Somerset, located in southwest England, is known for its rural landscapes, historic towns, and cultural landmarks. The city of Bath, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, features Roman baths and Georgian architecture. Wells offers a Gothic cathedral and medieval Bishop’s Palace. Glastonbury is notable for its abbey ruins and festival. Cheddar Gorge provides dramatic scenery and walking routes. Exmoor National Park spans the western area, while coastal towns such as Minehead and Burnham-on-Sea attract seasonal visitors.
Official tourism website: https://www.visitsomerset.co.uk
Although this is the “official” tourism website it is run by a private company and is more intent on selling you tours and accommodation rather than independent advice. It does have some really useful information though.
The Best Things to Do in Somerset
Bath
Bath is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its Roman and Georgian heritage. Key attractions include the Roman Baths, Bath Abbey, and the Royal Crescent. The city also features the Jane Austen Centre, museums, and historic architecture throughout its centre. The Thermae Bath Spa offers access to natural thermal waters. Bath’s cultural programme includes festivals, theatre, and music, making it a major destination for heritage, leisure, and the arts.
Official tourism website: https://visitbath.co.uk
Wells
Wells is England’s smallest city, known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and compact city centre. Key sites include Wells Cathedral, an outstanding example of Gothic design, and the adjacent Bishop’s Palace with its gardens and moat. Vicar’s Close, claimed to be the oldest continuously inhabited street in Europe, is also notable. Regular markets, independent shops, and a range of cultural events make Wells a popular destination in Somerset.
Google map City
Google map Cathedral 4.7/5
Google map The Bishop’s Palace & Gardens 4.6/5
Cheddar Gorge and Caves
Cheddar Gorge and Caves is a major natural attraction in Somerset, featuring dramatic limestone cliffs and a series of show caves. The site includes Gough’s Cave and Cox’s Cave, which contain stalactites and archaeological finds, including Britain’s oldest complete skeleton, Cheddar Man. The gorge offers walking trails, a clifftop path, and panoramic views. It is also a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest for its geology and biodiversity.
Official website for caves: https://www.cheddargorge.co.uk/
Google map 4.7/5
Glastonbury
Glastonbury is a historic town in Somerset known for its religious and mythological associations. Key sites include Glastonbury Abbey, linked to early Christianity and Arthurian legend, and Glastonbury Tor, a hill topped by a medieval tower offering wide views. The town also features the Somerset Rural Life Museum and a range of independent shops. It hosts the internationally renowned Glastonbury Festival, held annually at nearby Worthy Farm in Pilton.
Google map – Town
Google map – Glastonbury Tor 4.8/5
Google map – Glastonbury Abbey 4.6/5
Google map – Chalice Well 4.7/5
Exmoor National Park
Exmoor National Park spans western Somerset and North Devon, offering varied landscapes including moorland, wooded valleys, and coastal cliffs. The park is home to native Exmoor ponies, red deer, and extensive walking and cycling routes. Highlights include the Valley of Rocks, Tarr Steps, and the scenic village of Dunster. Designated as a Dark Sky Reserve, Exmoor also provides opportunities for stargazing in designated viewing areas and remote countryside locations.
Official website: https://www.exmoor-nationalpark.gov.uk
Google map 4.8/5
Dunster Castle
Dunster Castle, located on the edge of Exmoor, is a former Norman stronghold transformed into a country house. Managed by the National Trust, it features period interiors, terraced gardens, and views over the Bristol Channel. The surrounding estate includes a working watermill and wooded walks. The castle reflects over 1,000 years of history, from medieval fortifications to Victorian redesign, and remains a key heritage attraction in Somerset.
Official website: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/
Google map 4.7/5
Fleet Air Arm Museum
The Fleet Air Arm Museum, located near Yeovilton in Somerset, is one of Europe’s leading aviation museums. It showcases the history of British naval aviation through aircraft displays, flight simulators, and interactive exhibits. Highlights include a Concorde, a replica of the aircraft carrier HMS Ark Royal, and vintage naval planes. The museum offers educational resources and family activities, providing insight into the development and operations of the Fleet Air Arm.
Official website: https://www.nmrn.org.uk/
Google map 4.7/5
Haynes Motor Museum
Haynes Motor Museum, located near Yeovil in Somerset, houses the UK’s largest collection of historic motor vehicles. The museum features over 400 cars and motorcycles, ranging from early models to modern classics. Exhibits are arranged thematically, covering British, American, and international marques. Highlights include vintage Rolls-Royces, Formula One cars, and motorbikes. The museum also offers interactive displays, a café, and educational resources for visitors of all ages.
Official website: https://www.haynesmuseum.org
Google map 4.7/5
Minehead
Minehead is a coastal town in Somerset, known for its sandy beach, traditional seafront, and family-friendly attractions. It serves as the starting point of the South West Coast Path and lies near Exmoor National Park. The town features a heritage railway operated by the West Somerset Railway and a historic harbour area. Seasonal events, walking routes, and nearby countryside make Minehead a popular destination for leisure and coastal tourism.
Prior Park Landscape Garden
Prior Park Landscape Garden, located on the outskirts of Bath in Somerset, is an 18th-century garden designed by poet Alexander Pope and landscape architect Capability Brown. Managed by the National Trust, it features sweeping views, woodland paths, and a notable Palladian bridge. The garden exemplifies the English landscape style and offers a tranquil setting for walking and historical interest. Restoration efforts have preserved its original layout and natural water features.
Official website: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/
Google map 4.4/5