Map Of Somerset England
Introduction
Somerset is a county in South West England known for its stunning countryside, rich history, and vibrant culture. With its rolling hills, charming villages, and bustling cities, Somerset offers something for every traveler. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will explore the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports that Somerset has to offer.
Top Attractions
Glastonbury Tor
Glastonbury Tor is a hill located in the town of Glastonbury that has long been associated with Arthurian legend and other myths and legends. Visitors can climb to the top of the hill for breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
Cheddar Gorge
Cheddar Gorge is a series of limestone cliffs located in the Mendip Hills. Visitors can take a guided tour of the caves and see the impressive stalactites and stalagmites.
Bath
Bath is a beautiful city famous for its Roman baths, Georgian architecture, and stunning countryside. Visitors can take a dip in the thermal waters, visit the Roman Baths Museum, or explore the city’s many museums and galleries.
Hidden Gems
The Willow and Wetlands Visitor Centre
The Willow and Wetlands Visitor Centre in Stoke St Gregory offers a unique insight into the willow industry that has been a major part of Somerset’s heritage for centuries. Visitors can take a guided tour of the willow farm and learn about the traditional methods of basket weaving.
The Museum of Somerset
The Museum of Somerset in Taunton is a hidden gem that provides a fascinating insight into the county’s rich history. Visitors can see artifacts from the Bronze Age through to the present day, including the Frome Hoard, a collection of Roman coins found in Somerset in 2010.
The Quantock Hills
The Quantock Hills are a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty that offer some of the best hiking and cycling trails in the region. Visitors can explore the rolling hills, picturesque villages, and stunning coastline.
Food Scene
Somerset is famous for its cider, cheese, and meat. Visitors can sample local delicacies such as Cheddar cheese, Somerset pork, and cider at the many farmers’ markets and food festivals held throughout the county.
Budget-Friendly Tips
There are many ways to enjoy Somerset on a budget. Visitors can take advantage of free attractions such as the Museum of Somerset, go hiking or cycling in the Quantock Hills, or explore the many charming villages and towns in the area.
Outdoor Adventures
Somerset is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can go hiking, cycling, kayaking, or horse riding in the stunning countryside, or take a dip in the thermal waters of Bath.
Family-Friendly Activities
There are plenty of family-friendly activities in Somerset, such as visiting the Wookey Hole Caves, taking a ride on the West Somerset Railway, or exploring the many parks and playgrounds in the area.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
For those looking for something a little different, Somerset has plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences. Visitors can go glamping in a yurt, take a hot air balloon ride over the countryside, or visit the quirky town of Glastonbury.
Natural Wonders
Somerset is home to some of the most beautiful natural wonders in England. Visitors can explore the stunning Cheddar Gorge, see the wild ponies on Exmoor, or take a walk along the rugged coastline.
Vibrant Nightlife
Somerset has a vibrant nightlife scene, with many pubs, bars, and clubs to choose from. Visitors can enjoy live music, comedy, or theater in one of the many venues throughout the county.
Local Markets
Somerset has many farmers’ markets and artisanal food markets where visitors can sample and buy local produce and crafts. Some of the most popular markets include the Wells Market, the Taunton Farmers’ Market, and the Bath Christmas Market.
Beaches and Mountains
Somerset has a diverse landscape that includes both stunning beaches and rugged mountains. Visitors can explore the beautiful coastline at Weston-super-Mare, or climb to the top of the Quantock Hills for breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
Cultural Immersion
Somerset has a rich cultural heritage, with many museums, galleries, and historical landmarks to explore. Visitors can learn about the county’s Roman past at the Roman Baths Museum, or explore the history of the Somerset and Dorset Railway at the Shillingstone Station Project.
Art and Music Scene
Somerset has a thriving art and music scene, with many galleries, museums, and music venues to explore. Visitors can check out the latest art exhibitions at the Hauser & Wirth Somerset, or enjoy live music at the Cheese and Grain in Frome.
Walking Tours
Somerset is a great place for walking tours, with many guided tours available that explore the county’s rich history and stunning countryside. Visitors can take a guided tour of the city of Bath, or explore the beautiful landscapes of the Quantock Hills.
Architectural Marvels
Somerset is home to many impressive architectural marvels, such as the stunning Wells Cathedral, the Georgian architecture of Bath, and the medieval ruins of Glastonbury Abbey.
Historical Sites
Somerset has a rich history that is reflected in the many historical sites that can be found throughout the county. Visitors can explore the Iron Age hill fort at Cadbury Castle, or visit the ruins of the Roman city of Bath.
Biking Routes
Somerset is a great place for biking, with many scenic routes to choose from. Visitors can explore the countryside on the Strawberry Line, a former railway line that has been converted into a bike path, or take on the challenging hills of the Mendip Hills.
Wellness Retreats
Somerset is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and enjoy a wellness retreat. Visitors can relax in a spa, take a yoga class, or enjoy a meditation session in one of the many wellness centers throughout the county.
Adventure Sports
Somerset offers many opportunities for adventure sports, such as rock climbing, caving, and kayaking. Visitors can take a guided tour of the Cheddar Gorge caves, or go kayaking on the River Avon.
Conclusion
Somerset is a county that has something for everyone, whether you are interested in history, culture, or outdoor adventures. With its stunning countryside, rich history, and vibrant culture, Somerset is a must-visit destination for any traveler. We hope this travel guide has inspired you to explore all that Somerset has to offer.