Uncover the Charms of England’s Rural Gem
Somerset is a gorgeous part of the UK, with rolling countryside, cute market towns, and access to some beautiful coastline too.
It’s a lovely part of the country (which also gets great weather during the summer!) so it’s an ideal place to visit!
So let’s get into our list of things to do in Somerset…
Cheddar Gorge
First up on my list is Cheddar Gorge! Cheddar Gorge is the perfect location for a family day out.
As Britain’s biggest gorge, it’s a must visit – seriously, its stunning stalactite caverns and amazing cliffs are sure to keep you coming back again and again!
This is a great way to spend a day and it’s something adults and kids will both enjoy and find fascinating!
Glastonbury Abbey
Norman history is all over Somerset, and one of the finest remaining attractions in the area is Glastonbury Abbey.
The original building was a monastery, and though you won’t find monks lurking in the abbey these days, it is now a grade I listed building that draws in thousands of visitors every year.
Wells Cathedral
Well’s Cathedral is next on my list. The beautiful Wells Cathedral is an Anglican cathedral that is dedicated to St Andrew.
As this cathedral was built between the 12th and 14th centuries, it’s the perfect fun thing to do for those history buffs amongst you!
Whether you want to check out some of the oldest mechanical clocks in the country or some inverted scissor arches, you’ll find it all here.
Quantock Hills
Next, we have something for the outdoor types!
If you’re looking for panoramic views, wilderness, and some of the most stunning heathland you ever did see, then be sure to head down to Quantock Hills for some good old country hiking!
West Somerset Railway
Here we have the West Somerset Railway. Old-fashioned trains are awesome, and the West Somerset Railway is one of the oldest around.
Running 22.75 miles, it’s the longest standard gauge heritage line in the UK, so make sure you give it a ride. All aboard!
Wookey Hole Caves
I couldn’t write a list of great activities in Somerset without mentioning Wookey Hole Caves. Wookey Hole Caves are essentially a series of limestone caverns in the village of Wookey Hole in Somerset.
Though it’s a slightly weird thing to do in Somerset, a visit to the Wookey Hole Caves is a must-do for science fans.
Be sure to check out the infamous Witch of the Wookey Hole while you’re here. If you’ve got time, you can even partake in a mini golf session on site!
Brean Leisure Park
Brean Leisure Park is one of the best family days out that you can have in Somerset.
Featuring over 30 rides and attractions, cabaret, a pool complex, and various other events, you’re sure to get your money’s worth if you choose to head down to this coastal amusement park!
Bishop’s Palace
The Bishop’s Palace and Gardens has been home to the Bishops of Bath and Wells for over 800 years and is one of the best things to do if you’re travelling with your whole family.
This medieval palace (and its huge gardens!) is open for visitors year-round and features a moat and other 13th century features that curious kids love.
Fleet Air Arm Museum
If you’re looking for things to do on a rainy day… The the Fleet Air Arm Museum is a must. If it’s a rainy day, why not head to the Fleet Air Arm museum to take a closer look at naval aviation through the ages?
Showcasing everything from early bi-planes to later battle planes used in the Korean War, this museum has hours upon hours of exhibits that you can walk through.
You could genuinely spend all day here, so it’s well worth the price of admission and a great day out.
Wimbleball Lake
One of our favorite fun activities in Somerset is to pay a visit to Wimblewall Lake.
This massive open space is perfect for a great family adventure, so whether you’re a hiker, a biker, or a watersports fiend, you’re sure to find a place to do it here!
Barrington Court
Barrington Court is next on my list and it is one of the most popular places to visit in Somerset, and it’s easy to see why!
This massive Tudor manor house built in 1538 invites thousands of visitors a year, and it provides an interesting insight into historical living – good and bad!
Hauser & Wirth Somerset
If you’re an art nerd, then a visit to Hauser & Wirth is a must. This art gallery features emerging and established artists who specialize in contemporary art.
You may even find your new favorite piece on display!
Museum of Somerset
Here we have the lovely Museum of Somerset. Located in 12th-century Taunton House, the Museum of Somerset tells the story of Somerset from prehistoric times to the present day.
What we love about the Museum of Somerset is that it uses real objects, interactive games, and even the words of real Somerset’s people to inspire visitors.
Haynes International Motor Museum
If you love cars and motorbikes, then Haynes International Motor Museum is going to be a fun things for you to do in Somerset.
With over 400 cars and motorbikes on site (along with a load of other great automobilia!), you will certainly have your engines all revved up and ready to go after visiting this museum!
Animal Farm Adventure Park
With over 250 animals onsite, Animal Farm Adventure Park is the perfect choice for families with young children.
This place has top notch facilities which allows visitors to cuddle and feed the animals (which kids always love).
Expect some slobber but a whole lot of fun! Especially for the kids.
Hestercombe House
If you’re looking for somewhere scenic, then Hestercombe House is a great choice.
If you just can’t get enough of gardens, then you’ll definitely want to check out Hestercombe Gardens.
Feauturing 50 acres of stunning landscape, these grounds are an absolute joy to explore. Though Hestercombe House itself is just an estate, it’s one of the finest you’ll ever visit!
Glastonbury Tor
This is a great option for the photography enthusiasts out there.
The Glastonbury Tor is a really beautiful monument in Somerset to go and take a look at. The views are pretty amazing too.
Somerset Rural Life Museum
If you want to learn more about the fine people of Somerset, then you’ll want to visit Somerset Rural Life Museum.
Not only is this a fun thing to do in Somerset for the whole family, but the farmyard galleries here tell the stories of rural life in the area from the good old days.
Be sure to sample some of the museum’s fresh apple juice or cider before you leave!
Cadbury Castle
Though you might be more familiar with Cadbury’s chocolate than Cadbury Castle, we promise that this castle is well worth a visit if you’re in the area.
It’s such a great option for things to do when visiting Somerset – especially if you love exploring local historical sites.
Though it’s not what you might think of when you hear the word ‘castle’, this Bronze and Iron Age hillfort has long been associated with King Arthur’s famous court.
Brean Splash Waterpark
Brean Splash Waterpark is next on our list of Somerset activities. If you’re looking for a splashing good time, then be sure to head to this wonderful water park!
With some great attractions on offer, it’s a wonderland for children that is sure to allow them to blow off some steam.
Shepton Mallet Prison
Love a ghost tour? Well, you’re in luck. Shepton Mallet Prison offer some great tours, theme events and experiences based around the horrors of this prison’s history.
Exmoor Owl & Hawk Centre
Next on my list is a great choice for the bird lovers out there.
If you love owls (or hawks!), then be sure to head down to the Exmoor Owl & Hawk Centre to check out some of the finest flown ones in the world.
Sheppy’s Cider Farm Shop
Fancy a cider? Be sure to head down to this 200-year-old, sixth generation cider maker in Somerset for a pint or two. Sheppy’s Cider Farm shop is delicious…
And a perfect choice for visitors to Somerset, (especially on those sunny summer days). They also do amazing food – so make sure you’re hungry!
Burnham-on-sea Low Lighthouse
If you fancy a scenic walk on the beach, then heading to the Burnham-on-sea Low Lighthouse is a great option for a few hours out and about in Somerset.
There’s not much to do here… But it’s a beautiful place to head over and explore.
Vivary Park
If you’re heading to Somerset in August, then one of the most fun things to do is to visit Vivary Park for the Taunton Flower Show. Be sure to dress to impress!
Longleat House
Longleat House is another beautiful option. It’s a stunning Stately home style building, perfect for history buffs, or anyone who’s into Downton Abbey or Bridgerton!
This place is really grand, so typically British, and just a perfect day out!
South West Coast Path
The South West Coast Path is a beautiful hiking trail in Somerset, and is a great option if you fancy stretching your legs and getting out and about.
If you love taking photos, you’ll find some amazing views on this walking trail too – and stunning outlooks over the ocean.
Longleat Hedge Maze
Who doesn’t love a hedge maze? The Longleat Hedge Maze is next on our list. It’s great day out for a family activity, and it’s perfect for a spring or summer day!
Grand Pier
Grand Pier is next up. Featuring great attractions, a lush sandy beach, and even indoor play areas, Grand Pier is the perfect dose of seaside fun for the whole family.
Grand Pier is such a fun day out, and it’s one of those classic, traditional things to do that you won’t want to miss.
The American Museum & Gardens
If you love a bit of American history, then be sure to head down to the American Museum & Gardens.
Covering everything from America’s early settlers to the twentieth century, you’re sure to walk away from your day here just a little bit closer to Uncle Sam.
Somerset Space Walk
Our next idea is something for the science geeks among you! Science is awesome, and if you want to appreciate the vastness of the solar system, then be sure to visit the Somerset Space Walk.
As this is a true to scale model of the solar system, you’ll be able to appreciate just how tiny we are compared to the rest of the galaxy!
It’s seriously cool, educational, and great for kids.
Dunster Castle and Watermill
If you’re looking for some chilled out time, then this next option should fit the bill. Need some vast open space and peaceful surroundings?
Look no further than Dunster Castle and Watermill. Dating back to the 18th Century, this peaceful mill is THE place to learn about making flour – if that interests you of course!
Montacute Castle
If you’re looking for a fun thing to do in Somerset, then be sure to put this wonderful medieval castle on your list! With massive walls of glass acting as its prime feature, it’s certainly a sight to behold.
Castles always make a great day out, for families, kids and adults too.
Glastonbury Festival
Oh, how could we write a list of things to do in Somerset without including Glastonbury Festival.
Everyone’s heard of Glastonbury and if you’re looking for a fun thing to do in Somerset during the summer, then be sure to book a ticket and head to one of the most popular festivals in the world!
Lord Poulett Arms
Last, but not least, is to grab a great lunch at Lord Poulett Arms.
Regardless of your appetite, you’re sure to have a meal fit for a king here – seriously, this classic, hearty British food is sure to warm your cockles.
Don’t forget to book a hotel!
Hotels are booking up quickly this year, so don’t forget to get yours booked in sooner (rather than later). You can use the map below to search for great hotels in the Somerset region.
Booking.comSomerset is a great place to visit in the UK, and if you fill your itinerary with loads of fun things to do in Somerset – then you’ll be set.
