Boscastle is a place that hits deep. In this latest Hesp Out West adventure, Martin returns to the "fjord-like" indentation of the North Cornish coast to explore the wild beauty that has captivated him since boyhood. From the dramatic blow-hole at Penally Point to the historic hallways of The Wellington Hotel, this journey blends personal nostalgia with a review of St Austell Brewery’s latest refurbishment. Discover the literary links of Thomas Hardy, the maritime history of

Looking for the perfect Cornish day out? I’ve rounded up 5 of my favorite circular coastal walks that start and end near a great local pub. From the hidden creeks of the Helford to the rugged cliffs of Fowey, these tried-and-tested routes offer the very best of the West Country landscape.</p>

Is Kingsbury Episcopi the true heart of the cider world? Martin Hesp joins poet James Crowden to explore a landscape of 'ghost' apple varieties, Somerset oak brandy, and the proper old-fashioned cider houses of the Levels.

a quick guide to six first class walking routes in the county of Somerset

Gentle Winter Walks Across the West Country Walking your way to fitness and health after the festivities is one of the most enjoyable and invigorating things you can do during that dreary time of the year otherwise known as the second-half of winter. Some people take post-festive fitness very seriously, signing up for gym regimes and diets that would cause a serious athlete to lose sleep. Inevitably, all to many realise they are living a fantasy. You can only eat raw carrots

A very quick guide to some excellent winter walks in the West Country

Some hotels are simply somewhere to sleep. Others become the destination itself. Perched dramatically above Porthminster Beach, the Pedn Olva Hotel enjoys one of the finest locations in Cornwall. During a wild Atlantic storm I discovered why this St Ives favourite offers far more than comfortable rooms. From breathtaking sea views and excellent food to friendly staff and an unbeatable position overlooking the harbour, here's why the Pedn Olva remains one of my favourite place

Festive Days Out in Somerset: Dunster Castle’s Christmas Adventure Thinking of something Christmassy to do? Something that the kids would absolutely love that does not involve going to a giant shopping mall or a theme park? Something traditional, perhaps, with tons of atmosphere, Christmas trees and fairy lights, along with the red suited man himself seated in a private room in a magical castle… Well, the National Trust is staging just such an opportunity at wonderful old Du

Discover why Dartmouth remains one of Devon's most beautiful harbour towns as Martin Hesp stays at the newly refurbished Royal Castle Hotel and explores its history, restaurants and spectacular River Dart setting.

Portreath is one of Cornwall's best-kept secrets. Discover its historic harbour, magnificent beach, dramatic coast path and the beautifully restored Basset Arms.

Discover one of Dartmoor’s most fascinating short walks as Martin Hesp explores Trowlesworthy Warren from Cadover Bridge to Great Trowlesworthy Tor. This scenic circular route passes ancient rabbit warrens, prehistoric remains, dramatic granite tors and the striking Whitehall Yeo china clay pit, combining wild moorland beauty with centuries of human history

A comprehensive guide and review of Boringdon Hall, near Plymouth

Perfect Porlock Weir Porlock Weir is one of my favourite places in the world and I have written about it many times. As the nicest of our local seaside haunts I’ve been visiting the place since I was a small boy - and later writing many different newspaper articles based on many different subjects down there where the Exmoor hills dip to meet the sea. I popped down to the Weir this week with a spare hour to spare and walked in the rain. (To see more Exmoor Walks click here )

One of South Devon's finest short walks, this circular route from Tuckenhay combines peaceful estuary scenery, ancient lanes, wildlife, panoramic views and an excellent riverside pub.

Luscombe Drinks at 50: The Pursuit of Britain's Best Soft Drinks The sound of milling resounded through the orchard and we watched as hundreds of fresh-picked apples bobbed along in clear water, gushing down a metal chute towards the ‘scratter’ or crusher , and eventually the press which would extract their delicious juice. Most Westcountry folk reading this sentence will immediately assume this article is going to be about the new cider season, but I had actually gone to the

Rediscovering Old Friends and New Adventures in South Devon Social media has many downsides but one useful role it plays is in allowing users to keep up with old friends. Occasionally their posts can surprise and delight you - which is what happened recently when I saw an Instagram photo and note from an old colleague saying: “Really enjoying life - wish I’d done this years ago.” The photograph showed a lovely waterside inn, tucked away deep in the South Devon countryside - a

Britain's biggest harvest celebration brings together livestock, giant vegetables, food, cider, rural crafts and country traditions. Here's why the Three Counties Autumn Show deserves a place on every autumn travel itinerary.

What Is the National Drink of England? We live in a world where symbols of national identity are important – which is why, for example, the media is forever having rows about whether fish-and-chips, roast beef or chicken tandoori represent the UK’s national dish. But what about our national drink? Scotland, of course, has whisky, while England might argue over whether beer or cider should take the crown. However, in historic terms there’s only one drink in the running, and th

Cruise the River Parrett aboard Langport's much-loved Duchess of Cocklemoor and discover wildlife, history and the timeless beauty of the Somerset Levels.

Looking for one of Devon's best cycling routes? The Exe Estuary Trail offers a largely traffic-free ride between Exeter and Exmouth, passing estuary wildlife, picturesque villages, cafés and spectacular riverside scenery.