Clevedon

Who goes there?

With a traditional English seaside charm, Clevedon attracts everyone from families paddling in the sea to pensioners strolling along the seafront before heading for a fish and chip supper. There isn't much in the way of nightlife, so the younger crowd tends to head down the coast to Weston-super-Mare or inland to the bars and clubs of Bristol.

Where in the world?

Clevedon is situated in southwest England on the Somerset coast. The large coastal resort of Weston-super-Mare is around 20km (12 miles) to the south further along the coast, and the city of Bristol is 20km (12 miles) inland to the east of the resort. Bristol is also the location of the nearest airport for the region.

When to go?

The climate is temperate with warm summers and cool wet winters. The hottest months of the year, and the best time for hitting the beach, are from June to September, with temperatures reaching an average high of 26°C (78°F) in August. However, English summers are often unreliable and rainfall can be frequent throughout the year, so always remember to pack a jumper in case skies become overcast.

Beach

This sandy Somerset beach tends to get a bit muddy, but Clevedon is a pretty base and has a picturesque Victorian pier. For balmier sands, head 28km (18 miles) southwest to Burnham-on-Sea, also in Somerset. It's a long sandy stretch, gets busy in summer, and is great for swimming and paddling. It also has Britain's shortest pier, a stubby Edwardian edifice. But you have to be careful you don't get stuck in soft mud on this beach, which is exposed at low tide.

Beyond the beach

Waverley and Balmoral (www.waverleyexcursions.co.uk) paddle steamers offer old-fashioned cruises around the Severn Estuary. These depart from Clevedon between April and October.

Family fun

Clevedon has an old-fashioned air and lots of Victorian charm, as well as one of the oldest piers in the country. In summer there are concerts at the seafront bandstand, and activities on offer include golf, fishing and horse riding. Salthouse Fields, next to the seafront, has children's attractions, donkey rides, a play area and a miniature railway.

Eating out

You won't go hungry in Clevedon, with its mix of restaurants, fish and chips outlets and pubs. Recommended is Mon Plaisir (32-34 Hill Road), a long-running oak-floored bistro, which pleases with a French-influenced menu and use of local produce.

Getting around

You can manage Clevedon on foot. To get any further, take the bus; there are regular buses between here and Bristol.

Flying in

Bristol International Airport (BRS)

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