Situated on the coast of West Somerset on the fringes of the Bristol Channel, Minehead has survived through the centuries partly through once being a trading port and partly from farming on the rich countryside that surrounds it. Its name derives not from any mining activity but from the old word ‘mynedd’ which simply means ‘hill’.

These days it’s known mostly for being the home of a Butlins holiday camp which is nevertheless mostly hidden from the main town and seafront. One of the oldest and most picturesque streets is Quay Street which leads along by the small harbour and still sports some quaint old cottages and a friendly pub, The Old Ship Aground. The main reason for staying here is now probably to explore the spectacular countryside and villages nearby, and its proximity to Exmoor.

Minehead’s most famous child is Arthur C Clarke, the science fiction writer.