Secret Valley

Stunning setting

One of England's largest counties, Somerset has a huge amount to offer visitors with every possible interest. On one hand, nature lovers can revel in the great empty spaces of Exmoor National Park, the rolling Quantock, Mendip and Blackdown Hills, the astonishing Cheddar Gorge and the ancient Somerset Levels. On the other hand, generations of holidaying families have been drawn to the county town of Taunton, the medieval villages of Dunster and Axbridge and superbsandy beaches of Minehead, Burnham and Weston-super-Mare.

In much the same way, Secret Valley attracts holidaymakers with a diverse range of interests and is able to cater for all with an unsurpassed selection of leisure activities. Where else can lively teenagers make friends for life taking a Leap of Faith on the high ropes course, while adults treat themselves to a wine tasting tour, while children go and see different farm animals: a miniature herd of Scandinavian reindeer, a vast flock of free range chickens and a large herd of best of British beef cattle.

As a working farm, Secret Valley hasn't been spoiled by the need to attract large numbers of tourists. Rather, the families and couples, young and old, who choose to holiday here, are drawn by the peace and quiet, the intimacy with Mother Nature and the practical 'real world-ness' of spending time and spreading out in our stunning corner of rural beauty.

A far cry from the crowded beaches or bustling queues that you can come across in parts of the popular West Country, Somerset's district of Sedgemoor somehow seems more elegant and graceful. The Quantock Hills, within which Secret Valley is hidden, are an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and as such are protected and preserved.

In gently and gradually developing Secret Valley's attractions and facilities over the last quarter of a century, every member of the Hardwick family has been careful to create a farm holiday environment that works with, rather than against, the wonders that Mother Nature provided on the farm. The valley of mature English oaks and other native broad leaf species lends itself to the high and low ropes course which gives kids and adults alike an adrenalin hit they won't forget. Though man-made, the crayfish and trout lakes melt into the rolling countryside, in just the same way as the wigwam paddock fits neatly between the traditional farm buildings and the rolling fields beyond.

Perhaps most importantly of all, the sheer acreage of the farm means that you can take a restful and relaxing walking tour which steers you on a winding route through Somerset's most beautiful countryside while in the very next valley excited, fun-loving gangs of kids and adults alike can take on the activity challenges of mountain boarding and archery without disturbing your peace.

For a complete picture of what makes up Cobbs Cross Farm and the Secret Valley take a look at the map.

For a better idea of all the delights that Somerset has to offer, visit our in the area page.