We are now fully in the swing of summer and while the weather this year has been unpredictable at best, we should (hopefully) see some warmer, dryer days ahead. 

This plus the fact that the school holidays are right round the corner means that for readers who’ve yet to book a holiday but are nonetheless still eager to relax and for some adventures - whether that’s connecting with nature, or soaking up some art - then you are in luck! 

That’s right - in order to get a dose of wholesome fun, you really don’t need to go, well, anywhere. For when it comes to our summer holidays, there really is no place like home.  

Who knew that the solitude of the West of England could help recharge all our batteries? Who realised that we could all feel reinvigorated by strolling through the gorgeous hills of our picturesque countryside - a walker’s paradise - where you can see for miles? And who appreciated that from our brilliant local museums and eateries to summer fetes and fayres galore - think the Midsomer Norton Annual Fayre and Flourish Food Festival in Saltford I had the pleasure of attending in the last few weeks - all the family can have a healthy dose of wholesome fun right here in the West? 

The secret is now well and truly out. The West of England is consistently rated as a top staycation destination, and for good reason. From play and learning at family-friendly favourites like Radstock Museum - to hidden gems such as Saltford Brass Mill - this incredible region is jam-packed with top places to explore and enjoy. 

That’s why I am encouraging all of you to once again make the most of our fantastic local attractions and sites and get behind them this summer. My Explore Local campaign has already helped bring thousands of tourists back to our great region but there is a way to go yet. In fact, tourism numbers have gone up by nearly 10% since I launched the campaign, but are still down slightly versus before the pandemic. And so, if this is the summer of the great British 'staycation', let’s take full advantage by visiting the truly amazing attractions we have locally. Because we are so lucky to live in such a brilliant part of the world.

Let’s all get out there, soak in the atmosphere (and sun, fingers crossed!) and enjoy a proper local staycation. And a big bonus of keeping it local and travelling less far is we can save some cash during the ongoing cost-of-living crisis which I know is still tough on residents, and help save the planet too.

Wherever you go, I hope you all get a great holiday.