3 Great Reasons to Spend February Half Term in the South West

With spring just around the corner, why not lift your winter spirits with a refreshing February half term break in the South West?

The weather is generally milder in this temperate corner of the UK, so you’ll spot the first signs of spring earlier here. From crocuses to daffodils, to migrating birds and lambs in the fields – exposing yourself to a healthy dose of nature will recharge your batteries and get you through the rest of winter.

You won’t be able to resist heading outdoors in this pretty part of the world. Just come prepared and be sure to pack sunglasses, woollies, wellies and waterproofs to cover all possible weather scenarios!

Whether you’re planning a family break, a get-together with friends, a dog-friendly walking holiday, or a romantic Valentine’s escape – you’ll love the slower easy pace of life here in the South West.

Here are 3 great reasons to spend February half term in the South West…

1.Dartmoor is at its most atmospheric in winter

Bleak Dartmoor is more beautiful than ever in the winter months and offers the perfect escape from the rat-race. Here, you’ll feel like you’ve gone back in time. Vast swathes of moorland with craggy rocky outcrops give way to lush fields and wooded valleys. The rural landscape is peppered with pretty, quaint villages that usually feature a cosy country pub or two! Although muddy underfoot (unless there’s been snow or frost), there’s nothing more revitalising than a bracing winter walk on Dartmoor, followed by a warming meal or pint in a friendly local pub.

We have lots of holiday cottages in Dartmoor, including the charming 3 bedroomed Swallow Cottage (available at time of writing) situated in Postbridge, one of the most scenic and popular areas for walking within the National Park. With pretty views of the East Dart River and the moor beyond, a friendly country pub walking distance away, and direct access to miles of moorland walks from the doorstep, this is a perfect spot to spend a holiday in Dartmoor.

Find your perfect Dartmoor holiday cottage for February half term here.

2.Blow away the cobwebs with stunning seaside walks

The seaside is especially spectacular in winter. Huge rolling waves crashing onto deserted beaches. Windswept clifftops with far-reaching coastal views. In good weather you can enjoy the low sunshine reflecting beautifully on crystal waters, whilst rays of sunlight breaking through the clouds provide perfect creative photo opportunities. Even on rainy days, as long as you’re wrapped up and have a cosy fire to retire to afterwards, there’s something very refreshing about getting out in all elements and filling your lungs with seaside air. With miles of coastal path fringing Dorset, Devon and Cornwall, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to picking scenic seaside walks in the South West, and at this time of year your four-legged friend is welcome on every beach.

We have a huge choice of seaside holiday cottages in Dorset, Devon and Cornwall, including Horizons in East Prawle (available at time of writing). This luxury 4 bedroomed holiday cottage is perched in a scenic position on the cliffs in South Devon, just a short walk to the village of East Prawle with its legendary quirky pub, the Pigs Nose Inn and a short ferry ride from the shops and restaurants of Salcombe. Miles of picturesque coastal and rural walks are available right from the doorstep, but if you’re feeling lazy or chilly, you can soak up the seaside views from the south-facing windows of this stunning seaside home in front of a roaring fire.

Find your perfect seaside holiday cottage for February half term here.

3.Out of season fishing villages exude irresistible charm

One of the most enjoyable ways to spend a winter’s day is pottering around a quaint fishing village, exploring winding cobbled streets, browsing the array of independent shops and galleries and discovering simple yet outstanding seafood restaurants serving locally-landed fish of the day. There’s something very romantic about these places out of season – with no crowds to hinder your enjoyment, and shorter days giving you the perfect excuse to retire early for a relaxing drink, spending quality time together in an ancient Smuggler’s Inn, or back at your cosy holiday cottage.

We have lots of holiday cottages in pretty fishing villages, including Terrills (available at time of writing). This quirky 2 bedroom former fisherman’s cottage has been tastefully modernised yet retains much of its historic charm. Located in the picturesque fishing village of Polperro, it offers lovely views, plenty to see and do in Polperro itself, coastal walks from the doorstep and many other beaches and seaside villages and towns to explore within easy driving distance.

Search for a holiday cottage in a historic fishing village, or your favourite spot in the South West here.