The Best Hotels in Minehead

Minehead Hotels

Minehead is a coastal town set in the green hills of southern Somerset. Situated on the boarder of Exmoor National Park, Minehead is awash with natural beauty, from sweeping flower-rich meadows to dense forests and babbling brooks. The town itself proffers from remarkable stretches of stately Edwardian architecture, and the nearby sandy beach boasts sailing and surfing activities - as well as uncrowded spots for sunbathing. With a welcoming local charm and an intriguing cultural heritage, Minehead makes for a winsome urban getaway.

Things to see

Start your Minehead morning by ambling around the town’s quiet tree-studded streets and exploring the many architectural marvels that wait to be discovered. Visit St Michael’s church, a princely 15th century building that stands atop a steep cobblestone staircase. The mighty squared-off church tower - punctuated with a multicoloured stain-glass window - towers above Minehead’s skyline, and once housed a bright beacon light to signal old timber cargo ships as they approached the harbour. After, stroll along to Blenheim Gardens - stopping off along the way for a spot of lunch at one of the central family-run cafés - and enjoy the luscious green lawns, Edwardian ornaments and the harmonious birdsong echoing through the arching oak trees. As the afternoon rolls on, head to Minehead beach, and take in the picturesque views across the blue Bristol Channel and purple-headed wooded bluffs that make Somerset’s coast or visit Butlins with its many attractions.

Hotels in Minehead

For a quintessentially English resort-themed holiday, stay in one of the many retro 3 and 4-star beachfront hotels, which provide large en-suite rooms with unforgettable views, delectable in-house dining, and immediate access to Minehead’s small but buzzing esplanade. Treat yourself to a luxurious stay at one of the 4-star B&Bs. Set in large Edwardian buildings, the bedrooms boast high ceilings and king-size beds. In the mornings, indulge in a hearty locally-sourced English breakfast. Cheaper Minehead hotels reside further inland, providing pleasantly affordable accommodation set in the verdant Somerset countryside.

Where to stay

For a historic town atmosphere laced with a distinct and thriving local culture of bustling street markets and town festivals - such as the energetic May Day Hobby Horse parade - stay in central Minehead. If you’re a surfer or sun-seeker and crave immediate beach access - or if you just love the English seaside resort tradition - stay along the esplanade, north of the town centre. Here you’ll enjoy beachside bars and restaurants, and vast pristine sands. Alternatively, immerse yourself in the green glory of the Somerset countryside, and stay deep within the dense forests of Exmoor National Park.

How to get to Minehead

Set against the shimmering blue sea and the wild woodland of Exmoor, Minehead can be tricky to get to - but once there you’ll reap the benefits of its tranquil setting, untarnished by the noise of busy roads. Coaches from large towns such as Barnstaple and Taunton provide frequent travel to Minehead, but the easiest way to arrive is by car. Take the A39 west off the M5 motorway for a pleasant hour long drive through the countryside to central Minehead. Once there, explore the town by foot, but visit the surrounding villages by steam train, on Minehead’s heritage railway line.