Things to do in Somerset

Somerset is a county which boasts a wealth of activities, attractions and simply stunning landscapes. Regardless of your age or interests, you can be sure to find things to do in Somerset that will entertain both you and your party during a stay here.

Although it may be most famous for its overwhelmingly popular summer event, the Glastonbury Festival, there are many other things that the county has to offer, some more well-known than others. With countryside in abundance, a stretch of beautiful coastline and a fascinating heritage, there’s plenty to discover during a holiday in Somerset.

Walking:

On the Eastern fringe of Exmoor, the Mendip Hills, Blackdown Hills and Quantock Hills and the Levels and Moors, there are many opportunities for keen walkers to embark on a ramble while visiting Somerset. Even for those that prefer to keep things gentle, you’ll find picnic spots galore, which are perfect for a picturesque rest and a bite to eat on a sunny afternoon. Not forgetting Wookey Hole and Cheddar Gorge, which house some of the most spectacular caves and cliffs in the UK.

Nature:

Those interested in wildlife will also enjoy the countryside that Somerset has to offer, with a variety of RSPB Nature Reserves and trails, great for spotting creatures in their natural habitat. If you want to introduce your young children to animals, then Somerset is a great place to do so with farmland in almost every direction you look. There is a selection of farm parks in the county that the kids are sure to love, many with opportunities to get up close with residents of the farmyard.

History:

If it is history you seek during your holiday in Somerset, then the extensive collection of stately homes, castles, abbeys and museums will be a delight for you. From Glastonbury Abbey and Dunster Castle to the Shoe Museum and Sheppy’s Cider Farm, you’ll be able to enjoy an insight into the past of this fascinating county.

Heritage:

While on the subject of heritage, the small city of Wells is well worth visiting for admirers of history and architecture, as it's home to a stunning Gothic cathedral built during the medieval period, as well as the Bishop's Palace and Gardens, the home of the Bishops of Wells and Bath for over 800 years.

The grand city of Bath with its Roman ancestries is also a must-see during a visit to Somerset. Even if you just head here to pamper yourself in the elegant Roman baths, the buzz of the city is certainly something to experience while you’re here. Shoppers will also enjoy the range of shops that are on offer.

Shopping:

For those of you that like to indulge in a spot of retail therapy, Clark’s Village is another prime shopping location that you won’t want to miss, set in the modern town of Street. Bristol is a cosmopolitan city that like Bath has a wonderful collection of both high street and independent stores to browse. Bristol is a hub of culture and offers fantastic theatres, art galleries, museums and restaurants.

Seaside:

Somerset’s seaside towns such as Burnham-on-Sea and Weston-super-Mare bring all the traditional delights that a holiday beside the sea carries, with quieter beaches along the coastline opening up opportunities for ultimate relaxation in the form of sunbathing or long strolls and games of fetch with your dog.

Families, couples, groups and those with a four-legged friend will all love a holiday in the county due to the extent of things to do in Somerset and its surrounding area. Start planning your holiday here to make sure you cram as much into your Somerset holiday as you possibly can and make the most of what this stunning county has to offer!