The Ultimate Guide to the Best Places to Visit in Somerset

Why Visit Somerset? 

If you are looking for stunning countryside, historic landmarks, exciting festivals, and charming market towns, you will find it all in Somerset. This picturesque region is the perfect place for a holiday, whether you are travelling with family, exploring on your own, having an adventure, or enjoying a romantic getaway. Experience the land of myths, legends, history, and UNESCO heritage sites, and enjoy all that it has to offer, from delicious food to family-friendly attractions to beautiful rural scenes. When you are planning your Somerset holiday, consider staying at Tilbury Farm, Together Travel’s beautiful countryside retreat, the ideal luxury base for exploring the region.

Best Places to Visit in Somerset

There are so many wonderful things to do in Somerset that you may need more than one trip to experience it all! Where will you begin? 

• Cheddar Gorge and caves is one of Britain’s most breathtaking natural wonders. Boasting stunning cliffs and spectacular subterranean stalactite caves, this is not just a gorgeous place to visit, it is also a Site of Special Scientific Interest. You can learn about our prehistoric ancestors, or amble through the quaint village of Cheddar to visit charming cafes and shops or sample some delicious cheese. Drive, walk, or hike through the gorge, and you will be treated to the sight of free roaming feral goats and the rare Soay sheep. As if that is not enough, Cheddar Gorge is also an international centre for caving and rock climbing.

• Visit Glastonbury Tor and Abbey to explore the mystical side of Somerset. A place with a deep connection to both Celtic Pagans and Christians, Glastonbury is bursting with heritage, myths, legends and magic. Believed to be the oldest foundation of Christianity in Britain, it is said to be linked to Joseph of Arimathea, but it is also connected to Fairy Kings, the Isle of Avalon, Goddesses, the Glastonbury Zodiac, and is even thought to be the burial place of King Arthur. Today, it is the ruins of an ancient church, atop a conical hill. Whether you are interested in walking the seven mile Glastonbury Way, taking in the Tor, Wearyall Hill, S Bridies Mound, Paradise Lane, and the centre of town, or you just want to stroll on the picturesque grounds and learn more about the history, it is a wonderful place to visit. You can even bring your dog, as canine companions are always welcome.

• Wells is England’s smallest cathedral city, but it has much to recommend it. Home to the 10,000 people, situated at the southern foot of the Mendip Hills,  it was named for the natural springs on its cathedral grounds. The Wells Cathedral is truly magnificent, and the walled ecclesiastical precinct, which includes the cathedral, residences of clergy, and the moated Bishop’s Palace, is beautifully preserved. Visit the cathedral, wander the charming medieval streets of Wells, or simply drink in the wonder of the Mendip Hills, which are in an Area of Outstanding Beauty.

• Nature lovers will thrill to the rolling hills, coastal views, and abundant wildlife at Exmoor National Park. One of England’s lesser known national parks, Exmoor is shared by the counties of Devon and Somerset. It is known for its unspoilt coastline and its Exmoor ponies, one of Britain’s oldest native pony breeds. It is also accredited as an International Dark Sky Reserve, so it is perfect for stargazing. Swim with the seals, take the longest heritage railway in Britain through the Quantock Hills, or head off in a Land Rover, on a wildlife safari with a local guide.

• No trip to Somerset would be complete without a visit to Bath. The largest city in Somerset, Bath is a fantastic place to go for culture, history, shopping, dining, and, of course, the thermal spa. Known as a spa destination for centuries, Bath is still home to the historic Roman bath site, though if you want to enjoy a luxury spa experience in the soothing, naturally warmed, mineral-rich waters, you will need an appointment at the Thermae Bath Spa. The whole city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Georgian architecture is well worth seeing. If you are a literary buff, you may already know that Jane Austen lived in Bath for many years, and set two of her novels, ‘Northanger Abbey’ and ‘ Persuasion in the city. Each year, there is a Jane Austen festival in Bath in September, and the Jane Austen Centre is a fun place to experience Austen’s world, and perhaps enjoy afternoon tea.

• Step back in time at Dunster Castle and Village. Dunster is a quiet, tranquil place, in an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and it is also a place where you can step back in time, in one of the most intact medieval villages in England. Here, you can explore independent shops, galleries, and tea rooms, wandering the cobbled streets, among the thatched cottages. The biggest draw for most visitors, though, is Dunster Castle. This stunning National Trust property is a medieval castle, atop a hill, surrounded by a huge estate, with forests, gardens, and subtropical plants.

• Discover Somerset’s amazing vineyards and delicious local produce. Throughout the region you will find wineries and cider houses, offering tastings and tours. With acres of orchards, Somerset has been famous for its cider for hundreds of years, but also produces apple brandy, liqueurs, cider vinegars and refreshing apple juices. The area is also just as well known for producing delicious cheese, including cheddar, ricotta, buffalo blue, brie, and goats cheese. While you are visiting Somerset, indulge in this fertile region’s abundant local produce, available at farm stands and farmers markets in many of the area’s villages and towns. 

  

Where to Stay in Somerset: Luxurious UK Countryside Retreats

When you are looking for a place to stay in Somerset, Together Travel offers the ultimate luxury retreat for you. Tilbury Farm Cottages, on the grounds of an 18th-century farmhouse, are luxurious converted sandstone barns, providing a secluded retreat in the beautiful Somerset countryside. With cosy interiors that feature lofty ceilings and wooden beams, as well as beautiful farmhouse kitchens, with every modern amenity. The Quantock Hills, in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, are visible from your doorway, and the panoramic views across Taunton Vale are breathtaking. Spacious interiors, private terraces, and sumptuous furnishings make these beautifully appointed cottages the perfect getaway for couples, families, or groups. 

Contact Together Travel for Luxury stays in Somerset and Across the UK

If you are ready for organic local produce, rich history, rural charm, legendary landscapes, and much more, Somerset should be your next holiday destination. When you want the best place to stay, for a luxurious, unforgettable experience, Tilbury Farm is exactly what you need. In fact, no matter where you are travelling in the UK, Together Travel is here to bring your holiday dreams to life, just around the corner from home. All across the UK, we have luxurious, comfortable, unique properties located wherever you want to be, spending your holidays connecting, relaxing, and enjoying all these vacation spots have to offer. Find out how we can make your trip amazing by contacting our expert concierge team by emailing us for more information.