8th May 2009 - by Andy Easton
Explore Somerset: 10 Essential Things to do in This Beautiful
County
Somerset is a county of contrasts and myth, magic and mystery.
From its mist covered Levels to the rolling Mendip hills, this
extraordinary county has so much to offer visitors that one
trip is never enough to explore it fully. One of the largest
counties in the South West region, Somerset reaches from the
edges of the M4 corridor to the wilds of Exmoor and the
dramatic north coast of the peninsula. Within its borders are
thousands of opportunities for days out, exciting trips and
fascinating towns to discover, and here we list 10 hidden gems
of this beautiful county that will help you to explore
Somerset.
Roman Bath
Probably better known than some of the county’s other
attractions, Roman Bath is still a fascinating insight into the
transition period between the native population of the country
and the ‘visitors’ of the first century BC. A fascinating array
of architecture, blending both cultures and developing Bath’s
natural hot water springs into an oasis for our Roman guests,
the city has thrived for over 2000 years. Look beneath the
street surfaces for hidden catacombs and labyrinthine
tunnels.
The Mendips
A haven of peace and tranquillity, the Mendips are probably
Somerset’s best known range of hills. Stunning walks through
some of the most transitional countryside in the region take
you along the ‘spine’ of the county, giving you unequalled
views over the Levels and surrounding countryside.
Mysterious Glastonbury
If there’s one iconic image of Somerset, it has to be the
imposing Glastonbury Tor. But this remarkable town is far more
than just a Tor and the Abbey. Its importance as a centre for
learning and culture was what made Glastonbury one of the most
important locations in England for hundreds of years and that
air of mystery and magic that surrounded it then still exists
today.
Cheddar Caves and Gorge
Slicing through the surrounding countryside, Cheddar Gorge is a
remarkable landmark and the surrounding system of caves is ripe
for exploration. Guided tours take you deep underground into a
world where Neolithic man lived and hunted thousands of years
ago.
The American Museum
The American Museum in Bath is the only museum of Americana
outside the USA and shows just how strong the connection is
between the superpower and the county of Somerset. Charting the
history of the USA from the Founding Fathers to modern day, it
is diverse and interesting and a very different experience from
most other museums.
Wookey Hole
With a magical underground river winding through it and legends
of witchcraft, Wookey Hole is one of Britain’s best known cave
systems. There’s also plenty to do around the caves, providing
entertainment whatever the weather.
Dunster Castle
Situated in the north of the county just a few miles from the
coastal resort of Minehead, Dunster is a medieval town complete
with imposing castle, winding streets and overhanging houses
that cluster around a central square. The castle itself is over
1000 years old and hosts entertainment and events such as
archery competitions and falconry displays during the
summer.
East Somerset Steam Railway
One of the best preserved steam railways in the country, a trip
on the East Somerset Steam railways takes you through the
rolling Mendip countryside and on a journey into the halcyon
days of steam travel. Excellent facilities make this a perfect
day out for the whole family.
Exmoor
Somerset shares this stunning National Park with neighbouring
Devon, and Exmoor is rapidly becoming one of the most popular
visitor attractions in the south west. Sweeping moorland dotted
with rare Exmoor ponies drops dramatically down to a rugged
coastline or into hidden wooded valleys ripe for
exploration.
Willows and Wetlands Visitor Centre
Willow was one of the most important crops of the wetlands of
Somerset and this fascinating centre tells visitors the story
of one family’s business and experiences on the levels through
generations. The site is now the only location where willow is
grown commercially and is a perfect opportunity for a unique
insight into a bygone age.
Source: http://articlesabroad.com
|