West Country

The West Country has been an inspiration for some of world’s most famous writers. Jane Austen found inspiration in Hampshire to write some of her famous classics. Dorset was the location that inspired Thomas Hardy to write his best work. The scenery in this area is astonishing and it could also work as an inspiration for you, during your language course in a homestay. This area is also famous for its cider. Many cider producers arrange tastings, which allows you to have a look in their ‘kitchen’. Another, completely different, highlight in this area is Camelot Castle, the castle of Britain’s most famous king King Arthur. In general, the counties Cornwall, Devon, and Somerset (the three at the South West of England) provide gorgeous scenery.

Things to see and do

Bath

UNESCO designated Bath as a World Heritage Site, as the city presents some of the finest architectural sights in Europe. In Bath Britain’s only hot spring is located. The Romans built an incredible temple and bathing complex around it and it still flows with natural hot water. Many museums and historic sights like the famous Royal Crescent can be found and the city centre is perfect for shopping. Bath is close to Stonehenge, the stunning, world famous, pre-historical rock formation, and Glastonbury, which hosts the enormous Glastonbury Festival with world’s biggest music performances and is visited by 150,000 yearly.

Bournemouth

Bournemouth is located on the south coast of England and research has shown that this is the happiest place in England. The Bournemouth Gardens, Oceanium and pier are definitely worth seeing. From the pier you have a splendid view of the bay and the coastline. The city is rich with beautiful buildings from the late 19th century.

Exeter

Exeter is a place with lots of history. When you walk through the streets it becomes quite obvious, with its historical, architectural highlights. The surrounding area is beautiful with its open, green fields, and unspoiled beaches in a relatively close distance. Exeter’s Cathedral and Clock Tower are worth visiting. On the other hand Exeter provides all amenities a modern city is expected to provide. Exeter has a thriving nightlife with theatres, cinemas, and nightclubs.

Bristol

Bristol is famous for its theatre, film, music, gardens, and caves. The Port of Bristol has been an important landmark for the economic wealth of the UK. Bristol is also famous for building hot air balloons!

Did you know...

... that Exeter is the home town of Chris Martin, frontman of the popular music group Coldplay?

... that the world’s first postmark was stamped at Bath in 1840?

... that the TV chefs Chris and James Tanner have two restaurants in Plymouth?

... that Cameron Balloons, a major aeronautical company in Bristol, makes the world’s largest hot air balloons?

... that Jane Austen got inspired by her three-year stay in Bath to write the books ‘Northanger Abbey’ and ‘Persuasion’.

How to get there

International airports can be found in Exeter, Bournemouth, and Bristol. There are train connections with all major cities, and there is a comprehensive local bus service.

Now see a sample of InTuition Host tutors in the region.