly show appreciation for a job well done. Over time, however, it became institutionalized, especially in restaurants, hospitality, and other service industries, where it often compensates for low base wages. In the U.S., many service workers are paid below the federal minimum wage, and tipping makes up a significant portion of their income.

Tipping allows businesses to shift the cost of labour onto customers while keeping menu prices lower. It also motivates employees to provide better service, as higher tips are often tied to customer satisfaction. However, this system has drawn criticism for fostering income instability, potential bias in how tips are distributed, and creating disparities in compensation across different sectors of the service industry.

Tipping in UK and Ireland

More and more we are seeing tipping appear on Point of Sale and credit/debit card tapping systems. When you get your coffee and snack, you are told that it’s €6.20 and you go to tap, but in front of you is a prompt, 10%, 15%, 20%, No Tip (or Skip). This actually happened to me yesterday but the manager was on the till and he just pressed SKIP. No my understanding of that is that it’s just a coffee and a muffin so there is very little service involved – however for a full lunch for two people with drinks, followed by dessert, there is a bit more service here and tipping might be encouraged.

My experience of Tipping in the US and Canada

When I was in Canada, Quebec to be exact, I was in a restaurant, speaking French, we ordered and enjoyed the meal. The bill was $51 I rounded the bill up to the nearest whole amount, $60 in this case and we left. The next day we decided to go back to the same restaurant but when ordering the server said that she remembered us and we did not pay 20% (we paid 17%) and today it would be added on automatically. This to me is cheeky and it is where tipping falls down. It was quite rude of the server in my view.

Likewise, also in Canada, at a buffet service, a server came and asked if we wanted coffee. We did not and just used the buffet. On paying, at the exit, we were asked if we wanted to tip and we said, “It’s a buffet, you serve yourself” but we were told that “someone asked you if you wanted coffee” – we made the point that we did not want coffee. On this occasion, we did not tip.

On the flip side, I have eaten in restaurants where the food, service, and ambiance have all bee 5 stars and we have tipped over and above because we were made to feel welcome and the focus of good service. My point here is that there are times when tipping is deserved and when it is not. You can’t simply tip for the sake of it.

Tipping in Ireland and the UK

Do I tip in Ireland and the UK? Yes, I do. I feel that in the restaurants I visit when I get a meal where I know a lot of work went into preparing, I will tip for sure. I normally add 20% and for this I get great service on return. There have been times when service tips have not been given. Especially when staff have made it clear that they don’t want to give any level of service or indeed when the food is not up to par.

I feel it is a good thing but only when it is clear that the tips actually go to the staff. If the tips were then tax free, it would help those who perhaps are on minimum wage or indeed who are getting through college with these part time jobs.

Inchydoney Island Lodge & Spa Hotel Review

by Shane McDonald | Oct 14, 2024 | Hotel Reviews, Travel

Having just returned from a 2-night stay at Inchydoney I am very much relaxed. In April I also spent 2 days at Inchydoney Island Lodge and Spa and every time I go there I am so impressed with the hotel, its staff, the food, the accommodation, and the spa that I just had to share my experience of this amazing Irish Hotel. I noticed on this visit that they won the Gold Medal Awards as the best 4 star hotel in Ireland which is a great achievement.

Their website states, “A warm welcome awaits you in one of Ireland’s most exclusive and tranquil retreats. A true destination for people who value time together.” and this statement could not be more true.

Check-In

The check-in for any hotel is usually the same across most hotels, however here on check-in, we had a very nice check-in followed by a complimentary welcome drink which was very much appreciated. We spent about 30 minutes relaxing in the reception area before heading to the room.

The Room

The Rooms are very luxurious with beautiful sea views out over the Atlantic coast. It is a setting far removed from what you expect for Ireland, more resembling the south of France. It feels like you are very far from home and it is very relaxing. The room comes with robes, clippers, tea facilities, a Nespresso machine, complimentary water, flat screen TV, and our room had a beautiful balcony area where we could chill in the warm sun which enveloped the balcony. The sleeps are very comfortable and the bathroom is large with everything you need including Elemis products.

The Food

There are 2 restaurants that we visited, these were nautically themed Dunes Pub & Bistro and our Fine Dining Gulfstream Restaurant. The Dunes Pub was where we enjoyed a fantastic prawn curry, which tasted fantastic and the portion size was just perfect. In the Gulfstream Restaurant, we had John Dory, again, sublime food with a stunning view out over the bay. The service at the restaurants is excellent and you are checked on to ensure all is good.
Breakfast is served in the Gulfstream Restaurant and you will be sure to have everything you want at breakfast.

The Spa

It was about 8 years since I had a spa treatment, so this was worth waiting for. I had the Sleep Tight treatment which included a foot treatment, back massage, and also a neck and shoulders/head massage. It was very relaxing indeed and while enjoying the fruit in the relaxation room post-treatment, my fitness tracker showed my heart rate at 9 bpm lower than my normal average resting heart rate – so it really did relax me.

Before we went for the spa treatment we did enjoy the Seawater Therapy Pool and the sauna and steam room which was a great way to enjoy all the Spa had to offer.

The Location

Inchydoney is located about 10 minutes from Clonakilty in Co. Cork and has a beach only steps away from the hotel. From Waterford the journey took 2 hours 30 minutes which is not bad indeed, especially considering the rewards of relaxation which awaited us.

Inchydoney Island Lodge & Spa - Views from nearby beach

Overall Review 10/10

Inchydoney Island Lodge & Spa is set in a stunning location and has fantastic accommodation food and service. This hotel stay gave the most spectacular scenery, food, and relaxation with the best views overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and is a very romantic and picturesque location on the Wild Atlantic Way. With Free Parking, Free Wifi, an indoor Saltwater pool, steam room, sauna, and fitness center, all of which you can enjoy for free during your stay – this has to be the Best Hotel I have visited in Ireland. I look forward to returning very soon.

Website: https://www.inchydoneyisland.com/

12 Essential Tips to Be Safe on a Group Trekking Adventure

by Shane McDonald | Sep 30, 2024 | Travel

Introduction

Trekking is a voyage into the splendor of nature. From serene peaks to vast valleys, you see the rawest landscapes while trekking. Most people prefer to go on a luxurious adventure, which we call vacation.

If it’s a family trip, then it’s fine, but when you are traveling with your friends or partner, you need to have the tenacity to do something more. Group treks are the best way to truly experience something new and understand the diversity of a place with its related culture.

We have seen people mostly go for luxurious trips, with a luxury villa to stay in and cherish the days in front of calm and beautiful nature. If it is a weekend trip, then cherishing the beauty of nature from a villa window is absolutely fine, but not if you want to go out and see the real beauty a place possesses.

It is not in the luxury that you will find the real cultural significance of a place, but traveling through the unknown will give you an unforgettable raw experience. So, here we are for the trek enthusiasts.

Are you ready to go on an unforgettable journey?

Well, before you start your next trek with your known or unknown group, keep in mind that this is not something easy. On a trek, you might face unwanted obstacles. And if you are a trekker, you must be aware of anything uncertain. It’s possible to gift your neighbor get-well flowers Switzerland next time you come back from a trek safely.

So, avoid ruining a breathtaking environment by considering meticulous preparation and safety measures.

Why is Trekking So Special?

If you ask this question to an experienced hiker, they will only laugh at you. However, knowing is unknown should be your priority, and thus you have come to the right place before starting your journey safely.

Stepping out for your next expedition holds a special place in the hearts of adventurers for several reasons. Its appeal is undeniable to those who embrace the challenge. Trekking allows you to experience the raw beauty of nature in a way that few other activities can. Unlike habitual tourist vacations that often center around luxury and passive enjoyment of scenic vistas, trekking demands active engagement.

When you trek, you immerse yourself in the landscape, traversing serene peaks and vast valleys, directly encountering the unfiltered majesty of the natural world.

Moreover, trekking with a group, whether with friends, family, or even strangers, adds a unique dimension to the adventure. It fosters a sense of community and shared experience that can be incredibly fulfilling. The act of facing and overcoming challenges together strengthens bonds and creates memories that last a lifetime. Group treks also offer the opportunity to experience and appreciate the cultural diversity of a place. Venturing through unknown territories allows trekkers to gain a deep understanding of the local culture, history, and traditions, making each step a learning experience.

Furthermore, trekking embodies the spirit of exploration and the pursuit of the unknown. It challenges individuals to push their limits, both physically and mentally, offering a sense of achievement and personal growth that is hard to find elsewhere. The unpredictability of trekking adventures—dealing with sudden weather changes, navigating difficult terrains, or encountering wildlife—teaches resilience, problem-solving, and adaptability.

Importance Of Preparation and Safety Precautions for a Trek

Preparation and safety precautions are absolutely vital for a trek to ensure that everyone involved has a safe and enjoyable experience. Before setting out, it’s crucial to research the trek thoroughly, understanding the type of terrain you will encounter, the local climate, and any potential hazards such as wildlife, unstable paths, or weather-related risks. This research helps in packing the right equipment and preparing mentally and physically for the journey ahead.

Research about the trek
Understanding the terrain
The climate
Potential hazards

Focusing on these areas will help you stay ahead of difficult situations or find solutions quickly. Choosing the right trek for your group based on everyone’s fitness level and trekking experience is essential. It’s also important to equip everyone with necessary gear, which includes appropriate clothing for varying weather conditions, sturdy hiking boots, a well-fitting backpack, and essential equipment like a map, compass, a first-aid kit, and a multi-tool.

Planning for emergencies is another key aspect of preparation. This means ensuring at least one person in the group has basic first-aid training, carrying a well-stocked first-aid kit, and being aware of the nearest emergency services. It also involves having a clear plan in place for dealing with injuries or other unexpected events.

Safety Tips for a Group Trek Adventure

Group treks offer an incredible opportunity to explore nature. However, venturing into the great outdoors with a group requires careful planning and awareness to ensure everyone stays safe and has a memorable experience.

The foundation of a successful journey starts with planning. So, if you are trying to ensure that your choices and preparations are top-notch, you must plan for it.

Getting lost in an unfamiliar trail is the most common difficulty faced by trekkers and especially beginners. Treks are not marked areas. If you go on an adventure, you should not expert that the path is ready and clear for you.

While you are not the only one in the adventure and your group will be there, finding the right path and managing the whole planning with your group in advance is a must.

Don’t worry!

We have got you covered this time with all the safety precautions and planning instances. Before you step out, keep these safety tips in your mind’s pocket.

Choose the Right Trek for Your Group

Not all treks are created equal, and selecting one that matches the skill level and physical fitness of your group is crucial. For instance, if you are a pro trekker that does not mean all the members of your group can show the same sort of potential while on an adventure trip.

It is not like you are the only one going on the trek, but when it comes to adventure groups, you will need to understand the concerns related to others. When it is not just an individual adventure your choices and preferences must not be prioritized.

So, ensure the trek’s difficulty aligns with everyone’s abilities and experience. Research the terrain, weather conditions, and duration to avoid any unpleasant surprises.

Prepare and Pack Properly

Packing the right gear is essential for safety and comfort. It is not a luxury vacation that you can manage within a villa. If the weather is harsh, you will not get a proper shade sometimes to cover yourself under.

In such critical conditions, you might not be near to the locality and that makes it difficult to gather resources. Sometimes, you and your group lack the quality of resources. So, in many ways you are packing all the essentials becomes important.

Appropriate clothing for varying weather conditions.

Sturdy hiking boots.

A well-fitting backpack.

Essential equipment like a map, compass, first aid kit, and multi-tool.

Keeping these equipment with you is an advantage while facing harsh weather conditions or any other difficult situation on the go.

Also, don’t forget personal items like sunscreen, insect repellent, and sufficient food and water.

Plan for Emergencies

Even with the best planning, emergencies can happen. Ensure someone in the group has basic first aid training and carries a well-stocked first aid kit.

Familiarize yourself with the nearest emergency services and have a plan for dealing with injuries or unexpected situations.

Stay Hydrated and Energized

Proper hydration and nutrition are key to maintaining energy and stamina. If you are not fit enough, you will not be able to complete the trek at the same pace others do it. Also, it might not help your group members. Why?

If someone gets sick during the journey, from taking extra care to giving them all sorts of advantages might not be easy for others.

So, it is better to carry plenty of water and know how to purify it if necessary. Bring high-energy snacks like trail mix, granola bars, and fruit to keep everyone fueled throughout the trek.

Follow a Group Pace

Pacing is crucial for maintaining group safety. Ensure everyone is comfortable with the pace and avoid pushing individuals beyond their limits. Regular breaks are essential, especially for longer treks. This approach prevents exhaustion and reduces the risk of accidents.

You might think that you have your own pace and fitness level, and you will follow that. But when you are in a group and if it is a trek through touch terrains if you lose them on the go, you might loose your path as well. Also if you fall in a difficult situation there will be no one to help you right on the spot.

Stick to Established Trails

To minimize environmental impact and reduce the risk of getting lost, stick to marked trails and paths. Deviating from established routes can lead to dangerous situations and damage to the ecosystem. If you are exploring less-traveled areas, make sure someone in the group is experienced in navigation.

Let’s say your group has members and you are more outrageous than others. In such conditions you might sometimes feel unconventional. Well, there is nothing wrong with it but the moment you start exploring that extra mile, you may fall into trouble.

So, be aware of your conditions and ensure that you are not alone in that extra trail. Keep someone with you and never forget to keep all advanced gadgets with you.

Respect Wildlife and the Environment

Encountering wildlife can be one of the highlights of a trek, but it’s essential to observe animals from a distance and avoid feeding or approaching them.

Additionally, follow the Leave No Trace principles by packing out all trash, respecting local flora and fauna, and avoiding disturbances to natural habitats.

Communicate Clearly

Effective communication is vital in a group setting. Establish signals for attention and communication before starting the trek, and make sure everyone knows how to use them. Regularly check in with each other and discuss any concerns or changes in plans as they arise.

When it’s a trek communication is the key to make it successful. If you think that you can deal with it on your own, then it will be a wrong step for a group trek. So, communicate with your teammates and make it happen!

From experienced people to naive trekkers, a better communication can create harmony among them to make the trek successful.

Be Weather-Wise

Weather conditions can change rapidly in outdoor environments. Check the weather forecast before setting out and be prepared for unexpected changes. Dress in layers to adapt to temperature fluctuations and be ready to turn back or seek shelter if severe weather approaches.

Know Your Limits

It’s important to recognize your own limits and those of your group members. If someone is struggling, assess whether it’s safe to continue or if adjustments need to be made. Avoid the temptation to push through discomfort at the expense of safety.

No matter how fit you are, do not over-estimate your limits. Plan wisely and follow that itinerary throughout. This will help you reach your trekking goals better without worries or accidents.

Use Technology Wisely

While technology can enhance safety, it’s not a substitute for traditional skills. Carry a GPS device or smartphone with offline maps, but also ensure you have basic navigation skills like reading a map and using a compass.

Relying solely on technology can be risky if devices fail or batteries die.

Foster a Positive Group Dynamic

A positive and cooperative group dynamic contributes significantly to safety and enjoyment. Foster an environment of mutual respect and support, and encourage open communication.

A well-coordinated group is better equipped to handle challenges and ensure a safe and enjoyable trek.

Start Your Journey with a Plan

By following these essential safety tips, you can help ensure that your group trek adventure is both safe and enjoyable.

Planning ahead, staying aware, and working together as a team will help you make the most of your outdoor experience. Just like you, everyone else in your group is also worried about it. Complete your trek with preparation and make it happen!

Happy trekking!

My stay at the Excalibur Hotel and Casino, Las Vegas

by Shane McDonald | Jun 27, 2024 | Hotel Reviews, Travel

I have been to Las Vegas 3 times now since 2022 and the previous 2 times I stayed at The Luxor but this time, I decided upon the Excalibur as it was working out slightly cheaper for the dates I wanted.

About the Excalibur Hotel and Casino

Excalibur Hotel and Casino is a casino hotel on the Las Vegas Strip operated by MGM Resorts, the same company that owns The Luxor Hotel where I stayed previously. The resort features a medieval castle theme and is named after King Arthur’s mythical Excalibur sword. The Excalibur Property includes a casino, a 28-story hotel with 3,981 rooms, and various restaurants.

The $290 million property was originally developed by Circus Circus Enterprises and construction of the hotel and casino began in October 1988, with the Excalibur resort opening on June 19, 1990 – so I was staying almost exactly 34 years after it’s opening. It was the largest hotel in the world until the opening of the nearby MGM Grand in 1993.

My Stay and Review

I arrived at around 11 pm following a 10 pm landing at the nearby airport. My taxi ride only took about 10 minutes and proximity to the airport is one advantage to this hotel.

The check-in was processed very fast and I was given a small upgrade to a 12th-floor tower room as I extended my stay on arrival.

The room was very nice but quite a long way from the elevators. Now, I actually like being away from the elevators to avoid noise so my location in the hotel was ideal for me. The room may be considered a small bit dated in design however it was clean, comfortable, and welcoming. I did notice that along with the air conditioning, there were aromatherapy diffusers and also a dehumidifier ( I will come back to this later). The shower and bathroom are large and the shower has plenty of hot water and power. The bed was super comfy and I had a very enjoyable 11-hour sleep to recover from my jet lag; so the next day I was unaffected by my 24 hours of travel on the day before. It was just as well really as I was performing at 7 pm and had soundcheck at 3 pm… the quality of sleep allowed me to be perfectly energetic and awake.

So coming back to the dehumidifier in the room; normally my sinuses play up with all the air conditioning in the hotels and public areas, since in Ireland we don’t have this and it seems to really dry me out. However, with the dehumidifier in the room, I was unaffected and this is another reason why I will certainly consider returning to the Excalibur hotel.

There is a very large casino area, and I did try a few thing like roulette and a few slots but I didn’t win much at all – unlike the $258 I won th last time I was in Las Vegas. Dining is available at multiple locations including a food court and also a very good Buffet which starts at around $31 per person for lunch.

Overall I really enjoyed my stay and I will certainly be back to either this great hotel.

If you have been to Vegas, what is your favourite hotel – leave a comment below and I might try your suggestion next !

This castle-themed resort and casino is located central on the Las Vegas Strip. It features 4 seasonal outdoor pools, 14 restaurants, 100,000-square-foot casino and live nightly entertainment are provided.

WiFi (included with the resort fee) is provided throughout rooms at Excalibur. Every room has a cable TV, a large bathroom with a hair dryer.

The Excalibur Hotel and Casino provides a tour desk. Guests can browse the numerous on-site shops.

There are 4 outdoor pools featuring a water slide, poolside cabanas, and an Adult Only Pool. A large gym with modern equipment is also available.

Interstate 15 is 1 mile from the resort offering easy access to area attractions Harry Reid International Airport is 2.8 miles away and the University of Nevada-Las Vegas is 2.5 miles from the hotel.

Discovering the Charms of Somerset: Things to do in Somerset

by Shane McDonald | Apr 11, 2024 | Travel

Somerset, a county nestled in the verdant landscapes of England’s Southwest, beckons travelers with its captivating blend of natural beauty, historic landmarks, and quintessential English charm. Whether you’re a history aficionado, a nature enthusiast, or simply seeking a tranquil escape, Somerset promises a plethora of experiences to indulge in. I have holidayed in Somerset for many years now and I know it like the back of my hand. So, here’s a curated list of things to do in Somerset, some of my must-visit destinations and activities to make the most of your Somerset sojourn:

1. Glastonbury Tor and Abbey

Why Visit: Delve into centuries of myth and legend at Glastonbury Abbey, believed to be the burial site of King Arthur and Queen Guinevere. When you are there you should purchase some of the delicious Mead which is made here.

What to Do: Climb the iconic Glastonbury Tor for panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, steeped in mystical allure. The views are amazing and you can often see the Tor in footage of the Glastonbury Festival which is broadcast by the BBC each summer.

Where to Eat: Enjoy a delicious meal in the Hundred Monkeys or you can have something more substantial at the George & Pilgrims or the Crown Hotel

You should also venture into the new age shops which dot the town and enjoy perhaps some meditation at the Goddess Temple.

2. Cheddar Gorge

Why Visit: Explore one of Britain’s most stunning natural wonders, carved by ancient glacial meltwaters. If you only have time to do 3 of these things to do in Somerset then this has to be on your list.

What to Do: Take a guided tour of the Cheddar Gorge & Caves in Cheddar and also at Wookey Hole and sample world-famous Cheddar cheese at nearby creameries. Also, climb the famous Cheddar Gorge for great views of the surrounding areas. Avoid the charges by climbing from Lynch Lane (click here for a map of the starting point) – this brings you to the base of Jacobs Ladder and you can start the climb for free from here. You can see Glastonbury Tor from here and also on a clear day, you can even see Wales. Note that parking and traffic in Cheddar Gorge can be busy so getting to Cheddar early, plus downloading the Parking by Phone smartphone app is recommended.

Where to Eat: There is great food to be had, especially the soups, at the Lions Rock Tea Rooms.

3. Exmoor National Park

Why Visit: Immerse yourself in the untamed beauty of Exmoor’s moorlands, valleys, and coastline. There are some amazing places to visit, and if you are a fan of the Poirot show starring David Suchet, then you should visit Dunster town which starred in one of these episodes. Also, I totally recommend the West Somerset Steam Train which takes you on a great trip to Minehead. This steam train brings you back in time to the age of steam and is a great way to see the countryside. On the way, you will see pheasants, buzzards, and perhaps even a sparrow hawk; as well as the great scenery on the way.

What to Do: Hike scenic trails when you are on the moors, spot wildlife such as red deer and wild ponies, or embark on a stargazing adventure in this designated Dark Sky Reserve.

4. Wells Cathedral and City

Why Visit: Marvel at the stunning architecture of England’s smallest city and its magnificent cathedral, featuring intricate Gothic design. There is also a great farmers market here every Wednesday and Saturday – I recommend the cornbread and the cheeses available here.

What to Do: Explore the historic streets, visit the Wells & Mendip Museum, or attend a concert within the cathedral’s awe-inspiring walls. Wells is also the location for the filming of the movie, Hot Fuzz, so you may see some locations which are familiar – don’t forget to buy a Cornetto.

Where to Eat: The best place which I found in Wells for food is The City Arms in the heart of Wells. I have eaten here a few times and the food has always been 100% Wonderful.

5. Bath

Why Visit: Step back in time in this UNESCO World Heritage city renowned for its Roman baths and elegant Georgian architecture.

What to Do: Soak in the natural thermal waters at Thermae Bath Spa, wander through the Royal Crescent and Circus, or indulge in retail therapy at independent boutiques. The town has a number of small boutiques and great eateries. On a recent visit, it was obvious to see how much of an impact the closure of Debenhams has had on the central area. But there is a lot to see in this town – if you love architecture, this is a must-visit.

6. Somerset Levels and Moors

Why Visit: Discover the tranquil beauty of England’s largest wetland area, teeming with diverse flora and fauna.

What to Do: Take a boat trip along the scenic waterways, explore historic villages such as Glastonbury and Muchelney, or go birdwatching in RSPB nature reserves. I recommend the Hamm Bird Reserve because you can park here, walk the bird reserve and then walk on further all the way to Glastonbury – so a great day out and a good walk aos.

Other areas of Interest

If you find yourself around the area of Cross, near Axbridge, I totally recommend the White Hart Inn – check their facebook page for details of the food offerings and opening hours, plus music nights which often happen around the weekends.

From mystical landmarks to scenic countryside, Somerset invites visitors to embark on a journey of discovery, where every turn reveals a new facet of its timeless allure. So pack your bags, lace up your boots, and prepare to be enchanted by the treasures awaiting in this charming corner of England.

Map of Locations by Wanderlog

This map was made with Wanderlog, a travel planner on iOS and Android

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