Explore Somerset: A Comprehensive Travel Guide

Introduction

Somerset is a beautiful county located in the southwest of England, known for its rolling hills, stunning coastline, and picturesque countryside. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, foodie, or adventure seeker, Somerset has something for everyone. In this travel guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the best attractions and hidden gems that Somerset has to offer.

Top Attractions

Somerset is home to some of the most iconic attractions in England, including the world-famous Glastonbury Tor, the historic city of Bath, and the stunning Cheddar Gorge. But there’s much more to explore beyond these popular destinations. Make sure to check out the vibrant city of Bristol, the charming town of Wells, and the mystical village of Glastonbury.

Hidden Gems

While Somerset has plenty of well-known attractions, there are also many hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Take a stroll through the picturesque village of Dunster, visit the tranquil gardens at Hestercombe, or explore the hauntingly beautiful Wookey Hole Caves.

Food Scene

Somerset’s food scene is a true reflection of the county’s rich agricultural heritage. The region is known for its famous cheddar cheese, delicious cider, and mouth-watering pies. Make sure to visit the local farmers’ markets, such as the Bath Farmers’ Market and the Frome Independent, to sample some of the finest local produce.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Somerset is a great destination for budget-conscious travelers. Many of the county’s attractions, such as the Cheddar Gorge and Wookey Hole Caves, offer discounted tickets for families and students. Additionally, there are plenty of free attractions, such as the National Trust’s Stourhead and the stunning Somerset Levels.

Outdoor Adventures

Somerset’s stunning natural scenery makes it the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Go hiking in the Quantock Hills, kayaking on the River Avon, or cycling along the Somerset Levels. For an adrenaline-fueled adventure, try rock climbing at Cheddar Gorge or caving at Wookey Hole.

Historical Landmarks

Somerset is steeped in history, with many iconic landmarks and historical sites to explore. Visit the Roman Baths in Bath, the medieval ruins of Glastonbury Abbey, or the impressive Dunster Castle. For a unique historical experience, head to the Fleet Air Arm Museum, which showcases the history of naval aviation.

Family-Friendly Activities

Somerset is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities to keep children of all ages entertained. Visit the animal residents at Longleat Safari Park, go on a steam train ride at the West Somerset Railway, or have a day of fun at the Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

If you’re looking for something a little different, Somerset has plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to offer. Visit the mystical and spiritual town of Glastonbury, go foraging for wild mushrooms in the Mendip Hills, or take a hot air balloon ride over the stunning Somerset countryside.

Natural Wonders

Somerset is home to some of the most stunning natural wonders in England. Explore the dramatic cliffs and caves of Cheddar Gorge, marvel at the impressive natural limestone arch of Durdle Door, or take in the breathtaking views from the top of Glastonbury Tor.

Vibrant Nightlife

Somerset may be a rural county, but it certainly doesn’t lack in nightlife. The city of Bristol has a thriving music scene, with plenty of live music venues and clubs to explore. For a more laid-back evening, head to one of the county’s many traditional pubs, such as the Castle Hotel in Taunton or the Rose and Crown in Huish Episcopi.

Local Markets

One of the best ways to experience Somerset’s local culture is by visiting its many farmers’ markets and artisanal shops. The Bath Farmers’ Market and the Frome Independent are two of the most popular markets, offering a wide variety of locally-sourced produce, crafts, and gifts.

Beaches and Mountains

Somerset has a diverse landscape, with both beautiful coastline and stunning mountains to explore. Visit the sandy beaches at Burnham-on-Sea, Minehead, or Weston-Super-Mare, or head to the Quantock Hills or the Mendip Hills for some of the best hiking and cycling in England.

Cultural Immersion

Somerset has a rich cultural heritage, with many opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture. Visit the Somerset Rural Life Museum to learn about the county’s agricultural history, attend a traditional cider festival, or take part in a workshop on the art of willow weaving.

Art and Music Scene

Somerset has a thriving arts and music scene, with many galleries, museums, and music venues to explore. The Hauser and Wirth gallery in Bruton and the Museum of Somerset in Taunton are two of the most popular cultural attractions in the county, while the Glastonbury Festival is one of the biggest music festivals in the world.

Walking Tours

One of the best ways to explore Somerset is on foot. Take a guided walking tour of the historic city of Bath, stroll through the picturesque village of Dunster, or hike along the coastal path from Minehead to Porlock.

Architectural Marvels

Somerset is home to many impressive architectural marvels, from the Roman Baths in Bath to the stunning Wells Cathedral. Other must-see landmarks include the grand Georgian architecture of Bath’s Royal Crescent and the unique octagonal towers of St. Michael’s Church in Glastonbury.

Historical Sites

Somerset is rich in history, with many fascinating historical sites to explore. Visit the iron-age hill fort at Cadbury Castle, the medieval ruins of Dunster Castle, or the neolithic stone circle at Stanton Drew.

Biking Routes

Somerset has many great biking routes, ranging from easy family-friendly trails to challenging mountain biking routes. The Strawberry Line and the Colliers Way are two popular cycling routes, while the Quantock Hills and the Mendip Hills offer some of the best mountain biking in the country.

Wellness Retreats

Somerset is a great destination for a wellness retreat, with many spas, yoga studios, and meditation centers to choose from. The Thermae Bath Spa in Bath is one of the most popular spas in the country, while the Sharpham Trust in Glastonbury offers a range of meditation and mindfulness retreats.

Adventure Sports

For adrenaline junkies, Somerset has plenty of adventure sports to offer. Try your hand at kayaking, rock climbing, or caving, or go on a hot air balloon ride over the stunning countryside. The county also has many adventure parks, such as the Go Ape treetop adventure course at Cheddar Gorge.

Conclusion

Somerset is a beautiful county with something for everyone. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, foodie, or adventure seeker, you’ll find plenty to explore in this stunning part of England. We hope this travel guide has inspired you to plan your next Somerset adventure!