Attractions and Places To See around Somerset - Top 15

Somerset is rich in history. You can explore the ancient Roman Baths and Bath Abbey in Bath, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Don't miss the iconic Glastonbury Tor, steeped in Arthurian legends, and the ruins of Glastonbury Abbey, one of Britain's earliest Christian sites. Wells Cathedral, with its stunning Gothic architecture, is also a must-see. For a glimpse into medieval life, visit Dunster Castle, an impressive National Trust site.

Absolutely. Somerset boasts breathtaking natural beauty. Cheddar Gorge & Caves is England's largest gorge, offering dramatic limestone cliffs and stalactite-filled caves. You can also explore the Mendip Hills National Landscape, Exmoor National Park with its wild moorland and coastline, and the Quantock Hills, England's first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The Somerset Levels and Moors are internationally important wetlands, perfect for wildlife spotting.

Somerset offers many options for families. Wookey Hole Caves & Attractions provides a magical experience with caves, museums, and adventure golf. Puxton Park, located in the countryside, features play areas and high ropes courses. The West Somerset Railway offers a scenic journey through the countryside, which can be enjoyable for all ages. For outdoor activities, the Delaware and Raritan Canal Towpath is a family-friendly cycle way.

The region provides excellent opportunities for cycling. The Delaware and Raritan Canal Towpath is a popular gravel path suitable for road bikes. For mountain biking, areas like the Red Trail and Intersection of Red and Blue Trail offer diverse routes for various skill levels. You can find more detailed routes and guides for cycling around Somerset, including touring, MTB, and road cycling, on our dedicated guide pages: Cycling around Somerset, MTB Trails around Somerset, and Road Cycling Routes around Somerset.

Yes, Somerset has several interesting museums. The Somerset Rural Life Museum, located near Glastonbury Tor, delves into the county's social and agricultural history. For motoring enthusiasts, the Haynes International Motor Museum in Sparkford houses the UK's largest collection of cars and motorbikes. The Fleet Air Arm Museum offers immersive experiences with historic aircraft, including Concorde 002.

Somerset offers diverse walking experiences. The Mendip Hills National Landscape and Exmoor National Park provide numerous trails with stunning views. The Quantock Hills are also excellent for walks, offering extensive vistas. For a more relaxed stroll, the Washington Valley Park West features trails with views of the reservoir, and the Delaware and Raritan Canal Towpath is a pleasant option for a flat, scenic walk.

Yes, Somerset is home to several beautiful gardens. You can explore Hestercombe, Barrington Court, and East Lambrook Manor Gardens. In Bath, the Prior Park Landscape Garden offers picturesque views. For contemporary designs, consider visiting Hauser & Wirth and The Newt in Somerset.

For a taste of local tradition, you can take a Thatchers Cider Tour to learn about the cider-making process at this family-owned business. The West Somerset Railway offers a nostalgic journey through the countryside. Exploring the myths and legends surrounding Glastonbury Tor and Abbey also provides a unique cultural experience.

Somerset is excellent for nature lovers. The county hosts various nature reserves, including Westhay Moor National Nature Reserve, Catcott Nature Reserve, Bishopswood Meadows, and Lotts Grassland. These areas provide diverse habitats where you might spot otters, bitterns, and kingfishers.

Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The well-maintained paths, like the Delaware and Raritan Canal Towpath, are praised for connecting people with nature. The diverse trail networks, such as those at Red Trail, are enjoyed for catering to various skill levels, from novice cyclists to experienced riders. The stunning views from places like Washington Valley Park West are also a highlight, especially during spring and fall.

Yes, several locations offer stunning views. Glastonbury Tor provides expansive views of the Somerset Levels. The Quantock Hills offer extensive vistas over much of Somerset and across to the Welsh coast. Additionally, Washington Valley Park West features trails with beautiful views of the Washington Valley Reservoir, and the View of the D&R Canal offers a pleasant outlook along the canal.

For adventure seekers, Cheddar Gorge offers thrilling outdoor activities such as caving and rock climbing. Exmoor National Park is ideal for exploring wild moorland and dramatic coastlines, perfect for hiking and horse riding. The various MTB parks and trails, like the Red Trail, provide exciting challenges for mountain bikers.