Read on to discover some of the attractions you can explore and enjoy while staying in one of our Somerset cottages.
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By selecting one of our holiday cottages Somerset and its many attractions can be discovered. This is a rural county of rolling hills, the Mendips and Quantocks, separated by the Somerset Levels wetland. At its southern extremity, around Bath, the Cotswold influence can be felt while to the west lies the hilly, open moorland of the Exmoor National Park. To the north, where Exmoor's plateau plunges into the sea, the coastline is high and dramatic with cliffs and lush wooded valleys cutting down to the coast. Here, the village of Porlock has retained its charm with steep, winding streets and some thatched cottages Somerset can be proud of. Just along the coast is the resort of Minehead; beyond here the coastline becomes less dramatic as the Levels meet the Bristol Channel.
The county has some important heritage sites worth featuring on the itinerary of anyone holidaying in Somerset cottages. Mystical Glastonbury sits above the Levels, shrouded in Arthurian myth. Nearby, on the edge of the Mendips, is the small city of Wells with its magnificent cathedral dating back to the 10th century. For visitors to Somerset holiday cottages also make an ideal base from which to visit Cheddar Gorge, a spectacular three-mile ravine cutting through the Mendips. The Romans created England's first spa resort at Bath, now a much-visited World Heritage Site. Among its attractions are the magnificent Georgian buildings, including the famous Royal Crescent.
Transport enthusiasts are well-served by museums in this part of the world. The Fleet Air Arm Museum just north of Yeovil, boasts the largest collection of Naval aircraft anywhere in Europe. Situated alongside an operational Naval Air Station, visitors are invited to board Concorde and be transported by simulated helicopter flight to the 'flight deck' of the aircraft carrier HMS Ark Royal. The prestigious Haynes International Motor Museum, near Castle Cary, offers an excellent day out for everyone. Containing more than 400 cars and bikes, dating from 1886 to the present day, it is the largest international motor museum in Britain.
Taunton sits at the heart of a rich fertile area famed for its cider apples. Somerset is one of the few English counties where true farmhouse cider, or 'scrumpy', is made using traditional methods. What stay in this county would be complete without sampling, back at one of our holiday cottages Somerset cider, after the perfect day out?
Places to visit in Somerset
Clevedon
Clevedon is a charming seaside town whose elegance and appeal has plenty to offer all ages. Here, sand gives way to a pebbled shoreline, backed by largely unspoilt Victorian architecture. Enjoying glorious views across the Bristol Channel, the local coastal walks have inspired many great writers including Tennyson, Thackeray and Coleridge. Clevedon Pier is the jewel in the crown, one of the finest and most important Victorian piers in the country. Disaster struck in 1970 when the end section collapsed. It has now been restored to its former glory and a stroll on the pier is a must for every visitor to Clevedon.
One of our Somerset cottages in Clevedon.
Weston super Mare
Weston-super-Mare is the archetypal English seaside resort. It became popular in the Victorian era and many of its grander buildings date from that time though it remains a popular family holiday resort. The Grand Pier is the focal point on the seafront. The Pier has been updated over the years but still retains its original character. Weston is made for entertainment so you will find all manner of seaside fun, theatres, cinemas and attractions including paddle steamer trips across the Bristol Channel and into the Severn Estuary.
One of our Somerset cottages in Weston super Mare.
Brean Leisure Park
Brean Leisure Park is the largest Fun Park in the South West of England. The ten acre fun park features four thrilling roller coasters, log flumes, go-karts, old favourites like dodgems and pony rides as well as indoor and outdoor heated fun pools. Grown-ups are not forgotten - there is an 18-hole golf course and The Tavern at Brean is Somerset's leading night venue for live entertainment.
One of our Somerset cottages in Brean.
Burnham on Sea
Burnham on Sea is a traditional English holiday resort with a long promenade looking across Bridgwater Bay. A magnificent sweep of sand stretches seven miles north to the holiday villages of Berrow and Brean stopping at the National Trust headland of Brean Down. The village of Brean runs alongside the beach, and Brean Down is one of the most dramatic landmarks of the Somerset coastline, offering an opportunity for lovely walks. From the top of the headland there are great views over the Bristol Channel, to the islands of Steep Holm and Flat Holm, Weston-super-Mare and across to the Welsh coast.
One of our Somerset cottages near Burnham on Sea.
The Mendip Hills
The Mendip Hills are an imposing limestone ridge that stretches from the Bristol Channel, like a rampart above the Somerset Levels, to Frome in east Somerset. This is the UK's most southerly example of limestone country - distinctive silver-grey crags, gorges, dry valleys, rocky outcrops all criss-crossed by dry stone walls. They contrast sharply with the flat Somerset Levels, which flow out south from the base of the Mendip Hills. An Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty it is noted for its scenic beauty and wildlife. The most dramatic landscape is the nearby famous Cheddar Gorge and Wookey Hole Caves. There are plenty of walks crossing the hills offering the best views of the Mendips, as well as less strenuous riverside rambles and gentle strolls down in the valleys. There are also a number of waymarked mountain biking trails of varying difficulty with something to suit all levels of off-road cyclist.
One of our Somerset cottages in the Mendip Hills.
Wookey Hole
Some of Britain's best show caves are to be found beneath the Mendips, including the renowned Wookey Hole. Twenty five caverns have so far been discovered, with further exploration still pending. However, only some of the caverns are open to the public as many are only accessible to experienced divers, submerged as they are beneath the waters of the river. For those open to everyone there is a sound and light show to enhance the natural beauty of the cave's rock formations, giving visitors a chance to truly marvel at the scale of nature's sculpture here beneath the earth.
One of our Somerset cottages nearWookey Hole.
Cheddar Gorge
Visitors have been coming to Cheddar for centuries to view the magnificent limestone gorge, reaching 500 feet in places. The ravine boasts the highest inland cliffs in the country that can be viewed from the public road running through the gorge or from footpaths along the top of the cliffs. It is a place of wild and rugged beauty, home to many rare plants and animals, including Peregrine falcons and endangered Greater Horseshoe bats. The Cheddar Caves were re-discovered in the Victorian era and have spectacular stalactite and stalagmite formations, whose beautiful colours are mirrored in pools of water.
One of our Somerset cottages near Cheddar Gorge.
Cheddar
The village of Cheddar is home to the famous cheese and although there are many stories about how the cheese originally came into being, some facts are not in doubt. The land around the village of Cheddar has been at the centre of England's dairy industry since at least the 15th-century with the earliest references to Cheddar cheese dating from 1170. With the absence of refrigeration or adequate transport the problem of what to do with surplus milk was solved by turning it into cheese. Cheese makers discovered that if you pressed the fresh curd, the cheese lasted much longer. This method of cheese making along with other refinements was perfected in the Cheddar area and so the first authentic Cheddar cheese was born. Today it is ubiquitous and the mass-produced variety can be of questionable quality. The name 'Cheddar cheese' has become widely used internationally, and does not currently have a Protected Designation of Origin, as say Parma Ham or Melton Mowbray pork pies. However, the European Union recognises 'West Country Farmhouse Cheddar' as a Protected Designation of Origin - so look out for this when next shopping. To meet this standard the cheese must be made in the traditional manner, using local ingredients, in one of four designated West Country counties: Somerset, Devon, Dorset, or Cornwall.
One of our Somerset cottages in Cheddar.
Wells
Nestling on the southern side of the Mendip Hills with the Somerset Levels stretching away to the south and west, Wells is probably the most visited of the historic Mendip towns. In fact it is a city - possibly England's smallest - due to the presence of Wells Cathedral. However, Wells still retains the feel of a small provincial market town despite its fine architecture. It remains remarkably unspoilt and is a very pleasant place to stroll around with greens, gardens and waterside walks around the cathedral and Bishop's Palace (still the residence of Bishops of Bath and Wells), as well as many other attractive buildings including the Vicars' Close, one of the oldest complete medieval streets in Europe, St Cuthbert's Church and historic market place. Wells Cathedral was largely built between the 12th and 14th centuries and is probably the finest national example of early English architecture. It is famed for its magnificent West Front, featuring over 300 statues and carvings, the arches of the nave, and one of the oldest working mechanical clocks.
One of our Somerset cottages in Wells.
Street
Street stands just over a mile from Glastonbury, across the River Brue. A turning point in Street's development came in 1825, when a local farmer and devout Quaker, Cyrus Clark, set up a sheepskin and shoe-making business. Street became internationally-known as the home base of Clarks - whose headquarters are still on the High Street - and the first purpose-built factory outlet shopping centre, Clarks Village, which attracts visitors from far and wide.
One of our Somerset cottages near Street.
Glastonbury
Aside from its annual music festival, Glastonbury is also famous as a sacred site of pilgrimage throughout the Middle Ages and even today, many people are drawn here by the mystical atmosphere - a curious amalgam of Christianity and paganism. Glastonbury is home to many legends. It is claimed to be the hiding place of the Holy Grail. It is also believed to be at a junction of several ley lines - said to resonate mystical energy - that can be traced to other spiritual sites such as Stonehenge. There is also a strong link with the Arthurian legend. Glastonbury Tor dominates the town and is thought to be the fabled Isle of Avalon - standing above the flat landscape of the Somerset Levels - the reputed burial place of King Arthur, where his sword Excalibur was forged. Whatever your thoughts on these myths and legends, views from the summit are stunning in all directions - north to Wells, the Mendips and the Bristol Channel, east to Wiltshire, south to the Polden Hills and west to the Quantocks and Exmoor.
One of our Somerset cottages near Glastonbury .
Castle Cary
Castle Cary is one of the most attractive of Somerset's market towns, with historic buildings built out of local Ham Stone, which gives the town its golden colour. It became prosperous from its production of horsehair stuffed seating which, amazingly, continued until the 20th century! Also nearby is Cadbury Castle, an ancient hill fort overlooking the flat lowland of the Somerset Levels. It has Arthurian connections as some believe it to be the location of Camelot.
One of our Somerset cottages near Castle Cary.
Frome
Frome is an attractive market town situated at the eastern end of the Mendips. It is built on steep hills with cobbled streets including the rather unusual Cheap Street with a leat (stream) running along its length. It once stood at the heart of the prosperous weaving industry with many listed buildings and hidden gems of architectural interest providing testament to its wealthy past. Today, Frome has a lively arts and crafts scene including three theatres and many of the older buildings are now home to contemporary cafes and eating places.
One of our Somerset cottages near Frome.
Wellington
The small market town of Wellington gave its name to the famous victor of the Battle of Waterloo. The 175ft column built on the edge of the Blackdown Hills, just outside the town, was erected in his honour. At night it is illuminated and is a landmark for miles around. The monument can be climbed and offers a superb view across the Somerset countryside. Wellington has recently become a 'Food Town' and hosts various events and initiatives to celebrate the best in local food and drink. The monthly farmer's market is heaven for foodies; fantastic local cheeses, meat from nearby farms and real cider give you a great taste of Somerset.
One of our Somerset cottages near Wellington.
Chard
Chard is the highest town in Somerset, nestling in a corner of the county between Dorset and Devon and surrounded by beautiful countryside. Nearby is Forde Abbey, founded by the Cistercians in 1140 it was one of the richest and most learned monasteries in the country. The church was demolished in the Dissolution and later rebuilt as a magnificent house. Today, it is a family home and very much a living, working estate rather than a museum piece. It has award-winning gardens open to the public including a mature arboretum, rockery, bog garden and working walled kitchen as well as a cascade of lakes providing a wonderful setting for the Centenary Fountain, the highest powered fountain in England.
One of our Somerset cottages in Chard.
Ilminster
Ilminster is a charming south Somerset market town. The fine Minster church that gave the town its name towers above the multitude of small shops, market square and narrow streets crammed with mellow, honey-coloured Ham Stone buildings. Nearby Herne Hill offers extensive views over the town and the surrounding countryside, the heart of cider country and home to the multi award-winning Perry's Cider. They have been producing traditional ciders for over four generations and a visit to their family farm is recommended.
One of our Somerset cottages near Ilminster.
Dunster
Dunster lies just inland from the lovely north Somerset coast and on the eastern edge of beautiful Exmoor. The winding high street and bustling market place are a treasure trove of historic buildings - with over 200 boasting Grade I or II listing - while towering over everything is Dunster’s romantic castle. You can wander around the Jacobean and Victorian interiors, or spend hours in the stunning terraced gardens that surround the castle, with their amazing collection of sub-tropical plants, plus the national collection of strawberry trees and Britain's oldest lemon tree. The wilds of Exmoor are never far away and it's easy to venture into the heart of the National Park from the village. Within minutes by car, or even on foot, you'll find yourself surrounded by some of the UK's most dramatic countryside.
One of our Somerset cottages near Dunster.
Dulverton
The small town of Dulverton is a great base for exploring southern Exmoor. Located in the heart of Exmoor's most outstanding countryside, it is situated between the Rivers Barle and Exe which converge a mile or so down the valley. This is excellent walking country with riverside and woodland trails or more strenuous climbs up to the moors. The upland oak woodlands in the Barle Valley are some of the best ancient woodlands in the country.
One of our cottages near Dulverton.
Exmoor
Exmoor is home to some of the most varied and beautiful scenery in southern England comprising a coastline with high and dramatic cliffs and heather moorland cut by deep fertile valleys dotted with pretty villages. To the north the moorland terminates in towering cliffs above the Bristol Channel. Rocky headlands, steep wooded ravines, plunging waterfalls and jumbled heaps of fallen rock make this an area of outstanding beauty. Inland, the small winding roads of Exmoor take you through the varied countryside of brooding moorland, lush farmland, ancient wooded valleys and historic villages with traditional thatched Exmoor cottages.
One of our Somerset cottages on Exmoor.
Somerset Levels
The Somerset Levels are the largest area of fenland in England outside East Anglia, and one of Britain's most important wetland wildlife habitats. The Levels stretch across the lowlands between the Mendip and Quantock Hills and are what is left of a once wider area of flooded fenland. Glastonbury Tor is the most prominent landmark in the Levels rising up over 500 feet and dominating the town of Glastonbury. In days gone by this was actually an island surrounded by sea, and later inaccessible marsh, hence it becoming known as the Isle of Avalon. Traditionally the Levels have produced willow used to weave many items including hurdles, baskets, baby cradles - and even coffins.
One of our Somerset cottages on the Somerset Levels.
Quantock Hills
The Quantock Hills were the first place in England to be designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Here you will find wonderful views and discover picturesque villages with thatched cottages and historic buildings. The best way to explore them is to take some of the many paths that criss-cross the hills through deep wooded valleys, known locally as 'combes', as well as open moorland. A favourite spot is Holford Combe, where you can just sit and enjoy the surroundings or take a gentle walk up the combe. For the more energetic, there is a route up to the ridge path and onto Beacon Hill, where you can enjoy glorious views of the Bristol Channel, the Somerset Levels and Exmoor.
One of our Somerset cottages in the .
Blackdown Hills
The Blackdown Hills are a beautifully tranquil and relatively isolated landscape on the Devon and Somerset border and are regarded as the West Country's hidden gem. Steep ridges, high plateaux, valleys and springs create a stunning mosaic of countryside dotted with farms and villages. This area is renowned for its fantastic range of welcoming country inns, many of which offer terrific menus of home cooked food, sourced from local produce. The area, designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, is ideal for walking cycling with quiet bridleways and byways offering many opportunities to explore.
One of our Somerset cottages in the Blackdown HillsHoliday cottages close to Somerset
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