Monuments to visit Southwest

It is Bath's flagship attraction, inherited from the Roman occupation. In the 12th century, the King's Bath was built there around the spring. The place became again a place to visit and cure for the benefits it was found. In the 18th century, mineral water began to be consumed and the Pump Room was built for this purpose. It was not until 1880 that the Roman remains were discovered and exhumed. The visit is a true journey through time and the ostentation of ancient elegance. Beware, there can be a lot of people in summer!

This magnificent theatre enjoys a spectacular location, perched on the cliffs of the small municipality of Porthcurno. Although it looks like an antique hemicycle, its construction only began in 1930, thanks to the plans of a tireless English lady, Miss Cade, who completed most of it. It still hosts performances in the summer and the back of each seat bears the inscription of a work : The Merchant of Venice, Alice in Wonderland... If you're in the area during the summer, be sure to spend the evening.

At the top of the cliffs lie the ruins of this legendary castle, traditionally believed to be the birthplace of King Arthur. The present structure was built later, in the ^13th century, and the site chosen for its construction is exceptional. To reach it, you have to climb steep, uneven steps. The spectacular views will reward your efforts, and both the panorama and the setting are magnificent, with the jagged coastline all around and the sea as far as the eye can see. An exhibition on site tells the story of the site. A pleasant visit.

Built at the very beginning of the 18th century in 1701, during the reign of Queen Anne, the Mompesson House boasts magnificent ceilings and an absolutely sumptuous oak staircase. There is a strange, nostalgic atmosphere in the house that contrasts with the hustle and bustle of Cathedral Close. It was for this reason, among others, that it was selected as the location for the film Reasons and Feelings, based on the novel by Jane Austen. A visit not to be missed for lovers of beautiful homes!

Symbol of Glastonbury, this great hill was a place of retreat for the monks, before becoming a chapel, destroyed by an earthquake in 1275. Rebuilt later, the ruins of the Chapel of St Michael can still be seen here. Today it is only a tower, but a mystical atmosphere surrounds it. The Arthurian legends linked to the site are numerous and some see the entrance to Avalon, the burial place of King Arthur. You have to climb it to grasp the magnificence of the place and the flat landscapes that surround it. Beautiful pictures from the top

Clifton Village is certainly Bristol's most walkable district. On every corner, magnificent Georgian villas bear witness to a prolific architectural era. The stroll takes you past clothing boutiques and antique shops. Don't miss Clifton Down Road and the Clifton Arcade, a tiny passageway concealing a candy store, jewelry store and other wonders. And take a look at the famous suspension bridge!

Located at the end of Gay Street, The Circus is the masterpiece of architect John Wood (Sr.). It consists of 30 houses lined up in a circle. Famous people have taken up residence here: at random, the names of the painter Gainsborough, the politician William Pitt, or the writer David Livingstone can be read on commemorative plaques. Brock Street connects the square to the Royal Crescent. Designed by John Wood (son), it was the glory of Bath in Georgian times.

Built in 1795, The Guildhall trône in the city centre on Market Place. The square has been welcoming markets since the th century. Today, local produce stands are set up every Tuesday and Saturday.

Behind The Guildhall there are two medieval houses. Just behind the square, on Fish Row, you will see other old buildings, including the small half-timbered cottage that houses a butchery, Pritchett Family Butcher, which proudly displays on the storefront Home Almendra only! Also note Poultry Cross, the th century Gothic cross at Market Place and the Council House (th century).

Beautiful gardens. If construction began in the th century, it was completed in the th and th centuries and the style is now more rococo than medieval. Note the west elevation by Christopher Wren. The Duke of Malmesbury was the first to reside here. Today private property, however open to the public by appointment.

This Elizabethan-style manor house was built in the 16th century by the Prideaux-Brune family, supposed descendants of William the Conqueror who still live there today. Its interior, richly decorated with magnificent ceilings, made it the location of many period films. Very beautiful view of the Camel River. The house offers a beautiful collection of artwork, including royal and family portraits, quality furniture and the Prideaux porcelain collection. The ceiling discovered in the Grand Chamber is a masterpiece.

Built in 1117, Berkeley Castle's history begins with the meeting of the western barons who forced King John to sign the Magna Carta at Runnymede. It continues with the murder of Edward II in 1327 and Cromwell's siege in 1645 (he actually breached the wall, which is legally forbidden to repair). There are many fine interiors to visit, as well as a sublime English-style garden adorned with roses, rare plant species, shrubs and trees. A wonderful visit, typical of the region, and of English castles and their history.

Bishop's Palace dates back to the 13th century and has been modified many times over the centuries. It is the residence of the Bishop of Bath and Wells, who still lives within the walls of the north wing today. The building is open to visitors and it is interesting to discover its rich history and varied architectural styles. A special feature is that the swans in the gardens have been trained to ring the bell when they are hungry and are fed with wholemeal bread! A nice visit to make with the family.

In 1864, this 32-room Roman villa with baths and mosaics dating from the ^1st century A.D. was excavated. It is set in the heart of a beautiful valley. In the basement, you can visit the baths, kitchens, salons, temple and latrines of the period. It was later transformed into a large half-timbered manor house, and the audio commentary helps to recreate the atmosphere of the time. One of the largest Roman villas in Britain, it offers a rare insight into Roman life in the country.

It's Bristol's star attraction. The SS Great Britain was born from the imagination of Isambard Brunel in 1843. Consecrated the largest ship in the world at the time, this colossus sailed to New York and Melbourne. It was also used to transport troops to the Crimea and India. An exhibition explains how it worked, which was revolutionary from a technical point of view. Thanks to a dry dock, one can go around the hull before going through the deck and its many parts.

In the nearby market town of Wilton, Wilton House is an elegant noble residence that has belonged to the Earls of Pembroke for over 400 years. Enlarged and embellished over the years, it is an example of highly refined architecture and its interiors are of rare beauty. It is best known for its seven state rooms. The site also boasts some of England's first known formal gardens, with grottoes and water features, and has been the location for several films, including Barry Lindon and Pride and Prejudice.

An iconic landmark, this architecturally attractive building was opened in 1925. It belongs to the University of Bristol and houses the university's law and earth sciences departments. It is here that the university's prestigious graduation ceremonies are held. Visits are rare but well worth the detour. You can see the great hall, the Council Chamber and the libraries, all of which are very interesting. From the top of the 78-metre tower, the view is superb - not to be missed!

Appreciated for its beautiful architecture and red brickwork, the Cabot Tower in Brandon Hill Park is one of the city's best-known landmarks. It was built in 1897 to commemorate the voyage of John Cabot, the Italian navigator in the service of England, between Bristol and North America four hundred years earlier. The park, with its water-lily pond, is a pleasant place to stroll. You can then climb to the top of the tower, free of charge, for beautiful panoramic views of the surrounding area. But beware: the stairs are very steep!

St Nicholas Priory is a historic building originally built in the 11th century as a Benedictine monastery, but over the centuries, it has been used for a variety of purposes, including a merchant's house, a workhouse, and a museum. Today, the priory is open to the public as a museum and offers visitors a unique insight into the life and history of Exeter. The museum's collections include a wide range of artifacts and exhibits that showcase the town's rich history, from the Roman occupation to the present day. Consult website for events.

Exeter Cathedral is a beautiful medieval cathedral located in the heart of Exeter. It is one of the most impressive and historic buildings in the city and is widely regarded as one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in Europe. The cathedral was constructed in the 12th century, and over the years, it has been expanded and improved upon by many different architects and craftsmen. It is famous for its Norman towers, carvings, and stained glass windows. Guided tours will show you around all the historical details that make the cathedral special.

Climb at the top of Plymouth lighthouse, built on Fn Reef in 1759, then moved (stone stone) at the beginning of the th century to its current site. At the top of the 93 steps, the view of the city and its port is worth a visit. Prone to vertige.