9 amazing places to visit in Somerset

Somerset is often bypassed by holidaymakers intent on heading to Devon and Cornwall, but by skipping this county they are missing some of the west country’s finest offerings! From unspoilt natural beauty to well-preserved heritage architecture, there is something in Somerset to amaze everyone. Here are our 9 favourite amazing places to visit in Somerset.

1. Glastonbury Tor

Take a walk up the mystical Glastonbury Tor, and you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views over Dorset and Wiltshire. This site and its 15th century church tower have long been an attraction for those with pagan beliefs. The interesting Glastonbury town nearby is full of charming independent shops. You can take the Park & Ride bus from the town centre to the tor, and it’s also worth popping into the Somerset Rural Life Museum which has free entry all year round. 

Where to stay: 

• Campsites in Glastonbury
• Motorhome parks in Glastonbury

2. Cheddar Gorge

Cheddar Gorge is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty – with large cliff faces and many caverns full of stalactites to explore. Here you can learn about the prehistoric people who lived in the area, or try your hand at rock climbing. Tickets cost £18.95 per adult and £12.50 for children between 5 and 15, and you can save 15% by booking online.

3. Wells Cathedral

The majestic west front of the Wells Cathedral is an amazing piece of architecture, and the flat green in front is a perfect picnic spot. Entrance to the building is free, although there is a recommended donation of £6 per adult. From here you can also access Bishop’s Palace. This 13th-century building is set in breathtakingly pretty grounds, which you get to by crossing a drawbridge! Entrance is £7 for adults and £3 for children aged between 5 and 18.
 

4. Roman Baths

Since the Roman Baths were discovered and opened for tourists in 1897, people have been flocking to see the hot springs and taste the waters. The most famous bath is surrounded by a terrace, but the site extends underground below nearby streets. Tickets are pricey at around £13 for adults and £9 for children – though there is a combined ticket available giving you access to the Fashion Museum in the nearby assembly rooms.

5. The City of Bath

Once you’ve visited the Roman Baths, there are other amazing things to see and do in the same town! It’s completely free to see beautiful popular attractions such as the Royal Crescent, the Circus and Bath Abbey. On nice days it’s also worth walking through Victoria Park, particularly the botanical gardens where you will find lovely flowers in a tranquil setting – and yes, again it’s absolutely free!

6. Frome

Frome is a great place to visit for shopping, with a wide variety of chain and independent shops. The 17th-century Catherine Hill and the medieval Cheap Street are particularly recommended. The town is also amazing for those who love markets, with specialist markets each week, and general markets on Wednesday and Saturday. Every first Sunday of the month between March and December there are large markets bringing together the best of local produce.
 

7. Burnham-on-sea

Although may people head for the Cornish coast, small and beautiful beachside towns can be found in Somerset. At Burnham-on-Sea you’ll find miles of beaches stretching on to Brean, plus sand dunes and areas great for walking. One amazing sight here is the lighthouse, which is distinctive for its 9 pillar legs and white wooden walls with a single red stripe.
 

8. Exmoor National Park

The vast landscape of Exmoor includes many scenes of beauty including moorland, valleys and woodland. Some key highlights of the park include Bury with its picturesque bridge and many walking routes and Dunkery Hill which is the highest hill in Exmoor.

9. Ham Hill Country Park

Located in south Somerset, the 390 acre Ham Hill Country Park is a haven for a huge variety of plant and animal life. There is a large population of badgers, many rare butterfly species, roe deer and birds including the Greater Spotted Woodpecker. Take a gentle stroll through this amazing environment, enjoying the pretty meadows, the woodlands, and some fascinating examples of medieval history.
 

These are just 9 of the amazing places to visit in Somerset – use this list as inspiration to get out there and spend your camping or glamping trip in Somerset exploring!