Somerset

Historic Days

Bath in Somerset

Bath

The City of Bath, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is well known for its Roman origins and Georgian architecture. The Roman Baths are one of the best-preserved Roman remains in the world, the centre piece being the Great Bath, a huge lead-lined pool filled with steaming, natural spring water. Next door to the Baths, the 16th Century Bath Abbey, features massive stain glass windows and Victorian Gothic interiors. After climbing the 212 steps of the Abbey’s Tower you will be rewarded with 360 degree panoramic city views. For a walking tour of the Georgian architecture head to the infamous Royal Crescent which overlooks the Royal Victoria Park. Designed by John Wood the Younger between 1767 and 1774, it is a fantastic example of Georgian architecture. Literary buffs will be keen to explore the Jane Austen Centre where you can discover more about Jane Austen’s life in Bath through immersive tours and interactive exhibits including trying on Regency-style gowns and writing with a quill and ink.

Wells

There is much more to Wells than its claim as the smallest City in England. The blend of medieval architecture and historic landmarks with independent shopping all within a small walkable area makes it a great city to visit at any time of the year. The 12th Century Gothic inspired Wells Cathedral is often described as an architectural masterpiece with its incredible iconic scissor arches, stunning West Front and an astronomical clock. Daily tours run including visiting the 15th-century library as well as the ‘High Parts Tour’ which includes the inner workings of the famous clock. The Bishop’s Palace and Gardens was home to the Bishops of Bath and Wells for over 800 years. The medieval palace is set in 14 acres of RHS partner gardens. Wells is also home to Vicar’s Close, the oldest purely residential street in Europe. Originally built for Bishop Ralph of Shrewsbury in 1348 to house the Vicars Choral, the buildings are still residential homes today.

Glastonbury

The town of Glastonbury is perhaps most well-known for its alternative vibe and huge annual festival at Worthy Farm. However, it also has a deep-rooted history and spiritual connections and today remains a major centre for pilgrimages. The mystical Glastonbury Abbey, linked to the legend of King Arthur and once one of the most powerful and wealthy monasteries in the country, is still a spiritual focal point for many. Or visit the iconic Glastonbury Tor, a 521 foot conical hill with the 15th Century St Michaels Tower at the top. The National Trust site is not only a fantastic spot to enjoy the panoramic views of the Somerset countryside but also has a deep spiritual significance and is famous for its association with Arthurian legends.

Dunster Castle

Dunster Castle and Watermill is a historic motte-and-bailey castle located in the medieval village of Dunster within the Exmoor National Park. Now managed by the National Trust, the castle has evolved from a Norman fortress into a stunning Victorian family home set within 15 acres of subtropical gardens and a working watermill. Inside the castle the highlights include the grand staircase, rare 17th Century leather hangings and the eerie Crypt. Perched on top of a Tor the castle offers panoramic views of Exmoor National Park, the rolling Quantock Hills and even the South Wales coast across the Bristol Channel. When you are done with exploring the castle head back down to Dunster village where you can admire the historic buildings before heading to one of the many cafes for an afternoon tea.

Natural Wonders

Minehead in Somerset

Cheddar Gorge and Caves

The Cheddar Gorge and Caves, located on the edge of the village of Cheddar in the Mendip Hills, is one of Britain’s most impressive natural landmarks. The dramatic ravine is England’s largest gorge and you will be wowed by the extensive show caves that feature huge chambers and ancient stalactite formations. The year round temperatures of 11 degrees in Gough’s Cave also makes it the perfect place to age the world famous Cheddar cheese! Outside of the caves you can climb to the top of Jacob’s ladder and the look out tower for fantastic views or enjoy the 3 mile circular walk along the cliff tops long the ridge of the gorge. Afterwards, head to the village of Cheddar to sample some authentic cheese.

Exmoor National Park

Often described as where ‘the moor meets the sea’, Exmoor National Park has a varied and stunning landscape. The wild open moorland, grazed by wild red deer and the Exmoor ponies, has fantastic hiking trails. The moorland views from Dunkery Beacon, the highest point at 519 metres, stretches from Dartmoor to the south to the Welsh coast heading north. Alternatively head to the rugged coastline where you will find dramatic towering cliffs and the long shingle ridge at Porlock Bay. Porlock is also a hub for watersports and mountain bike hire, or treat yourself to some Porlock Bay Oysters. On the River Varle, surrounded by an ancient woodland nature reserve, you will find Tarr Steps – the longest and oldest clapper bridge in Britain. The area is a popular walking spot with scenic woodland trails and a nearby inn for refuelling.

Mendip Hills

The Mendip Hills, designated as a National Landscape (formerly an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty), is a limestone ridge stretching from Frome in the east to Weston-super-Mare in the west. The area is well known for its dramatic gorges, ancient cave systems and stunning views. As well as the caves at Cheddar Gorge, the show caves at Wookley Hole is a fantastic day out for the whole family. Beyond the caves, the surrounding village and wooded valley of Ebbor Gorge is a great starting point for several walks and the historic City of Wells is just a stone’s throw away. Blagdon Lake, in the northern part of the hills, is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), well known for its diverse wildflower meadows including Green-winged orchids and Ox-eye daisies. It is also a popular spot for fishing and birdwatching.

Kilve Beach

Kilve Beach, sitting on the edge of the Quantock Hills between Minehead and Bridgwater, is famed for its dramatic shale limestone cliffs that are rich in fossils and marine life. Kids will also love to play in the rockpools at low tide where they will find crabs, shrimp, snails, and small fish darting between the rocks. If you are lucky you may also spot marine reptile remains and ‘Devil’s Toenails’ - ancient oyster shells that often wash up loose on the shore. Please note that whilst the beach is a fossil hunting paradise, it is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) so whilst you can photograph fossils they must not be removed. Dogs are allowed on the beach all year round making it a great spot for all two and four legged members of the family.

Family Days

Weston-super-Mare in Somerset

Noah's Ark Zoo Farm

Noah's Ark Zoo Farm, located near Bristol, is Somerset's largest zoo. It is a fantastic day out for the family at any time of the year. Home to over 100 species ranging from African elephants and lions to farm animals, creepy crawlies, reptiles and birds, there is plenty to see! The Animal Village, designed for younger children, houses smaller animals such as guinea pigs and rabbits and there is also a rare breeds farm which is home to Dorset and Whitefaced Woodland Sheep. As well as seeing the animals Noah's Ark Zoo Farm is an all weather attraction with indoor play barns and outdoor adventure zones including a giant elephant slide, trampolines, a large sandpit and a climbing adventure. There are also pedal karts for younger kids as well as animal handling sessions, tractor rides and birds of prey demonstrations.

Weston-super-Mare

If you are looking for a traditional family day by the sea head to the seaside town of Weston-super-Mare. Whether you want a family friendly day on the sand or an action packed itinerary, there is plenty to keep everyone entertained. The indoor theme park on the pier has go-karts, F1 simulators, arcade games and a soft play area making it a great place if the weather can’t decide what it’s doing! If the sun comes out head to the two mile stretch of sandy beach which is perfect for building sandcastles, a game of rounders or paddling in the shallow waters. Water Adventure Play Park, located on the sea front has a variety of exciting water features, perfect for cooling off on a warm day. There is also a climbing pyramid, a wooden castle and a zip-wire. Just outside of town, the award winning Puxton Park has a variety of indoor and outdoor family friendly activities, as well as an animal zone and miniature railway.

Wookey Hole Caves

Wookey Hole Caves, near Wells, is a fantastic choice for an all weather family day out in Somerset. Take a guided tour of the spectacular underground caves where kids will love looking out for the legendary Witch of Wookey Hole. You can also enjoy a circus show, 4D cinema and soft play. Outside there is an area with life-sized animatronic dinosaurs – don’t be alarmed if they roar at you! You can also enjoy a nine hole round of mini golf where you will need to navigate ship wrecks, tricky traps and treacherous waters as you play.

The Newt in Somerset

If you want to combine history, nature and active exploration head to The Newt in Somerset, a luxury working estate located between Bruton and Castle Cary. Anyone with a head for heights should take a walk along the Viper Treetop Walkway which runs 40 feet above the forest floor offering fantastic views of the estate and surrounding countryside. Families can also spot deer in the Deer Park, visit the re-imagined Roman Villa or search for newts in the cascades. Alternatively, visit the Beezantium for a bee’s eye view of the world or hunt the ‘Somerset wyvern’ dragon in a magical woodland Grotto. On a rainy day the interactive Story of Gardening museum will keep both kids and adults entertained, whilst the farm to table dining options caters for a variety of tastes and budgets.

Lazy Days

Taunton in Somerset

Visit a cider farm

What better way to spend a lazy afternoon in Somerset than visiting a cider farm. Ranging from large estates to rustic barns there are plenty to choose from. Nestled between Taunton and Wellington Sheppy's Cider Farm is a family run business that has been crafting cider for over 200 years. Take a tour of the orchards, the press house and the vat house before enjoying afternoon tea or a long lunch in the café and restaurant. If you are after a rustic working farm where you can sample cider straight from the jug head to Roger Wilkins at Lands End Farm. Other cider farms to visit include Rich's Cider Farm, Bere Cider Company Ltd and Torre Cider Farm.

Relaxing gardens

Somerset is home to several peaceful gardens where you can enjoy a lazy day pottering amongst local nature. The Grade I listed garden at East Lambrook Manor Garden has a lovely homely feel, encouraging visitors to slow down and take in the peaceful surroundings. There are plenty of hidden corners to discover along the winding narrow paths. Enjoy a family picnic in the old apple orchard or visit the Malthouse Café for afternoon tea. Alternatively, explore the 50 acres of formal gardens and woodland walks at Hestercombe House & Gardens where you will find a waterfall, classical temples, and a lake. Find a shaded area to have a snooze or visit the contemporary art gallery after a hearty brunch.

Sleepy villages

Somerset is famous for its honey-coloured sleepy villages and tranquil green spaces, perfect for slow lazy days on holiday. The picture-perfect National Trust village of Selworthy, near Minehead, is a quiet and scenic spot of thatched cottages nestled within the Holnicote Estate. Have a gentle meander around the village followed by a traditional cream tea at the Periwinkle Cottage Tea Room. The quintessential village of Mells, near Frome, is also a lovely spot for a quiet walk where you can admire the beautiful hamstone houses and leafy lanes. Visit the Walled Garden plant nursery for an outdoor wood fire pizza lunch or homemade cake and a cuppa. Other villages to visit offering a slow-paced village life include Allerford, Bossington & Horner near Porlock and Crowcombe & Bicknoller in the foothills of the Quantock Hills.

West Somerset Railway

If you want to experience the scenic views of the Somerset countryside without too much walking take a trip on a steam train. The West Somerset Railway, England’s longest heritage railway, travels 20 miles between Minehead and Bishops Lydeard, stopping at quaint stations like Dunster and Watchet along the way. Treat yourself to a cheese and cider cream tea special (or a traditional cream tea if you prefer!) for the ultimate indulgent trip. Finish your day at Minehead with a leisurely walk on the beach followed by fish and chips as you watch the sun set over the sea.

Things To Do In Somerset

Rolling hills, ancient legends and world famous cider