Somerset
Why we love Somerset
Peppered with rolling hills, ancient woodlands and unique local flavours, Somerset is calling out to be explored. Hike across the dramatic natural peaks of Cheddar Gorge, sample delicious local ciders or sip on delectable English wines at family-run vineyards. Find the coastline a hotbed for amusements, wild walks and iconic British piers. For foodies and adventurers alike, Somerset has fresh flavours to discover at every turn.
Wookey Hole Caves
Delve beneath the surface for spectacular caves and legendary tales. Traverse through eight chambers, or for added adventure, try the caving experience! Once home to neanderthals, bears, and hyenas, Wookey Hole has stood the test of time. Visit now for an unforgettable time with pitch and putt, a 4D cinema and more to discover.
Clevedon Pier and Heritage Trust
Walk over the water along England’s only Grade I listed pier, as seen in Sanditon, and refuel in the Victorian Pagoda café boasting scenic coastal views. Voted Pier of the Year 2021 by the National Pier Society, look out for pop-up markets, fizz and chips on the pier, and the community archives with pictures and documents from years gone by.
Thatcher's Cider
Sip on the flavours of Somerset, where cider has been brewing for over 115 years, and embark on a tour around the mill and beyond. Once you’ve become a brewing expert, try the ciders for yourself; from well-known favourites to limited edition ranges. Don’t forget to swing by the farm shop to take some treats back with you.
Glastonbury
This legendary gathering is on every music-lover’s bucket list – featuring five unforgettable days of live music, comedy, theatre and more. Its line-up is a who’s-who of incredible musicians: from the finest rock and pop performers to superstar DJs and rising talents. Alongside, there’s a whole world of entertainment and art to discover: from the beachy fun of “Glastonbury-on-Sea’ to the vibrant Glasto-Latino area and a DJ booth set in a mechanical dragonfly – yes, really! From an eco-perspective, it has a “leave no trace” policy with an on-site recycling plant; food waste is also turned into compost. Dance guilt-free knowing that electricity is powered entirely by sustainable renewable sources.
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Admire the Somerset countryside from the comfort of a vintage carriage on the East Somerset Railway.
Sink into the mineral-rich waters of Thermae Bath Spa, the only natural thermal spa in Britain.
Explore the dramatic landscapes of Cheddar Gorge and Caves, carved out of the Mendip Hills over thousands of years.
One of Britain’s premier music events, Glastonbury Festival, welcomes music’s biggest names to its summer site at Worthy Farm.
Fun fact
Fun fact
At its peak in June, Glastonbury Festival covers around 1,100 acres – that’s more than twice the size of Monaco, or bigger than 500 football pitches.
Did you know?
Did you know?
- Bath has a strong connection to Jane Austen, as the city was both her home and a significant setting in her novels – the Jane Austen Centre offers an insight into her life in the city, with several events marking the 250th anniversary of her birth in 2025.
- Carnival season hits Somerset every autumn, with spectacular floats (known as ‘carts’) parading through the towns in a tradition dating back to at least the 1600s.
- The South West Coast Path kicks off in Minehead, a seaside town in north Somerset, and runs for 630 miles (1,014km) to Poole, in Dorset. Spot it in 2025 film The Salt Path, starring Gillian Anderson.
- A highlight of Wells Cathedral is its ornate astronomical clock, as a set of jousting knights pop out and chase each other every 15 minutes.
- Somerset’s landscapes have played a starring role in film and TV, with Bridgerton and Wonka both filmed in Bath. The historic city of Wells also doubled as Sandford in Simon Pegg and Nick Frost’s Hot Fuzz.
Things to do in Somerset
Featured things to do
Give it a go at Mendip Activity Centre
Embrace the outdoors and unleash your sense of adventure as you choose from abseiling, caving, kayaking and more.
Up the adrenaline at Mendip Activity Centre
Hit the beach at Weston-super-Mare
When the sun comes out, Somerset’s hottest spot is the beach town of Weston-super-Mare. With amusements, crazy golf, excellent seafood and an iconic pier, there’s fun for all the family.
Enjoy summer at Weston-super-Mare
Find art on the Glastonbury Mural Trail
Let bold colours and bright creations guide your way as you set out on an artsy exploration. Spot over 30 murals on the art drenched walls of Glastonbury.
Follow the Glastonbury Mural Trail
Ride a seasonal steam train
Gather your loved ones for a ride on the East Somerset Railway at Christmas. Enjoy a festive high tea, complete with homemade mince pies and pigs and blankets, as you take in the picturesque Somerset countryside.
Take a ride on the East Somerset RailwayPlaces to stay in Somerset
Exmoor National Park
With plenty of rural campsites, luxury bed and breakfasts and cosy cottages, there’s nature and relaxation to be found in Exmoor.
Somerset coast
From vivacious Weston-super-Mare that’s perfect for a family escape, to shoreside chalets and coastal campsites, it’s time to discover Somerset’s stunning coastline.
Mendip Hills AONB
Boasting grand countryside estates, converted barns and traditional pub stays, escape into the Mendip Hills.
Explore nearby
Getting to Somerset
Located in south-west England, and bordered by areas including Devon, Dorset and the Bristol Channel, Somerset is easy to explore. Bristol Airport serves the region, with connections to numerous European destinations.
Great Western Railway operates travel to Somerset from London, with journeys from London Paddington to Taunton taking around one hour and 45 minutes.
Getting around Somerset
By bike
There are over 3,803 miles (6,129 km) of Right of Way routes to explore in Somerset. Use these handy walking and cycling maps to discover them.
By bus
Set out on an adventure across the rural county with First Bus. Operating over 30 bus routes and unique coastal rides, exploration is at your fingertips.
By train
Operating services around the county, Great Western Railway run trains to destinations including Glastonbury and Weston-super-Mare, or journey back in time on a heritage railway.
Want to know more?
Want to know more?
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