Did you know Somerset is home to England’s oldest complete fossil of a dinosaur, dating back 200 million years? This enchanting county in southwest England offers far more than just prehistoric wonders. With its rolling hills, mysterious caves, historic towns, and delicious local cuisine, Somerset presents an irresistible blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage that captivates visitors year-round.
Getting to Somerset, England
Somerset is easily accessible by various transportation options, making it a convenient destination for both domestic and international travelers.
By Air
The closest major airport is Bristol Airport, which offers connections to numerous European destinations and UK cities. From there, you can rent a car or take public transport to reach various parts of Somerset. London’s airports (Heathrow and Gatwick) are also viable options, with good rail and road connections to Somerset.
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By Train
Great Western Railway operates regular services from London Paddington to key Somerset towns including Bath, Taunton, and Weston-super-Mare. The journey from London to Taunton takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes. If you’re traveling from northern England, CrossCountry trains provide good connections to Somerset via Bristol.
By Car
Somerset is well-connected by motorways and A-roads. The M5 motorway runs through the county, making it easily accessible from Birmingham and the north, while the A303 provides a scenic route from London and the southeast.
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Best Time to Visit Somerset
Somerset enjoys a mild climate compared to many parts of the UK, but each season offers a unique experience for visitors.
Spring (March-May)
Spring brings blooming wildflowers and newborn lambs to Somerset’s countryside. The weather is mild, and attractions are less crowded than in summer. It’s an ideal time for walking and exploring gardens like Hestercombe and The Bishop’s Palace in Wells.
Summer (June-August)
Summer is peak tourist season with warmer temperatures and longer days. The famous Glastonbury Festival typically takes place in late June. Coastal towns like Weston-super-Mare come alive, and outdoor activities are in full swing across Exmoor National Park.
Autumn (September-November)
Autumn paints Somerset’s landscapes in golden hues. The apple harvest brings fresh cider production, and you can enjoy Somerset’s food festivals. The crowds thin out, making it perfect for peaceful exploration of historic sites.
Winter (December-February)
Winter offers a different charm with festive markets in Bath and Wells. The Somerset Levels create spectacular winter landscapes, especially at dawn when mist hovers over the wetlands. Indoor attractions like Wookey Hole Caves and museums provide shelter on colder days.
Getting Around Somerset
Exploring Somerset’s diverse attractions requires some planning. Here are the best ways to get around this beautiful county.
By Car
A car offers the most flexibility for exploring Somerset’s countryside and remote attractions. The county has good road networks, though some rural roads can be narrow. Many of the region’s natural wonders, like Cheddar Gorge and the Quantock Hills, are best accessed by car.
Free parking is available in many smaller towns, while cities like Bath have park-and-ride facilities to avoid city center congestion.
Public Transport
Somerset’s bus network connects major towns and some villages, with First Bus operating over 30 routes across the county. The coastal routes are particularly scenic. Trains serve larger towns including Bath, Taunton, and Weston-super-Mare.
For a unique experience, ride the historic West Somerset Railway, England’s longest heritage railway, which runs between Minehead and Bishop’s Lydeard.
Cycling & Walking
Somerset offers excellent cycling and walking opportunities with over 3,800 miles of public rights of way. The Somerset Circle is a 76-mile cycle route that showcases the county’s diverse landscapes. The Strawberry Line path follows a former railway line through beautiful countryside.
Walking trails abound in the Mendip Hills, Quantock Hills, and Exmoor National Park, with routes suitable for all abilities.
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Where to Stay in Somerset
Somerset offers a diverse range of accommodation options to suit every preference and budget. From luxury country houses to cozy cottages and family-friendly hotels, you’ll find the perfect place to rest after exploring the county’s attractions.
Bath & Surroundings
Stay in Bath for elegant Georgian townhouses converted into boutique hotels and B&Bs. The Royal Crescent Hotel offers luxury in a historic setting, while the surrounding villages provide charming country inns and guesthouses with easy access to the city.
Perfect for: Culture lovers, spa enthusiasts, and architecture admirers.
Exmoor National Park
The Exmoor area offers rural campsites, luxury bed and breakfasts, and cozy cottages. Stay in charming villages like Dunster or Porlock for a true countryside experience with access to hiking trails and wildlife spotting opportunities.
Perfect for: Nature lovers, hikers, and those seeking tranquility.
Somerset Coast
Weston-super-Mare provides family-friendly hotels and guesthouses with seafront views. For a quieter coastal experience, try Watchet or Minehead where you’ll find shoreside chalets, coastal campsites, and traditional B&Bs.
Perfect for: Families, beach lovers, and those seeking traditional seaside charm.
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Top Attractions in Somerset England
Somerset boasts an impressive array of attractions that showcase its natural beauty, rich history, and cultural heritage. Here are the must-visit places that should be on every traveler’s itinerary.
Cheddar Gorge and Caves
England’s largest gorge offers breathtaking views with its dramatic cliffs rising 450 feet from the ground. Explore the spectacular show caves where Britain’s oldest complete human skeleton, Cheddar Man, was discovered. Adventure seekers can try rock climbing, while the cliff-top walk rewards hikers with panoramic views across the Mendip Hills.
Glastonbury Tor
This iconic hill topped with the remains of St. Michael’s Tower offers spectacular views across Somerset, Dorset, and Wiltshire. Steeped in myths and legends, including connections to King Arthur and Avalon, the Tor has been a spiritual pilgrimage site for centuries. The walk to the summit is moderately challenging but rewards visitors with a sense of magic and panoramic vistas.
Wells Cathedral
This magnificent medieval cathedral is considered one of the most beautiful in England. Marvel at the unique scissor arches supporting the central tower, the second-oldest working clock in Britain, and the exquisitely carved West Front featuring over 300 statues. The tranquil grounds include the Bishop’s Palace with its moat and resident swans who ring a bell when they want to be fed.
Glastonbury Abbey
Explore the atmospheric ruins of one of England’s most important medieval monasteries, allegedly the burial place of King Arthur and Queen Guinevere. The peaceful Abbey grounds span 36 acres and include herb gardens, ponds, and orchards. Regular events bring history to life, from medieval fairs to outdoor theater performances against the backdrop of the ancient walls.
Wookey Hole Caves
Delve into these spectacular limestone caves formed over millions of years. The guided tour takes you through multiple chambers with dramatic stalactites and stalagmites, underground lakes, and the home of the legendary Witch of Wookey. Beyond the caves, the attraction offers family fun with a dinosaur valley, fairy garden, vintage penny arcade, and 4D cinema experience.
Exmoor National Park
Experience the wild beauty of Exmoor with its heather-clad moorlands, ancient woodlands, and dramatic coastline. Spot free-roaming Exmoor ponies and red deer while exploring over 1,000 kilometers of footpaths and bridleways. Don’t miss Dunkery Beacon, Somerset’s highest point, or the spectacular Valley of Rocks near Lynton. The park’s dark sky reserve status makes it perfect for stargazing.
Family-Friendly Activities in Somerset
Somerset offers plenty of attractions that will keep children entertained while adults enjoy themselves too. From animal encounters to adventure parks, here are the best family-friendly activities in the county.
Weston-super-Mare Beach
This classic seaside resort offers a long sandy beach perfect for sandcastle building and paddling. The Grand Pier features arcade games, rides, and food outlets. Nearby, the Weston Sand Sculpture Festival (May-September) showcases incredible artworks created from sand, while the Water Adventure Play Park provides free splashing fun for younger children.
Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm
Home to over 100 species of animals, this award-winning zoo near Bristol combines wildlife with farm animals. Children can get up close to elephants, giraffes, and big cats, plus enjoy hands-on experiences with farm animals. Multiple adventure playgrounds, a maze, and tractor rides make this a full day out for families with children of all ages.
Fleet Air Arm Museum
Europe’s largest naval aviation museum offers an exciting day out for aviation enthusiasts young and old. Explore the aircraft carrier experience, climb into cockpits, and see over 90 aircraft including the first British Concorde. Interactive displays and a 4D simulator ride bring naval aviation history to life in an engaging way for children.
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Somerset Food and Drink Experiences
Somerset’s rich agricultural heritage has created a thriving food and drink scene. From world-famous cheddar cheese to traditional cider, here are the culinary experiences not to miss during your visit.
Cider Tasting
Somerset is England’s cider heartland, with a tradition dating back centuries. Visit family-run producers like Thatchers Cider, where you can tour the orchards and production facilities before sampling their award-winning ciders. For a more rustic experience, seek out farm shops selling scrumpy, the traditional cloudy cider with a higher alcohol content.
Cheddar Cheese
The world-famous cheese originated in the Somerset village of Cheddar. Visit the Cheddar Gorge Cheese Company to watch traditional cheese-making using milk from local farms. Their cheese is still matured in the Cheddar caves, maintaining centuries-old traditions. Don’t miss their vintage cheddar, aged for over 18 months for a complex, nutty flavor.
Farmers’ Markets
Experience Somerset’s agricultural bounty at local farmers’ markets. Bath Farmers’ Market (Saturday mornings) and Frome Independent Market (first Sunday of the month) are particularly good. Look for Somerset specialties like apple juice, honey, artisan bread, and Exmoor Blue cheese. Many markets also feature street food vendors cooking with local ingredients.
Practical Tips for Visiting Somerset
Make the most of your Somerset adventure with these helpful tips covering everything from weather considerations to local etiquette.
Weather and What to Pack
Somerset’s weather can be changeable year-round. Even in summer, bring layers and a waterproof jacket. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring the countryside and historic sites with uneven surfaces. If visiting coastal areas, pack sunscreen even on cloudy days as the sea breeze can be deceptive.
Local Etiquette
Somerset locals are generally friendly and helpful. When visiting rural areas, remember to close gates behind you when walking through farmland, keep dogs on leads near livestock, and stick to marked footpaths. In pubs, ordering and paying at the bar rather than waiting for table service is the norm unless you’re having a meal.
Money Matters
While card payments are widely accepted, some smaller rural businesses and farmers’ markets may be cash-only. ATMs can be limited in villages, so withdraw cash when in larger towns. Tipping is customary in restaurants (10-15%) but not mandatory in pubs or cafes.
Connectivity
Mobile coverage can be patchy in rural areas, particularly in Exmoor National Park and parts of the Mendip Hills. Download maps and information before heading to remote locations. Many accommodations, cafes, and pubs offer free Wi-Fi, though connection speeds may vary in rural areas.
What is the best way to experience authentic Somerset culture?
To experience authentic Somerset culture, visit a traditional cider farm, attend local events like agricultural shows or village fetes, and explore the smaller market towns on market days. Engaging with locals at country pubs is also a great way to learn about the area’s traditions and history.
Is Somerset suitable for a weekend trip?
Somerset works well for a weekend trip if you focus on one area, such as Bath and its surroundings, or the Cheddar/Wells region. For a more comprehensive experience of the county’s diverse attractions, from coast to countryside, a 4-5 day visit is ideal.
What should I know about visiting during Glastonbury Festival?
If visiting during Glastonbury Festival (usually the last weekend in June), book accommodation well in advance as places fill up quickly across the region. Traffic can be heavy around Glastonbury and Pilton. If you’re not attending the festival but want to explore the area, consider visiting other parts of Somerset during this time.
Seasonal Events and Festivals in Somerset
Somerset’s calendar is filled with unique events that showcase the county’s cultural heritage, from ancient traditions to contemporary celebrations. Here are some highlights throughout the year.
Spring Events
- Bath Literature Festival (February/March) – Celebrating the written word with author talks and workshops
- Exmoor Food Festival (February) – Showcasing the best of local cuisine with special menus at participating restaurants
- Somerset Food Trail (April) – A county-wide celebration of local food producers with farm visits and tastings
Summer Events
- Glastonbury Festival (Late June) – World-famous music and performing arts festival
- Bath Fringe Festival (May/June) – Alternative arts festival with theater, music, and visual arts
- Dunster Country Fair (July) – Traditional agricultural show with livestock competitions, crafts, and local food
- Valley Fest (August) – Family-friendly music festival with a focus on local food and sustainability
Autumn/Winter Events
- Somerset Carnivals (November) – Spectacular illuminated processions through towns including Bridgwater and Weston-super-Mare
- Wells Festival of Literature (October) – Literary celebration in England’s smallest city
- Bath Christmas Market (November/December) – One of the UK’s most popular festive markets set against the city’s Georgian architecture
Sample 3-Day Somerset Itinerary
Make the most of a short visit to Somerset with this balanced itinerary that combines natural wonders, historic sites, and culinary experiences.
Day 1: Wells & Cheddar
- Start with a morning visit to Wells Cathedral and the Bishop’s Palace
- Enjoy lunch at one of the cafes around the market square
- Drive to Cheddar Gorge (15 minutes) for an afternoon exploring the caves and cliff-top walk
- Visit the Cheddar Gorge Cheese Company to watch cheese-making and sample the products
- Return to Wells for dinner at one of its historic pubs
Day 2: Glastonbury & Somerset Levels
- Climb Glastonbury Tor in the morning for spectacular views
- Explore Glastonbury Abbey and the town’s unique shops
- Have lunch at a local cafe in Glastonbury
- Visit the Somerset Rural Life Museum
- Take an evening drive to the Somerset Levels for birdwatching and sunset views
Day 3: Exmoor National Park
- Drive to Dunster to see its medieval castle and charming village
- Continue to Porlock for lunch with coastal views
- Spend the afternoon exploring Exmoor with a scenic drive or walk
- Look for wild Exmoor ponies and red deer
- Finish with dinner at a traditional country pub serving local produce
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Why Somerset Should Be Your Next Destination
Somerset offers a perfect blend of England’s most cherished qualities: breathtaking landscapes from dramatic gorges to rolling hills, fascinating history spanning thousands of years, and a food and drink scene that celebrates the region’s agricultural bounty. Whether you’re climbing the mystical Glastonbury Tor, exploring the magnificent Wells Cathedral, or sampling cider straight from a family-run farm, Somerset delivers authentic experiences that create lasting memories.
With fewer crowds than many of England’s more famous destinations, Somerset allows you to experience the quintessential English countryside at your own pace. The warm welcome from locals, the diversity of attractions, and the magical quality of the landscape make Somerset a destination that captures hearts and inspires return visits. Pack your walking boots, bring your curiosity, and prepare to discover one of England’s most rewarding counties.
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