|
SOMERSET
COUNTY COUNCIL
|
County Hall, Taunton,
TA1 4DY Wessex
 www.somerset.gov.uk
|
Telephone : 01823 355455
Fax : 01823 355 156 |
|
Exploring Somerset
|
|
"I'm Cerdic,
The First King of Wessex-
Welcome To My Kingdom and my ancient Capital Chard in Somerset now, but
not in my time"
|
|
Great British Heritage Pass
- Visit Britain with the Great British Heritage Pass - the best of
British sightseeing and historic Britain for UK visitors. Get free
entry to almost 600 British heritage tourist attractions around
England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
|
ATTRACTION
|
Picture
|
Address & Opening Times
and Click Through Website Link
|
Tel/
Fax
|
|
BATH
Bath
is a world-class destination, rich in Roman and Georgian heritage.
Nestling in a sheltered valley, surrounded like Rome by seven wooded
hills and nourished by Britain's only natural hot springs, Bath has
been luring visitors with its obvious charms for well over 2000 years.
For full list
of Theatres in Bath
CLICK THEATRES |
 |
Abbey
Chambers,
Abbey Churchyard,
Bath, BA1 1LY.
Fax: 01225 477787
Email: tourism@bathnes.gov.uk
|
Tel: 01225 477101 |
|
BATH VISITOR
DISCOUNT CARD
The new Bath Visitor
Card offers discounts at a wide range of places to eat, shops,
attractions and tours & entertainment in and around Bath. Over 45
businesses are participating in the scheme, including: Attractions -
Farleigh Hungerford Castle, The Museum of East Asian Art, The American
Museum in Britain, Bath Boating Station, Bath Postal Museum, Fashion
Museum, Avon Valley Railway, Sally Lunn’s Refreshment House Museum,
Prior Park Landscape Garden, Museum of Bath at Work, Herschel Museum of
Astronomy and Bath Abbey Tower Tours. Restaurants - Binks Restaurant,
Strada, Jaflong, Rajpoot, Jane Austen Centre Regency Tea Room,
Mezzaluna Ristorante, Clarkes Restaurant, Café du Globe, Il
Tocco d’Italia Restaurant, The Royal Hotel, Green Park Brasserie and
Ben & Jerry’s. Shops - Bath Aqua Glass, Pulteney Bridge Gifts, The
Glass House, Neal’s Yard Remedies, Uttam London, Abbey Green Craft
Gallery, No.1 Royal Crescent Gift Shop, The Roman Baths Gift Shop, Pump
Room Crafts, Bath Abbey Shop, Jody Cory Goldsmiths and Duo. Tours &
Entertainment - Pulteney Princess, Jubilee Narrowboat, The Little
Theatre Cinema, Thermae Bath Spa Visitor Centre, Pulteney Cruisers,
Drive-Tech Limited and Bath Balloons. Visitor cards are valid for three
weeks from the date of validation offering visitors plenty of time to
take advantage of the range of offers. Get it on-line for Just £3.
|
|
BATH
VISITORS DISCOUNT CARD CLICK
|
|
|
BATH ABBEY
Begun
in 1499, Bath Abbey is the last of the great medieval churches of
England. The West Front is unique as it depicts the dream that inspired
the Abbey's founder, Bishop Oliver King, to pull down the ruined Norman
cathedral and raise the present building on its foundations.Over the
past twelve and a half centuries, three different churches have
occupied the site of today’s Abbey:An Anglo-Saxon
Abbey Church dating from 757, pulled down by the Norman conquerors of
England soon after 1066.
A massive Norman cathedral begun about 1090. It was
larger than the monastery could afford to maintain and by the end of
the 15th century was in ruins.The present Abbey church founded in 1499,
ruined after the dissolution of the monasteries in 1539 by order of
Henry VIII.Worship has taken place on the site of today's Abbey for
over one thousand years and continues to this day with services taking
place throughout the entire week.
|
 |
Abbey Churchyard
Bath BA1 1LY
Opening Times:01 April - 31 October
09:00 - 18:00 (Monday to Saturday)
13:00 - 14:30 and 16:30 - 17:30 (Sunday)
01 November - 31 March
09:00 - 16:30 (Monday to Saturday)
13:00 - 14:30 and 16:30 to 17:30 (Sunday)
Fax: +44 (0) 1225
429990
BATH ABBEY
CLICK |
Tel:01225
422462 |
|
BATH - THE AMERICAN MUSEUM
Experience the American way of life from the 17th to
19th centuries
|
 |
Claverton Manor,
Bath BA2 7BD
The museum is well signposted from Bath Centre and the
A26 Warminster Road. From city centre bus station take No 18 and alight
at the The Avenue. Museum ten minutes walk
AMERICAN MUSEUM CLICK
|
Tel : 01225 460503
Fax: 01225 469160 |
|
BATH
AQUA THEATRE OF GLASS
Enjoy the ancient skills of the glassblowers and
stained glass artists, in this unique working museum, in the heart of
the artisan quarter of Bath. Bath Aqua Glass is coloured by adding
Copper Oxide to molten glass, creating beautiful aquamarine colour,
reminiscent of the Spa waters, which contain Copper that taint the
waters a green hue.
|
 |
105-107
Walcot Street
BATH BA1 5BW
Fax: +44 (0)1225 428146
BATH AQUA THEATRE OF
GLASS CLICK |
Tel: 01225 428146 |
BATH -
THE CIRCUS
The Circus was the masterpiece
of John Wood the Elder. The striking architecture has spawned numerous
theories to explain its stark originality. Viewed from the air it forms
the shape of a key, perhaps a Masonic symbol? John Wood is also thought
to have taken inspiration from the ancient standing stones of nearby
Stanton Drew and from Solomon's Temple in Jerusalem. Either way, the
Circus is a stupendous creative accomplishment and one of the key
reasons Bath was awarded the title of World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
|
 |
|
|
BATH MUSEUM OF EASTERN ART
Based
in a restored Georgian building, the Museum houses a fine collection of
artefacts from China, Japan and South East Asia. Displays include jade,
ceramics, lacquer and metalware dating from c5000BC to the 20th Century
and reveal the finest achievements in East Asian craftsmanship. Opening
times: Tuesdays - Saturdays 10am-5pm Sundays - 12noon-5pm Closed on
Mondays apart from Bank Holidays. Closed between Christmas and New Year.
|
 |
|
Tel:
01225 464640 |
|
BATH - THE JANE AUSTEN CENTRE
Permanent exhibition
and Giftshop celebrating Bath's most famous Visitor
|
 |
40 Gay Street,
Bath BA1 2NT
Follow the tourist signposts or hop on any of the
sightseeing bus tours and get off at the Jane Austen Centre
JANE AUSTEN CENTRE CLICK
|
Tel: 01225 443000 |
BATH MUSEUM OF COSTUME
The story of fashion over the last 400 years is brought alive at the
Museum of Costume, the finest museum of fashionable garments in the
world. The displays include 200 dressed figures to illustrate the
changing styles in fashionable clothes from the late 16th century to
the present day, chosen from the museum's collection of 30,000 original
items. The Museum is undergoing a major re-display in Spring 2007,
visit the website www.museumofcostume.co.uk/redisplay for the latest
details of what is on show.
Current Exhibitions:
'The Nureyev Style' until 15th April 2007
'Fashion and Bath' until 2nd January 2008
'Pockets of History' until 2 September 2007
|
 |
Assembly Rooms
Bennett Street
BATH BA1 2QH
Fax: +44 01225 477743
Opening Times: Mar-Oct 11am-5pm Nov-Feb 11am-4pm
BATH MUSEUM
OF COSTUME CLICK |
Tel:
01225 477173 |
BATH POSTAL MUSEUM
At
Bath Postal Museum we have something for everyone. We provide
colourful, frequently changing exhibitions, interactive games and
quizzes, models and collectables and feature historic 'talking heads'
video characters. There is also plenty to do for young visitors, who
can play the mail computer challenge, try on costumes and play our
stunning 'potholes and pitfalls' boardgame. All visitors are also able
to perforate their own sheet of stamps and the museum shop offers a
large range of postcards and gifts. Groups and schools can be catered
for.
|
 |
27
Northgate Street
BATH BA1 1AJ
Fax: +44 01225 460333
BATH POSTAL MUSEUM
CLICK |
Tel: 01225 460333 |
BATH - PULTENEY BRIDGE
Pulteney Bridge, together with the Ponte Vecchio in Florence, is one of
the world's most beautiful bridges. Like the Ponte Vecchio it is one of
a handful of historic bridges in the world with shops built into it.
Built for William Pulteney by Robert Adams, the bridge was an attempt
to connect central Bath to land on the other bank of the River Avon and
make Pulteney's fortune. In spite of its practical origins it is surely
the most romantic bridge in the world, best viewed from Parade Gardens
park by the crescent weir.
|
 |
Pulteney Bridge
BATH Avon BA2 4AY |
|
BATH -
THE PUMP ROOM RESTAURANT
Contemporary English food served
in elegant surroundings with linen tablecloths, table service, fresh
flowers. Fresh food prepared on the premises, cooked to order using
local produce. Great ambience. Live music by the Pump Room Trio or a
solo pianist.
|
 |
Bath And North East Somerset
Council Heritage Services
Pump Room, Stall Street
BATH Avon BA1 1LZ
Open 7 days a week: Winter (Oct 1st - March 31st)
09.30 - 16.30 Summer (April 1st - September 30th) 09.30 - 17.30 Times
may vary
|
Tel:01225
444477 |
BATH
RACECOURSE
Bath Racecourse is situated on
Lansdown Hill overlooking the famous Roman City of Bath. The idyllic
and relaxed atmosphere appeals to all, whilst our 18 day fixture list
has a variety of evening, weekend and mid-week afternoon meetings.
|
 |
Lansdown
BATH BA1 9BU
Fax: +44 (0)1225 444415
BATH
RACECOURSE CLICK |
Tel:
01225 424609 |
BATH ROMAN BATHS
Visit
the heart of the World Heritage Site. Around Britain's only hot spring,
the Romans built a magnificent temple and bathing complex that still
flows with natural hot water. See the water's source and walk where
Romans walked on the ancient stone pavements. The extensive ruins and
treasures from the spring are beautifully preserved and presented using
the best of modern interpretation.
'Meet
the Romans' children's audiogiude and 'Bryson at the Bath's audioguide
tours included in admission price.The Roman Baths opening hours are:
Jan - Feb 9.30 - 16.30, exit 17.30; Mar - June 9.00 - 17.00, exit
18.00, July - Aug 9.00 - 20.00, exit 21.00, Sept - Oct 9.00 - 17.00,
exit 18.00, Nov - Dec 9.30 - 16.30, exit 17.30
|
 |
Roman
Baths
Abbey Church Yard
BATH BA1 1LZ
Fax: +44 01225 477743
ROMAN BATHS CLICK |
Tel: 01225 477785 |
BATH -
THE ROYAL CRESCENT
The Royal Crescent is one of the world's best known landmarks. Built
between 1767 and 1775 and designed by John Wood the younger, the
crescent contains some 30 houses, one of which is now the Royal
Crescent Hotel, another is Number 1 and open to the public. |
 |
Royal Crescent
BATH
BA1 2LS |
|
|
BATH
TREASURE HUNT
No prior knowledge of
Bath is required as all clues are solved by observation. Both
young and old will be fascinated whilst getting out for a couple of
hours seeing the sites and solving the clues. Children will enjoy
beating adults to solve the clues! We even supply a map just in
case you get lost. The answers are at the back of the book so you
can check any unsolved ones before you leave.The hunt starts at the
Tourist Information Centre , York Street, Bath, BA1 1LY. From Bath or
just visiting, you will be surprised at how much you walk past without
even noticing. We so often walk around blinkered without appreciating
the great features which make our towns and cities fabulous. By
following our hunt these things will be highlighted rather than hidden
away. Our Bath treasure hunt packs contain all the necessary elements
for you need including maps, clues, answer sheet, and tips on how to
get things going.
|
|
Local stockists
of single hunts
Tourist Information Centre—Bath,
Abbey
Chambers,
Abbey Churchyard,
Bath, BA1 1LY.
Fax: 01225 477787
Email: tourism@bathnes.gov.uk
Good Buy Books—Bath
W H Smith—Bath
BATH TREASURE
HUNT CLICK
|
Tel: 01225 477101 |
BATH
VICTORIA ART GALLERY
Bath & North East Somerset's Art Gallery houses work by
Gainsborough, Sickert, Zoffany and many other leading artists from the
15th century to the present day. The Gallery has one of the best
temporary exhibition programmes in the region, ranging from prints to
sculpture, including national touring exhibitions and major
retrospectives. FREE ENTRY |
|
Victoria Art Gallery
Bridge Street
BATH Avon BA2 4AT
Tuesday - Saturday 10am - 5pm
Sunday 1.30pm - 5pm Open on Bank Holiday Monday 28th August 2006 Closed
25/26 December, Good Friday & New Year's Day
Fax: 01225 477231
BATH VICTORIA ART
GALLERY CLICK |
Tel:
01225 477232 |
BECKWORTS TOWER & MUSEUM
The
120 foot neo-classical Tower was built for wealthy eccentric William
Beckford in 1827 as a study retreat which housed part of his art
collection & library. Today it contains a museum collection on the
first floor illustrating his life & interests. Visitors can climb
up the newly restored Tower into the Belvedere for panoramic views over
Bath & countryside.. General opening times: Saturdays, Sundays and
Bank Holiday Mondays; Easter to end October 10.30am-5pm.
Beckford's
Tower & Museum is now closed for the winter and will reopen at
Easter 2007. We still do group visits and special bookings during the
closed period
|
 |
Lansdown
Road
BATH
BA1 9BH
Fax: +44 01225 481850
BECKWORTH'S
TOWER & MUSEUM CLICK |
Tel:
01225 422212/460705 |
DOWNSIDE ABBEY
Downside
Abbey Church is one of the finest examples of Neo-Gothic architecture
in England, which some describe as a jewel among the churches of
Somerset. |
 |
Stratton-on-the-Fosse,
nr. Bath
DOWNSIDE ABBEY CLICK |
Tel:
01761 235161 |
FARLEIGH HUNGERFORD CASTLE
Ruined 14th century castle with an
intriguing history. Wall paintings in the chapel. Audio
tour. An English Heritage site. |
 |
Farleigh Hungerford, nr Bath
Daily.
Apr-Sept 10am-6pm; Oct 10am-5pm; Nov-Mar Wed-Sun 10am-4pm.
FARLEIGH
HUNGERFORD
CASTLE CLICK |
Tel:
01984 631819 |
BRIDGWATER
Bridgwater stands on the River Parrett.
The area has been known to have been settled for at least a thousand
years. In the Domesday Book, it is described as an agricultural
community with the name Brugie, although it is easy to see how
the name Bridgwater evolved. It is recorded that William de Bruere
was granted a Royal Charter for the borough at the beginning of
the 13th century, when he began building a castle here. By the 15th
century the town had become a thriving port. As with several other
centres in this area, the town’s prosperity was mainly to do with the
cloth industry. There was a major siege during the English Civil War
when the town supported the Royalists. The Parliamentarians attacked
the town and most of the timber framed buildings were destroyed. When
the town was taken, the victors destroyed the castle.During the late
18th and early 19th centuries, the cloth trade began to decline as a
result of the industrial revolution. Larger northern towns, where
labour was cheap and plentiful, became the centres of industry. Bristol
grew in importance and the port of Bridgwater began to decline. The
manufacture of bricks and roofing tiles gave the town a boost after the
arrival of the railways. But this industry was replaced by others
during the 20th century.The mediaeval street pattern has been retained
in the old centre of Bridgewater and there are still a number of
attractive historic buildings. There is also a statue of Admiral
Blake, one of the town’s most famous sons, in the town centre. The
birthplace of this sailor and parliamentarian, who was born at the end
of the 16th century, is now a museum.Today the town is famous for Bridgwater
Fair, which has now been combined with an illuminated carnival. The
fair takes place during the last week of September and has been held in
the town since 1249. It was originally a livestock fair and this
function still survives. However the main event is now centred around a
fairground with all its attractions. Bridgwater has plenty of
accommodation, restaurants, bars and cafés. It also has plenty
of shops and other tourist facilities, making it an ideal centre from
which to explore Somerset and neighbouring counties.
|
 |
50
High Street,Bridgwater.
Email: bridgwater.tic@sedgemoor.gov.uk
|
Tel:
01278 427652, Fax: 01278 453489 |
ADMIRAL
BLAKE MUSEUM
Fascinating town museum. Local history and
archaeology museum of Bridgwater and the surrounding area. Birthplace
of Robin Blake. It has relics, models and a video-documentary relating
to the battle of Sedgemoor. |
 |
Blake Street,
Bridgwater, TA6 3NB
Tues-Sat, 10am-4pm.
ADMIRAL
BLAKE MUSEUM CLICK |
Tel:
01278 456127
Fax:
01278 444076 |
BRIDGEWATER ARTS CENTRE
|
|
11 -13 Castle
Street, Bridgwater, TA6 3DD
BRIDGEWATER
ARTS CENTRE CLICK
|
Tel: 01278
422700
Fax: 01278 447402
|
CANNINGTON COLLEGE
The college has a
medieval walled garden, pitch and putt, and a nine-hole, 18-tee golf
course. |
 |
Cannington,
Bridgwater, TA5 2LS
CANNINGTON
COLLEGE
GARDENS CLICK |
Tel: 01278 655000 |
COLERIDGE
COTTAGE
The poet Samuel Coleridge wrote some
ot his most famous poems when he lived here between 1797 and 1800.
Now belongs to the National Trust. |
 |
Nether
Stowey, Bridgwater
See National Trust Map
COLERIDGE
COTTAGE CLICK |
Tel:
01278 732662 |
HINKLEY POINT 'A'
VISITOR CENTRE
Discover how electricity is
generated.
Exhibition with touch screens and interactive videos. Nature
trail, play area. |
 |
Hinkley Point,
Bridgwater
Daily,
Mar-Oct, 10am-6pm.
HINKLEY POINT
VISITOR
CENTRE CLICK |
Tel:
01278 654700 |
|
BATTLEFIELD
OF SEDGEMOOR 6th July 1685
The
battlefield memorial is positioned near the heart of the action and
close to the only known mass grave from the battle. It commemorates not
just Sedgemoor but also the dead of British battles elsewhere in the
world from the 18th, 19th and 20th centuries. The battle of Sedgemoor
was fought in the early morning of the 6th July 1685. The previous day
the rebel army under the Duke of Monmouth, perhaps by then no more than
3500 strong, lay cornered in the town of Bridgwater (Somerset) by a
smaller but far more experienced royal army. During the night, in a
last desperate attempt to salvage something from his abortive
rebellion, Monmouth launched a surprise night attack from the least
expected direction, across the marshy wastes of Sedgemoor. But the
rebels’ bold strategy was discovered before they reached the royal camp
and then, in the darkness, their cavalry failed to locate the ford
giving access to the royal camp.With the element of surprise lost any
chance of victory had disappeared. The rebel horse soon fled the field
and in open country without cavalry support Monmouth’s infantry proved
an easy target for the royal cavalry. The discipline, experience and
firepower of the well equipped professional soldiers of the army of
James II soon began to tell. As the morning light revealed the rebels’
true plight of the rebels, Feversham launched a join cavalry and
infantry attack. Monmouth’s army was totally destroyed.The battle and
battlefield are understood in great detail and, with the information
provided here, it is possible to visit the site and to gain an
exceptionally good idea of the terrain and the course of the action on
the 5th July 1688. On a warm sunny day it is a very pleasant landscape
to explore.
|
|
Nr Bussex Farm
Westzoyland
Bridgewater
Three miles east of Bridgwater, Somerset
The battle was fought on low-lying land
between the villages of Chedzoy and Westonzoyland.
map
Re-enactment
Click
|
Tel: 07900944787
|
SOMERSET BRICK & TILE MUSEUM
The only remaining brick kiln in
Bridgewater and an impressive survivor of a major Somerset industry. |
 |
East Quay,
Bridgewater,
Wednesday and Thursday 9am -
12:30pm and 1:00 - 4:00pm
SOMERSET
BRICK &
TILE MUSEUM CLICK |
Tel: 01823 320200 |
SOMERSET LEVELS
At the heart of Somerset, lies a
beautiful area called the "Levels and Moors", which has international
status as one of the most important wetlands of its type in the world
|
 |
Levels and Moors Office,
Moorlynch Vineyard, Moorlynch, Bridgwater, TA7 9DD
|
Tel:
01458 210790 |
SOMERSET
WILDLIFE TRUST
Information centre, shop, wildlife
trails, including easy access round woodland nature reserve. |
 |
Fyne Court,
Broomfield, Bridgwater
Mon-Fri
9am-6pm, Sat-Sun 10am-6pm (dusk if earlier than 6pm)
SOMERSET WILDLIFE
TRUST CLICK |
Tel:
01823 451587 |
WESTONZOYLAND PUMPING
STATION
he
museum of steam and land drainage reveals the earlier pumping station
on Somerset levels.
There is an extensive collection of stationary engines which run in
steam on the first Sunday of each month |
 |
Hoopers Lane,
Westonzoyland, Bridgwater
Apr-Oct and
Bank Holiday Sundays and Mondays and New Year's day. Open: Daily,
Jan-Dec 2pm-5pm
WESTONZOYLAND
PUMPING STATION CLICK |
Tel:
01823 257516 |
BRISTOL
With an approximate
population of 410,950, and urban area of 550,200, it is England's
sixth, and the UK's ninth most populous city and the
most populous city in South West England. It received a royal charter in 1155 and was granted
county status in 1373. For half a millennium it was the second or third
largest English city, It has a short coastline on the
estuary of the River Severn, which flows into the Bristol Channel. Bristol
is the largest centre of culture, employment and education in the
region. From its earliest days, its prosperity has been linked to that
of the Port of Bristol, the commercial port, which was in the city
centre but has now moved to the Severn Estuary coast at Avonmouth and
Portbury, to the western extent of the city boundary. In more recent
years the economy has been built on the aerospace industry and the city
centre docks have been regenerated as a centre of heritage and culture.
|
|
Centre
Harbourside, Anchor Road, WildWalk At Bristol, Bristol. BS1 5DB
|
Tel: 0906 711 2191 |
BRILLIANT WEEKENDS IN BRISTOL
Stag Weekends, Hen Weekends, Activity
Breaks, Corporate Weekends, Birthday Celebrations, Golf Weekends. An
amazing place to have fun, Bristol is one of the UKs fastest growing
cities. Not only that its the home of Brilliant Weekends! We're based
here in Bristol so we get the best hotel, activity and club deals
available All types of vibrant daytime activities are available
.Bristol is just 90 minutes from London, Exeter and Birmingham so it's
easy to get to. The nightlife scene in Bristol is at the forefront of
UK Clubbing
|
|
Brilliant Weekends Limited,
Mardyke House, 18 Hotwell Road, BRISTOL, BS8 4UD
Monday 8.30am -
6.30pm
Tuesday 8.30am - 6.30pm
Wednesday 8.30am - 6.30pm
Thursday 8.30am - 6.30pm
Friday 8.30am - 6.30pm
Saturday 10am - 3.00pm
Sunday closed
BRISTOL
BRILLIANT WEEKENDS CLICK |
tel:
0870
75
85100
|
BRISTOL-
BLAISE CASTLE
This 19th century mansion, set
in 400 acres of parkland, is home to the social history collection.
Discover everyday objects from centuries past including Victorian
toilets and baths, kitchen and laundry equipment, model trains, dolls,
toys and period costume in the museum. Explore the parkland and
woodlands. Enjoy the cafe and childen's adventure playground.
|
 |
Blaise Castle
House Museum and Estate
Henbury Road
Henbury Bristol BS10 7QS
Monday ,Tuesday
,Wednesday , Saturday , Sunday &
Bank Holiday 10:00 - 17:00
Thursday & Friday - Closed
Fax: 0117 922 2047
BLAISE
CASTLE CLICK |
Tel:
0117 903 9818 |
|
BRISTOL - BRITISH EMPIRE & COMMONWEALTH MUSEUM
Experience
the drama of the biggest Empire the world has ever known
|
 |
Station Approach,
Temple Meads, Bristol BS1 6QH
Situated right next to Bristol's main railway station,
the Museum is served by the City's principal public transport services.
BRITISH EMPIRE &
COMMONWEALTH MUSEUM CLICK
|
Tel : 0117 925 4980
Fax ; 0117 925 4983 |
BRISTOL
- GEORGIAN HOUSE
One of the most complete 18th
century town houses surviving in the UK. Furnished to illustrate life
both above and below stairs, rooms on 4 floors give a glimpse into a
family household. It also contains a rare cold water plunge bath.
Originally the home of the Pinney family, West India merchants.
|
 |
The Georgian House
7 Great George Street
West End Bristol BS1 5RR
GEORGIAN
HOUSE CLICK
Fax: 0117 922 2047 |
Tel:
0117 921 1362 |
BRISTOL
- RED LODGE
Open Saturday to Wednesday 10.00
to 17.00. All groups must be booked.A historic Elizabethan house, which
has been 'modernised' and restored several times thoughout its 400 year
history.Originally a lodge to the Great House where Queen Elizabeth I
once stayed, the Red Lodge is often described as Bristol's 'hidden
treasure' and houses the Great Oak Room, one of the finest rooms in the
West Country. As you step up the winding staircase and enter through
the porch of the Great Oak Room, you will marvel at the magnificent oak
panelling, the plasterwork ceiling and the magnificent carved stone
chimneypiece.Downstairs, the Reception Room, Print Room and staircase
are all examples of Georgian architecture.The Red Lodge has had several
uses, and was once used as a reform school for girls set up by Mary
Carpente. A room in the Lodge is dedicated to her memory. The walled
garden is one of The Red Lodge's best features and is an excellent
example of a re-created Elizabethan-style knot garden with herbaceous
borders.
|
 |
Park Row
West End
Bristol BS1 5LJ
Open Saturday to Wednesday 10.00 to 17.00
Fax: 0117 922 2047
|
Tel:
0117 921 1360 |
|
BRISTOL - S.S.GREAT BRITAIN
Built and launched in Bristol in
1843, Isambard Kingdom Brunel’s maritime masterpiece was the world’s
first ocean-going, propeller driven iron ship.After a life as a luxury
liner, troop ship, cargo vessel and floating warehouse, she was
abandoned in the Falklands Islands in 1937. She was salvaged in 1970,
towed back to Bristol and has now been restored to her former glory.
The historic vessel is being conserved for future generations under a
‘glass sea’ in the very dockyard where she was built. Visitors are
encouraged to experience what life was like for her Victorian
passengers and crew, including a visit to the recently installed
three-storey tall moving engine.Tickets to Brunel’s ss Great Britain
allow free and unlimited return visits for a year from the date of
purchase. Tickets allow entry to the dry dock, museum, Maritime
Heritage Centre, and the replica of John Cabot's ship The Matthew when
she is in Bristol.
Visitors
are invited to use an Audio Guide whilst aboard the ship and these are
available in English, French & German and there are BSL Guides
Video Guides for the deaf.Brunel's ss Great Britain was the winner of
the Gulbenkian Prize for Museum of the Year 2006 - the Biggest Arts
Prize in the U.K.
|
 |
Brunel's ss Great Britain
Great Western Dockyard
Gas Ferry Road
Bristol BS1 6TY
Open 10.00 to 17.30 April to October, 10.00 to 16.30 November to March.
Fax: 0117 925 5788
S.S.GREAT BRITAIN CLICK |
Tel: 0117 926 0680 |
|
BRISTOL
TREASURE HUNT
No
Experience of Bristol is required as all
clues are solved by observation. Both young and old will be
fascinated
whilst getting out for a couple of hours seeing the sites and solving
the clues. Children will enjoy beating adults to solve the clues!
We
even supply a map just in case you get lost. The answers are at
the
back of the book so you can check any unsolved ones before you leave. The hunt starts at the Tourist Information
Centre , Harbourside, Bristol, BS1 5DB.From Bristol
or just visiting, you will be surprised at how much you walk past
without even noticing. We so often walk around blinkered without
appreciating the great features which make our towns and cities
fabulous. By following our hunt these things will be highlighted rather
than hidden away.Our Bristol treasure hunt packs contain
all the necessary elements for you need including maps, clues, answer
sheet, and tips on how to get things going.
|
|
|
|
HEART
OF WESSEX RAIL ALE TRAIL
Welcome
to the Heart of Wessex Line Rail Ale Trail. We've modelled this guide
on the highly successful branch line trails created by the Devon and
Cornwall Rail Partnership. The Heart of Wessex rail line runs from
Bristol to Weymouth through 87 miles of lovely rural scenery, and our
trail consists of 28 pubs in 18 different locations along the route.
We've concentrated on character pubs (and that often applies to the
locals, too!) serving real ales in the centre of the towns and villages
served by the rail line. There are some truly unique pubs on our trail,
and some fascinating corners of rural Wessex to discover on the way.
Whether you use this site to help you plan a holiday or just for a day
out, we hope you'll enjoy our picturesque and friendly local rail line
as a route to discovering some truly superlative real ales!
|
|
Catherine
Phillips,
Rail Partnership Officer,
c/o Council Offices,
Churchfields,
Wincanton BA9 6AG.
For train times and fares call National Rail Enquiries on 08457 48 49
50. Cheap day returns are available from 9.30am (in a few cases
earlier) on weekdays, and all day at weekends. A cheap day return for
the longest journey - Bristol to Weymouth (87 miles) - at the time of
writing (April 2004) costs Adult: £13.00 Child (5 to 16 years
old): £6.50. Please note that under 5s travel free.
WESSEX
RAIL ALE TRAIL CLICK
|
Tel
01963 435058
|
7 miles of
golden beaches.A lovely
promenade, little shops, lashings of fish & chips followed by ice
cream, Burnham on Sea is the place! From the delights of a traditional
seaside holiday at Burnham-on-Sea to the leisure parks at Brean sands
there is fun and excitement to be found in this little corner of
Somerset. Sand yachting and golf are but two of the regular sports.With
views across to distant Wales, seven miles of sandy beaches with wide
open spaces and dunes are perfect for every beach activity.
Burnham-on-Sea has the most distinctive lighthouse you will ever see.
The beach achieved Quality Coast Award status during May to September
2007.
|
 |
South
Esplanade, Burnham-on-Sea.
Email:
burnham.tic@sedgemoor.gov.uk
|
Tel:
01278 787852, Fax: 01278 781282 |
ALSTONE WILDLIFE
PARK
A
small family run park with many interesting and amusing fur and feather
friends including Theodore the camel and a tame red deer herd.
|
 |
Alstone
Road, Highbridge , TA9 3DT
We
are open Easter - November only. 10.30 - 17.00hrs (last admission
16.00hrs)
ALSTONE
WILDLIFE PARK CLICK |
Tel:
01278 782405
Fax: 01278 792288 |
ANIMAL FARM COUNTRY PARK
Explore the 23 acres
of delightful Somerset countryside, home to lots of friendly animals.
Make friends with the farm animals and enjoy our seasonal treasure
hunt. Join the cuddle club and hold the baby rabbits and small pets in
the barn. Make friends with the cockerels and new born chicks. Lots of
hands on animal fun. The centre also has an all weather play barn for
kids of all ages along with toddler and under 7’s zones. Big discounts
for pre-booked groups & educational visits. |
 |
Red Road, Berrow,
Burnham-on-Sea, TA8 2RW
ANIMAL
FARM CLICK |
Tel: 01278
751628
Fax: 01278 751633 |
BREAN DOWN BIRD GARDEN
Tropical bird garden,
cafe and gift shop. |
 |
Brean Down, Brean,
nr. Burnham on Sea, TA8 2RS
Mar-Nov,
10am-4pm.
BREAN DOWN
BIRD
GARDEN CLICK |
Tel:
01278 751209 |
BREAN
LEISURE PARK
The South West's largest fun park,
with loads to do for all the family -from roundabouts to roller
coasters, golf to swimming. There are 40 rides and attractions, a
pool complex with four water slides, bars and restaurants. An
18-hole par 69 golf course. |
 |
Coast
Road, Brean Sands, Brean
BREAN
LEISUREPARK CLICK |
Tel:
01278
751595
Fax:
01278 752102 |
RICH'S
FARMHOUSE CIDER
Famous in Ciderland for over 50 years
for sweet, medium and dry cider. Also farm pressed apple juice,
mature cheddar cheese and local chutney. Museum and cider-making video. |
 |
Mill Farm,
Watchfield, Highbridge,
All year.
Mon-Sat 9am-7pm, Sun 10am-7pm.
NO WEBSITE |
Tel:
01278 783651 |
CASTLE
GARY MUSEUM
Displays of country and
domestic life throughout the ages.
|
|
First
Floor, Market House, Castle Gary
NO WEBSITE
|
Tel:
01963 351334
|
|
Chard (Cerdre, Cherdre, Cherde)
was commercial in origin, being a trade centre near the Roman road to
the west. There are two Roman villas in the parish. There was a British
camp at Neroche in the neighbourhood. Chard is situated on the highest
ground between the Bristol and English Channels, on the border of
Devonshire, and was anciently spelt Cerde, or Cherde. - the royal house
of Cerdic.
Because of it's position being the
highest ground it was strategically in the best position to defend and
is more obviously "Camelot" than other such claimants. Today it is the
Southernmost Market Town in Somerset
Market day is Saturday.
|
 |
Guildhall
,Fore Street,Chard,TA20 1PP
Email: chardtic@chard.gov.uk
Open: Easter - end October Monday - Friday 10am - 4.30pm,
Saturday 10am - 1pm (all
year) November - Easter
Monday - Friday 11am - 4pm
CHARD CLICK
|
Tel
: 01460 65710 |
BARLEYMOW FARM SHOP
A new &
exciting splendid farm shop with home reared meats, fresh fruit and
veg, dairy produce, deli, preserves, cidery & wines, organic
produce, gifts and crafts.
|
|
Snowdon Hill Farm,
Chard, TA20
Just half a mile west of Chard on the A30 towards Honiton
BARLEYMOW FARM SHOP
CLICK
|
Tel : 01460 62130
Fax : 01460 62132
|
CHARD
NATURE RESERVOIR
The
reservoir provides an exciting opportunity to observe wildlife. Over
150 species of birds. A two mile marked walk is in this nature reserve.
|
 |
Oaklands Road,
Chard |
|
CHARD
MUSEUM
This award
winning local museum has a wide variety of exhibits, starting with the
story of Chard, the ancient capital of Wessex, from 1235, the fire of
1577 and its disaster for the cloth trade; Monmouth's rebellon; the
lace mills and the riots of 1842; the Pouletts, Lords of the Manor; and
Chard in the two world wars. . Open May to late
October 10.30am- 4.30pm Monday to Friday 10am - 12.30pm Saturday11am-3pm Sunday in July
& August |
 |
Goldsworthy
House, High Street, Chard
CHARD
MUSEUM CLICK
|
Tel :01460 65091 |
CHARD TOWN HISTORIC PLAQUE TRAIL
Chard
2000 first promoted the idea of Plaques to identify buildings or sites
of
historic interest. Each plaque is produced in metal, oval shaped 500 x
280
mm with white lettering on blue background, by local company CERDIC
FOUNDRIES,
Beeching Close, Furnham Road, Chard. The
plaques indicate the site together with the Borough Seal and some brief
historical
notes. All plaques have been sponsored by local people, firms,
organisations
and businesses as listed below to whom Chard 200 are most grateful
|
 |
Start at Guildhall
beneath Margaret Bondfield plaque
CHARD
HISTORIC TRAIL CLICK
|
|
CHARD LACE RIOT AUDIO WALK
It's a Riot
- In 1842 Chard was the Scene of the Famous Chard Lace Riot. Now YOU
can
join the rioters on The Chard Lace Riot Audio Walk. Simply go to the
Tourist
Office (Next to the Guildhall) and get the audio machine. Then you walk
the
three quarters of a mile round the 7 sites of the riots. (There is a
resting
bench at each site). Listen to A crowd of starving angry workers
demanding
their rights ........Civic Leaders in Panic.......Tension
Mounting.........
Call in The Cavalry. History re-enacted & brought
vividly
to life.
|
 |
Chard Tourist Information Centre,
Guildhall, Fore Street, TA20 Wessex
email: chardtic@chard.gov.uk |
Tel : 01460 65710
|
CRICKET
ST.THOMAS WILDLIFE PARK
Enjoy a full day out in the scenic grounds &
experience the thrill of seeing over 500 animals, some rare &
endangered species, including a pair of Amur leopards.
|
 |
Cricket
St.Thomas, Nr Chard
The Wildlife Park is
located 3 miles east of Chard on the A30. Off junction 24 off the M5
CRICKET ST.THOMAS WILDLIFE CLICK
|
Tel :01460 30111 |
FERNE
ANIMAL SANCTUARY
Visit the animal enclosures, Nature Trail, Picnic
and Conservation areas. Tea Room & Gift Shop Opens March 24th -
September 29th. Weds, Sat., Sun., & Bank Holidays 2.00-4.45pm
|
 |
Wambrook, Nr Chard
FERNE ANIMAL SANCTUARY
CLICK
|
Tel :01460 65214 |
FORDE ABBEY
& GARDENS
"One of the Top
Ten Gardens in England" Maginficent 12th Century house, 30 acres of
gardens, plant centre, gift shop, tea room, pottery exhibition, forge.
Gardens open daily throughout the year 10.00-4.30. House open 1.00pm to
4.30pm on Tues to Fri,Sun & Bank hols. 26th March to end October.
|
 |
Nr Chard
Signposted from A30
between Chard & Crewkerne and from the A358 between Chard &
Axminster
FORDE ABBEY CLICK
|
Tel :01460 221290 |
CHEDDAR
|
|
The
Gorge, Cheddar.
Email: cheddar.tic@sedgemoor.gov.uk
|
Tel: 01934 744071, Fax:
01934 744614 |
ASHBRIDGE
& DISTRICT MUSEUM
Museum located in a
magnificent medieval townhouse.Museum shop. |
 |
King
John's Hunting Lodge,
The Square, Ashbridge
Daily,
April-Sept, 1pm-4pm.
NO WEBSITE |
Tel:
01934 732012 |
ASHTON WINDMILL
An
18th century flour mill standing on the Isle of Wedmore, with all
machinery intact. Dramatic views to the Somerset Levels and Mendip
Hills. |
 |
c/o
Harwood House, Chapel Allerton, Axbridge
2.30pm-4.30pm.
Sundays, May-to end Sept; Wednesdays, July-August; Bank Holiday Mondays.
ASHTON
WINDMILL CLICK |
Tel:
01934 712034 |
|
CHEDDAR
GORGE CHEESE COMPANY
The cheddar Gorge Cheese Company a warm welcome awaits you when you
visit the Cheddar Gorge rural village. You step back in time to the
1920's style working ... From England's Cheddar Valley, sales of
cheddar cheese, pickles,
cider and liqueur.
|
 |
Cheddar, Somerset
CHEDDAR GORGE
CHEESE CLICK
|
Tel :01934 742810 |
CHEDDAR
GORGE TOY MUSEUM
A large display of toys from the
past. Collectors shop with new and OB diecast toys for sale.
|
|
The Cliffs, Cheddar
Gorge
Daily,
10am-5.30pm. Closed Weds
CHEDDAR GORGE TOY
MUSEUM CLICK
|
|
|
CHEDDAR
SHOW CAVES
A place of wild beauty to explore with a friend. 2 spectacular show
caves. Cheddar Man exhibition, Crystal Quest dark-walk fantasy
adventure, clifftop gorge walks. Summer open-top bus tour. Open:
Jan-Dec Mon-Sun: May - Mid September 10am- 5pm. Mis-Sept-April
10.30am-4.30pm
|
 |
Cheddar,
Somerset
CHEDDAR
CAVES CLICK
|
Tel :01934
742343
Fax
:01934 744637
|
CHEDDAR
SWEET KITCHEN
Regular demonstrations of old
fashioned sweet making. From raw materials to finished product in
45 minutes.
|
|
Daghole Cottages,
Cheddar Gorge
Daily,
Mar-Nov, 11am-5pm (until 6pm June-Sept).
CHEDDAR
SWEET KITCHEN CLICK
|
Tel:
01934 743810
|
CREWKERNE
An important
town since before the Norman Conquest with many fine old buildings and
a magnificent 15th century church. A most
attractive old stone-built country town set in the beautiful South
Somerset hills, near the Dorset border and within easy reach of the
coast. Thought it possesses modern industries, which contribute to the
busy and lively atmosphere, these do not intrude on the old part of the
town. Crewkerne is
justly proud of its heritage, having its origins in Saxon times, over a
thousand years ago. Discover its history in the Heritage Centre or
explore its antiques and bookshops.Swim or workout
in the new fitness suite at the Crewkerne Aqua Centre or visit Bincombe
Beeches nature reserve.
|
|
|
|
|
ART BENATTAR CRAFT
Art and craft.
Work from 100 artists in every media displayed in five rooms.
Cafe.
|
|
31
Market Square, Crewkerne , TA18 7LP
NO WEBSITE
|
Tel:
01460 77780 |
|
CLAPTON
MILL
Historic
watermill with a host of unique features including hydro generation.
Tearoom, mill tours. Open Friday, Saturday and Sunday 10am - 5pm.
|
|
Clapton,
Crewkerne
TA18 8PU
CLAPTON MILL CLICK
|
Tel:
01460 72142 |
CREWKERNE
AQUA CENTRE
|
|
|
|
|
CREWKERNE
MUSEUM
Crewkerne has a long and
interesting history - its status as a Saxon royal Mint, its importance
as a stopping place for travellers, and its prosperity based on the
textile industry. The ancient Roman hill fort of Ham Hill is a few
miles distant, and the town's more important buildings were constructed
of stone quarried from the hill. There were some well-known
personalities associated with the town. Admiral Hardy was educated a
few hundred yards from the museum, and sail cloth for his fleet,
including the Victory, were manufactured in the town. Founded in 1988,
the Museum illustrates these things, but equally shows how ordinary
local people lived and worked at various periods. Some of the latest
graphic techniques are used to enliven the displays. Many aspects of
local history are explored - industries, commerce, religion, education
and domestic life. Of particular interest is the display regarding the
history of Bryants' Bakery, (new in 2008) the model of Admiral Hardy
and the traditional kitchen. We hope children will enjoy the St.
Bartholomew's Church puzzle, puzzles and weaving, the prisoner in his
cell and the quiz. Changing displays of photographs and other items
from our collection or on loan are on view in the exhibition room. An
important activity in the museum is the ongoing conservation and
storage of artefacts. Volunteers have carried out a complete audit of
the museum collection. items are numbered, their condition and any
marks noted, and probably most importantly their location recorded.
With over 2000 items in the collection, it was fast becoming a headache
to recall where everything was, and the items not currently needed for
display are carefully re-packed.
|
|
Market
Square,
Crewkerne TA18 8AL
CREWKERNE MUSEUM
CLICK
|
Tel:
01460 77079 |
FROME
|
|
The
Round Tower, 2 Bridge Street, Frome, BA11 1BB 3 Email: frome.tic@ukonline.co.uk
|
Tel: 01373 467271
Fax: 01373 45173 |
BLACK
SWAN ARTS
An arts and contemporary crafts
centre in the heart of Frome. Two galleries, craft shop, cafe and
artist
studios. |
 |
2
Bridge Street,
Frome
Mon-Sat,
10am-5pm, (not Bank Holidays)
BLACK SWAN ARTS CLICK |
Tel:
01373 473980 |
NUNNEY
CASTLE
Small but very complete 14th century
castle consisting of a compact tower with large round towers at the
angles,
surrounded by a deep moat, in distinctly French styling. |
 |
Nunney,
Frome
Daily during
sunlight hours
NUNNEY
CASTLE CLICK |
Tel:
01373 467271 |
WESSEX SHOW
This year's Show, scheduled for the weekend of the 20th & 21st May 2006, is now in its fourth year and promises to be bigger and
better than in previous years. At the time of going to press, over 150
classic and vintage vehicle entries had been received.There
will be entertainment throughout each day (until around midnight on the
Saturday), and will be provided by the stars from 'Starry Eyes
Jennings Mighty Fun Fair' will be at the show again offering a wide
variety of rides and family fun.Some of the
main arena events include Semtex, the Motor Cycle Stunt Team, who will
give two shows each day, The Frome Dog Agility Display Team, and a
hands-on Fire Engine display. In addition to this you will be able to
see the Wild West displays and the American Civil War camps.
|
 |
West Woodlands
Showground, Frome, Somerset.
The show is held
at the
West
Woodlands Showground, two miles south of the Market Town of Frome,
Somerset
.The Admin Office, 34a George Street, Warminster,
Wiltshire, BA12 8QB
WESSEX SHOW CLICK |
Tel: 01985 216644 |
WHATLEY
VINEYARD
Wander around the vineyard and try a
free tasting of wines. |
 |
Whatley,
Frome
NO WEBSITE
|
Tel:
01373 836355 |
GANTS
MILL AND GARDEN
Tour the historic watermill and then
take tea in the designer water garden. Riverside walk and garden
sculptures.
|
|
Bruton
Mid May-Sep,
Thurs, Sun and Bank Hols 2pm-5pm.
GANTS MILL & GARDEN CLICK
|
Tel:
01963 812393
|
GLASTONBURY
|
|
|
Tel: 01458 832954, Fax:
01458
832949, |
BROWN & FORREST
A
small, family
run smokery using only wood fired smokers. Restaurant serving smoked
food
direct from the smokery.
|
 |
Bowdens
Farm, Hambridge
Mon-Fri 10am-4pm, Sat
10am-2.30pm. Not open Sun or Bank Hols.
BROWN A FORREST
CLICK |
Tel:
01458 250875 |
CHALICE WELL TRUST
Set in a beautiful three-acre
garden, this is among the oldest continuously used holy wells in the
British Isles. |
 |
Chilkwell
Street,
Glastonbury
Daily,
10am-6pm, (earlier closing times in winter )
CHALICE WELL TRUST CLICK |
Tel:
01458 831154 |
GLASTONBURY
ABBEY
Ruined abbey set in 36 acres of
Somerset parkland. Steeped in history, it is the legendary burial
place of
King Arthur and Queen Guinevere
|
|
Abbey Gatehouse,
Magdalene Street, Glastonbury
Daily.
GLASTONBURY ABBEY CLICK
|
Tel:
01458 832267
|
GLASTONBURY
TOR
A dramatic tor dominating the
Somerset levels.
Offering spectacular views on the tor is the 15th century St Michaels
tower.
|
|
Glastonbury
Daily.
See
National Trust Map
GLASTONBURY
TOR CLICK
|
Tel:
01934 844518
|
GLASTONBURY
TRIBUNAL
Well preserved 15th century merchants
house with decorated front, housing the tourist information centre.
Glastonbury Lake Museum, on the first floor, depicts the discovery of
the Iron Age settlement found in the 1980s.
|
|
9
High Street, Glastonbury
GLASTONBURY TRIBUNAL CLICK
|
Tel:
01458 832954
|
HADSPEN
GARDENS
Five acres of mixed colour themed
borders, ponds and meadows within the framework of a Victorian walled
garden in the grounds of a country estate.
Nursery.
|
|
Hadspen House,
Castle Cary
Mar-Sept and
Bank Hol Mon 10am-5pm.
HADSPEN HOUSE &
GARDENS CLICK
|
Tel:
01749 813707
|
|
PEAT MOORS VISITOR
CENTRE
A "hands
on" centre, the most exciting archaeological reconstruction in Somerset
Reconstructions of many prehistoric structures including Iron Age
roundhouses, prehistoric trackways, Roman pottery kilns and an Iron
Age canoe. Displays on the history and archaeology of the
local area.
|
 |
Shapwick Road, Westhay, Nr Glastonbury
PEAT
MOORS CLICK
|
Tel :01458 860697 |
ILMINSTER
|
|
|
|
|
BARRINGTON COURT GARDENS (NATIONAL
TRUST)
Was
laid out in the 1920s to designs by architects Forbes and Tate for
the Lyle family who used basket-weave bick paths & fine masonary
in walls & outhouses. In season produce is tended in the walled
kitchen garden & used in the Strode House restaurant.
|
 |
Barrington, Nr Ilminster, Somerset
Map
BARRINGTON
COURT CLICK
|
Tel :01460
241938
Fax
: 01460 242614
|
|
DILLINGTON HOUSE
Dillington
House hosts a number of taster days and residential courses including
silk painting, photography, creative writing, family history, music
appreciation, and many more.
|
|
Ilminster
TA19 9DT
Dillington
House
|
Tel:
01460 52427 |
EAST LAMBROOK
COUNTRY GARDEN
This
internationally famous Grade1 listed English Cottage Garden was
designed by the
late gardening icon, Margery Fish. Houses the National Collection of
Geraniums.. The 17th century malthouse has homemade lunches, teas,
art gallery & specialist plant sales. |
 |
Nr South Pemberton, Somerset
EAST LAMBROOK CLICK
|
Tel :01460
240328
Fax
: 01460 242344
|
PERRYS CIDER WORKS
Traditional cider mills with museum of farming bygones.
Take a nostalgic look at old country life. Cider sampling in the farm
shop.
|
 |
Dowlish
Wake,
Nr Ilminster, Somerset
Set
in an attractive village with a packhorse bridge. Follow the Cider
Mill & Cart signs.
PERRYS
CIDER CLICK
|
Tel :01460
52681
Fax
: 01460 54992
|
SOMERSET
DISTILLERY
Somerset's only apple distillery
producing fine brandy. Also traditional cider farm with
cider and apple juices to sample and purchase |
 |
Pass
Vale Farm, Burrow Hill, Kingsbury Episcopi,
Martock, TA12 5BU
SOMERSET
DISTILLERY CLICK |
Tel:
01460 240782.
Fax: 01460 249220 |
|
Markets in
Somerset
Farmers
Markets Towns Market Days
Bridgewater
4th
Friday each month
Chard
2nd Friday each month
Crewkerne
3rd Saturday each month
Frome
2nd Saturday each month
Glastonbury 4th
Saturday each month
Minehead 3rd Friday each month
Taunton last
Thursday each month
Wells Every Wednesday eachmonth
Weston-Super-Mare
2nd Saturday each month
Wincanton 1st
Friday each month
Yeovil
2nd Thursday each month
|
|
CONTACT NUMBERS
Bridgwater
|
01823
412979
|
Chard
|
01460
67463
|
Crewkerne
|
01460
78223
|
Frome
|
01460
78223
|
Glastonbury
|
01460
78223
|
Minehead
|
01984
640817
|
Taunton
|
01823
412979
|
Wells
|
01460
78223
|
Weston-Super-Mare
|
01963
888800
|
Wincanton
|
01963
34063
|
Yeovil
|
01460
78223
|
|
|
MINEHEAD
& WEST SOMERSET
Attractive and
welcoming to thousands of visitors every year, Minehead has won
national awards for its beautiful floral displays. The many flowers,
popular sea front and tidy shopping area all combine to make a
marvellous exploration base for getting out and about across the
glorious Exmoor countryside. Minehead is a
sheltered corner beneath the dramatic North Hill and looks out across
the broad expanse of the Bristol Channel. Little fishing boats adorn
the pretty harbour where, in Summer, the famous preserved paddle
steamer Waverley and the cruise ship Balmoral may offer you an exciting
sea trip for the day. Minehead sea
defences are a major improvement to the seafront and provide a spacious
promenade from which to access the sandy bathing beach and view the
bay. At night, the promenade lighting creates a unique string of pearls effect.A short walk
from the sea front is Blenheim Park, famous for its floral displays.
Tennis, cricket, squash, hockey. golf, bowls and putting are all
available, and the area is superb for walking, horse riding and fishing.The town's major
tourist attraction is Butlins holiday camp. Other attractions include:
the terminus of the West Somerset Railway; the Minehead &
West Somerset Golf Club, Somerset's oldest golf
club, established in 1882. There are a variety of sailing and wind surfing
options, in addition to the usual beach activities. In addition, there
are many amusement arcades and a variety of well-known high street
stores together with independent local shops.The town is the
starting point of the South West Coast Path National Trail, the
nation's longest long-distance countryside walking trail.
|
|
17
Friday Street, Minehead, TA24 5UB
Email: info@mineheadtic.co.uk
http://www.somersetriviera.com/onlocation/minehead.asp
|
Tel: 01643 702624 Fax:
01643
707166 |
ALLERFORD MUSEUM
Thatched building, domestic and
local industry items. Victorian schoolroom with period costumes.
Large outside exhibits and riverside garden picnic area. |
 |
Old
School, Allerford, Minehead, TA24 8HN
ALLERFORD
MUSEUM CLICK |
Tel:
01643 862529
|
|
AQUASPLASH
LEISURE CENTRE
A 25-metre swimming pool,
waves, 40-metre slide, steam room, Jacuzzi, tanning cubicle.
|
 |
Seaward
Way, Minehead
Daily.
Mon-Thur 7am-.30pm; Fri 7am-8pm; Sat 8am-5pm; Sun 9am-5pm.
NO WEBSITE
|
Tel:
01643 708000
|
BAKELITE MUSEUM
Collection of
vintage plastics set in an ancient watermill. Early caravans
include the pod micro caravan. |
 |
Orchard
Mill, Williton
10.30am-6pm
Wed, Thur, Fri, Sat and Sun in term time. Seven days a week in main
school holiday time.
BAKELITE
MUSEUM
CLICK |
Tel:
01984 632133 |
| BOSSINGTON FARM & BIRDS of PREY CENTRE |
 |
Allerford,
Nr
Porlock,
BOSSINGTON
FARM CLICK |
Tel:
01643 862816 |
|
BUTLINS
Family fun including the
Splash underworld sub-tropical swimming pool.
|
 |
The
Seafront,
Minehead, TA24 5SH
May-Oct,
9.30am-6pm.
BUTLINS CLICK
|
Tel:
01643 703331
Fax: 01643 705264 |
DUNKERY
VINEYARD
Somerset's largest vineyard in the Exmoor National Park, specialising
in red wines. |
 |
Wootton
Courtenay
Daily,
10am-1.15pm / 1.45pm-4.30pm
DUNKERY
VINEYARD CLICK |
Tel:
01643 841505 |
DUNSTER
Located just off the A39, three miles
from the seaside resort of Minehead and at the edge of Exmoor, you will
find one of the prettiest small towns in England - Dunster.
Dunster was listed in the Domesday Book of 1086 as Torre, meaning 'The
rocky hill' from the Old English tor. The prefix 'Duns' may well be a
reference to the Saxon Dunn, who held land in nearby Elworthy and
Willet before 1066.
Dunster has it all - an historic castle overlooking the town, a working
water mill, a picturesque packhorse bridge and ford, elegant 15th
century parish church, unique octangular Yarn Market and a long main
street lined with 17th to 19th century buildings, now teashops, inns,
hotels and gift shops.
Many of the town's buildings are picture-book thatched cottages, with
roses around the door and colourful cottage gardens. The town received
its Charter from Reginald de Mohun shortly after the Norman Conquest.
During the 12th century Dunster thrived as a trading port, known as
Dunster Haven. However the sea retreated and Dunster, now high and dry,
turned to the wool trade for its living. The beach at Dunster is now a
mile or so from the town. The village is sparsely populated with
860 residents.Each year Dunster has a country fair around the end of
July. It features all aspects of countrylife with live demonstrations
of equestrian, dogs, hawks, country life and even helicopter rides and
plenty of fun attractions for the kids. Dunster railway station is on
the West Somerset Heritage Railway, though the station is over a mile
from the village. It is in what is known locally as the Marsh.
The nearest main shopping centre is Minehead, 5 minutes' drive
away (2 miles).
Dunster is served by the number 28 bus from Taunton to Minehead which
runs half-hourly and stops on the main road opposite the entrance to
the village .There is also a bus service along the A396 which
runs less frequently, but stops in the centre of the village.
|
|
Dunster
Steep,
Dunster,
Minehead, Somerset TA24 6SE
E-mail: NPCDunster®
exmoor-nationalpark.gov.uk
|
Tel
01643 821835 |
Where
To Stay In Dunster
|
Picture
|
Address
|
Tel
No:
|
Buttercross
Buttercross
is a friendly family period home built in 1862, offering spacious
accommodation and furnished in keeping with its style and age. Our
rooms are spacious with fine views – all traditionally furnished.
Sunken Garden B&B with hospitality, service, good food and comfort.
In fine weather you are welcome to rest in our Italian style sunken
garden. Enjoy our renowned breakfast served in the oak panelled dining
hall. A choice of both full English and Continental is offered, using
local produce when available.
www.buttercrossdunster.co.uk
|
|
St.
George Street,Dunster
TA24 6RS
email us.
|
01643
821 413
|
Castle Coffee Shop
Self-contained
holiday flat, Pets Welcome, Centrally located in Dunster. Robins Nest
comprises two lovely one-bedroom self catering apartments located in
the medieval village of Dunster.With it's imposing castle, blend of
quaint coffee and tea shops, craft shops, and a history dating back to
the 11th century. Centrally located self catering apartments in Dunster
High Street with views over the Dunster Deer Park.
|
|
4
High Street, Dunster, Exmoor TA24 6SG
|
01643
821 219
|
Castle View Apartment
4- star listed
self catering Castle View is a listed, four star, timbered
apartment for five people, with parking. Part of Parham House, a
handsome Georgian property, once the highly esteemed general stores of
Dunster. Situated in a quiet part of the medieval village, next to the
beautiful parish church with chiming clock. and on the elegant first
and second floors above an exclusive bridal studio. Every care has been
given to provide the highest standards of style and quality.
www.castleviewapartment.co.uk
|
|
22 Church Street,
Dunster,
TA24 6SH
E mail - susan@
castleviewapartment.co.uk |
01643
822 298
|
Conygar House
Conygar House
offers you superb Exmoor bed and breakfast
accommodation in three elegant bedrooms, which have been individually
designed and tastefully decorated featuring good quality beds, crisp
linen, antique furniture and luxurious finishing touches. Two rooms are
en-suite and the third has an adjacent private bathroom with separate
bath and shower.All rooms have a
beverage tray, colour television, clock radio and a good range of
complimentary toiletries. Wake up to wonderful country views
overlooking Dunster, the castle and beyond. Take an
early morning stroll through the fields to the rear of the house and
into Conygar Woods, or just sit and enjoy our south facing garden.
Martin and Biddy have lived in Dunster for many years
and take great pleasure in welcoming guests to their home.
www.conygarhousebandb.co.uk
|
|
2a
The Ball
Dunster
TA24 6SD
Email: stay@
conygarhousebandb.co.uk
|
01643
821 872
|
The Courtyard
The Courtyard is a
self-contained ground floor apartment in the middle of the medieval
village of Dunster, Somerset. It has one double bedroom with
shower, separate WC washroom and a living dining room with modern
kitchen area. It also has its own parking space.
The Courtyard is open all year.
www.thecourtyarddunster.co.uk
|
|
Church
Street, Dunster
Email:
angelamorecroft
@aol.com
|
01643
821 113
|
|
The Dunster Castle Hotel
The Dunster Castle Hotel offers contemporary style
with traditional comfort at the foot of the historic National Trust
property of Dunster Castle, in Exmoor National Park.6 individually
furnished luxury ensuite bedrooms the hotel has recently been
refurbished to a very high standard offering high quality Exmoor
accommodation. The hotel has a Cellar Bar and Squires Restaurant
which serve locally produced food. There is a private function room
which opens out onto the large back garden area with views towards the
Church. The hotel has a large private parking area. The hotel is ideal
for families with children and is ideally positioned to explore the
beautiful area of Exmoor National Park with many Exmoor pubs and
restaurants close by.
|
|
5 High Street
Dunster
Exmoor National Park
Somerset
TA24 6SF
Fax: 01643 82 30 36
|
01643 82 30 30 |
Dunster Water Mill
Enjoy B & B
Accomodation in a beautiful setting by the river.The West Country's
finest working water mill, built in 1680, the mill is set in
magnificent surroundings alongside the River Avill overlooking Exmoor
National Park, only minutes from Dunster Castle and High Street.
www.dunsterwatermill.co.uk
|
|
Mill
Lane, Dunster, TA24 6SW
|
01643
821 759
|
Exmoor House
Bed &
Breakfast and a little bit of History. Wake up to the sounds of Exmoor
by staying at Exmoor House Bed & Breakfast, our Grade II listed
Georgian house dating from 1725, in the oldest street in Dunster. We
are delighted to announce after an inspection this year, Visit
Britain's award of a 4 Star with Silver Accolade for our Bed &
Breakfast ! Although classified as Guest Accommodation,
Exmoor House has the look and feel of a small country hotel. Relax
in one of our six comfortable ensuite bedrooms. You have a choice of
doubles, twins or kingsize beds (see tariff) or spend the night in our
newly refurbished luxury 4-Poster Kingsize Bedroom. Wifi
available in all rooms. We pride ourselves on our
cleanliness and attention to detail. Stay with us and you will not be
disappointed..
www.exmoorhousedunster.co.uk
|
|
12
West Street, Dunster,
TA24 6SN
|
01643
821 268
|
Higher Orchard
Bed &
Breakfast. Home produce breakfast, fantastic gardens and incredible
views. Graham and Janet Lamacraft welcome you to their charming
Victorian house in the unique medieval village of Dunster. Higher
Orchard was built in 1864 on ground which was once orchard land
belonging to the Benedictine Priory (founded around 1090) and is one of
the very few Dunster properties with open views and off road parking.
www.higherorchard-dunster.co.uk
|
|
30
St Georges Street
Dunster
TA24 6RS
|
01643
821 915
|
Luttrell Arms Hotel
15th century House
with fine cuisine, scenic garden & traditional bar. Open all year
special deals & Winter breaks.This small 15th century hotel was
used in medieval times as a guest house by the Abbot of Cleeve. Set in
the only high street in Dunster and within the Exmoor National
Park. This sleepy hotel is an escapist`s paradise. Stylish
comfortable surroundings the hotel boast 5 individual four-poster beds
out of the 28 bedrooms. They say even insomniacs drift off to
sleep to the sound of whispering monks’ chants from 500 years ago.
www.luttrellarms.co.uk
|
|
High
Street, Dunster, TA4 6SG
|
01643
821 555
|
Millstream Cottage
Millstream Cottage
offers cosy country cottage style bed and breakfast accommodation in
Dunster, Somerset; part of Exmoor National Park. The cottage has just
been completely renovated, and opened in Autumn 2006 to provide
visitors to Dunster with bed & breakfast accommodation of a very
high standard. The owners, Sue and Charles, have taken care to retain
all the old world charm and character of this wonderful country
cottage, yet provide their guests with all the modern comforts you
would wish to find in a top class B&B establishment.
www.millstreamcottagedunster.co.uk
|
|
2
Mill Lane
Dunster
TA24 6SW
|
01643
821 966
|
No.7 West Street
Bed and breakfast
accommodation in Dunster with a new approach. Situated in Dunster
village, Exmoor National Park No 7 offers high quality
accommodation in a peaceful atmosphere with gourmet food. Here is
what our Exmoor bed and breakfast accommodation has to
offer: * Gourmet home cooking using Exmoor produce. (
for B&B guests only.) * Luxury
touches from Egyptian cotton sheets, and goosedown pillows to
complimentary bottles of Exmoor mineral water.
* Cosy living room with fire and terrace garden looking over the
woodlands. * Picnics hampers to
accompany you on Exmoor hikes. *
Pickup and dropoff service for walkers on Exmoor.
* Secure area for mountain bikes. *
bed and breakfast accomodation in Dunster with easy access to all
Exmoor National Park has to offer. *
Vegetables for our bed and breakfast are grown in our Dunster
allotment. * Organic meat from
Hindon Farm outside Dunster. Spoil your partner with a
romantic break at No7's Dunster bed and breakfast or simply come along
to enjoy the delights of fine cuisine in exquiste surroundings.
|
|
West
Street, Dunster, TA24 6SN
|
01643
821 064
|
The
Oval
15th Century Bed & Breakfast in the heart
of Dunster. Soak up the
atmosphere of 600
years of history in our sympathetically restored "medieval hall" house.
We offer en-suite bed and breakfast accommodation in the heart of
the
village just a short walk from the castle.
|
|
West Street
Dunster
Exmoo
|
01643 821 344 |
Spears Cross
Spears Cross
offers the type of room quality you would expect in a good 4 Star
Country House Hotel and combines this with the best of local produce.
We have topped this off with the personal service you can only get from
a B&B where passion and attention to detail shines through. We try
to give the standard of service we would expect if we were away for a
short break.
www.spearscross.co.uk
|
|
1,
West Street
Dunster
Exmoor National Park
Somerset TA24 6SN
|
01643
821 439
|
Stag's Head
Dunster's Oldest
Historical Inn. Independant guide book recommended & luxery
en-suite B & B.The Old Stags's Head a former pub, offers
comfortable Bed & Breakfast accommodation beside the A.358, some 8
miles N.W. of Taunton and about 17 miles from Minehead. Our bedrooms
enjoy wonderful views of The Quantock Hills. Whether you are staying
just one night, or wanting a short break, or looking for short term
accommodation while working in the area, you will find a warm welcome
at The Old Stags Head.
www.theoldstagshead.com
|
|
1, West Street
Dunster
Minehead
TA24 6SN
|
01643
821 229
|
Tessa's Bed & Breakfast and
Tearoom
Family run boutique B & B. Grade 2 listed mews house Luxury rooms.
Organic Breakfast
www.tessadunster.moonfruit.com
|
|
High
Street, Dunster
|
01643
821 231
|
Westleigh of Dunster B & B
Set in the heart
of West Street we’re just a stone’s throw away from the Castle,
Watermill and famous Gallox Bridge. At Westleigh of Dunster , you’re
ideally situated for a quintessential English country break. Based
within a Grade II listed Georgian property, we offer a warm welcome,
sumptuous, well equipped rooms and a hearty breakfast with fresh eggs
laid by our own happy hens! We look forward to welcoming you.
www.westleighofdunster.co.uk
|
|
West
Street, Dunster
|
01643
821 477
|
Yarn Market Hotel
The Yarn Market
Hotel is a family-run, architecturally listed hotel in
Dunster offers a friendly, relaxed atmosphere for those wishing to
unwind amongst the breathtaking scenery of Exmoor and is excellently
placed for exploring the South West of England. Quality Exmoor
accommodation at The Yarn Market Hotel, Dunster, a leading Exmoor
Hotel, 3 star rated by the Tourist Board. We have 25 en suite bedrooms
and cater for couples and families equally as well as for the small
group travel market for which we have our own transport. For a special
treat or Romantic Break, try a four poster bedroom.
www.yarnmarkethotel.co.uk
|
|
High
Street, Dunster TA4 6SF
|
01643
821 425
|
|
DUNSTER
CASTLE
From
a feudal stronghold to a family
home, this magnificent castle has breathtaking views over Exmoor
.Dunster Castle dominates the town. Dramatically sited on a wooded
hill, a castle has existed here since at least Norman times. The 13th
century gatehouse survives, and the present building was remodelled in
1868-72 by Antony Salvin for the Luttrell family, who lived here for
600 years until 1950.
|
 |
Dunster,
nr Minehead
late Mar-Oct, Mon, Wed and
weekends, 11am-5pm
DUNSTER
CASTLE CLICK
|
Tel:
01643 821314
Fax:
01643 823000 |
DUNSTER GALLOX BRIDGE
Wander down the lane next to
the tearooms, past some romantic thatched cottages, and you will come
to a small bridge and ford. This is Gallox Bridge, a medieval packhorse
bridge crossing the river Avill.
|
|
Dunster,
nr Minehead |
|
DUNSTER
DOLLS MUSEUM
Unique
and varied collection of over
700 dolls on show from many periods and countries
|
 |
17
High Street,
Dunster
Daily,
mid-Apr-Sept. Mon-Fri: 10.30am-4.30pm; Sat-Sun 2pm-5pm.
DUNSTER
DOLLS
MUSEUM
CLICK |
Tel:
01643 821220 |
|
DUNSTER
DOVECOTE
A medieval circular dovecote probably built in
the 12th century as part of a priory, can usually be visited daily
(except Sundays) from May to September. A dovecote or dovecot is a
building intended to house pigeons or doves, which were an important
food source in history. In Scotland the usual term is doocot, and the
tradition is continued in modern urban areas. Dovecotes may be square
or circular, or even built into the end of a house or barn and
generally contain pigeonholes where the birds nest. The birds were kept
both for their eggs and flesh.
|
|
Dunster,
nr Minehead |
|
|
GUILD
OF CRAFTSMEN
An art gallery
showing arts and
crafts by 48 designer craftsmen. The work is locally made. |
 |
Dunster
Visitor
Centre , Dunster Steep, Dunster
Mon-Sun,
10am-4.30pm.
GUILD OF CRAFTSMEN
CLICK |
Tel:
01643 821235 |
|
DUNSTER
ST.GEORGES CHURCH
Below
the Castle is St. George's Church which dates mainly from the early
15th century. The church contains many beautiful features, the
finest being a rood-screen which stretches the full width of the
building. The Priory Church of St George is predominantly 15th century
with evidence of 12th and 13th century work. It was restored in 1875–77
by George Edmund Street. The church has a cruciform plan with a central
four-stage tower, built in 1443 with diagonal buttresses, a stair
turret and single bell-chamber windows.
|
|
Dunster,
nr Minehead |
|
|
DUNSTER
TYTHE BARN
It is not certain when
the Tithe Barn was built but, in M J A
Beacham's book "West Country Tithe Barns", we are told that the tithes
of the De Mohun estates passed to the priory between 1090 and 1100.The
Tithe Barn is referred to as being in existence in 1498 in Maxwell
Lyte's " History of Dunster ", although on a 14th century map of
Dunster, the priory buildings, the Dovecote and a large building on the
site of the present Tithe Barn are shown.The
tithe, or payment in kind, of 10% of the annual produce in crops,
livestock, orchards and gardens was an ancient custom in the Christian
west following the Mosaic Law and is referred to in Deuteronomy:- "Set
aside a tithe - a tenth of all that your fields produce each year being
the tithe of all your crops and store it in your town". Tithes first
came to England with St Augustine (d. 604) and by the end of the 10th
century, tithe payments had become compulsory everywhere, and so,
during the next four or five centuries, tithe barns were constructed to
store the produce. The Tithe Barn is owned by the Crown Estate
Commissioners.
|
|
Tythe
Barn
Priory Green
Dunster
Somerset
TA24 6RY
Email at
info@dunstertithebarn.co.uk
TYTHE BARN CLICK
|
Tel:
01643
821246 |
DUNSTER
WATER MILL
Stroll down the main street (watch
out for the traffic!) past the church and the castle, and follow the
signs to the watermill. This is a working mill (entrance fee) and next
to it is a pretty little tearooms with garden by the mill stream. |
 |
Mill
Lane,
Dunster,TA24 6SL
Apr-Oct.
Mon-Thurs and Sat-Sun 10.30am-5pm.
DUNSTER
WATERMILL
CLICK |
Tel:
01643 821759 |
DUNSTER YARN MARKET
Local cloth was known as "Dunsters". In the centre of the
town you find the unusual octangular Yarn Market, built in 1609 to shelter traders and their wares from the weather.
Damaged during the Civil War, it was restored in about 1647. An
interesting feature of the building is a hole in one of the roof beams,
a result of cannon fire in the Civil War.
|
|
High
Street, Dunster,
|
|
EXMOOR
FALCONRY
This
is also an animal farm.Animal handling, flying displays, 500-year-old
farmyards, in Exmoor
National Park.Herb gardens plus organic herb shop.
|
 |
West
Lynch,
Allerford, Porlock,TA24 8HJ
EXMOOR
FALCONRY CLICK |
Tel:
01643 862816 |
WEST
SOMERSET RURAL LIFE MUSEUM
Social
history, Victorian kitchen,
laundry, dairy.Local craft workers tools and products.Photographic
collection.
|
 |
Old
School,
Allerford, Minehead
Easter-Oct,
Mon-Fri 10.30am-4.30pm, closed 1pm-2pm.
Open: Sun 2pm-4.30pm on school and Bank Holidays only.
WEST
COUNTRY RURAL
LIFE MUSEUM CLICK |
Tel:
01643 862529 |
WATCHET
Watchet
is believed to be the place where Saint Decuman was killed and the 15th
century, Grade I listed, church is dedicated to him. The Anglo-Saxon
Chronicle records the early port at Watchet being plundered by Danes
led by Ohtor and Rhoald in 987 and 997. It is known that it was
in frequent use by small boats in 1564 possibly for the import of salt
and wine from France. During the English Civil War Royalist
reinforcements for the siege of Dunster Castle was sent by sea, but the
tide was on the ebb and a troop of Roundheads rode into the shallows
and forced the ship to surrender, so a ship at sea was taken by a troop
of horse.
The
primitive jetty was damaged in a storm of 1659 and a larger, stronger
pier was built in the early 18th century supported by local wool
merchants, although by 1797 the largest export was kelp made by burning
seaweed for use in glass making. In the 19th century trade increased
with the export of iron ore from the Brendon Hills, paper, flour and
gypsum. Harbour trade
was aided by the coming of the railway. In the mid-1860s two
independent railways terminated at Watchet. The West Somerset Mineral
Railway ran down from the iron mines on the Brendon Hills, and the West
Somerset Railway came up from the Bristol & Exeter Railway at
Norton Fitzwarren. Both lines made extensive use of the harbour at
Watchet from where iron ore was shipped across the Bristol Channel for
smelting at Ebbw Vale in South Wales.
The
mines and West Somerset Mineral Railway closed in 1898. The West
Somerset Railway, extended from Watchet to Minehead in 1874, survived
as part of British Rail until 1979. Reopened as a heritage railway, it
still operates today.
|
|
The
Esplanade, Watchet, Somerset TA23 0AJ
email:
tourism@watchettowncouncil.org
|
tel:
01984 632101 fax: 01984
633344 |
|
CLEEVE
ABBEY
Set
in tranquil countryside.
The abbey remains boast some of the most complex buildings in
England. Magnificent timber roofing.
|
 |
Washford,
Watchet
Daily,
10am-6pm (5pm Oct)
CLEEVE
ABBEY CLICK |
Tel:
01984 640377 |
WATCHET
ANCIENT MARINER STATUE
A statue of the Ancient Mariner at Watchet Harbour, unveiled in
September 2003 as a tribute to Samuel Taylor Coleridge.Coleeridge
visited Watchet in 1797 and it is generally thought that the harbour is
the port from which "The Ancient Mariner" set sail on his fateful
voyage.
|
|
On
the Esplanade,
Watchet
|
|
|
BLUE
ANCHOR RAILWAY MUSEUM
Museum
of small exhibits dedicated
to the Great Western Railway, particularly in the West Country, at a
working 'period' station on Britain's longest preserved railway.
|
 |
Blue
Anchor Station, Blue Anchor
BLUE ANCHOR RAILWAY MUSEUM CLICK |
Tel:
01643 821092 |
WATCHET
BOAT MUSEUM
Watchet Boat Museum is a small museum in Watchet. It is housed in an
old victorian goods shed next to Watchet railway station. The exhibits
include several types of boats found locally and associated artefacts,
photographs and charts. It specialises in the shallow draft flatner, a
form of vessel once prevalent in the Bridgwater and adjacent coastal
areas.Open Easter to end September 2-4pm on Tues, Wed, Thurs, Sat &
Sun
|
|
In
harbour Road near railway station
WATCHET BOAT
MUSEUM CLICK
|
Tel
: 01984 633117
|
|
WATCHET FOSSILS
There are two key
locations for fossil hunting near Watchet. Ammonites, bi valves and
"Devils toe nails" are all to be found here along with rock samples of
quartz alabaster.
Displays of finds can be seen at the Geological Wall on the Platform of
Watchet Station. The market house museum also displays some finds.
Beach combing is also popular. The tidal range off of Wachet is second
only to Bay of Fundy in Nova Scotia. As a consequence the beach is
continually refreshed. East of Watchet Mariner, beyond splash point you
come to Helwell bay. West of Watchet Mariner near West Street beach.
Fossil maps are available from the visitor centre.
|
|
WATCHET
FOSSILS CLICK
|
|
WATCHET
LIGHTHOUSE
The Lighthouse on the West Pier was erected in 1862 at the time when
the harbour was enlarged. The cast iron tower was supplied by Hennet
Spink & Else of Bridgwater and cost £75. The light was first
illuminated by an oil lamp, then by gas and later by electricity.
|
|
|
|
WATCHET THE
MINERAL LINE
In 1852 a Welsh Company started mining for iron-ore on the Brendon
Hills. They constructed a railway line to bring the ore to Watchet for
shipment to South Wales. The mines closed in the 1880s but a passenger
service continued until 1898. The old line is now a pleasant walk to
Washford or through Kentsford Farm to the church and back to Watchet.
|
|
|
|
WATCHET
MARKET HOUSE MUSEUM
Open daily Easter to end of October 10.30am-4.30pm. Watchet's Market
House Museum is housed in the terracotta building near the esplanade.
Displays trace the history of the town the museum hosts a variety of
events and talks throughout the year. The Museum is open daily
from Easter weekend to the end of October from 10.30am-4.30pm.
|
|
Watchet
Market House Museum,
Market Street, Watchet TA23 0AN |
Tel:
01984 631209
|
WATCHET
STATION
Watchet station was the original terminus of the West Somerset Railway,
and the station forecourt originally linked both station building and
goods shed, hence the unusual alignment of the station building. When
the line was extended to Minehead in 1874, cutting across the original
forecourt, the footbridge was added to maintain the public right of way.
|
|
|
|
WATCHET
TROPIQUARIA
ADVENTURE PARK
Wildlife park with animal
handling,full-size pirate adventure ships,indoor play castle, aquarium,
puppet shows. |
 |
Washford
Cross,
Watchet, TA23 0JX
:Apr-Oct, 10am-6pm. Weekends Nov-Mar
11am-4pm
TROPIQUARIA ADVENTURE
PARK CLICK |
Tel:
01984- 640688
Fax: 01984- 640688 |
WATCHET
YANKEE JACK
The newly
revamped esplanade is set to become a hub of activity hosting markets
and events throughout the year. As a compliment to the Ancient Mariner
statue, recently installed there is a second bronze dedicated to
another of Watchet's heroes.
The town's most famous sailor was John Short,nicknamed
Yankee Jack. He sailed the world and with his powerful voice led the
sailors in the singing of sea shanties as they worked. In his
retirement he became Town Crier. In 1914 he was interviewed by Cecil
Sharp, a collector of folk songs, who recorded the words and tunes of
many of the shanties. John died in 1933 aged 93 in his cottage in
Market Street.He also ran the blockade during the American Civil War in
the 1860s.
|
|
The
Esplanade,
Watchet
|
|
|
North
Somerset Show
This
annual one-day countryside and agricultural event covers all aspects of
local and national agricultural life and has lots of animals for you to
see. Cows, sheep, pigs, llamas, heavy horses, hamsters and guinea pigs
to
name but a few
|
|
Towards the end of
2002 the
Society purchased its own 130-acre site at Wraxall. This picturesque
site, called Bathing Pond Fields, was previously part of the late Lord
Wraxall's Tyntesfield estate, now owned by the National Trust.
The Secretary, Miss Katie Hutchings
email: office@nsas.org.uk
NORTH SOMERSET SHOW CLICK
|
Tel: 08456 342464
Fax: 01934 514764
|
RSPB
NATURE RESERVE
Woodland walks, bird hides with views
of the largest heronry in south west England during the spring.
|
|
Dewlands
Farm, Red Hill, Curry Rivel, nr. Langport,
Daily
RSPB NATURE RESERVE CLICK
|
Tel:
01392 432691
|
SHEPTON MALLET
|
|
48
High Street, Shepton Mallet, BA4 5AS
Email: sheptonmallet.tic@ukonline.co.uk
|
Tel: 01749 345258
Fax: 01749
345258 |
AVALON VINEYARD
Organic
vineyard and fruit farm which makes scrumpy, cider, organic English
white wines, fruit wines and mead. |
|
|
Tel:
01749 860393
|
|
THE BATH & WEST SHOWGROUND
The site
of many attractive events including the Royal Bath & West of
England Show.The
Bath & West Agricultural Show where all aspects of farming and
rural life can be seen, from the best of British livestock to the
latest business innovations in farming. The show offers the perfect day
out for the whole family; the best for shopping, food, flowers, crafts,
country pursuits, equestrian competitions and arena displays.
|
 |
28th - 31st May
2008
Shepton Mallet,
Somerset BA4 6QN
BATH
& WEST SHOWGROUND CLICK
|
Tel : 01749 822219 |
BRUTON
MUSEUM
An old Saxon town museum showing the
silk industry, Magna Carta and businesses. |
 |
Dovecote
Building, High Street, Bruton
BRUTON MUSEUM
CLICK |
Tel:
01749
812851 |
EAST
SOMERSET RAILWAY
Enjoy a
nostalgic journey through beautiful Somerset. Drive the train.
Visit the shed & workshops, model exhibition,Art gallery, shop,
playground & licensed restaurant. Open Jan-Dec. Mon-Sun
|
 |
Cranmore Railway Station, Shepton Mallet
EAST
SOMERSET RAILWAY CLICK
|
Tel : 01749
881417
fax
: 01749 880764
|
MID- SOMERSET SHOW
The Mid Somerset Show
has been staged for over 150 years, it is enjoying a real revival in
current times
with attendances up for three years in a row and not least because it
is
the only FREE ENTRY SHOW in England.
|
 |
Cannard's
Grave Road, Shepton Mallett,
Somerset.
MID
SOMERSET SHOW CLICK
|
Tel:
01749 870124 |
STREET
|
|
Farm
Road, Street. BA16 0BB
Email: street.tic@ukonline.co.uk
|
Tel: 01458 447384, Fax:
01458 44739 |
|
Clarks
Village Factory Shopping Centre
Where a great day' shopping
becomes a great day out! Some of the high quality items sold at greatly
discounted prices include cancelled orders, past season's lines,
discontinued items, over runs and samples.
|
 |
Farm Road,Street, Somerset, BA16 0BB
CLARKS VILLAGE CLICK
|
Tel :01458 840064 |
HECKS FARMHOUSE CIDER
A
family run business, making
traditional cider since 1896. Specialists in single variety ciders and
perries. Also 12 varieties of apple juice.
|
 |
9-11
Middle Leigh,
Street
Daily.
Men-Sat 9am-5.30pm; Sun 10am-12.30pm.
HECKS
FARMHOUSE
CIDER CLICK |
Tel:
01458 442367 |
|
SIMONSBATH
POTTERY
Pottery with a shop.
|
|
Simonsbath, TA24 7SH
NO WEBSITE
|
Tel:
01643 831443 |
TAUNTON
For retail therapy, Taunton with its High
Street names, specialist shops and out of town retail parks is THE
place to shop. With stunning attractions including Hestercombe Gardens,
Sheppy’s Cider, Willow & Wetlands Centre and Somerset County
Cricket Club and Museum. Then there are the wonderful gourmet eateries
and hostelries. One day is simply not enough! Located centrally between
the South Devon/Dorset and North Somerset coasts the area is the
'Perfect Rural Retreat' and ideal destination for a day visit, short
break or holiday. The population of Taunton is 102,000(2001
Census) John Norden, the country’s greatest topographer,
described it as the ‘Paradise of England’.
Taunton's
Tourist Information Centre is situated in the heart of the town centre,
sharing the same premises as Taunton Library. It offers friendly advice
and local knowledge on a scale that only experience can offer. Find
local places to see and visit, check for local celebrations, shows or
seek accommodation. You can pick up all aspects of Tourist Information
leaflets and guides and even order selective publications in another
language. Tickets to local events can also be purchased from the
Tourist office so why not check your dates and spend an evening or
weekend with us. We have a lot on offer and you can find out what they
are by visiting our Entertainment
section. Taunton Deane Borough Council also provide a tourists brochure
which you can get, for free, via their own website. Visit now by
clicking here
|
 |
The
Library, Paul Street, Taunton.
Email: tautic@somerset.gov.uk
TAUNTON CLICK
|
Tel:
01823 336344, Fax: 01823 340308
Accom
Booking Line: 0906 302 0180
|
BEE WORLD AND ANIMAL CENTRE
Unravel the
mysteries of bee keeping and discover rare breeds at this unique
hands-on centre in the heart of Glorious West Somerset countryside. |
 |
Stogumber Station,
Taunton, TA4 3TR
BEE WORLD & ANIMAL
CENTRE CLICK |
Tel: 01984
656545 |
|
BREWHOUSE THEATRE
& ARTS CENTRE
The
Brewhouse Theatre & Arts Centre, Taunton first opened its
doors in 1977 and provides a full and varied live programme catering
for all ages including a wide range of touring music, drama,
children's theatre, dance, opera, ballet and comedy.
Today the
theatre's aim is to be the cultural centre of Taunton, presenting
live performance and art exhibitions of the highest quality to its
audiences
|
 |
Brewhouse Theatre &
Arts Centre
Coal Orchard, Taunton, Somerset, TA1 1JL
BREWHOUSE
THEATRE
&
ARTS CENTRE CLICK |
Tel:
01823 283244
Fax:
01823 323116 |
|
A
landmark natural hill, topped by the remains of the unfinished St
Michael's Church. This area is the source of many
myths and legends of King Alfred and the Isle of Athelney.
|
 |
A361
Burrowbridge, Taunton
BURROW MUMP
CLICK |
|
CHARLTON
ORCHARDS
A
working fruit farm growing 30 apple
varieties plus other fruit. Farm shop selling own produce.
|
|
Charlton
Road,
Creech St.
Michael
Daily.
Mon-Fri 9am-5pm Sat 10am-Spm; Sun 2pm-5pm. Closed
weekends Mar-Aug.
CHARLTON ORCHARDS CLICK |
Tel:
01823 412959 |
COMBE
SYDENHAM COUNTRY PARK
Five
hundred acres of wooded hillside
and valleys. Elizabethan house with Drake connections.
Gardens
and restored corn mill.
|
 |
Monksilver,
Taunton,
TA4 4JG
Daily,
April-Aug, 9am-5pm
COMBE
SYDENHAM COUNTRY
PARK CLICK |
Tel:
0800 7838572 |
|
GAULDEN MANOR
GARDENS
Gardens
contain a wide selection of roses, herbs, agapanthus and
butterfly-attracting plants. |
 |
Tolland,
Lydeard St. Lawrence, nr Taunton
June-Aug,
Thurs and Sun 2-5pm.
GAULDEN MANOR
GARDENS CLICK |
Tel:
01984 667213 |
HATCH
COURT
Hatch
Court is an elegant Palladian mansion set in an
exceptionally fine park. The house has a good collection of
pictures and furniture, a china room and a military museum. A
herd of fallow deer graze in the park and there are magnificent trees
and wonderful views.The beautiful gardens at Hatch Court have been
extensively restored the present owners. The highlight is a huge
working walled kitchen garden. Before 1984 this productive garden
was a complete wilderness but since then it has been brilliantly
restored by Robin and Janie Odgers.
|
 |
From
Taunton go south-east on A358 for 5 miles.
Turn left for Hatch Beauchamp and left at village crossroads for garden. |
|
|
HESTERCOMBE GARDENS
Soldier
& artist, Coplestone Warre Bampfylde renowned as having " the
finest taste for laying out ground of any man in England", created the
landscape garden in the 1750s. This was supplemented with the addition
of a Victorian terrace & shrubbery & the stunning Edwardian
gardens designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens & Gertrude Jekyll.
|
 |
Cheddon Fitzpaine, Taunton,
Somerset TA2 8LG
four miles from Taunton
HESTERCOMBE
GARDENS CLICK
|
Tel:
01823 413923
Fax : 01823 413747
|
|
Welcome to hollywood bowl the UK’s number one tenpin
bowling experience. If you want to go tenpin bowling in the UK then
look no further than your local hollywood bowl. Our aim is to give you
and your party the perfect bowling experience whether you are looking
for a kids
party, an office
event or to spend some time out with friends.Founded over 15 years
ago and part of the Mitchells
& Butlers portfolio of leisure venues, hollywood bowl has a
great track record in providing top quality tenpin bowling. Our well
trained and helpful staff work with state of the art facilities to
ensure your visit is
great
|
 |
Hollywood
bowl Taunton, Heron Gate,
Heron Way, Taunton, TA1 2LP
From the M5, exit at Junction 25 and at the
Blackbrook roundabout take the A38 (signposted Taunton).
At the next roundabout turn right and continue straight over at the
following roundabout. At the next roundabout turn left.
HOLLYWOOD
BOWL CLICK |
Tel:
01823 444 144 |
|
MAKERS
CONTEMPORARY
CRAFTS AND ARTS]
Contemporary
craft gallery established in 1984 representing the work of its 15
members. Jewellery, furniture, pottery,
textiles, paintings and baskets.
|
 |
7
Bath Place, Taunton Mon-Sat 9am-5pm.
Sunday for the last two weeks of December.
MAKERS
CONTEMPORARY
ARTS & CRAFTS CLICK |
Tel:
01458 850713
|
|
SHEPPY'S
CIDER & RURAL LIFE MUSEUM
Since the early 1800's
the Sheppy family has been making cider in the west country. They have
gained over 200 awards & two gold medals. A 370 acre farm with 47
acres of apple orchards. A farm shop, cider sampling, Museum, tea room
& picnic area.
|
 |
Three Bridges, Bradford on Tone,
Taunton, TA4 1ER
on the A38 midway between Taunton & Wellington
SHEPPEY'S CIDER CLICK
|
Tel
:01823 461233
Fax : 01823 461712 |
SOMERSET
COUNTY CRICKET CLUB
The leading County
Cricket Club in the South West
FIXTURES
2008
|
 |
The County Ground, St James
Street,
Taunton, TA1 1JT
Email: somerset@ecb.co.uk |
Tel:
01823 272946
Fax: 01823 332395 |
|
SOMERSET
CRICKET MUSEUM
The Museum is of great
interest to all cricket lovers with a selection of photographs, plates,
pottery, china, silverware, score-cards, ties & other cricket
memorabilia. There is a reference library available to all. and a
lending library for Museum members. The Museum opened in 1989, is rated
one of the best in the country.
|
 |
7 Priory Avenue, Taunton, Somerset TA1 1XX
10.30am-4pm Tuesday to Friday April-October
email:
somersetcricket.museum@
btinternet.com
|
tel:
01823 275893
|
|
A
family run vineyard. |
|
Burlands
Farm, Staplegrove, Taunton
NO WEBSITE |
Tel:
01823 451217 |
THE
TACCHI-MORRIS ARTS CENTRE
The Tacchi-Morris Arts Centre offers people
opportunities to watch and participate in high quality drama, dance and
music.A snapshot of how you can access this wonderful range of
activities is listed below:
A professional Performance Programme featuring high
quality productions of Drama, Music and Dance-Youth Theatre and Youth
Dance Performance groups. Adult workshops in a range of Performing Arts
disciplines.-Centre Hire - the Centre is available for hire to
community and amateur performers- Conferencing - the Centre runs a
range of conferences throughout the year- The Tacchi-Morris Arts Centre
is a "Centre of Excellence in the Performing Arts in Education." -Over
1,000 young people access the Centre every week Our comprehensive
programme of dance features the country's leading exponents of
Contemporary Dance, alongside a whole range of participatory activities
for adults and children.
|
 |
The Tacchi-Morris Arts Centre
School Road, Monkton Heathfield, Taunton, TA2 8PD
http://www.tacchi-morris.com/ |
Tel: 01823 414141 |
TAUNTON
ANTIQUES MARKET
Over 1,000 dealers selling all sorts
of antiques and collectables.
|
|
25-29
Silver Street, Taunton
TAUNTON ANTIQUES
MARKET CLICK
|
Tel:
01823 289327
|
TAUNTON
& PICKERIDGE
GOLF CLUB
Established club in a beautiful
location in the Blackdown Hills. Visitors welcome with handicap
certificate.
|
|
Corfe, Taunton
Daily
except Christmas Day
TAUNTON
& PUCKERIDGE
GOLF CLUB CLICK
|
Tel:
01823 421790
|
|
TAUNTON COUNTRY
WALK
Taunton's Second Largest Shopping
Centre is also in the heart of the Town Centre and County Walk offers
clothing, grooming, furniture, computer ware, haberdashery, pet store,
video store, mobile phone store and Sainsburys supermarket. But why not
take a look yourself? With its airy and spacious atmosphere you will
surely find some great bargains. Perhaps you could grab a bite to eat
while you are at County Walk because adjacent and opposite you will
find fast food restaurants and some good pub grub! There is parking in
the Sainsburys car park but this is restricted for a couple of hours
only.
|
 |
East Street
Taunton
Somerset
TA1 3QL |
Tel: 01823 283 729 |
TAUNTON
DEANE LEISURE
All year round bowling indoors and
summer outdoors. Tourists welcome and shoes and bowls are
available.
|
|
Blackbrook Pavilion,
Blackbrook Way, Taunton
Mon-Fri
7am-8.30pm, Sat 8am-6pm, Sun 8am-8.30pm
TAUNTON
DEANE LEISURE CLICK
|
Tel:
01823 285980
|
TAUNTON FLOWER SHOW
Taunton Flower Show
is the premiere event of its type and has become renowned throughout
the west.Held in the centre of Somerset's county town in the
historic Vivary Park, the show is a traditional British
flower show. The show features show gardens, competitive classes, a
magnificent floral marquee, craft traders, a wide range of
garden-orientated traders as well as a central events arena.This year
the show has been moved from its traditional mid week dates and will
take place on the first Friday and Saturday in August. This change has
been made in order to encourage a family atmosphere. The core of
the show is the competitive classes where anyone can enter their fruit,
vegetables, crafts, photography and floral art. The schedule of classes
can be found on the competitive
classes page and there are hints
and tips on how to make the most of your exhibits.
|
 |
Friday 3rd August 2007
Gates open at 10.00am for members and at 11.00am
for non-members. Show closes at 8.30pm
Saturday 4th August 2007
Show opens for all at 10.00am. Show closes at 6.00pm
Adults: £8
Children (7-17): £3
Families (2 adults and up to 4 children}: £18
After 5pm on Friday and 4pm on Saturday, adults: £4
|
Tel: 07794 407 758 |
|
TAUNTON FOOD MARKET
Every Thursday on the High Street pavement you will find a
mouthwatering Food Market stocked with local goodies. Somerset
Duck stuffed with Apple or Apricot, Butchers, Cheeses, Ciders, Plants,
Chocolates, Pies, Organic Vegatables and fabulous bread from a commune.
A must if you are in the area. |
 |
High Street,
Taunton
TA1 |
|
|
TAUNTON HERITAGE
TRAIL
Visitors to Taunton can naturally discover the many architectural gems
it has to offer, but many more can be discovered by following the
Taunton Heritage Trail.
This self-guided, circular walk illustrated by attractive brass plaques
in the pavement leads visitors past some great places of interest. Some
amazing and some more quirky such as the three wooden pigs marking the
area of the Old Pig Market which operated from 1614 to 1882. You'll be
able to find a modern interpretation of King Arthur’s sword in the
stone and a plaque at the Northern end of the High Street commemorating
the declaration of the Duke of Monmouth as King in June 1685. |
 |
For Information on the Taunton
Heritage Trail and to request a leaflet of this circular walk around
Taunton's historic town centre please contact Taunton Tourist
Information Centre or Taunton Deane Tourism.
The Library, Paul Street, Taunton
Email: tautic@
somerset.gov.uk |
Tel: 01823 336344, Fax: 01823
340308 |
|
TAUNTON OLD
MARKET
Taunton's Premier Shopping Centre is right in the heart
of the Town Centre and the Old Market Centre offers a shopping
experience for all the family to enjoy. There are over 40 shops, many
in covered malls. You'll find the latest fashions for the whole family,
from elegant style to fun fashion, jewellery, sports equipment and
shoes. You will also find toys, treats, fine china and glass, in fact
something for everyone. Browse through a vast selection of fine retail
shops offering a wide range of goods & services. Completely free of
any vehicular traffic. Situated in the centre of the town, linking the
multi-storey car park High Street and Fore Street. Amenities: Provides
all the sophisticated amenities that a prestigious covered shopping
centre should. Suitable for wet weather visit & Children under 5
years of age are welcome. |
 |
The Old Market Shopping Centre
Taunton
TA1 3TP
Email:
centremanager@omc.eclipse.co.uk
Open: Monday - Saturday 9am - 5.30pm. Late night and Sunday Opening on
selected days. Late nights pre-Christmas.
OLD MARKET CLICK |
Tel: 01823 326 556 |
|
TAUNTON RACECOURSE
Taunton is
a beautifully located racecourse, offering outstanding views of the
Blackdown Hills. With 14 Jumps race meetings per year, the course
attracts an enthusiastic and friendly crowd from across the South West.
A countryside course with a countryside atmosphere, Taunton also boasts
modern facilities and fine hospitality.
|
|
Taunton
Racecourse
Orchard Portman
Taunton
Somerset, TA3 7BL
Fax: 01823 325881
Email : info@tauntonracecourse.co.uk
October to April.
TAUNTON RACE COURSE
CLICK
|
Tel:
01823 337172
|
|
TAUNTON -St MARY
MAGDALENE
Standing at an amazing 163½' high to the top of the
pinnacles, St Mary's is one of the best-known examples of the exuberant
Somerset towers financed by the prosperity created by the wool trade
and has been the town church since 1308 - a heritage of nearly 700
years. The church’s interior is a splendour with it's Tudor ceiling of
the nave and chancel adorned with a hundred or more gilded angels. The
stained glass too is particularly fine with some bright rich fragments
remaining from medieval times on the north side. On looking up as you
leave the church you cannot help but be stunned by the drama of the
beautiful west window. |
 |
The Parish Church of St Mary Magdalene
Church Square, Taunton
Somerset, England,
TA1 1SA
St.
MARY MAGDALENE CLICK
|
Tel:
01823 272441 |
|
TAUNTON TREASURE HUNT
No prior knowledge
of Taunton is required as all clues are solved by
observation. Both
young and old will be fascinated whilst getting out for a couple of
hours seeing the sites and solving the clues. Children will enjoy
beating adults to solve the clues! We even supply a map just in
case
you get lost. The answers are at the back of the book so you can
check
any unsolved ones before you leave. The
hunt starts at the Tourist Information Centre , Paul Street,
Taunton, TA1 3XZ.
|
 |
|
|
|
TAUNTON - VIVARY
PARK
Though best in the spring & summer months Vivary Park is a sheer
joy and pastime to those who visit it and use its facilities. You can
have fun putting, feed the ducks & birds, play tennis, play golf,
play on swings & climbing frames, eat in club restaurant and may be
have your lunch or picnic on one of the many tables in the picnic area
next to the bird aviary. Vivary Park is really worth a visit and if you
get to know its paths intimately you wouldn't even know you were right
in the town centre. |
 |
Vivary Road, Taunton
TA1 3JW |
|
|
WELLSPRINGS LEISURE CENTRE
It cost £3½ million, it is a
combined venture between the Ladymead school, Somerset County Council
and Taunton Deane Borough Council. But even though this facility will
further enhance local sporting and recreational provision does it
reflect good design?
Wellsprings Leisure Centre offers a wide range of
facilities from a large sports hall for almost every court sports you
can think of, a 50 piece fitness studio with the very latest Life
Fitness equipment and Cardio Theatre, two air conditioned studios,
health suite with sauna, steam room and solarium, treatment room,
meeting rooms, bar and cafe and six floodlit outdoor tennis courts. The
main sports arena is equipped with a retractable seating unit making
this area ideal for sporting competitions as well as medium sized
events, including concerts or theatrical productions.
|
 |
Cheddon Road,
Taunton, Somerset TA2 7QP
email: j.curry@toneleisure.com
WELLSPINGS
LEISURE CENTRE CLICK |
Tel: 01823 271271 |
WEST
SOMERSET RAILWAY
Steam and
vintage diesel trains on Britain's longest heritage railway. Runs from
Bishops Lydeard & Minehead 20 miles of stunning Somerset
countryside & costal scenery. Step back to the golden age of
steam.Dining trains & steam engine courses.
|
 |
Bishops Lydeard,
Nr Taunton & The Railway Station, Minehead, Somerset TA24 5BG
WEST SOMERSET RAILWAY
CLICK
|
Tel : 01643 707650 |
WILLOW CROFT INDUSTRY
Somerset baskets and willow products. Guided tours of
the industry.The visitor centre is the home of P.H.coate & Son,
founded in 1819. The Somerset levels is the most important wetland area
in the U.K. & its unique landscape provides perfect conditions for
willow growing. Basket making willow has been grown here for 200
years. Shp, Tea-room.
|
 |
Mears Green, Stoke St.Gregory,
Taunton, TA3 6HY
WILLOW
CROFT INDUSTRY CLICK
|
Tel :01823 490249
fax : 01823 490814 |
|
THATCHERS
CIDER
Thatchers is celebrating 100 years of cider making.
Crafted using freshly pressed English apples and
reflecting time-honoured tradition, many ciders are based on authentic
recipes
and matured in oak. Today
these
complement the new, refreshingly different drinks
|
|
Myrtle Farm, Station Road,
Sandford, BS25 5RA
THATCHERS
CIDER CLICK
|
Tel: 01934 822862
|
WELLINGTON
|
|
30
Fore Street, Wellington, TA21 8AQ
Email: wellingtontic@tauntondeane.gov.uk
|
Tel: 01823 663379, Fax:
01823 667279 |
COTHAY
MANOR AND GARDENS
Medieval
Cothay has 20 garden 'rooms'
in 12 acres. Delightful house tour. A plantsman's
paradise.
|
 |
Cothay
Manor,
Greenham, nr. Wellington
May-Sept.
Wed, Thur, Sun - 2pm-6pm.
COTHAY
MANOR
CLICK |
Tel:
01823 674133 |
FOX
MILL SHOP
Wide range of wool and wool/cashmere
fabrics and flannels all woven on site. |
 |
Tonedale
Mills,
Wellington
Mon-Sat,
9am-5pm.
NO WEBSITE |
Tel:
01823 662271 |
WIMBLEBALL
LAKE
Wimbleball
lies just within Exmoor
National Park. Its 374 acres of water and 500 acres of
surrounding woodland
and meadow offer recreation for all.
|
 |
Brompton
Regis, nr
Dulverton
All year
round.
WIMBLEBALL
LAKE CLICK |
Tel:
01938 371372 |
WELLS
|
|
Town
Hall, Market Place, Wells.
Email: wells.tic@ukonline.co.uk
|
Tel: 01749 672552, Fax:
01749 670869, |
BISHOP'S PALACE
Medieval
palace
surrounded by a moat fed by springs in the garden. Gatehouse, chapel,
ruined great
hall. Mute swans ring a bell for food.
|
 |
Bishop's
Palace, Wells
BISHOPS PALACE
WELLS CLICK |
Tel:
01749 678691 |
BURCOTT MILL
Somerset's
oldest remaining working watermill. Hand-made flour. |
|
|
Tel:
01749 673118
|
MILTON LODGE GARDEN
Mature
listed grade II garden with
views of Wells Cathedral and Vale of Avalon. Mixed borders of
roses, fine trees. Separate seven-acre arboretum.
|
 |
Old
Bristol Road,
Wells
Easter-end
Oct.
Tues, Weds, Sun, 2pm-5pm
MILTON LODGE GARDEN CLICK |
Tel:
01749 672168 |
WELLS
CATHEDRAL
The centrepiece of the medieval city
of Wells. The west front has almost 300 statues.
|
|
Chain Gate,
Cathedral Green,
Wells
Apr-Sept,
Mon-Sun 7am-7pm; Oct-Mar 7am-6pm.
WELLS
CATHEDRAL CLICK
|
Tel:
01749 674483
|
WELLS
MUSEUM
Specialises in local history and cave
finds from the Mendips. Also houses renowned geology collection.
|
|
8 Cathedral Close,
Wells
Summer -
Mon-Sun 10am-5.30pm; Winter - Wed-Mon 11am-4pm. Closed on
Tuesdays.
WELLS
MUSEUM CLICK
|
Tel:
01749 673477
|
|
WELLS
TREASURE HUNT
No
prior knowledge
of Wells is required as all clues are solved by observation. Both
young and old will be fascinated whilst getting out for a couple of
hours seeing the sites and solving the clues. Children will enjoy
beating adults to solve the clues! We even supply a map just in
case
you get lost. The answers are at the back of the book so you can
check
any unsolved ones before you leave.The
hunt starts at the Tourist Information Centre , Market Place,
Wells, BA5 2RB.From Wells
or just visiting, you will be surprised at how much you walk past
without even noticing. We so often walk around blinkered without
appreciating the great features which make our towns and cities
fabulous. By following our hunt these things will be highlighted rather
than hidden away.Our Wells treasure hunt packs contain
all the necessary elements for you need including maps, clues, answer
sheet, and tips on how to get things going.
|
|
|
Tel: 01749 672552, Fax:
01749 670869 |
WOOKEY HOLE CAVES
One of the West Country's top
visitor attractions. Spectacular showcaves with ancient history and
legends. Victorian papermill with handmade papermaking, magical maze,
old penny pier and caves museum.
|
 |
Wookey Hole,
Wells
From M5 junction
22 follow brown & white signs A38 & A371 from Bath
A39 to Wells.
WOOKEY HOLE CLICK
|
Tel :01749
672243
Fax
: 01749 677749
|
WESTON
SUPER MERE
|
|
Beach
Lawns, Weston-Super-Mare, BS23 1AT
Email: touristinfo@n-somerset.gov.uk
|
Tel: 01934 888800 Fax:
01934 64174 |
THE HELICOPTER MUSEUM
Britain's only
dedicated
chopper collection. See the world's oldest, fastest and ugliest
helicopters - over 50 rare aircraft from 1931 to the present day.
Pleasure flights from our
own heliport or trial lessons for the really adventurous.
|
 |
Locking
Moor Road,
Weston-super-Mare, BS22 8PP
HELICOPTER
MUSEUM CLICK |
Tel:
01934 635227
Fax:
01934 645230 |
HIGH ACTION
Dry Slope Skiing, Snowboarding, Snowblading,
Tobogganing, Horse Riding, Archery, Rifle Shooting and Orienteering |
 |
Lyncombe
Drive,
Churchill, North Somerset. BS25 5PQ
HIGH
ACTION CLICK |
Tel:
01934 852335
Fax: 01934
853314
|
SEA AQUARIUM LIFE
Exciting
close encounters with marvels of marine life from Starfish to Sharks,
Octopus to Eels. A full programme of feeding demonstrations, talks and
special presentations. Come and go as you please, your ticket is valid
all day
|
 |
Marine
Parade,
Weston-Super-Mare, Somerset, BS23 1BE
SEA
AQUARIUM LIFE CLICK |
Tel:
01934 613361
Fax: 01934 613371 |
YEOVIL
This thriving market town takes its name from the river
Yeo and has the Quedam shopping centre, two theatres, swimming pools,
recreation centre, adventure playgrounds, golf club, multi-screen
cinema and ten-pin bowling, Yeovil Country Park and Yeovil Heritage
& Visitor Information Centre! Home to Yeovil Town Football Club,
the Glovers.
|
|
Petter's
House, Petter's Way, Yeovil.
Email: yeoviltic@southsomerset.gov.uk
|
Tel: 01935 462991, Fax:
01935 434065 |
|
BARWICK PARK FOLLIES
Four strange follies - Jack The Treacle
Eater, The Obelisk, The Fish Tower and The Rose Tower, in park
grounds.
|
|
South
of Yeovil -
contact Yeovil
Tourist Information Centre for further details. |
Tel:
01935 845 946 |
|
CADBURY CASTLE
One of the real delights
of this area of the countryside, Cadbury Castle has a long and
illustrious history that is closely connected with the people of the
borough and their way of life. You can learn more about the castle by
visiting the many exhibits that make up the complex. It is one of the
most popular visitor attractions in the area and offers some real
delights to architectural fans.
|
|
Chapel
Road, South Cadbury,
Nr Yeovil BA22 7EX
Map
|
Tel:
01963 440240 |
|
COMMUNITY HERITAGE ACCESS
CENTRE
Centre
for research into local history. Contains over 10,000 artefacts and
3,000 photographs. Open Monday to Friday by appointment.
|
|
South
Somerset District Council, Lufton Depot, 7 Artillery Road, Lufton,
Yeovil BA22 8RP |
Tel:
01935 462855 |
|
EASTFIELD LOCAL NATURE
RESERVE
Beautiful south facing grassland reserve
supporting many orchid and butterfly species.
|
|
High
Ham, Langport |
Tel:
01935 462 462 |
| FLEET AIR
ARM MUSEUM
One of the world's largest
aviation museums extending over 6 acres. Over 50
historic aircraft on display. Board an aircraft carrier. From early
aviation to the jet age & beyond. Restaurant.
|
 |
RNAS,
Yeovilton, Ilchester, Somerset BA22 8HT
On the B3151 just
off the A303 or A37 near Ilchester
FLEET AIR ARM MUSEUM CLICK
|
Tel :01935
840565
Fax
: 01935 842630
|
| HAMHILL COUNTRY PARK |
|
Stoke sub Hamdon, Somerset |
|
| HAYNES
MOTOR MUSEUM
Established in 1985 from a
collection of only 60 cars, now one of the largest in Europe. See cars
from 1886 until present day. Get in the driving seat. Restaurant.
Awarded motor museum of the year. Over 300 cars
|
 |
Sparkford,
Nr Yeovil
HAYNES
MOTOR MUSEUM CLICK
|
Tel :01963
440804
Fax
: 01935 842630
|
|
HERITAGE & VISITOR
INFORMATION CENTRE
Contains
museum and Tourist Information Centre. Exhibitions on local history of
South Somerset and temporary touring exhibitions.
|
|
Hendford,
Yeovil BA20 1UN |
Tel:
01935 845946 |
|
HIGHER FARM FISHERY
Three well stocked coarse fishing lakes
in idyllic surroundings. Disabled stand. Brochure available.
|
|
Higher
Farm, Shepton Montague,
Wincanton, BA9 8JJ |
Tel:
01749 812 373 |
JUNGLE
JUNGLE
|
|
|
|
|
ILCHESTER MUSEUM
Ilchester Museum is
a central cultural and heritage point in this community, and contains a
wealth of interesting pieces that have been collected over a period of
many years. The collection traces the history of the community and its
people, and using archaeological research, artefacts, documents and
photographs attempts to bring this progression together for the visitor.
|
|
High
Street,
Ilchester BA22 8NQ
Map
|
Tel:
01935 841247 |
| LANGPORT & RIVER PARRETT
VISITOR CENTRE
Discover
the South Somerset Moors and follow a river from source to mouth. Find
out
about the River Parratt Trail, with a hands-on experience in the
'Discovery
Room', or enjoy the displays and exhibits explaining the fascinating
story
of historic Lan |
 |
Westover,
Langport,
Somerset, TA109RB
RIVER PARRETT
TRAIL
CLICK |
Tel: 01458 250350 |
| LYTES CARY MANOR (NATIONAL TRUST)
Acquired by the National
Trust in 1949, this manor house and grounds is located in the depths of
rural Somerset. The Tudor great hall and 14th Century chapel are two of
the most popular attractions here. The house was once the home of
medieval herbalist Henry Lyte and this former owner planted many of the
plants still growing in the grounds. There are plenty of estate walks
to enjoy the rich architectural and cultural history.
|
 |
Charlton Mackrell, Somerton,
Somerset TA11 7HU
Map
LYTES
CARY CLICK
|
Tel :01935 843600 |
LONDON CIGARETTE CARD
COMPANY
Some
4,000 sets of collectors' cards
from 1890s to present day. Most subjects - football, sci-fi,
films,
motoring, gardening, military etc
|
 |
West
Street, Somerton
Mon, Tue, Thur and Fri 9.30am-1pm
and 2pm-5pm; Wed and Sat 9.30am-1pm.
LONDON CIGARETTE
CARD CLICK |
Tel:
01458 274148 |
|
MOLDRAMS GROUND LOCAL
NATURE RESERVE
Beautiful woodland and wet grassland
wildlife site.
|
|
Pen
Selwood, Wincanton |
Tel:
01935 462 462 |
MONTACUTE HOUSE (National Trust)
This
outstanding Elizabethan house was built for Sir Edward Phelips, who was
Speaker of the House of Commons. It retains many Elizabethan features,
including decorative panelling and plasterwork, heraldic glass and a
magnificent long gallery. It is now owned by the National Trust and
used as an outpost by the National Portrait Gallery. The gardens were
laid out at the same time as the house and feature two charming
Elizabethan pavilions, a Victorian orangery and a restaurant in the
stables.
|
 |
Montacute, Nr
Yeovil, Somerset TA15 6X
Map
MONTACUTE
HOUSE CLICK
|
Tel :01935 823289 |
MONTACUTE TV & RADIO MEMORABILIA
MUSEUM
It
is a surprise to find in an old-world village this museum of modern
media. It sprang from the keepsakes hoarded by Dennis Greenham who has
been in the electrical business since 1930. Today it boasts a huge
collection of radio and TV memorabilia, including toys, books and
games. Radios on show range from vintage wirelesses of the 1920s to the
novelty transistors of today. There are also tearooms, gardens and a
museum shop.
|
 |
1 South
Street, Montacute, Somerset Ta15 6XD
from A 303 at
cartgate roundabout turn onto A3088 and follow the signs to Monacute.
Map
MONTACUTE
MUSEUM CLICK
|
Tel : 01935 823024 |
MUCHELNEY
ABBEY
This
beautiful and ancient piece of architecture stands in the heart of the
Somerset countryside and provides a fascinating visitor attraction. The
ruins of the Tudor abbey are clearly defined and there is a series of
interesting exhibitions that have been put in place by English Heritage
who maintain the property. Here you can learn more about the past of
the building and those who used it.
|
Goldilocks
and the Three Bears Butlins
Minehead , Butlins Minehead, Somerset, TA24 5SH 17th Jul 2009
to 5th Jan 2010 
Wessex
& Somerset
