Explore your
SOMERSET ROUTES
Journeys through Somerset’s exciting heritage
Explore your
SOMERSET ROUTES
Journeys through Somerset’s exciting heritage
From museums, to historic railways, castles, gardens, stately
homes and archaeological sites - Somerset has it all.
Explore your Somerset Routes is your guide to
exploring the county and discovering its hidden gems. Look at
the map to find out what's in Somerset, then choose a line
and explore it at your leisure.
For more information, including free itineraries and mini-films,
go to the Visit Somerset website at:
www.visitsomerset.co.uk/touring-map
June 2010
Somerset Routes cross the county linking important
heritage sites. You will need a road atlas or sat-nav to
find the individual locations.
Visit www.traveline.info for information on public
transport.
2
Contents
Castle Line . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
Hamstone Line . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
Kings’ Line . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
Alfred and Levels Line . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18
Country Line . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23
Quantock and Coast Line . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30
Battle Line . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38
Key
Free . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
Entry fee applies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
Historic House and/or Garden . . . . . . . . . . .3
Museum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
Railway . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
Historic Building . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
Historic Site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
Museums in Somerset . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
National Trust . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
English Heritage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .:
Open all year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .;
Seasonal/Restricted opening . . . . . . . . . . . . .Q
Toilets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .=
Shop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .W
Refreshments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .E
Parking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .R
Café . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .T
Disabled Parking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Y
Disabled Access . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U
Some sites have restricted access and are on private land.
Please keep to footpaths and follow the Country Code.
3
Castle Line
Over 30 miles of scenic roads take you to some of the finest castles,
buildings and palaces in the county. From England’s smallest city, to
Somerset’s border with Bath, the Castle Line is a must-see route.
Bishop’s Palace and
Gardens
Cathedral Green,
Wells, BA5 2PD
More than simply an historic
house and garden, this
splendid medieval palace has
been the home of the Bishops
of Bath and Wells for 800
years.
2 3 Q W T = Y U limited
Did you know?
The Palace is famous for its
mute swans, which ring a bell
in the moat to be fed!
Bishop’s Palace and Gardens
Follow part of the ‘Strawberry’ line through the
rolling Mendip hills on an historic steam train!
Explore the engine shed, workshop and museum.
25;=TWRUY8
Did you know?
The rare combined post box and telephone box that
sits on the platform came from Bristol City Centre and was donated in
1978.
Castle Line
East Somerset Railway
Cranmore Railway Station, Shepton Mallet, BA4 4QP
Farleigh Hungerford Castle
Farleigh Hungerford, Bath, BA2 7RS
Discover the bloody history of the Hungerford
family! Visit their castle crypt, complete with coffins
and death masks.
2 6 ; : = W E R U limitedY 8
Don’t miss!
Three face masks from stoneware jugs collected by a child over 200 years ago.
Frome Museum
1 North Parade, Frome, BA11 1AT
See the history of Frome come alive! Discover the
company that forged world famous statues, including
‘Justice’ (that sits atop the Old Bailey in London) and
‘King Alfred’ (in Winchester).
1 4 Q = W 8 U limited
Don’t miss!
A rare 2500-year-old quern stone used by people at
Tedbury Camp, near Mells, to grind their corn for
flour.
Kilver Court Gardens
Kilver Street, Shepton Mallet, BA4 5NF
The gardens were first created by Ernest Jardine as a
recreational space for factory workers of Kilver
Court in the 1800s. See the historic viaduct built for
the Somerset and Dorset Railway.
2 3 ; = T W R U limitedY
Did you know?
The gardens were restored in the 1960s by the Showering family, who
invented Babycham sparkling perry.
5
Castle Line
Mells
Grid ref: ST730490
Wander around the historic village of Mells, famed
for its architecture and notable residents. Look for
the grave of war poet Siegfried Sassoon in the
graveyard of St Andrew’s Church.
167; = T W R
Did you know?
Thomas Horner reputedly discovered the deeds to
Mells Manor in a pie given to him to carry to London
by the last Abbot of Glastonbury. This story is referred
to in the popular nursery rhyme Little Jack Horner.
Milton Lodge Gardens
Old Bristol Road, Wells, BA5 3AQ
Wander through the 100-year-old gardens and
terraces. Find stunning views of nearby Wells
Cathedral and Glastonbury Tor.
2 3 Q = W E R U limitedY
Did you know?
The gardens were created by Charles Tudway, whose
family were Lords of the Manor in Wells from 1821.
Nunney Castle
Church Street, Nunney, BA11 4NL
Step back in time at this picturesque 600-year-old
moated castle. Cross the drawbridge into the heart
of the ruins and soak up the atmosphere.
16;: U
Did you know?
Parts of the walls were damaged in 1645 during the
English Civil War and took nearly 400 years to collapse.
Shepton Mallet TIC and Heritage Centre
70 High Street, Shepton Mallet,
BA4 5AS
Attractions, events, activities! Discover Shepton
Mallet’s heritage from the last 2000 years.
14;W
Did you know?
The Fosse Way runs through Shepton Mallet. This
was the main road from Exeter to the North in
Roman times.
6
Walk in the footsteps of the Vicars Choral of Wells
Cathedral.
17;
Did you know?
This is considered to be the best-preserved medieval
street in Europe.
Castle Line
Vicars’ Close
Wells, BA5 2UH
Wells Cathedral
Cathedral Green, Wells, BA5 2UE
Enter the smallest city in England to find one of the
finest cathedrals dating from 1180. Admire 400
recently restored carved statues on the West Front.
16;UTW
Did you know?
Every quarter of an hour figures in the clock in the
North Transept perform a medieval joust.
Wells and Mendip Museum
8 Cathedral Green, Wells, BA5 2UE
Step back in time through the doors of an
Elizabethan house. Discover Roman lead pig ingots,
medieval carved sculpture and early caving
equipment.
24;=W8
Don’t miss!
The legendary ‘Witch of Wookey Hole’, a skeleton
excavated in the caves in 1908.
7
Hamstone Line
Taking its name from the distinctive honey-coloured
stone quarried in the area, the circular Hamstone Line
incorporates 55 miles of history and heritage.
Discover stately homes and beautiful gardens nestled
between traditional orchards and rural villages.
Barrington Court
Barrington, Ilminster,
TA19 0NQ
Unravel the chequered history of
ownership of this 500-year-old
building, from William Clifton in the
1550s, to tenant farmers in 1907.
2 3 9 Q W R T = U limited Y
Did you know?
The dilapidated ruins that were
bought by the National Trust in 1907
were used for storing cider barrels
and chickens.
Barrington Court
Artificial limbs and flying machines! Marvel at the
work of two of Chard’s early inventors and much
more.
2 4 Q = W 8U limited
Don’t miss!
A reproduction of the consulting room and workshop of
James Gillingham, a maker of artificial limbs.
Community Heritage Access Centre (CHAC)
SSDC Lufton Depot, 7 Artillery Road, Lufton, Yeovil, BA22
8RP
Have you ever wondered where objects are stored?
Visit by appointment to see anything from gloves,
industrial machinery and paintings, to poison bottles
and guns.
1 4 ; = E R U limited8
Hamstone Line
Chard and District Museum
High Street, Chard, TA20 1BQ
Don’t miss!
A collection of football memorabilia relating to the ‘Giant Slayers’,Yeovil
Football Club. The club takes its nickname ‘the Glovers’ from the local
gloving industry.
Crewkerne and District Museum
Market Square, Crewkerne, TA18 7JU
From sailing ships to spaceships: discover the links
with Crewkerne’s webbing and sailcloth industry.
246Q=EWU8
Don’t miss!
The photographic collection and local archives that
include this picture of Clarke’s Saddlers.
Dawes Twine Works
94A High Street, West Coker, BA22 9AU
Explore one of the most complete surviving examples of a rope and twine
making site in England. The 200-year-old site, which includes original
machinery and fittings, represents all stages of the manufacture and
finishing of twine.
1 6 :E U limited8
Did you know?
The recently-straightened ropewalk was used to lay out long strands of
material before it was twisted into rope.
9
East Lambrook Manor Gardens
East Lambrook, South Petherton, TA13 5HH
Hamstone Line
Stroll through the renowned gardens and admire the
snowdrops or hardy geraniums. Relax in the scented
garden and discover rare and unusual plants in the
nursery.
2 3 Q = E U limited Y R
Did you know?
The garden is recognised throughout the world as the
‘Home of English Cottage Gardening’ and was created
by plantswoman Margery Fish.
Forde Abbey and Gardens
Chard, TA20 4LU
Travel back through time at a 900-year-old Cistercian
monastery set in 30 acres of award-winning gardens.
2 3 ; = T W R U limited Y
Did you know?
The Mermaid Pond is home to the spectacular
Centenary Fountain. With a maximum height of 49
metres it is the highest powered fountain in England.
Ham Hill Country Park
Stoke Sub Hamdon, Yeovil, TA14 6RW
Discover the 3000-year-old hill fort. Explore the old
quarries, woods and meadows. The views from this hill
are some of the best in the county.
1 7 ; = U limited R
Did you know?
Stone from Ham Hill was used to build nearby
Montacute House and parts of Wells Cathedral.
Montacute House
Montacute, TA15 6XP
Experience Elizabethan life in grand style and discover
the magnificent collection of furniture, tapestries and
Tudor portraits.
2 3 Q 9 = T W R Ulimited Y 8
Don’t miss!
Etched into the glass of a library window is a poem in
Latin entitled ‘Happy is the man’. It celebrates the
divinity of the small things in life.
10
A nostalgic trip to bring back memories of your
favourite TV and radio programmes. Includes a vast
collection of toys, books, games, vintage and novelty
radios and televisions.
2 4 Q = T W 8U
Don’t miss!
Exterminate! Come face-to-face with a life-sized
Dalek, an iconic villain from the longest running
science fiction show in the world, ‘Dr Who’.
Muchelney Abbey
Muchelney, Langport, TA10 0DQ
Visit the site of an ancient island and discover
Benedictine monastic buildings, including the monks’
thatched loo and medieval abbot’s lodging.
2 6 Q : = E W R U limited Y 8
Hamstone Line
Montacute TV, Radio and Toy Museum
1 South Street, Montacute, TA15 6XD
Don’t miss!
Many fine examples of carved stone and decorated
tiles, plus a fascinating selection of site finds.
Museum of South Somerset
Hendford, Yeovil, BA20 1UN
Discover Yeovil’s past and present including gloving,
aerospace and agriculture, and the people who
worked in these areas.
1 4 ; = W R Y U limited 8
Don’t miss!
This Austro-Hungarian hunting rifle has a beautifully
carved walnut stock. It is part of a significant
collection of firearms donated to the museum by
local benefactor Henry Stiby.
Perry’s Cider Mills
Dowlish Wake, Ilminster, TA19 0NY
Sample Somerset cider made the traditional way! See
how it is made from beginning to end, by visiting the
nearby orchards, pressing rooms and rural life
museum.
1 4 ; = T W R U limited Y 8
Did you know?
The twin presses can extract around 100 gallons of juice for every tonne
of apples pressed. Approximately 10 tonnes are pressed in a typical day.
11
Priest’s House
Law Lane, Muchelney, TA10 0DQ
Hamstone Line
Stand in the Gothic doorway and admire the
magnificent double-height tracery windows and
massive stone fireplace.
26Q9U
Did you know?
The village of Muchelney was recorded as Micelenie in the Domesday Book.
It means ‘the great island’ due to its location on the Somerset Levels.
Stoke-sub-Hamdon Priory
North Street, Stoke-sub-Hamdon, TA4 6QP
Walk in the footsteps of the high-ranking religious
officials and priests of the community who lived here
from 1304. Much of the building dates from the 1400s.
1 6 Q 9 R U limited
Did you know?
After 1518 the priory became a farm, known as
Parsonage Farmhouse, which it remained until around 1960.
Treasurer’s House
Church Street, Martock, TA12 6JL
Step back nearly 800 years to a time when this small
medieval building was inhabited by the Treasurer of
Wells Cathedral. Marvel at the unusual wall paintings.
2 6 Q 9 R U limited
Did you know?
It is one of the oldest inhabited houses in Somerset
and was first recorded in 1226.
12
Kings’
Line
Travel the line named
after the area’s royal
connections with King
Alfred and the mythical
King Arthur. The Kings’
Line leads you from
historic Montacute at the
foot of Ham Hill to the
borders of Somerset
and Dorset.
Discover 40 miles of
hidden delights with
everything from secret
gardens and prehistoric
settlements to supercars
and fighter planes.
Alfred’s Tower
Kingsettle Hill,
Brewham
(Grid ref: ST746351)
Explore one of the finest
and most eccentric follies
in England. It was created
nearly 200 years ago to
commemorate the life and
deeds of King Alfred the
Great.
296RQ
Did you know?
Kingsettle Hill is thought to
be the place King Alfred set
up his standard after he
came out of hiding on the
Isle of Athelney over 1100
years ago.
Alfred’s Tower
13
Ballands Castle
Penselwood (Grid ref: ST75343105)
Travel to the borders of Somerset and explore the
ancient woodlands that hide strange mounds. These
may be the remains of a medieval motte-and-bailey
castle and quarrying. This is private land, do please
keep to the footpath.
17;
Did you know?
Kings’ Line
Two further motte-and-bailey castles can be found
nearby at Cockroad Wood and Castle Orchard.
Bruton Dovecote
Bruton (Grid ref: ST774103)
Follow the trails up to this curious stone building and
local landmark. Over 500 years old, this dovecote has
over 200 pigeonholes.
169;
Did you know?
Dovecotes were built in medieval times to house
pigeons or doves, which were an important food
source.
Bruton Museum
26 High Street, Bruton, BA10 0AA
Celebrate centuries of life and work in Bruton. Here
you can find everything from massive ammonites
found in the gardens of the town to contemporary
art.
14QT=U8
Don’t miss!
The unique sculptures of Ernst Blensdorf, who used
Somerset elm from local woodlands to create his
swirling patterns and forms.
14
Castle Cary & District Museum
Market House, Market Place, Castle Cary, BA7 7AH
Discover what life was like in the town in the late
1700s through the writings of local diarist James
Woodforde. Browse the extensive collections of
objects, costumes and fossils.
14Q=8
Don’t miss!
Fleet Air Arm Museum
Royal Naval Air Station, Yeovilton, BA22 8HT
See 100 years of flying in the Royal Navy in Europe’s
largest naval aviation museum.Visit the unique carrier
experience and Concorde 002.
2 4 ; = T W R U Y8
Don’t miss!
Go on-board the first British-built Concorde plus the award winning
Carrier Experience to see just what happens on an aircraft carrier.
Kings’ Line
This odd looking contraption was invented in 1873 to pick horse hairs for
weaving. Horsehair weaving is still an important industry in the town.
Gants Mill & Garden
Bruton, BA10 0DB
Breathe in the scent of fragrant flowers or enjoy the
sound of the river trickling past this historic mill and
garden. Most of the machinery dates from 1888 and is
still used for grinding animal feed and occasionally
whole-wheat flour.
23 Q = E R YU
Did you know?
The mill takes its name from John le Gaunt who owned it in 1290. Most of
the current mill was built in 1810 and uses stone from previous mills.
Haynes International Motor Museum
Sparkford, Yeovil, BA22 7LH
No matter what your age you’ll find the car you’ve
always dreamed of! This is reputedly the UK’s largest
exhibition of the greatest cars from around the world.
24;=TWRUY8
Don’t miss!
The 1973 Jaguar V12 E-type. This British sports car is one of only 6
vehicles to be placed in New York’s Museum of Modern Art.
15
Higher Flax Mills
Torbay Road, Castle Cary, BA7 7DY
Visit the historic site of one of the last surviving
horsehair weavers in the world. Boyd’s Horsehair
Factory still uses the original looms and techniques
developed over 125 years ago. Visits by appoinjtment
only. Tours for small groups are available on request.
26;
Did you know?
Kings’ Line
Since the invention of the motorcar it has become difficult to source
horsehair. It is now imported from the Far East where they still use
working horses with cropped tails.
Ilchester Museum
High Street, Ilchester, BA22 8NQ
Uncover stories of police brutality and criminal
depravity at Ilchester gaol. It was the county gaol until
replaced by Taunton gaol in the 1840s.
14Q8
Don’t miss!
Shackles and handcuffs from the condemned cell at
Ilchester gaol: a tangible and chilling reminder of the
notorious prison.
Lytes Cary Manor
Ilchester Road, Charlton Mackrell,
TA11 7HU
Roam the planned gardens of this 700-year-old manor
house that was once home to the Elizabethan
herbalist Henry Lyte. Discover the medicinal uses of
plants and herbs.
2 3 ; 9 = E R Ulimited Y
Did you know?
Henry Lyte created a plant directory in 1578 that the
borders of the garden are based on.
16
South Cadbury Hill Fort
Grid Ref: ST632256
Climb to the top of this hill fort to see history
stretching back over 5000 years. Walk the Iron Age
ramparts and enjoy spectacular views over the
Somerset countryside.
17;
Did you know?
Tintinhull House and Gardens
Farm Street, Tintinhull, BA22 8PZ
Explore secluded lawns, small pools and colourful
borders at the modern garden surrounding this
400-year-old manor house.
23Q9=WERUY
Did you know?
The Pool Garden was built as a memorial to the
owner’s nephew, who was shot down over Malta
during World War II.
Kings’ Line
Local tradition dating back to the 1500s states that Cadbury Castle was
King Arthur’s Camelot.
17
Alfred and Levels Line
Travelling through the evocative Somerset Levels and Moors from
Taunton to Cheddar, the 45-mile Alfred and Levels Line takes you on
a journey stretching back 5000 years.
From ancient settlements and legendary kings, to medieval abbeys
and civil war sites, the Alfred and Levels Line has it all. Immerse
yourself in the heritage and culture of the levels, some areas of
which are 6 metres below sea level.
Abbot’s Fish House
Meare, Street
Explore the 700-year-old remains of the only surviving monastic fish house
in England. It was the home to the keeper of the Abbey Fishery.
1:6;
Did you know?
The building stood on the bank of the former Meare Pool, from which the
nearby village takes its name.
Abbot’s Fish House
Ashton Windmill
Chapel Allerton, Axbridge, BS26 2LS
Find out how wind power was put to good use over
300 years ago at Somerset’s last complete windmill.
Standing on the Isle of Wedmore, it offers stunning
views of Cheddar Gorge, the Somerset Levels and
Brent Knoll.
16Q8
Did you know?
A windmill is mentioned on this site as far back as
1317.
Walk in the footsteps of King Alfred the Great! He is
said to have hidden here in 878, before going on to
defeat the invading Danes in battle.
17;
Did you know?
According to popular legend Alfred burnt cakes in an Athelney cottage
where he had taken refuge.
Battle of Langport (Site of )
Wagg Drove (Grid Ref: ST441274)
Would you have been a Royalist or a Parliamentarian? Explore the
battlefield that saw the Parliamentarians defeat the last Royalist field army
in the English Civil War in 1645.View the fields from Wagg Drove. This is
private land, so please keep to the footpath.
1:7;
Did you know?
The Royalist defeat gave control of the West of England to the
Parliamentarians who took Bridgwater and Bristol shortly after.
Alfred & Levels Line
Athelney Abbey (Site of )
Grid ref: ST348288
Beckery Chapel (site of )
Beckery Old Road, Glastonbury, BA6 9NY
Wander the site of this pre-Norman Conquest and
medieval chapel. It was built by monks from
Glastonbury Abbey.
1 7 ;R Ulimited
Did you know?
According to tradition, the Irish saint Bridget visited Beckery in 488 AD
and left her bag, necklace and weaving tools behind.
19
Burrow Mump
Burrowbridge (Grid Ref: ST359305)
Climb the steep slopes of this natural hill rising out of
the Somerset Levels to discover the picturesque ruins
of St Michael’s Church.
197;R
Did you know?
The defeated troops from the Battle of Langport sought refuge here in 1645.
Chalice Well
85-89 Chilkwell Street, Glastonbury, BA6 8DD
Alfred & Levels Line
Enjoy the sound of gently trickling water at one of the
oldest continuously-used holy wells in the country.
Along with Glastonbury Tor, the well lies on the
traditional site of the mythic Isle of Avalon.
2 7 ; = W Y U limited
Did you know?
The waters of the well run red and are said to have
healing properties. Legend has it that Joseph of
Arimathea buried the Holy Grail here.
Glastonbury Abbey
Magdalene Street, Glastonbury, BA6 9EL
There are many legends surrounding the once greatest
and richest Abbey in England. It is said King Arthur and
Guinevere were buried at the site, and that Joseph of
Arimathea planted the holy thorn nearby.
246;=WERUY8
Don’t miss!
See the 500-year-old rare ecclesiastical robe found
under a medieval pulpit in Othery. It would have been
worn by a priest during ceremonies.
Glastonbury Lake Village Museum
9 High Street, Glastonbury, BA6 9DP
Discover how Iron Age people lived on the
treacherous marshes by building a special island for
their houses to sit on over 2250 years ago.
2 4 6; 8
Did you know?
The museum building, known as the Tribunal, was a
merchant’s house over 200 years ago.
20
Langport
Grid ref: ST420268
Walk the streets of a once fortified town where King
Athelstan founded a royal mint over 1000 years ago.
17;
Did you know?
The 600-year-old Hanging Chapel and medieval
gateway in the town has been a town hall, grammar school and Masonic
lodge.
Explore the largest display of cigarette cards in
Britain, with over 5,000 sets on display. They cover an
amazing variety of subjects and date from the 1890s
to the present day.
1Q W RYU
Did you know?
Cigarette cards were orignally used by tobacco manufacturers to stiffen
paper packaging and advertise brands.
Shoe Museum
40 High Street, Street, BA16 0YA
Fancy footwear is nothing new! Take a tour of shoes
dating from Roman times to the present day owned
by Clarks the shoemakers.
14;8
Did you know?
The Clarks shoe company was started by Quaker brothers in 1825 when
James Clark made slippers from sheepskin rug off-cuts.
Alfred & Levels Line
London Cigarette Card Company
West Street, Somerton, TA11 7PR
Somerset Rural Life Museum
Chilkwell Street, Glastonbury, BA6 8DB
Step into the magnificent 700-year-old Abbey Barn
and explore Somerset’s rural crafts and industries.
From willow growing and mud horse fishing, to peat
digging and cider making.
146;=TWRUY8
Don’t miss!
The intricately decorated cheese press that was used
to make the Cheddar that Somerset is famous for.
21
Somerton
Discover the ancient settlement that was reputed to
be the capital of Wessex and county town 800 years
ago. It was listed in the Domesday Book of 1086 as
Sumertone.
17;=TWERUY
Did you know?
The roof of the Church of St Michael and All Angels is
one of the finest church roofs in the country. Look
out for the lions and small cider barrel supposedly
carved by the monks of Muchelney Abbey.
Stembridge Tower Mill
High Ham, TA10 9DJ
Alfred & Levels Line
Climb the winding staircase of the last remaining
thatched windmill in England and be rewarded with
stunning views across the Somerset Levels.
26Q9
Did you know?
The windmill dates to 1822. It was damaged by storms
and steam powered by 1897.
Sweets Peat and Science Museum
Blakeway, Wedmore, BS28 4UE
Find out what peat is, where it comes from and stories
of the people who worked it. Don’t miss pieces of a
German bomber which was preserved in peat for 40
years.
2 4 Q = T W R Ulimited Y
Did you know?
The museum also contains a large collection of scientific curiosities and
inventions, including a jet engine and a working pianola.
Willows and Wetlands Visitor Centre
Meare Green, Stoke St Gregory, TA3 6HY
Discover the history and art of the traditional industry
of willow growing and basket making in Somerset.
14;=TWERUY8
Did you know?
The Centre is owned by the Coate family, who have
been growing willow on the Somerset Levels since 1819.
22
Country Line
The Country Line embodies everything that makes Somerset such
a varied and idyllic place to explore. Discover ancient sites,
glorious gardens and parks and take advantage of the obligatory
cricket and cider stops. This line gives you the taste of Somerset in
just 23 miles.
Ashbrittle Yew
St John the Baptist Church, Ashbrittle, TA21 0LE
Meet one of the oldest living things in Britain; a 3000-year-old yew tree that
was mature when Stonehenge was in use.
17;
Did you know?
Yew trees have a reputation for immortality because of their ability to heal
themselves and are often found in graveyards.
Ashbrittle Yew
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Boat Museum
West Somerset Mineral Railway
(Brendon Hills)
Watchet
Washford Radio Museum
(at Tropiquaria)
Combe Sydenham Hall
& Country Park (Monksilver)
Bakelite Museum
(Williton)
West Somerset Railway
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Willows &
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(Stoke St Gregory) Stembr
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Wellington Monument
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Castle Neroche
Norman Castle
(Blackwater)
Castle Line
Priest's House
East
(Muchelney)
Lambrook
Manor
Gardens
Hamstone Line
Alfred & Levels Line
Country Line
Quantock & Coast Line
Muchelney
Abbey
Barrington
Court
Perry’s Cider Mills
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Museum of Somerset
& Somerset Military
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Battle Line
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Sweets Peat and
Science Museum
Westonzoyland
Pumping Station
Museum
Abbot’s Fish
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Gants Mill
& Garden
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Treasurer's House (Martock)
Ham Hill
Country Park
Castle Cary &
District Museum
Stoke-Sub-Hamdon
Priory
Lytes Cary
Manor
Montacute House
South Cadbury
Hill Fort
Montacute TV, Radio
& Toy Museum
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Card Company
Showroom
(Somerton)
From Bristol
Cheddar Caves & Gorge:
Museum of Prehistory
Somerset Brick
& Tile Museum
(Bridgwater)
Barford
Park
(Enmore)
Fyne Court
(Broomfield)
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Burnham-on-Sea
Lighthouse
Oakham
Treasures
(Portbury)
Barford Park
Enmore, Spaxton, TA5 1AG
Make an appointment to visit to this 300-year-old
house and landscaped park complete with woodlands,
water gardens and fishponds.
2QR=U
Did you know?
The nearby Church of St Michael is nearly 600 years
old, but the site dates back much further.
Castle Neroche Norman Castle
Staple Fitzpaine, TA20 3JZ
Explore the history of Neroche and woodlands of the
Blackdown Hills. From 2000-year-old settlements to a
motte-and-bailey castle.
17;R
Did you know?
Neroche was formerly a royal hunting forest.
Cothay Manor
Greenham, Wellington, TA21 OJR
Country Line
Be guided through the medieval manor containing
500-year-old wall paintings, oak panelling and other
treasures. Linger over a cream tea in the 12-acre
garden paradise.
2 3 Q T= U limited R
Did you know?
In medieval times the rent for the land surrounding the
manor was a pair of silver spurs, payable at Christmas
and a rose, payable at the feast of St. John the Baptist
(24 June).
Dulverton Guildhall Heritage and Arts Centre
Guildhall Terrace, Dulverton, TA22 9EX
See the fascinating past of this unique Exmoor town.
Discover the story of the Red Deer and Granny
Baker’s cottage. Explore the Exmoor Oral History
archive, old photos and films.
1 4Q W R U limited Y
Did you know?
Dulverton was the birthplace of George Williams,
founder of the YMCA.
26
Fyne Court
Broomfield, TA5 2EQ
Step into a magical nature reserve. Discover a wide
variety of habitats which serve as the backdrop for
the partly demolished home of the Crosse family.
1 Q 9 = W T R U limited
Did you know?
In the early 1800s gentleman scientist Andrew Crosse lived at the house
and performed experiments into electricity. He was known locally as ‘the
thunder and lightning man’.
Hestercombe Gardens
Cheddon Fitzpaine, Taunton, TA2 8LG
Stretch your legs in over 40 acres of woodland
walks in the landscaped grounds of Hestercombe
House. See over 250 years of gardening design
complete with temples, terraces, pagodas, lakes and
cascades.
2 3 ; = T W R U limited Y
Did you know?
The Line Wood Walk
Belmont Road, Hatch Beauchamp (Grid ref: ST308214)
Explore a 2-mile circular walk through the
landscaped woodlands of Hatch Court, built in 1755.
Discover the icehouse, ruined grotto and
summerhouse.
23;
Did you know?
The builder of Hatch Court was inspired by the
gardens of his neighbours at Halswell and
Hestercombe.
Country Line
Both the British and American armies used the site during World War II
and traces of the barracks can still be seen in the grounds.
27
Museum of Somerset
Castle Green, Taunton, TA1 4AA
From Roman mosaics, prehistoric skeletons and
dinosaurs to gold hoards and art, Somerset’s
museum has it all. Journey through time in Taunton’s
900-year-old castle that re-opens in 2011.
1 34 ; = T W U Y 8
Did you know?
144 rebels were condemned to death in the Great
Hall by Judge Jeffreys during the Bloody Assizes in
1685 for their part in the Monmouth Rebellion.
Sheppy’s Cider and Rural Life Museum
Three Bridges, Bradford-on-Tone, TA4 1ER
Get a taste of Somerset’s most famous export, cider,
at this working farm and orchard. Discover how cider
is made and learn more about rural crafts.
24;=TWRUY8
Don’t miss!
Country Line
An ancient solid oak screw used for pressing
apples. Once built into the structure of a gloomy Somerset cider house,
it’s a magnificent hand-made piece of cider history.
Somerset Cricket Museum
7 Priory Avenue, Taunton, TA1 1XX
Somerset and cricket go hand in hand. Explore the
fascinating history of the sport and its players housed
in one of Taunton’s oldest buildings.
24QU8
Don’t miss!
This size 15 boot belonged to Joel Garner, a 6ft 8in
fast bowler who played for Somerset County Cricket Club. He was famed
for being one of the most difficult bowlers to face in world cricket.
Somerset Military Museum
Castle Green, Taunton, TA1 4AA
Relive the personal stories of the soldiers who fought in
Somerset’s regiments in conflicts across the world.
Located in Taunton Castle, the museum re-opens in 2011.
1 3 4 ; = T W Y U8
Did you know?
The Somerset Light Infantry’s badge carries the name ‘Jellalabad’, to
honour the courage of the regiment. Soldiers overcame a siege at the
Afghan city in 1842 and an enemy force six times their number.
28
Wellington Monument
Grid Ref: ST137173
Visit the monument to the ‘Iron’ Duke of Wellington
and enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding
Blackdown Hills. Site currently under repair.
1 6 ; 9 R U limited Y
Did you know?
The monument’s design was inspired by an Egyptian
obelisk but built in the shape of the type of bayonet
used by Wellington’s armies.
Wellington Museum
28 Fore Street, Wellington, TA21 8AQ
Explore this small museum’s displays on local
cinema, industries and residents all housed within a
300-year-old listed building.
146QWU8
The beautifully crafted Armada money chest with an
intricate lock mechanism that was used to hold
money and documents.
Country Line
Don’t miss!
29
Quantock and
Coast Line
Stretching from the far west of the
county to Taunton and Bridgwater, the
forked Quantock and Coast Line
encompasses the widest variety of mustsee sites. From historic houses, castles
and abbeys to collections of modern
plastics, boats and dolls, 60 miles of
winding scenic roads delivers it all.
Bakelite Museum
Bridge Street, Williton, TA4 4NS
Spy cameras, monstrous perming machines and
an entire car! Come explore the quirky world
of bakelite.
24Q=TWR8
Don’t miss!
‘Leakproof, Vermin Proof, Hygienic’, the
ultralite bakelite coffins came in a variety of
colours and are the quirkiest items in the
collection.
Bakelite Museum
Bishops Lydeard Mill and Rural Life Museum
Mill Lane, Bishops Lydeard, TA4 3LN
Visit a working watermill. Enjoy waxworks showing
people milling and working at rural crafts.
246QW=TRUY8
Did you know?
The waterwheel weighs over two tonnes yet can be
turned from inside the mill using just two fingers.
Blue Anchor Railway Museum
Blue Anchor, Minehead, TA24 6LG
Hop aboard a Great Western steam train and
discover one of the delights along the Somerset
coast at Blue Anchor Station. A collection of
railwayana and changing exhibitions ensure
something for everyone.
154W=8
Don’t miss!
A ticket-making machine that was used to print many millions of the traditional
card railway tickets. Now a thing of the past, except on heritage railways.
Step off the picturesque South West Coastal
Footpath and visit the 600-year-old ruins of a
medieval chapel and hermitage. The site was
recorded in 1405 as ‘Bircombe Chapel’ in the
household accounts of the Luttrell family of
Dunster Castle.
176;
Did you know?
A hermitage is a place where a person or a group of
people live in religious seclusion.
Quantock & Coast Line
Burgundy Chapel
North Hill, Minehead (Grid ref: SS948481)
31
Cleeve Abbey
Abbey Road, Washford, TA23 0PS
Follow in the footsteps of the Cistercian monks and
explore this picturesque abbey, set deep in the tranquil
countryside.
2 6 Q : = W E R U limited Y 8
Don’t miss!
The beautifully carved angels found on the original
wooden ceiling in the splendid Refectory.
Coleridge Cottage
35 Lime Street, Nether Stowey,
TA5 1NQ
Soak up the inspiring surroundings in the house
where the poet Samuel Taylor Coleridge wrote the
famous Rime of the Ancient Mariner.
246Q9R8
Did you know?
A statue of the Ancient Mariner from Coleridge’s
poem can be found at Watchet Harbour.
Combe Sydenham Hall and Country Park
Monksilver, TA4 4JG
Quantock & Coast Line
32
Nestled deep in a hidden valley, explore 500 acres of
parkland complete with a large herd of fallow deer.
23Q=WR
Did you know?
Local legend states that Francis Drake sent a mysterious
cannonball, to prevent his wife remarrying. She believed
him to be dead. The cannonball is preserved in the house.
Dovery Manor Museum
Doverhay, Porlock, TA24 8QB
Explore this newly-restored manor house nestled in
the historic village of Porlock. It is home to a
collection of local artefacts, photographs, books and
tools from Porlock and the Vale.
1 4 3 Q 8 U limited
Did you know?
The medieval herb garden contains a variety of plants that have been used
for centuries for healing purposes.
Dunster Castle
Dunster, TA24 6SL
Dramatically sited on a wooded hill, a castle has
existed here for nearly 1000 years. Explore the
sumptuously decorated rooms or enjoy the
extensive gardens.
2 6 Q 9 = W R U limited Y 8
Don’t miss!
A 400-year-old set of Dutch leather hangings that
cover all four walls of the castle’s gallery. They show
the tragic love story of Anthony and Cleopatra.
Dunster Dolls Museum
17 High Street, Dunster, TA24 6SF
Bring childhood memories flooding back and see a
massive collection of over 900 toys, dolls and action
figures.
1 4 Q W 8U limited
Don’t miss!
The 400-year-old plague doctor doll. Doctors wore
special clothes to try to avoid catching the plague.
Enjoy the tranquil riverside setting of this 220-yearold working watermill and see how flour is made.
2 6 ; 9 W E R U limited 8
Did you know?
The water source for the mill is the River Avill,
which runs beneath Dunster Castle.
Exmoor Classic Car Collection
Doverhay Garage, High Street, Porlock, TA24 8PS
Housed in a time-warp garage, this private collection
of vintage cars, motorcycles and memorabilia has
taken 50 years to create.
24Q= RUY
Don’t miss!
An original AA roadside call box, used as the base
for AA scouts in the early days of motoring. AA
scouts were originally employed to warn member
motorists about police speed traps.
Quantock & Coast Line
Dunster Working Watermill
Mill Lane, Dunster, TA24 6SW
33
Kilve Chantry
Sea Lane, Kilve, TA5 1EG
Watch the birds darting in and out of the ruins of this
680-year-old medieval house found on the stunning
coastline at Kilve Beach. This is a dangerous building,
so please view from the footpath.
16;=TRY
Did you know?
The house is known as a chantry. These were founded by people who
wished that prayers would be said for their souls after their death.
Minehead
Discover the joy of the seaside and explore the
historic harbour town, beach and promenade.
1 6 ; = T W E R UY
Did you know?
Every May Day the town celebrates with the ancient
tradition of the Hobby Horse. A loud drum makes
people aware of the Hobby Horse dancing its way
round town.
Museum of Methodism in West Somerset
Porlock Methodist Church, High Street, Porlock, TA24 8PU
Discover the roots of Methodism and more about its
founder, John Wesley, in this small church museum.
1 46 Q = R UY8
Quantock & Coast Line
34
Did you know?
In 1810 the first Wesleyan preachers from Taunton
preached in Porlock from a mounting block in the
main street.
Nether Stowey Castle
Grid Ref: ST187396
Wander the remains of this Norman motte-and-bailey
castle, built nearly 1000 years ago. The site would once
have had a castle on top where the local lord and his
family lived.
17;
Did you know?
From the 1700s onwards the site was used for bear baiting, local boxing
and shin-kicking matches, as well as ‘hen-squalling’ (cock fighting).
Selworthy Village, Holnicote Estate
Grid Ref: SS920468
Enjoy sweeping scenic views from the surroundings of
a beautiful village of thatched cottages leading to
woodland paths and the coast.
1 7 6 ; 9 = T W R U limited
Did you know?
Selworthy Beacon, at 308 metres, is one of the highest
points on Exmoor.
Somerset and Dorset Railway Museum
Washford Station, Washford, TA23 0PP
Step back in time as you operate the levers in the
reconstructed Midford Signal Box. Explore the mass
of exhibits, ponder the old station names and soak up
the atmosphere.
2 4 5 Q = W R U limited8
Don’t miss!
The larger of two steam locomotives owned by the Trust, No. 88, is a
former Somerset & Dorset Joint Railway freight engine built in 1925.
Open in Autumn 2010, the centre houses Somerset’s
archives, local studies collection, Historic
Environment Record and museum reserve
collections.
1 ;= WER UY8
Did you know?
The Centre will provide access to 10 million archives and 3 million
museum objects, and provide information on more than 20,000 historic
sites in Somerset.
Stogursey Castle
Castle Street, Stogursey (Grid Ref: ST 203426)
Follow the village trail and step back in time to the
days of the powerful de Curci family who built the
motte-and-bailey castle nearly 800 years ago. This is
private land, so please view from the footpath.
16;
Did you know?
The castle fell into disrepair and by the 1500s there
were rabbits kept within the castle walls.
Quantock & Coast Line
Somerset Heritage Centre
Brunel Way, Norton Fitzwarren, Taunton, TA2 6SF
35
Washford Radio Museum
Tropiquaria, Washford Cross, TA23 0QB
A collection of technology and recordings covering
over 85 years of radio and television history.
246;=TWR Y8
Don’t miss!
One of the BBC’s first portable sound recorders.
Developed in 1939 at the request of the News
Department, these machines pioneered on-the-spot
reporting in World War II.
Watchet Boat Museum
Harbour Road, Watchet, TA23 0AQ
Explore flatners, knots, maps, and a curious
contraption known as a ‘nossler’.
14QWU8
Don’t miss!
The mud horse, a contraption that looks like a cross between a giant ski
and an upturned table. It was used to help fishermen across the dangerous
mud flats.
Watchet
Grid Ref: ST062433
Now a popular fishing harbour, explore one of King
Alfred’s ancient Saxon defensive forts built in AD914.
17;
Quantock & Coast Line
36
Don’t miss!
The statue of the Ancient Mariner, as described in
Samuel Taylor Coleridge’s poem.
Watchet Market House Museum
Market Street, Watchet, TA23 OAN
Choices, choices, choices! Fossils, sailors knots,
photographs, alabaster sculptures, these are just some
of the delights you will discover here.
1 4 6 Q 8 W YU limited
Don’t miss!
One of the few surviving cork lifejackets. Most were
destroyed and the cork used for fishing floats.
West Somerset Mineral Railway
Grid Ref: SSO23344
An example of Victorian ingenuity, this eleven mile
long railway was constructed from 1857–1864 to
transport iron ore from the Brendon Hills to the
harbour of Watchet. Don’t miss the summit winding
house at the above grid reference.
17 5 ;
Did you know?
Passengers could travel in the wagons free of charge up the 1 in 4 incline at
their own risk!
West Somerset Railway and Gauge Museum
Bishops Lydeard, Taunton, TA4 3BX
Take a journey of discovery through more than 500
artefacts including drawings, books, photographs and
models.
145Q=TWRUY8
Don’t miss!
The beautifully restored Great Western Railway first
class sleeping car built in 1897.
Investigate three rooms of rural history contained in
a Victorian schoolhouse. Children can explore the
Victorian schoolroom and dress up, write on slates
and play with toys.
2 4 6 Q = W RUY 8
Did you know?
The West Somerset Photographic Archive is housed here.
Quantock & Coast Line
West Somerset Rural Life Museum (Allerford Museum)
The Old School, Allerford, TA24 8HN
37
Battle Line
By far the longest of the lines,
the circular 85 mile Battle
Line commemorates the
important part Somerset
played in the English Civil War.
Taking you through a range of
different landscapes, see the
Somerset Levels, the Mendips,
the Polden Hills and coastline.
The only thing more varied
than the landscape is the sites
you can visit!
Axbridge and District
Museum / King John’s
Hunting Lodge
The Square, Axbridge,
BS26 2AP
Tread the creaking floorboards of
this 500-year-old Tudor building.
Uncover hidden stories about the
people of Axbridge and the
surrounding villages, from early
settlers to the present day.
1 6 9 4 Q W U limited 8
Did you know?
The carved king’s head found in
the museum probably dates back
to the 1600s and is thought to
have served as the inn-sign for
‘The King’s Head’ tavern.
Axbridge and District Museum (King John’s Hunting Lodge)
Battle of Sedgemoor (Site of )
Westonzoyland / Chedzoy (Grid Ref: ST351356)
Stand on the site that saw 1000 rebel troops die in 1685, killed by royalist
troops for supporting the Duke of Monmouth in his attempt to overthrow
King James II.
1:7;
Did you know?
The Battle of Sedgemoor was the last pitched battle to be fought on
English soil.
Blake Museum
Blake Street, Bridgwater, TA6 3NB
Journey into the heart of Bridgwater, a historic
market town and port.
1 6 4 ; W Ulimited8
Don’t miss!
A model of a Naval Cutter, the type used by the
Royal Navy to patrol coastal waters like Bridgwater
Bay and prevent smuggling.
Brean Down and Fort
Brean Down Road, Brean
One of the most striking landmarks of the Somerset
coastline, Brean Down projects dramatically for over
a mile into the Bristol Channel. It offers magnificent
views for miles around and is rich in wildlife and history.
1 9 7 ; E=R
Did you know?
Brent Knoll Hill Fort
East Brent (Grid Ref: ST341509)
People have been living and working on this hill for
over 4000 years. It offers unparalleled views of the
Somerset Levels, Polden, Mendip and Quantock Hills,
and the Bristol Channel. This is private land, so please keep to the footpath.
197;
Did you know?
The Romans called Brent Knoll the ‘Isle of Frogs’ because it offered a safe
haven from the water and marshes surrounding it.
Battle Line
The Palmerston Fort built on Brean Down in the 1860s was rearmed
during World War II.
39
Burcott Mill
Wookey, Wells, BA5 1NJ
See organic flour being milled in this historic Victorian
watermill. Then visit the tearoom to taste it being used
in scrumptious homemade cakes.
2 6 47 Q =T R Ulimited Y
Did you know?
A watermill has been on this site for over 1000 years and the current mill
is over 150 years old.
Charterhouse
Grid Ref: ST502557
Walk in the footsteps of the Romans, who mined lead
and silver from this area to pay their army nearly 2000
years ago. This is private land, so please keep to the
footpath.
17;
Did you know?
One of the lead pig ingots from Charterhouse was found in the ruins of
Pompeii, Italy, which was destroyed by a volcano in 79AD.
Cheddar Caves and Gorge: Museum of Prehistory
Cheddar, BS27 3QF
Enter the world and mindset of our early cavedwelling ancestors, from cave painting and hunting, to
sex, religion and cannibalism.
27;=TW8
Don’t miss!
Watch as the hunter-gatherer re-enactors
demonstrate Stone Age survival skills. Wearing
deerskins, they show how to light fires and knap flint
for tools.
Battle Line
40
Clevedon Court
Tickenham Road, Clevedon, BS21 6QU
Set in a beautifully landscaped terraced garden, the
house was built nearly 700 years ago.
26Q T R Y 9
Did you know?
William Makepeace Thackeray based part of his novel
‘The History of Henry Esmond’ on Clevedon Court.
Clevedon Pier
The Beach, Clevedon, BS21 7QU
Built in 1869, the historic pier at Clevedon was a
place where travellers could board a passenger boat
to south Wales during the Victorian era. Now it
houses a shop, booking office for boat trips and an
art gallery.
246; = W E Y U
Did you know?
Much of the pier was built out of leftover rail discarded from Isambard
Kingdom Brunel's broad-gauge South Wales Railway.
Dolebury Warren Hill Fort
Grid Ref: ST459591
Enjoy spectacular views across North Somerset and
the Mendips from this 3000-year-old Iron Age hill
fort. Today a fascinating and unusual mixture of
wildflowers carpet the hill slopes, attracting rare
butterflies.
17;
Did you know?
There is a legend of buried treasure and an enduring tradition of a fairy
presence, known locally as Redshanks, on the hill fort.
Glastonbury Tor
Glastonbury (Grid Ref: ST512386)
Climb one of Somerset’s most renowned and
mysterious landmarks, reputed to be the birthplace of
King Arthur.
17;9Y
Another legend links the King of the Fairies with the
Tor, suggesting it was the entrance to Avalon, Land of
the Fairies.
Battle Line
Did you know?
41
Helicopter Museum
Locking Moor Road, Weston-super-Mare, BS24 8PP
From Vietnam veteran helicopters to the Queen’s
Royal Flight, the world’s largest helicopter museum
has it all! View aviation action in the museum’s film
theatre or experience a real flight along the coast (on
selected dates only).
24; =TWRUY8
Don’t miss!
A production example of a Russian anti-tank attack helicopter built in the
1980s nicknamed ‘the hunchback’.
Lambretta Scooter Museum
77 Alfred Street, Weston-super-Mare, BS23 1PP
Relive the days of Mods and Rockers by exploring almost every model of
Lambretta scooter made from the 1940s to the 1970s.
14;=WU
Did you know?
The Lambretta motor scooter started life in 1947 and was built to get
Italy mobile after World War II.
The Lighthouse, Burnham-on-Sea
The Beach, Burnham-on-Sea, TA8 1BU
Burnham-on-Sea boasts all the charm of a traditional
seaside resort with its own distinct character. It is
famous for the nine-legged wooden lighthouse, the only
one of its kind in the country.
16;
Did you know?
The town has had three lighthouses over the years.
These include Burnham Old Round Tower used until
1832 and the Pillar Lighthouse used until 1993.
Battle Line
42
North Somerset Museum
Burlington Street, Weston super Mare, BS23 1PR
Browse the displays of over 70,000 objects and
discover North Somerset’s hidden past. Find out if
you’re brave enough to enter the dentist’s room as it
would have been 100 years ago.
2 4 ; = T W U limited 8
Don’t miss!
An original Victorian Punch and Judy puppet set which
would have been used to entertain children and adults
on the seafront.
Oakham Treasures
Portbury Lane, Portbury, BS20 7SP
Whether you’re 8 or 80, you’ll be fascinated by this
unique collection of memorabilia from days gone by.
The priceless collection gives a real snapshot of the
way we used to live.
24;=TWRUY
Did you know?
The collection is made up of time-warp shops including a sweet shop, pub,
tobacconist, chemist and haberdashery. The Tractor Museum has over 100
tractors.
Priddy Nine Barrows Cemetery
Grid Ref: ST538516 Explore the eerie remains of this barrow cemetery, dating back over 4000
years to the Bronze Age. A visit to the nearby Ashen Hill barrow cemetery
is also a must. This is private land, so plese keep to the footpath.
17;
Did you know?
Eight of the nine barrows in the cemetery were excavated in one week by
an antiquarian and his workers in 1815.
Somerset Brick and Tile Museum
East Quay, Bridgwater, TA6 4AE
Journey into the lives of ordinary workers who
created the bricks and tiles seen across Somerset and
the world. Walk inside the magnificent ‘pinnacle kiln’,
the last of its kind in Bridgwater.
14;=RUY8
Don’t miss!
The miniature tiles used by travelling salesmen to sell the products of the
brick and tile companies.
Battle Line
Priddy Nine Barrows Cemetery
43
Line Title
Tyntesfield
Wraxall, BS48 1NX
Step inside this Gothic Revival mansion and discover
a magical place, bristling with towers and turrets.
2 3 Q 9 R E W U limited Y
Did you know?
Bomb disposal teams were called in after an
unexploded World War II device was found sitting
on a shelf.
West Pennard Court Barn
Scotts Lane, West Bradley, Glastonbury, BA6 8LR
Built in the 1400s, this field barn was once a Tithe Barn for Glastonbury
Abbey. The upper floor is unusual as it’s made of
compacted earth. Admission by appointment only.
16Q9
Did you know?
The manor of Bradley, the village in which the barn is
situated, was given to Glastonbury Abbey in AD 746
by Ethelbald, King of Mercia.
Westonzoyland Pumping Station Museum
Hoopers Lane, Westonzoyland, TA7 0PS
Head for the imposing chimney stack of the drainage
station rising out of the marshy Somerset Levels and
find out how it has been possible to live and farm
here for the past 150 years.
2456;=EWRUY8
Don’t miss!
The drainage engine built in 1861, was capable of pumping 100 tons of
water per minute from the Levels and into the River Parrett.
Battle Line
4444
Wookey Hole Caves and Museum
Wookey Hole, Wells, BA5 1BB
For 50,000 years man has experienced the
spectacular caverns at Wookey. Find out how the
early cavemen really lived. What makes a modern
diver explore the caverns beyond the sunlight?
247;=TWRY8
Did you know?
Scenes from the movie ‘Harry Potter and the Chamber
of Secrets’ and episodes of Dr Who were filmed at Wookey.
Listings
Abbots Fish House
Click: www.english-heritage.org.uk/mearefishhouse . . . . . . . . . .18
Alfred’s Tower
Click: www.nationaltrust.org.uk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
Ashbrittle Yew
Click: www.treeregister.org . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23
Ashton Windmill
Call: 01278 435399. Click: www.sedgemoor.gov.uk/museums . . . .19
Athelney
Click: www.somerset.gov.uk/HER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19
Axbridge and District Museum
Call: 01934 732012. Click: www.kingjohnshuntinglodge.co.uk . . .38
Bakelite Museum
Call: 01984 632133 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30
Ballands Castle
Click: www.somerset.gov.uk/HER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
Barford Park
Call: 01278 671269 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26
Barrington Court . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
Call: 01460 242614. Click: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/barringtoncourt
Battle of Langport (Site of)
Click: www.english-heritage.org.uk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19
Battle of Sedgemoor (Site of)
Click: www.zoylandheritage.co.uk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39
Beckery Chapel
Call: 0845 3459144. Click: www.somerset.gov.uk/heritage . . . . .19
Bishops Lydeard Mill and Rural Life Museum
Call: 01823 432151. Click: www.bishopslydeardmill.co.uk . . . . .31
Bishops Palace and Gardens
Call: 01749 98811. Click: www.bishopspalacewells.co.uk . . . . . . .4
Blake Museum
Call: 01278 456127. Click: www.blakemuseum.org.uk . . . . . . .39
Blue Anchor Railway Museum
Click: www.wsr.org.uk/barm.htm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31
Brean Down and Fort
Call: 01934 844518. Click: www.nationaltrust.org.uk . . . . . . . .39
Brent Knoll Hill Fort
Click: www.nationaltrust.org.uk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39
Bruton Dovecote
Call: 01747 841152. Click: www.nationaltrust.org.uk . . . . . . . .14
Bruton Museum
Call: 01749 812294. Click: www.brutonmuseum.co.uk . . . . . . .14
Burcott Mill
Call: 01749 673118. Click: www.burcottmill.com . . . . . . . . . . .40
Burgundy Chapel
Call: 0845 408 2540. Click: www.visitsomerset.co.uk . . . . . . . .31
Burnham-on-Sea Lighthouse
Click: www.somerset.gov.uk/HER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42
Burrow Mump
Call: 01823 336344. Click: www.visitsomerset.co.uk . . . . . . . .20
Castle Cary & District Museum
Call: 01963 350680. Click: www.castlecarymuseum.org.uk . . . . .15
Castle Neroche Hill Fort
Call: 01823 680846. Click: www.nerochescheme.org . . . . . . . . .26
Chalice Well
Call: 01458 831154. Click: www.chalicewell.org.uk . . . . . . . . . .20
Chard & District Museum
Call: 01460 65091. Click: www.chardmuseum.co.uk . . . . . . . . .9
Charterhouse
Click: www.somerset.gov.uk/HER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40
Cheddar Caves and Gorge: Museum of Prehistory
Call: 01934 742343. Click: www.cheddarcaves.co.uk . . . . . . . .40
Cleeve Abbey
Call: 01984 640377. Click: www.english-heritage.org.uk . . . . . .32
Clevedon Court
Call: 01275 872257. http://Click: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ . . . .40
Clevedon Pier
Call: 01275 878846. Click: www.clevedonpier.com . . . . . . . . . .41
Coleridge Cottage
Call: 01278 732662. Click: www.nationaltrust.org.uk . . . . . . . .32
Combe Sydenham Hall and Country Park
Call: 01984 656 284 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32
Community Heritage Access Centre (CHAC)
Call: 01935 462855. Click: www.southsomerset.gov.uk . . . . . . . .9
Cothay Manor
Call: 01823 672283. Click: www.cothaymanor.co.uk . . . . . . . . .26
Crewkerne and District Museum
Call: 01460 77079. Click: www.crewkernemuseum.co.uk . . . . . . .9
Dawes Twine Works . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
Dolebury Warren Hill Fort
Click: www.wt-woods.org.uk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41
Dovery Manor Museum
Call: 01643 862316. Click: www.hornermill.co.uk/dmm . . . . . .32
Dulverton Guildhall Heritage and Arts Centre
Call: 01398 323818 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26
Dunster Castle
Call: 01643 823004. Click: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/dunstercastle .33
Dunster Dolls Museum
Call: 01643 821109. Click: www.visitsomerset.co.uk . . . . . . . . .33
Dunster Working Watermill
Call: 01643 821759. Click: www.dunsterwatermill.co.uk . . . . . .33
45
East Lambrook Manor Gardens
Call: 01460 240328. Click: www.eastlambrook.co.uk . . . . . . . . .10
East Somerset Railway
Call: 01749 880417. Click: www.eastsomersetrailway.com . . . . . .5
Exmoor Classic Car Collection
Call: 07970 497741 or 01643 841476 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33
Farleigh Hungerford Castle
Call: 01225 754026.
Click: www.english-heritage.org.uk/farleighhungerford . . . . . . . .5
Fleet Air Arm Museum
Call: 01935 840565. Click: www.fleetairarm.com . . . . . . . . . .15
Forde Abbey & Gardens
Call: 01460 220231. Click: www.fordeabbey.co.uk . . . . . . . . .10
Frome Museum
Call: 01373 454611. Click: www.fromemuseum.org . . . . . . . . .5
Fyne Court
Call: 01823 451873. Click: www.nationaltrust.org.uk . . . . . . . .27
Gants Mill & Garden
Call: 01749 812393. Click: www.gantsmill.co.uk. . . . . . . . . . . .15
Glastonbury Abbey
Call: 01458 832267. Click: www.glastonburyabbey.com . . . . . .20
Glastonbury Lake Village Museum
Call: 01458 832954. Click: www.glastonburytic.co.uk . . . . . . . .20
Glastonbury Tor
Call: 01934 844518. Click: www.nationaltrust.org.uk . . . . . . . .41
Ham Hill Country Park
Call: 01935 823617. Click: www.visitsouthsomerset.com/hamhill . .10
Haynes International Motor Museum
Call: 01963 440804. Click: www.haynesmotormuseum.com . . . . .15
Helicopter Museum
Call: 01934 635227. Click: www.helicoptermuseum.co.uk . . . . . .42
Hestercombe Gardens
Call: 01823 413923. Click: www.hestercombe.com . . . . . . . . . .27
Higher Flax Mills
Call: 01963 350451. Click: www.johnboydtextiles.co.uk . . . . . . .16
Ilchester Museum
Call: 01935 840147 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
Kilve Chantry
Click: www.somerset.gov.uk/HER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34
Kilver Court Gardens
Call:01749 340410. Click: www.sharphamparkshop.com . . . . . . .5
Lambretta Scooter Museum
Call: 01934 614614 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42
Langport Saxon Burh
Click: www.somerset.gov.uk/HER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
London Cigarette Card Company Showroom
Call: 01458 273452. Click: www.londoncigcard.co.uk . . . . . . . .21
Lytes Cary Manor
Call: 01458 224471. Click: www.nationaltrust.org.uk . . . . . . . .16
46
Mells . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
Milton Lodge Gardens
Call: 01749 672168. Click: www.miltonlodgegardens.co.uk . . . . .6
Minehead
Call: 01643 702624. Click: www.minehead.co.uk . . . . . . . . . .34
Montacute House
Call: 01935 823289. Click: www.nationaltrust.org.uk . . . . . . . .10
Montacute TV, Radio and Toy Museum
Call: 01935 823024. Click: www.montacutemuseum.co.uk . . . . . .11
Muchelney Abbey
Call: 01458 250664.
Click: www.english-heritage.org.uk/muchelneyabbey . . . . . . . . .11
Museum of Methodism in West Somerset
Call: 01984 633212. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34
Museum of Somerset
Call: 01823 320200. Click: www.somerset.gov.uk . . . . . . . . . .28
Museum of South Somerset
Call: 01935 462855. Click: www.southsomerset.gov.uk . . . . . . .11
Nether Stowey Castle
Click: www.somerset.gov.uk/HER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34
North Somerset Museum
Call: 01934 621028.
Click: www.n-somerset.gov.uk/leisure/museum . . . . . . . . . . . .42
Nunney Castle
Call: 0117 975 0700.
Click: www.english-heritage.org.uk/nunneycastle . . . . . . . . . . . .6
Oakham Treasures
Call: 01275 375236. Click: www.oakhamtreasures.co.uk . . . . . . .43
Perry's Cider Mills
Call: 01460 55195. Click: www.perryscider.co.uk . . . . . . . . . . .11
Priddy Nine Barrows Cemetery
Click: www.somerset.gov.uk/HER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43
Priest’s House
Call: 01458 253771. Click: www.nationaltrust.org.uk . . . . . . . .12
Selworthy Village
Call: 01643 862452. Click: www.nationaltrust.org.uk . . . . . . . .35
Sheppy's Cider & Rural Life Museum
Call: 01823 461233. Click: www.sheppyscider.com/museum.php . .28
Shepton Mallet TIC and Heritage Centre
Call: 01749 345258.
Click: www.sheptonmallet-touristinfocentre.co.uk . . . . . . . . . . .6
Shoe Museum
Call: 01458 842169. Click: www.visitsomerset.co.uk . . . . . . . .21
Somerset and Dorset Railway Museum
Call: 01984 640869. Click: www.sdrt.org.uk . . . . . . . . . . . . .35
Somerset Brick and Tile Museum
Call: 01278 426088. Click: www.somerset.gov.uk/museums . . . .43
Somerset Cricket Museum
Click: www.somersetcricketmuseum.co.uk . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28
Somerset Heritage Centre
Call: 01823 278805. Click: www.somerset.gov.uk/archives . . . . . .35
Somerset Military Museum
Call: 01823 333434. Click: www.sommilmuseum.org.uk . . . . . .28
Somerset Rural Life Museum
Call: 01458 831197. Click: www.somerset.gov.uk/museums . . . . .21
Somerton
Call: 01458 273859. Click: www.somertonmuseum.org.uk . . . . .22
South Cadbury Hill Fort
Click: www.southcadbury.org.uk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
Stembridge Tower Mill
Call: 01935 823289. Click: www.nationaltrust.org.uk . . . . . . . .22
Stogursey Castle
Call: 01628 825925. Click: www.landmarktrust.org.uk . . . . . . .35
Stoke-sub-Hamdon Priory
Call: 01935 823289.
Click: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/stokesubhamdonpriory . . . . . . .12
Sweets Peat and Science Museum
Call: 07830 211544 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22
The Line Wood Walk
Call: 01823 356493. Click: www.tauntondeane.gov.uk . . . . . . . .27
Tintinhull Gardens
Call: 01935 823289.
Click: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/tintinhull . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
Treasurer’s House
Call: 01935 825015. Click: www.nationaltrust.org.uk . . . . . . . .12
Tyntesfield
Call: 01275 461900. Click: www.nationaltrust.org.uk . . . . . . . .44
Vicars’ Close . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
Washford Radio Museum
Call: 01984 640688. Click: www.wirelessmuseum.org.uk . . . . . .36
Watchet Boat Museum
Call: 01984 633117. Click: www.wbm.org.uk . . . . . . . . . . . .36
Watchet Burh & Daws Castle
Click: www.somerset.gov.uk/HER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36
Watchet Market House Museum
Call: 01984 631660. Click: www.watchetmuseum.co.uk . . . . . . .36
Wellington Monument
Click: www.tauntondeane.gov.uk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29
Wellington Museum
Call: 07971 242904. Click: www.visitsomerset.co.uk . . . . . . . . .29
Wells and Mendip Museum
Call: 01749 673477. Click: www.wellsmuseum.org.uk . . . . . . . . .7
Wells Cathedral
Call: 01749 674483. Click: www.wellscathedral.org.uk . . . . . . . .7
West Pennard Court Barn
Call: 01458 850212.
Click: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/westpennardcourtbarn . . . . . . . .44
West Somerset Mineral Line Railway
Call: 01398 323841. Click: www.exmoor-nationalpark.gov.uk
West Somerset Railway & Gauge Museum
Call: 01823 433856. Click: www.wsr.org.uk . . . . . . . . . .
West Somerset Rural Life Museum
Call: 01643 862529. Click: www.allerfordmuseum.org.uk . . .
Westonzoyland Pumping Station Museum
Call: 01275 472385. Click: www.wzlet.org . . . . . . . . . . .
Willows and Wetlands Visitor Centre
Call: 01823 490814. Click: www.englishwillowbaskets.co.uk . .
Wookey Hole Caves and Museum
Call: 01749 672243. Click: www.wookey.co.uk . . . . . . . .
. . .37
. . .37
. . .37
. . .44
. . .22
. . .44
47
Partners
The Museums in Somerset Group is a network of over 50
museums and heritage organisations within Somerset and North
Somerset. It aims to promote public access to, and interest in, the
two areas’ heritage.
e
m
er
set
Mus
u
s in S o m
The Visit Somerset project is supported and funded by all
Somerset local district authorities, Somerset County Council, North
Somerset Council and the South West Regional Development Agency.
Somerset Heritage Service works with partners and the
community to preserve, protect, promote and interpret the heritage
of Somerset. It celebrates the contribution that Somerset’s heritage
makes to the character, quality of life and distinctiveness of the
county. It enables Somerset people and others to enjoy, learn about,
understand and gain access to their rich heritage.
Renaissance – museums for changing lives – is a programme to
transform England’s regional museums. It aims to make them worldclass and fit for the 21st century.
Museums, Libraries and Archives Council – Leading
strategically, the MLA promotes best practice in museums, libraries
and archives, to inspire innovative, integrated and sustainable
services for all.
Photo Credits
All images reproduced by kind permission of the owners and by
Somerset Tourism, Somerset County Council.
Many can be viewed at www.flickr.com.
For more information go to the Visit Somerset Website at
www.visitsomerset.co.uk/touring-map