Places to visit in Taunton

Taunton is a quaint market town and the historic county town of Somerset. In this blog we run you through some of our favourite places to visit in Taunton or within a few miles of the town.

1.      The Museum of Somerset

The Museum is housed in Taunton’s 12th century castle and run by South West Heritage Trust, an independent charity. You can discover 200-million years of history through exhibits which include the Frome Hoard and the Low Ham Roman Mosaic. There is a suggestion donation of £3 per person when visiting the museum.

2.      Vivary Park

Vivary Park is in the heart of Taunton. The 7.5 hectares of parkland combine ornamental gardens and recreation facilities. There’s a model railway, miniature golf course, tennis courts, two playgrounds for little ones and an 18-hole golf course for serious players. The park is open everyday of the year until dusk.

3.      The Quantock Hills

The Quantock Hills are an area of wilderness and tranquillity to the north of Taunton. In 1956 the Quantock Hills became the countries first Area of Outstanding Beauty. The ANOB received up to 500,000 visitors per year, that enjoy panoramic views and the areas varied coast, heath and combes. The ANOB have a useful visitor guide with some recommended walking route and car parks on their website.

4.      The Wellington Monument

This striking landmark sits on the edge of the Blackdown Hills, just a few miles west of Taunton. At 175ft tall it is the world tallest three-sided obelisk, which was constructed to mark the Duke of Wellingtons victory in the battle of Waterloo. Around the monument you can enjoy lovely walks with extensive views across the Blackdown Hills and Taunton Vale. Currently the monument which is owned by the National Trust is undergoing a multimillion-pound restoration project.

5.      The Brewhouse

The Brewhouse is Taunton’s main performing arts venue which includes a 350 seat theatre. There is a varied programme of performances including dance, comedy, tribute acts, touring bands, plays and spectacular Christmas pantomime. Hop over to their website to see what’s on that takes your fancy, there is something for most tastes.

6.      RSPB Swell Wood

Located just to the South east of Taunton, Swell Wood is a corridor of ancient woodland about 10 miles long. Swell Wood is a mix of Ancient Woodland and an abandoned oak plantation which is more than 100 years old. The old oak plantation is where you can spot herons, nesting up in the tops of the trees. You can find out more about the nesting species of birds by going to the RSPB’s website.

7.      The Quantock Brewery

Established in 2007 this Family run micro-brewery holds multiple awards for their cask real ales. You can go tasting in their tap room and pick up your favourites to take home in the shop. The Brewery also hosts live music and comedy nights throughout the year. Find out more by heading to their website.

8.      Bishops Lydeard Mill

Five miles outside of Taunton, in the Vale of  Taunton Deane there a historic watermill which has been painstakingly restored to it’s former glory. There is also a traditional blacksmiths and museum of rural life at the mill. Traditional trades and crafts are showcased here and the tea room is definitely worth a visit.

9.      The Bridgwater & Taunton canal

This 14 mile long canal opened in 1827 linking the towns of Bridgewater & Taunton for commercial traffic. There is a well maintained towpath which makes it a popular location for walkers, cyclists and fishermen. If you prefer your adventures on the water there is also a boat centre where you can hire canoes, kayaks, motor boats or charter a narrow boat to explore the waterway.

10.  Sheppy’s Cider

Somerset is famous for its cider production, with a history over 200 years, Sheppy’s Cider is one of the longest established cider companies in the UK. You can join in a weekend tour and get a peek behind the scenes in the cider making word. Each guided cider tour includes a visit to the orchards, the press house, the vat house and the rural life museum, and culminates with a tasting of ciders. Book a tour by heading to the Sheppy’s website.

Are you interested in living in Taunton?

We hope that you’ve found some great idea for interesting places to visit in Taunton now. If you are interested in living in Taunton why not check out our exclusive over 55’s development Quantock House. The upper levels of the development have panoramic views over Taunton and further afield to the Quantock Hills. With a prime town centre location, you will never be far from shops, restaurants, and activities available throughout this beautiful historic town.