History and Heritage in South West England
Babbacombe Model Village, Torquay, Devon
Babbacombe Model Village is one of the West Country’s original tourist attractions
Beautiful gardens surround hundreds of unique models and displays offering a taste of English and West Country life through the 20th century.
The majestic ruins had been an important stronghold since the time of William the Conqueror. In 1646, following a lengthy siege, Parliamentarian forces destroyed the building, leaving the ruins we see today. Many fine Norman and early English features remain.
Avebury Manor and Garden, nr Marlborough, Wiltshire
16th century manor house with lovely Edwardian garden.
A much-altered house of monastic origin, the present buildings date from the early 16th century, with notable Queen Anne alterations and Edwardian renovation.
Purbeck Estate and Studland, Swanage, Dorset
One of Britain's best beaches and extensive nature reserve.
A mile-long bay of gently shelving fine sand with a backdrop of dunes at Studland. .
In its tiny engine house perched on the cliff edge, the famous Levant beam engine is steaming again after sixty idle years. The sight, sounds and smells of this 165-year-old engine conjure up the feel of Cornwall’s industrial past.
Children love it here
