The Local Area

Sporting Days Out

When it comes to sport in the South West, there’s a wide range of activities to be enjoyed – both on land, and at sea! Whether you fancy trying your hand at a new sport, or prefer to buy a ticket and watch elite athletes do their thing, you won’t fall short of options! With Somerset Country Cricket ground, Taunton Race Course, and three beautiful golf courses all within 6 miles of Cosy Barn, you don’t have to travel far! Alternatively, head to the water for surf lessons, paddle boarding experiences, and other water sports!  

Somerset County Cricket

Just 4 miles away in the historic town of Taunton is Somerset County Cricket Club where fans can come to see some of the best cricket on offer in the UK. The Cooper Associates County Ground hosted fixtures during the 2019 ICC Cricket World Cup, and makes the perfect day. So, whether you’re a family of seasoned cricket fans, or a couple on holiday looking to try something new, you’re sure to enjoy your first visit to Somerset’s cricket club! Head to their website to checkout their upcoming fixtures, book your seats, and enjoy!

Photo credit: SCCC

Taunton Race Course

Set in the heart of the Somerset countryside just over 3 miles away from Cosy Barn, Taunton Racecourse is the country’s newest jumps racecourse! With 14 race meetings each season, horse enthusiasts and newbies can enjoy National Hunt racing with some of the biggest names in the sport. On race day, the course boasts three restaurants to choose from, all offering the best food and drink the region has to offer, as well as table views of the racing! And of course, there are plenty of beers, ciders, wines, spirits and soft drinks to enjoy… So grab your smartest suit, or most colourful hat, and get ready for a unique and exciting day out at the races! !

Wimbleball Lake

Thriving with wildlife, seasonal colours, and plenty of activities, Wimbleball Lake in Exmoor National Park is a stunning place to spend the day with friends and family. The 520 acre site offers a wide range of water sports, as well as more relaxed walking and cycling trails suitable for all abilities. Choose from a range of trails to explore that all welcome dogs, alternatively, hop on your bike to catch a glimpse of the lake views, as well as stunning views of Exmoor which surrounds you. Car parking is just £2 for 2 hours, or £4 for the day, so don’t forget to pack your walking boots and a picnic, because you’re in for a splendid day in the great outdoors! 

Golf courses

With several beautiful, and high quality golf courses within 6 miles of Cosy Barn Holidays, we’ve fast become an ideal base for golfing holidays! Just over 1 mile away is Vivary Golf & Adventure Centre which on top golf, offers a whole host of activities for all the family to enjoy. And when it comes to the golfing, the course at Vivary is praised for its beauty and quirkiness. Just under 6 miles away is Taunton & Pickeridge Golf Club who charge £30 for a round of mid-week golf, and up to £45 for weekend golf across their 18 hole course. Another option is the stunning Oake Manor Golf club which is nestled between the Quantock, Brendon and Blackdown Hills; making it a beautiful, 6149 yard course to spend the day at!

Exeter Chiefs Rugby

Just 30 miles away is Sandy Park; home to one of the strongest rugby union sides in Europe, and ‘The Pride of Devon’… Exeter Chiefs! Not only are visitors to Sandy Park treated to world-class rugby featuring world-famous players, but can enjoy a family-friendly day out of crunching action, fun, and food and drink! With the season running from September through to June, there are so many big fixtures to choose from, with a wide range of tickets and experiences available. With plenty of bars and eateries in the city of Exeter, visitors can really make a day of it. So wrap up warm, buy a scarf, and enjoy the game!

Photo credit: Exeter Rugby Club

Surfing on the North Devon Coast

The sandy beaches and consistent waves of the North Devon coastline make the county the perfect place to learn to surf. Although it is an hour and half’s drive away, we highly recommend packing your car and heading over for the day! If you’re new to surfing and don’t have any kit, then fear not! Almost all the beaches and surf towns have plenty of surf equipment hire, and schools to choose from! When it comes to towns and beaches to visit, you’re simply spoilt for choice… Our favourite spots include Westward Ho! Croyde, Saunton, Bigbury on Sea, Woolacombe and Putsborough.