Things to do near Minehead Butlin’s this summer ☀️

If you’re heading to Butlin’s Minehead, you’ll find plenty to do both inside the resort and around the local area. Whether you’re travelling with kids, as a couple or in a group, here’s a detailed guide to things to do near Butlin’s Minehead to help you make the most of your trip.

Facilities inside Butlin’s Minehead

Even if you don’t leave the gates, there’s no shortage of entertainment. Here’s what’s available on-site:

• Fairground: There are two free funfair areas—one for younger children and one for older kids and adults. Rides include bumper cars, helter-skelters, mini rollercoasters, and more.
• Sky Pavilion: This large indoor space sits at the centre of the resort. Inside, you’ll find live shows, arcades, cafes, character meet-and-greets, and family-friendly workshops.
• Splash Waterworld: This indoor water park has flumes, a lazy river, wave pool, and a dedicated area for little ones. Entry is included with all stays.
• Skypark playground: One of the newer additions, this imaginative play area features climbing towers, tunnels, and sensory zones. It’s designed to be accessible to all children and stays open late.
• Additional activities: Extra-fee options include go‑karts, bumper boats, climbing walls, and adventure courses. Some of these can be booked in advance.
• Note that there are no casino facilities in Butlin’s Minehead – if you like to go to the casino on holiday, you’ll need to use a site like casinos.com for virtual gaming! (Always gamble responsibly).

Things to do within walking distance of Butlin’s Minehead

You can be in Minehead town centre within 15 minutes on foot. The walk runs alongside the beach and is easy for all ages.

• Minehead Beach: A wide stretch of sand with public toilets, easy parking, and plenty of space to spread out. Dogs are allowed from October to April.
• Minehead Harbour: A small working harbour surrounded by pubs and cafes. A short climb takes you to St Michael’s Church, which dates back to the 15th century and overlooks the town.
• Blenheim Gardens: This Victorian park includes six acres of ornamental gardens, a seasonal bandstand, and a café. Ideal for a relaxing stroll.
• Minehead Eye: An indoor skatepark and youth hub with sessions for BMX, scooters, and skateboarding.
• Mini golf and arcades: The beachfront has a mini golf course and plenty of amusement arcades with 2p machines and small rides for younger kids.
• South West Coast Path: Minehead is the starting point for this 630-mile trail. The first day of hiking heads to Porlock Weir, and while it’s not an easy trek, it’s very rewarding! 

Attractions a short distance from Butlin’s Minehead

If you have access to a car, you’ll unlock even more options:

West Somerset Railway

This heritage steam railway runs from Minehead to Bishops Lydeard, covering over 20 miles through beautiful countryside and along the coast. Trains pass through quaint stations and rolling hills, with stops at places like Blue Anchor and Watchet. It’s the longest standard-gauge heritage railway in the UK and a popular day out for families, railway enthusiasts, and anyone keen on a slower, scenic journey through Somerset.

Dunster Castle and Village

Just a 10-minute drive inland, Dunster is one of the best-preserved medieval villages in England. The main street is lined with stone cottages, independent shops, and a working yarn market that dates back to the 17th century. The highlight is Dunster Castle, a National Trust property set on a wooded hill with panoramic views. Inside, you’ll find lavish rooms, a working watermill, and subtropical gardens.

Tropiquaria Zoo

Located near Washford, about 15 minutes from Butlin’s by car, Tropiquaria is a small but well-run zoo that’s particularly good for families with younger children. It’s housed in an old Art Deco BBC radio building and includes indoor tropical halls filled with reptiles and birds, as well as outdoor enclosures with meerkats, wallabies, and lemurs. There’s also a play area and pirate-themed castle.

Exmoor National Park

Minehead is considered the gateway to Exmoor. This national park stretches across North Devon and West Somerset and is known for its diverse scenery—from wild open moorland and steep valleys to dramatic cliffs and wooded coombes. Highlights near Minehead include:

• Tarr Steps: A prehistoric clapper bridge across the River Barle.
• Valley of Rocks: A scenic coastal valley near Lynton with wild goats and craggy views.
• Dunkery Beacon: The highest point in Exmoor, with sweeping views in all directions.
• Porlock Weir: A peaceful coastal hamlet with a shingle beach and tidal harbour.

See all things to do in Exmoor here.

Watchet

Around 25 minutes from Minehead by car, Watchet is a charming harbour town with strong maritime and industrial history. The harbour area features cafes, shops, and a fossil-rich beach. There are two small museums—Market House Museum and the Boat Museum—and regular arts events and live music. You can also follow part of the England Coast Path for excellent views.

The Quantock Hills

Designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the Quantocks lie to the east of Minehead and are perfect for hiking, cycling, and picnics. Expect ancient woodland, heather-covered moors, and views stretching to the Bristol Channel. You can spot red deer, birds of prey, and a wide variety of flora depending on the season.

See all things to do in the Quantock Hills here.

Cleeve Abbey

Situated near Washford and easily combined with a trip to Tropiquaria or Watchet, Cleeve Abbey is one of England’s best-preserved Cistercian monasteries. The refectory ceiling is especially striking, with detailed medieval wooden carvings. It’s a quieter site, often missed by tourists, but well worth a detour if you enjoy historical architecture and peaceful surroundings.

Whether you’re after a classic seaside break or a family activity holiday, Butlin’s Minehead is well-positioned to give you both!