Ten things to do in the South West this summer

Jane Rakison has got your perfect summer in the South West, sorted

1. Take afternoon tea on an island

St Michael’s Mount is a stunning tidal island off the Cornish coast that’s joined to the mainland by a cobbled causeway.

Visitors flock to the mount for its historical significance, subtropical gardens and ancient castle, but we think afternoon tea on the island at Harbour Loft restaurant is just as big a draw.

After arriving by boat or walking the length of the causeway, wander through the cobbled streets and explore the castle before sitting down to a classic teatime experience. The menu reflects local and seasonal ingredients ‑ although homemade scones are a year-round non-negotiable. Vegan and vegetarian afternoon teas are also available, as is a kids’ version with a giant heart jelly and raspberry ripple cake.

2. Celebrate the summer solstice at Sacred Grounds

Exeter’s buzzy brunch locale Sacred Grounds hosts seasonal events around each equinox and solstice, celebrating the turn of the season with its favourite makers and artists.

Its 2025 Summer Fayre takes place on the evening of June 19 when McCoys Arcade will be taken over by local artisans and visitors. Swing by for stalls from the likes of herbalist Honeysuckle Herbal and Feral Flowers, live music from Alex Johnstone, cocktails from the SG team and plant-based street food.

Tickets aren’t necessary; everyone’s welcome at this soulful community event in the atrium of the arcade.

3. Get the scoop on ice-cream collabs

We love natural ice-cream makers Brickell’s in Somerset for its ices made in the French custard style. Only milk from the family’s Westcombe Dairy, fresh double cream from Gloucestershire, free-range egg yolks from Clarence Court and British beet sugar are used ‑no stabilisers, emulsifiers, preservatives or anything else.

So when we heard they were crafting a series of collab ice creams with other quality food producers, we were somewhat excited. For a taste of the new limited-edition scoops, try the Malted Landrace Cookie made in partnership with Bath’s cool crumbsmiths Landrace Bakery. Order via the website for delivery to anywhere in the UK.

4. Pimp your veg box

Veg boxes are becoming ever more quirky and diverse. Some growers, like Vallis Farm in Somerset, top up their delivery of chemical-free no-dig veggies with flowers, herbs, plants and preserves. It’s a great way to support local growers while receiving a box that captures a moment in nature in all its glorious forms.

5. Dive into an immersive cooking experience

Cornish retreat Nancarrow Farm near Truro is hosting an intimate two-day immersive cooking experience on June 26–27. Learn to create the farm’s favourite feast dishes and master the art of breadmaking and butter smoking before producing a summery starter, sharing-style main and delicious dessert. Leave with new foodie friends, improved kitchen skills, a Nancarrow goodie bag and the heads-up on future events at the organic farm and feasting venue.

6. Invest in a joyful blanket

For a gorgeous piece of art you can wear, sit on and snuggle under, look no further than the beautiful blankets from Emma Carlisle. The former children’s book illustrator is often found drawing in rural locations in Devon and Cornwall, and her nature sketches are immortalised in one-of-akind tapestry throws. Use them as a smart picnic blanket by day and a cosy extra layer once the sun goes down.

7. Cool down with water kefir

Looking for a sophisticated NoLo sip for summer? Check out the award-winning living fermented water kefir from PiQi in Devon. It’s delicious, dairy-free, caffeine-free and crammed with probiotic cultures. PiQi is brewed in small batches using organic ingredients and water kefir grains. Try it in flavours such as butterfly pea, and grapefruit and cardamom.

8. Vote in the Food Lifestyle Awards 2025

For over a decade, we’ve championed the South West’s best independent food, drink, hospitality and lifestyle businesses through our reader awards. They’re an opportunity for you to vote for the businesses and individuals you think are extra special. Show them some love by casting your votes for this year’s awards (voting opens June 2). The winners will be announced at Harbour House in Bristol on September 15.

9. Go wild with summer blooms

Get creative with the colourful blooms from your summer garden. Take inspo from Devon author and founder of Botanical Tales Bex Partridge. Her latest book Crafting with Flowers reveals a range of projects that capture the season.

10. Live it up at Lympstone

Check out the lively summer schedule of events at Lympstone Manor. The sunny season is filled with delicious themed happenings, including Greek Summer Nights, the annual pool party, a seafood supper with shanty band, and an evening with Michael Caines exploring the Lympstone Manor estate wines.