10 Unmissable Views in the South West for Budding Photographers

The South West of the UK is filled with breathtaking views across a range of different landscapes. From sweeping beaches and dynamic cliffs to rich green forests and delicate lavender fields, when it comes to exploring the South West, the natural environment provides endless inspiration for budding Photographers.

Here are ten of the most incredible views in the South West to capture with your camera. All the areas mentioned in this blog post fall along unique tourist trails. To explore these Trails, just click here and search by location.

St Michael’s Mount from Marazion Beach

Reminiscent of a scene from a fairytale, St Michael’s Mount in Cornwall provides a beautiful, slightly whimsical focal point for eyecatching photographs. The best viewpoint is facing out across the water from Marazion Beach.

The changing colours in the sky can completely transform the view, so it is well worth visiting on more than one occasion to capture different moods. St Michael’s Mount would also be an ideal subject for timelapse photography, as the foreground remains still whilst the clouds and colours in the sky change in the background.

Hisley Wood after rainfall

Whilst most Photographers favour dry, slightly cloudy days for outdoor photography, the unpredictable English weather can also be an asset. Dense forests and woodland areas really come to life after a downpour, as the freshly watered plants and trees appear greener and healthier.

Hisley Wood in East Dartmoor, Devon, is a great place to capture this sort of scene. The River Bovey running through the lush vegetation provides depth of field, while the bricks of the Packhorse Bridge add texture and visual interest.

The Cliffs at Cheddar Gorge

It is almost impossible to visit Cheddar Gorge in Somerset and not take a photo. The towering white cliffs provide a natural frame for the view. Even the most beginner level Photographers will capture an impressive photo here.

Pink Sunsets across purple lavender fields

In contrast to the striking cliffs at Cheddar Gorge, the Lavender Fields at Radstock offer a much softer view. Best visited during sunset, the pinks and purples of the sky alongside the lavender come together to create a beautiful mix of colours.

Haldon Forest in the early morning mist

Haldon Forest, Devon, not only makes a great place for a nature walk, it is also home to plenty of photo opportunities. Try taking your camera on an early morning walk to capture the lingering mist and angular light that peeks through the trees in the early hours.

The Hydrangea Valley at Trebah Garden

Trebah Garden in Cornwall is a great place to visit if you are looking for a more exotic view without having to go abroad. This sub-tropical garden is brimming with bright flowers and plants. The view facing the white bridge in the Hydrangea Valley resembles an impressionist painting.

Watch the sun set from Sourton Tor

Sourton Tor provides the perfect vantage point for watching the sun set over the Devon countryside. Located in Dartmoor National Park, this is a great place to be on a warm Summer evening as you witness how the light changes during Golden Hour.

Eden Project Biomes

The huge circular Biomes at The Eden Project in Cornwall are a great choice for those wishing to add a more creative, abstract element into their Photography.

Combining ideas from sculpture, engineering, architecture, and nature, the biomes make interesting subject matter for photographs due to the contrast of man-made structures positioned alongside nature. The biomes also reflect the sky and the surrounding area, providing opportunities for slightly surreal photos.

Burgh Island on a sunny day

For a fantastic coastal view, visit Burgh Island on a sunny day. Set on the South Devon coast, the deep blue sea and the golden sands could be anywhere in the world.

Watercolour views across Exeter Quay

Exeter Quay in Devon resembles a watercolour painting. The watery reflections of the sky create a peaceful backdrop to the setting sun.

Guest blog by

Lucy Barnes – The Tourist Trail

Lucy has been blogging for several years, most recently for The Tourist Trail – a UK travel and tourism platform offering unique county trails throughout the UK. She enjoys finding things to do, taking photographs, and blogging in cafés.