Explore Somerset: 10 Essential Things to do in This Beautiful County

Somerset is a county of contrasts and myth, magic and mystery. From its mist-covered Levels to the rolling Mendip hills, this extraordinary county has so much to offer visitors that one trip is never enough to explore it fully. One of the largest counties in the South West region, Somerset reaches from the edges of the M4 corridor to the wilds of Exmoor and the dramatic north coast of the peninsula. Within its borders are thousands of opportunities for days out, exciting trips and fascinating towns to discover, and here we list 10 hidden gems of this beautiful county that will help you to explore Somerset.

Roman Bath
Probably better known than some of the county’s other attractions, Roman Bath is still a fascinating insight into the transition period between the native population of the country and the ‘visitors’ of the first century BC. A fascinating array of architecture, blending both cultures and developing Bath’s natural hot water springs into an oasis for our Roman guests, the city has thrived for over 2000 years. Look beneath the street surfaces for hidden catacombs and labyrinthine tunnels.

The Mendips
A haven of peace and tranquillity, the Mendips are probably Somerset’s best-known range of hills. Stunning walks through some of the most transitional countryside in the region take you along the ‘spine’ of the county, giving you unequalled views over the Levels and surrounding countryside.

Mysterious Glastonbury
If there’s one iconic image of Somerset, it has to be the imposing Glastonbury Tor. But this remarkable town is far more than just a Tor and the Abbey. Its importance as a centre for learning and culture was what made Glastonbury one of the most important locations in England for hundreds of years and that air of mystery and magic that surrounded it then still exists today.

Cheddar Caves and Gorge
Slicing through the surrounding countryside, Cheddar Gorge is a remarkable landmark and the surrounding system of caves is ripe for exploration. Guided tours take you deep underground into a world where Neolithic man lived and hunted thousands of years ago.

The American Museum
The American Museum in Bath is the only museum of Americana outside the USA and shows just how strong the connection is between the superpower and the county of Somerset. Charting the history of the USA from the Founding Fathers to modern day, it is diverse and interesting and a very different experience from most other museums.

Wookey Hole
With a magical underground river winding through it and legends of witchcraft, Wookey Hole is one of Britain’s best-known cave systems. There’s also plenty to do around the caves, providing entertainment whatever the weather.

Dunster Castle
Situated in the north of the county just a few miles from the coastal resort of Minehead, Dunster is a medieval town complete with imposing castle, winding streets and overhanging houses that cluster around a central square. The castle itself is over 1000 years old and hosts entertainment and events such as archery competitions and falconry displays during the summer.

East Somerset Steam Railway
One of the best preserved steam railways in the country, a trip on the East Somerset Steam railways takes you through the rolling Mendip countryside and on a journey into the halcyon days of steam travel. Excellent facilities make this a perfect day out for the whole family.

Exmoor
Somerset shares this stunning National Park with neighbouring Devon, and Exmoor is rapidly becoming one of the most popular visitor attractions in the south west. Sweeping moorland dotted with rare Exmoor ponies drops dramatically down to a rugged coastline or into hidden wooded valleys ripe for exploration.

Willows and Wetlands Visitor Centre
Willow was one of the most important crops of the wetlands of Somerset and this fascinating centre tells visitors the story of one family’s business and experiences on the levels through generations. The site is now the only location where willow is grown commercially and is a perfect opportunity for a unique insight into a bygone age.