30 Apr 2026

Why summer reminds buyers that the South West is one of the best places to live

Why summer reminds buyers that the South West is one of the best places to live

There’s something about summer in the South West that makes people stop and think about where, and how, they want to live.

Longer days, countryside walks, coastal weekends, bustling market towns and time spent outdoors all shine a spotlight on the lifestyle many buyers are searching for. It’s no surprise that every year, summer inspires more people to consider making a move to this part of the country.

For those looking for more space, better surroundings and a stronger sense of balance, the South West continues to stand out as one of the best places to call home.

A lifestyle that comes into its own in summer

While the South West has year-round appeal, summer is when its lifestyle benefits feel especially clear.

From countryside walks near our Lackham Place development in Chippenham, to afternoons spent exploring historic Devizes or village life in Castle Cary, the region offers a pace of life that many buyers value more than ever. Whether it’s enjoying a garden with family, visiting independent cafés, or making the most of nearby green spaces, summer highlights the advantages of living somewhere with room to breathe.

For buyers relocating from busier urban areas, it can be the season that confirms what they’ve already been thinking: there’s more to life than the daily rush.

1. Spend the day in a vibrant city

One of the advantages of living in the South West is being within easy reach of some of the UK’s most popular cities.

Residents at Lackham Place in Chippenham can reach Bath in around 30 minutes and Bristol in under an hour, while Zephyr Place in Devizes is well placed for both Bath and Swindon. Buyers at Gascoigne Park in Milborne Port are close to the historic town of Sherborne and within reach of Salisbury and Bath, while The Carriages in Castle Cary offers convenient access to Bath, Bristol and Yeovil.

Whether it’s waterside dining in Bristol, shopping in Bath or enjoying culture, events and nightlife, having thriving city destinations nearby adds real variety to everyday life.

2. Visit iconic landmarks and historic attractions

The South West is rich in heritage, with some of the country’s best-known landmarks within easy reach of many Redcliffe Homes developments. From Zephyr Place in Devizes, Stonehenge is around 35 minutes away by car, while residents at Lackham Place in Chippenham can reach the beautiful village of Lacock and Lacock Abbey in around 15 minutes.

Summer is the ideal time to enjoy these historic places in the best of the weather, whether exploring ancient landmarks, wandering through country estates or spending the day in picturesque surroundings.

Living in the South West means history is never far away, with castles, stately homes, gardens and heritage attractions all close enough for an easy day trip.

3. Explore charming towns and villages

One of the South West’s greatest strengths is its collection of characterful towns and villages. Places such as Frome, Tetbury and Castle Cary offer independent shops, farmers’ markets, cafés and regular summer events.

Castle Cary is also home to one of the region’s standout destinations, The Newt in Somerset, known for its gardens, woodland walks, restaurants and seasonal experiences. For buyers considering our Castle Cary development, having somewhere so highly regarded nearby adds to the lifestyle appeal.

These destinations are perfect for slower weekends, browsing local stores or enjoying lunch in a picturesque setting. For many buyers, the ability to enjoy places with real personality and community spirit is a major part of the South West’s appeal.

4. Head outdoors to the countryside

With landscapes such as the Cotswolds, Mendip Hills, Salisbury Plain and rolling Somerset countryside nearby, the South West is ideal for anyone who loves the outdoors.

Residents at Lackham Place in Chippenham can enjoy walks through the Wiltshire countryside and nearby Lacock, while Zephyr Place in Devizes is close to Caen Hill Locks, canal paths and the North Wessex Downs. The Carriages in Castle Cary offers access to scenic Somerset trails and open countryside, while Gascoigne Park in Milborne Port is perfectly placed for rural walks across Somerset and Dorset.

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy hiking, cycling, picnics, or taking in the scenery. Access to the countryside on your doorstep encourages a healthier, more balanced lifestyle and gives families plenty of opportunities to spend quality time together.

5. Enjoy easy coastal escapes

Few places offer the same combination of countryside and coast as the South West. While our developments are set in desirable inland locations, the coastline is still within easy reach for spontaneous summer day trips.

From Castle Cary, the Dorset coast can be reached in around an hour, while buyers in Chippenham and Devizes can enjoy weekends to Somerset or South Wales beaches. Residents in Gloucestershire also have convenient access to the West Country coastline for longer summer days out.

Whether it’s paddleboarding, fish and chips by the sea or simply enjoying fresh coastal air, having the coast within driving distance adds another layer to South West living. It is a lifestyle benefit many buyers continue to value.

Discover life in the South West with Redcliffe Homes

At Redcliffe Homes, we understand that buyers are looking for more than just a property; they’re looking for a place to build their future.

Our thoughtfully designed homes in sought-after South West locations combine quality craftsmanship, energy efficiency and carefully chosen settings that make everyday life more rewarding.

If summer has inspired you to think differently about where you live, now could be the perfect time to explore your next move.

Discover our latest developments and experience the best of the South West by choosing a Redcliffe Home.

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