10 Best Things to Do in Somerset

Bath has been a resort town for about 300 years now, but the city itself dates back far longer. In fact, the central attraction in town is the Roman baths that were built some 1,800 years ago.

Not only are the original Roman ruins remarkably well preserved, but they were also augmented by Victorian reconstructions, so it really feels like you're stepping back in time when you visit. Plus, the baths feature a museum as well with numerous historical artefacts. There are also plenty of things to see around the city beyond its namesake baths.

While Wells may technically be the smallest city in England, the Wells Cathedral is anything but small. This massive structure dates back to the 12th century when work first started, and it sports magnificent Gothic designs. In fact, it's likely the first completely Gothic building without any Norman romanesque influence in England and the entire world beyond.

Even the Bishop's Palace and Vicars' Close nearby are reminiscent of the past, with the latter being unaltered in its planning for more than 7 centuries.

The Grand Pier is the shining star of Weston-super-Mare. Located on the Bristol Channel, it was originally built as the highlight of a Victorian seaside resort, and not much has changed since then. You can still enjoy miles of beaches, welcoming waves and a pier packed full of Victorian architecture and amusements.

You'll find kid-friendly amusements by the pier, like donkey rides. Of course, the whole family can enjoy the numerous shops and arcade centres available throughout the Grand Pier's central structure.

The Willow Man towers 40 ft over the M5, just northeast of Bridgewater. This peculiar art installation was crafted by local artist Serena De La Hay in celebration of the importance of willow for the area and Somerset's history and reputation for crafts.

The sculpture is surrounded by a moat to protect against arson attacks, as the original sculpture was burnt down less than a year after it was first unveiled. Since the moat was excavated, however, the replacement sculpture crafted by the same artist still stands tall many years later.

Catherine Hill is a stunning shopping street in the city of Frome. Despite its relatively small size, the street has much to offer, including a lot you wouldn't find in a typical English high street. The sheer variety of items on offer means there's something for just about everyone, as you'll find clothes, art galleries, cafés, pubs and even a haberdashery.

The street has aesthetic value as well, as its cobbled path winds around shops. Look out for the shops that offer antiques, especially, as their wares are quite unique.

St Mary's Church is a prominent landmark and Grade I-listed building in Kingston St Mary that dates back to the 13th century. The tower was built a bit later, in the 16th century.

Like many churches in Somerset, St Mary's sports several decorative hunky punks on its corners. Interestingly enough, the builders must've just liked the way they looked since they serve no practical purpose as a gargoyle add-on would. You can explore all of this yourself with a tour.

Exmoor is one of the most iconic destinations on the western side of England. Much of it is within Somerset, and it's a great place to be if you're looking for outdoor adventure. Not only are the rolling green hills useful for walking paths, but you can enjoy stunning sights atop the coastal cliffs as well. They're the tallest in the country and have dark sandstone walls that are as elegant as they are brutal.

You'll find woodland areas and valleys across Exmoor that offer unique changes of pace from the walking paths among the standard hills. Plus, there are quite a few hamlets and villages with pubs, if you need a break and a meal.

Minehead Beach has much to offer if you're looking for a satisfying beachfront experience. This stretch of sand features plenty of space for beach games and sandcastle-building for kids. The water itself is quite inviting as well if you're looking to enjoy a bit of swimming.

Given the numerous resorts nearby, you'll find quite a few amenities around, including plenty of restaurants and shops. The beach even features viewpoints over the channel and several walking paths that stretch into other parts of England, including the South West Coast Path.

Taunton Castle is the hub of a small community that dates back to the days of the Saxons in the 8th century. What was once a small fortress, however, has since been transformed into a Norman structure that was later augmented in the 1700s.

You can visit the landmark today to tour the Museum of Somerset. Additionally, you'll find a Roman mosaic here made from tens of thousands of coins dating back more than 1,000 years. Additionally, you can enjoy French gardens and their vibrant greenery.

When you visit the Montacute House, you can enjoy a late-Elizabethan mansion that's as imposing as it is alluring. Unlike many other mansions of its size, the English architecture it sports represents the transitionary period between medieval Gothic and Renaissance Classical.

The Montacute House is so iconic that numerous historical television and film dramas have been filmed here. You can tour it all yourself, as well as the surrounding gardens, which are immaculately maintained with fine greenery and towering trees.