A Somerset holiday is the prefect choice if you are looking to combine breathtaking rolling countryside with some of the best heritage and culture to be found in England. Holiday homes in Somerset can range from Georgian style Bath holiday apartments to authentic country cottages in the heart of the rural landscape. With so much activities and attractions to encounter for both adults and children alike, you may need to book a longer stay than you think. Wherever you choose to rent Somerset holiday accommodation, you will always be in close proximity to the inspiring views and the charming villages of the County.
Much of Somerset is steeped in history and a trip to any of its towns or cities will prove to be a truly unique experience. Bath is easily its most famous historical landmark and sees vast numbers of tourists and culture enthusiasts each year. What is so convenient about this city is the fact that most of the attractions can be found within walking distance of each other.
A visit to Bath is a great way to have an exciting and educational family outing. However, the sheer vast of historical sites means that you could spend days exploring its Roman and Georgian architecture and museums. Undoubtedly, the citys most famous attraction is the Roman Baths, which date back to over 2,000 years ago and have been kept in an immaculate condition.
Around the corner sits Bath Abbey – the last Gothic church in the country. This stunning example of Gothic architecture has a wonderful array of stained glass windows and you can even climb the tower to have a birds-eye view of the city.
But just a simple wander through the historic and ornate streets of Bath is also highly recommended – a really relaxing way to soak in its elegance and endearing atmosphere. If you are planning a short romantic break, apartment rental in Bath will have you embraced by the glamorous architecture, while leaving you close to the culture and nightlife the city has to offer.
Further into the heart of the county is arguably the smallest city in the UK, Wells, which is famous for its cathedral that stands in the centre of the town.
Dating back to the 10th century, this structure compromises spectacular fan vaulted ceilings and the renowned scissor arches that support the main tower. The Bishops Palace – over 800 years old – is a breathtaking building that sits on 14 acres of gardens. Surrounding the grounds is a moat with the Bishops Palace Gatehouse still serving as a working drawbridge.
Further south is the town of Glastonbury, which is a superb location for holidays in Somerset, as it is ideally situated in striking distance of the best that the countryside has to offer. Obviously it is mostly known as the venue for its huge music festival (the largest performing arts festival in the world) that occurs at the end of June each year, but there is also so much heritage waiting to be discovered.
The Glastonbury Tor, sitting on top of a hill that overlooks the bowl-shaped landscape, is a popular attraction, while the Glastonbury Abbey has an intriguing collection of ruins dating back to the 8th Century and is where King Arthur is purported to be buried.
Of course, the festival has had a huge influence on the town since it became an annual event in the 1970s. The area is also known for its new-age spirituality and mysticism, which has resulted from the popularity of the festival combining with the local heritage and culture. If you do plan to go to the festival, it is worth noting that tickets sell out months in advance. There are some charming farmhouses and cottages in around Glastonbury that can prove to be a real idyllic treat in the quiet landscape.
But to truly experience the adventures and activities of the Somerset countryside, a visit to Exmoor National Park is a must. Not only do the heather-covered slopes provide breathtaking scenery, but this area of the county also stretches down to the coast on the Bristol Channel, which is where you can experience countless activities on the water, such as sailing and surfing. Over the 267 square metres of the Park there are a whole host of villages and towns to discover, as well as revitalising walks and bike rides across the wide-open moors. There is also a rich variety of flora and fauna, as well as an abundance of wildlife, including deer and the famous Exmoor ponies. And be sure to keep an eye out for the legendary Exmoor beast that is believed to roam the hills. Of course, there are so many more ways in which to enjoy Exmoor. Bikes can be rented from many of the areas towns and villages – a great way to enjoy a family day out and discover its historic sites – while, horse riding, fishing and golf are also readily available.
All there is left to plan now is where in this magnificent county you are going to stay. And the options will seem almost endless. Country cottage in Somerset are easily the most popular choice, as they can remain close to the towns while offering the rural sanctuary of the landscape. But for short weekend breaks, apartments and cottages in the populated areas can offer just as much authenticity as their rustic counterparts and many coming in newly renovated traditional stone buildings.
Bed and breakfasts in Somerset can be found throughout the countryside as well as the cities and towns of Somerset including Wells and Bath, which can offer you a real rural experience without the need for opting for self-catering accommodation. If you planning an active family holiday a short break for two, Somerset is flowing with natural and historical wonders that will provide the perfect atmosphere for your visit. For more information, consider reading our guide on things to do in Somerset or book your Somerset Holiday today!