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ABOUT US
A journal rooted in the South West
We tell the stories of Somerset, Devon, Dorset and Cornwall - the people who make things, the places that endure, and the traditions worth keeping. Since 2023, we've been publishing independent, unhurried writing about a region we love.
THE WEST COUNTRY JOURNAL


Lights, Camera, West Country: where your favourite shows were really filmed
Discover where some of Britain's most beloved TV shows and films were really made. From the cobbled streets of Port Isaac standing in for Doc Martin's Portwenn, to the clifftops of Cornwall doubling as Poldark country, the West Country has quietly been one of the UK's busiest filming locations. We look at the real places behind the fiction, including Broadchurch's Dorset coast, Hot Fuzz's Wells, and more.
Mar 266 min read


A guide to cosy coastal walks for chilly days
These six coastal walks made for chilly days – routes where you can breathe deeply, walk slowly and discover just how cosy winter by the sea can be.
Nov 15, 20254 min read


Independent bookshops: the heart of our high streets
How independent bookshops are helping to revive town centres across Somerset, Devon, Dorset and Cornwall — and why they’re worth backing.
Oct 29, 20253 min read


Somerset’s best festive markets to visit this Christmas
As the nights draw in and the scent of mulled cider fills the air, there’s no better way to kick off the festive season than with a Christmas market — and in Somerset, we’re truly spoilt for choice.
From traditional manor house fairs to buzzing town-centre celebrations, this year's festive markets are packed with handmade gifts, delicious seasonal treats, and a chance to support the incredible makers, bakers, growers and creatives who call the West Country home.
Oct 19, 20253 min read


10 Somerset bakeries worth visiting
The smell of freshly baked goods floating through the air is enough to make anyone's mouth water, so we thought we'd give you the run down o
Mar 24, 20234 min read


What is Point-to-Point, and should you go?
With the Summer fast approaching, we have entered the best time of year for Point-to-Point events. But what are they, and are they worth att
Apr 1, 20222 min read


Gifts for Somerset's Teachers
With the end of the school year fast approaching, many parents up and down the country and thinking about those 'end of year' teachers' gifts to show their appreciation for what has been a very difficult year in education. To make the task easier, we've put together a list of our favourite teacher's gifts from our small businesses across Somerset. Photo: Dainty Bakes via Instagram 1) Sweet Treats Who doesn't love to sit down with a cup of tea and a sweet treat? In Somerset, w
Jul 3, 20213 min read


Gift Guide: Mother's Day
With Mother's Day approaching quickly (Sunday 14 March), we thought we'd put together a guide of a selection of our favourite gift ideas.
Feb 26, 20213 min read


Top 10 things to do during lockdown in Minehead
Now we only have just over a week left of lockdown, before many of our shops and businesses are allowed to reopen. In the meantime, lockdown remains and so we have put together a handy list for anyone living within the Minehead area of our favourite things to do during this time, so have a peek below. As always, please remember to keep your distance from others, wear a face covering when out and about, if you are able to, and make sure you remember to keep your hands clean. P
Nov 25, 20204 min read


What to do in Wells during lockdown
Do you live in Wells, and you're stuck at home watching the clock for lockdown to end? Well, good news - not only do you live in a beautiful place, but there are so many independent and small businesses that are still operating across the city. We've put together a handy guide of our Top 10 things to do in Wells during lockdown, and hope you might find it helpful! Of course, if you are feeling unwell or you are vulnerable then please stay at home. However, if you are able to
Nov 14, 20204 min read


Lockdown in Yeovil: Top 10 Things to do
As we come to the end of the first week of lockdown, it's important to remember to support our local businesses and shops as much as possible. Whilst we all remain at home, there are many ways in which we can continue to support our businesses, so for all those living within the Yeovil area, we have put together a handy list of our Top 10 favourite things to do during lockdown. So, here goes: Photo by Bozhin Karaivanov 1. Pick up supplies at Take No Wrap Found in The Quedam S
Nov 11, 20204 min read
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