Our top 10 Somerset attractions
Our pick of the top 10 Somerset attractions showcases the varied and enticing appeal of this county for visitors of all ages with diverse interests. From getting out and about in gorgeous surroundings to discovering fascinating historical and cultural attractions, Somerset is definitely set to impress.
Mendip Hills and Quantock Hills
Somerset has some absolutely stunning landscapes to explore, and top of the list should be the Mendip Hills and Quantock Hills which are Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. These spectacular landscapes are best explored on foot via horseback or cycling and offer plenty to see, from wildlife to Iron Age hill forts.
Exmoor National Park
Beautiful and wild, Exmoor National Park is ideal for people who like getting out and about in nature and participating in a variety of outdoor activities. There are diverse landscapes within the park’s 267 square miles, from sea cliffs to woodland and valleys, and visitors to the park can enjoy a number of entertaining activities such as horse riding, cycling, rock climbing, canoeing and fishing. The park is also particularly well suited to stargazing and is Europe’s first International Dark Sky Reserve.
Cheddar Gorge
Spectacular Cheddar Gorge is the largest gorge in Britain and home to the Cheddar Gorge caves which offer excellent underground adventure for visitors of all ages. The Museum of Prehistory provides intriguing insight into the history of the gorge and caves. Plus there’s also exploring to enjoy aboveground in the form of a cliff top gorge walk and climbing a lookout tower to take in incredible panoramic views. For visitors who are eager to get active, the gorge is the perfect location to enjoy adventure caving, cave abseiling and rock climbing.
Dunster Castle
Dunster Castle is a regal sight to behold from its hilltop position and offers a great day out for young and old alike. The castle used to be a Saxon stronghold but is now a Victorian home. There are a range of things to see and do at Dunster Castle, from exploring the rooms and crypt of the castle to strolling in the picturesque sub-tropical gardens and even getting a good look at the flying summer residents of the castle – bats – courtesy of a batcam in the crypt.
Prior Park
Prior Park is a gorgeous 18th century landscape garden that provides stunning views of Bath. The garden is set in a valley incorporating ponds and is home to a variety of wildlife including swans, badgers, roe deer and herons. One of the key features of the garden is the Palladian bridge one of only four of its kind in the world.
Montacute House
Montacute House is a striking Elizabethan mansion which was completed in 1601. The house is surrounded by a beautiful garden and parkland with fun hidden swings, while inside is an impressive collection of Tudor and Jacobean portraits on loan from the National Portrait Gallery. The house has also been associated with films including The Libertine and Sense and Sensibility.
Bath
The city of Bath is a World Heritage Site that offers an abundance of attractions to entertain a variety of tastes. The famous Roman Baths are well worth a visit for anyone with an interest in history and architecture, while fans of Jane Austen will enjoy a visit to the Jane Austen Centre. No.1 Royal Crescent is a museum that provides insight into Georgian life within Bath and visitors can also explore Bath courtesy of free walking tours that highlight a range of historical and architectural attractions in the city.
Glastonbury Abbey
The ancient Glastonbury Abbey boasts an intriguing past. It is reputed to be Britain’s earliest Christian sanctuary and legend also claims it was the burial place of King Arthur. Glastonbury was once one of the richest abbeys in Britain until Henry VIII launched his campaign to seize hundreds of religious buildings. Nowadays visitors can explore the incredibly beautiful abbey ruins while learning about its history courtesy of costumed guides who are available from March to October. The grounds are also stunning and ideal for leisurely strolls.
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Wookey Hole
There is no shortage of entertainments on offer at Wookey Hole, from captivating caves to legends of the Witch of Wookey Hole. Humans and animals have lived in and around the caves for about 50,000 years and the cave museum contains a variety of finds that have been discovered in the caves over the years. There are also many other family-friendly attractions to discover at Wookey Hole, including a fairy garden, adventure golf, life-sized dinosaurs and a mirror maze.
Fleet Air Arm Museum
The Fleet Air Arm Museum is the biggest naval aviation museum in Europe. It contains more than 90 aircraft, including Britain’s first Concorde, and over 30,000 artefacts. Fun, informative and engaging, the museum will entertain adults and children and is an appealing environment in which to discover Britain’s naval aviation history.
Something for everyone in Somerset
From amazing natural landscapes to impressive architecture and a wealth of history and culture, no matter their tastes visitors won’t fail to find delightful attractions that are just right for them in Somerset.
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