Hidden Gems

Somerset, with its rolling hills, historic landmarks, and vibrant culture, is a county teeming with hidden gems waiting to be uncovered. Beyond the well-trodden paths, lie charming, lesser-known treasures that offer a glimpse into Somerset’s rich tapestry of history, nature, and local charm. In this guide, we’ll unveil some of the county’s best-kept secrets, inviting you to embark on an adventure of exploration and discovery.

The Secret Gardens of East Lambrook Manor

Tucked away in the village of East Lambrook, lies an enchanting garden that has captured the hearts of visitors for decades. The East Lambrook Manor Gardens are a testament to the vision and dedication of gardener Margery Fish. This hidden oasis, featuring a riot of colors, meandering pathways, and an abundance of cottage-garden plants, offers a tranquil escape from the bustle of everyday life.

Tintinhull House and Gardens: A Hidden Gem in South Somerset

Amidst the idyllic Somerset countryside, lies the exquisite Tintinhull House and Gardens. This National Trust property boasts a stunning formal garden, characterized by its geometric design, vibrant borders, and serene reflecting pool. The house itself, with its warm, honey-colored stone, provides a perfect backdrop to the meticulously manicured garden.

Barrington Court: A Timeless Treasure

Barrington Court, another National Trust gem, is a picture of quintessential English charm. The Tudor manor house, set against a backdrop of rolling countryside, exudes a timeless elegance. Wander through the atmospheric walled gardens, where espaliered fruit trees and fragrant blooms create a sense of bygone romance.

The Ninesprings Country Park: An Urban Oasis

Hidden amidst the town of Yeovil, the Ninesprings Country Park offers an unexpected escape into nature. Its network of winding paths, cascading water features, and lush woodlands make it a haven for walkers, joggers, and wildlife enthusiasts. The park’s serene lakes and picnic areas provide a peaceful retreat within an urban setting.

The Church of St. Andrew in Trent: A Medieval Marvel

Nestled within the hamlet of Trent, the Church of St. Andrew is a hidden architectural gem. This Norman church, with its striking stone arches and intricate carvings, is a testament to centuries of craftsmanship. The church’s interior is adorned with medieval murals, providing a glimpse into Somerset’s religious heritage.

The Cheddar Reservoir: A Serene Sanctuary

Beyond the famous gorge, lies the tranquil Cheddar Reservoir. This hidden expanse of water, surrounded by verdant hills, is a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. The reservoir’s walking trails and bird hides offer opportunities to observe a diverse array of wildlife in its natural habitat.

The Quantock Hills: A Walker’s Paradise

While not entirely hidden, the Quantock Hills remain one of Somerset’s best-kept secrets for those seeking unspoiled natural beauty. The rolling moorland, ancient woodlands, and panoramic vistas provide an idyllic backdrop for hikers, cyclists, and wildlife enthusiasts. The Quantocks offer a sense of wildness and seclusion, making it a perfect escape into nature.

The Somerset Space Walk: A Cosmic Journey

Hidden within the scenic landscapes of Somerset is a unique astronomical experience known as the Somerset Space Walk. This scale model of the solar system spans over 13 miles along the towpath of the Bridgwater and Taunton Canal. It allows visitors to journey from the Sun at Maunsel Lock to distant Pluto near the sea at Steart Marshes, offering a cosmic perspective on this picturesque corner of England.

Dunster Castle Water Mill: A Historical Flourish

Within the grounds of Dunster Castle lies a hidden gem that evokes a bygone era. The Water Mill, nestled alongside the River Avill, is a charming 18th-century building where traditional milling techniques are still practiced. The mill’s wooden machinery and rustic atmosphere transport visitors back in time, providing a glimpse into Somerset’s industrial heritage.

The Chard Museum: A Window to the Past

In the market town of Chard, the Chard Museum offers a fascinating journey through the history of the local area. Housed in a historic lace mill, the museum features exhibits on everything from prehistoric fossils to the town’s lace-making industry. Its collection provides a unique insight into the diverse heritage of Somerset.

In Somerset, hidden gems await those with a spirit of exploration and a love for discovery. From secluded gardens to historic churches, each gem reveals a piece of the county’s rich tapestry. So, step off the beaten path and let Somerset’s treasures captivate your senses. As you unearth these hidden gems, you’ll find yourself immersed in the timeless beauty and history that define this enchanting region.

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14 Best Things to Do in Somerset, England

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Somerset is a quaint and charming English county that borders both Devon and Dorset. It’s one of the best places to go for a UK getaway . It’s not too far away from London and has beautiful scenery. Plus, some of the best things to do in Somerset are some of the top things to do in all of the UK.

Wells Cathedral - one of the best places to visit in Somerset

You can find fascinating Roman history, beautiful Georgian architecture, and natural hot springs. You could wander through historic houses like the Jane Austen House, or there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors such as hiking on Mendip Hills or exploring Cheddar Gorge.

So, if you are looking to have a great time in a beautiful English countryside destination , Somerset is the perfect place to go.

My favourite Travel resources for Somerset

✅ Book cheap flights and accommodation with Booking.com ✅ Don’t forget your travel insurance ✅ To see the best of Somerset , I recommend hiring a car .

What can You do in Somerset?

There are a lot of things to see in Somerset – you really can’t go wrong with any choice. However, here are some of the top attractions:

The countryside here is perfect for cycling. You can rent bikes from cycle hire shops throughout the county or bring your own with you. It’s a wonderful way to see all the interesting places around this area of England.

The countryside in Somerset

There are lots of great places for hiking in Somerset. Cheddar Gorge is a firm favourite, and Mendip Hills is also a popular location for hikers who want to enjoy the spectacular scenery of this area.

The National Trust offers trails on these hills as well as other properties throughout Somerset county. Be sure to bring good hiking shoes though, as some of the tails can be quite challenging.

Museums & Historic Sites

If you’re interested in history, there’s plenty here for you. There are museums dedicated to everything from natural history (including fossils) through Victorian-era fashion right up to modern art.

For example, Bath Abbey has been around for over 1500 years. It’s one of the most impressive churches in England , and easily one of the best places to visit in Somerset.

12 Incredible Places to Visit in Somerset, England

So, are you wondering what are the best things to see in Somerset? Here are some of the highlights, and things that you won’t want to miss.

1. Explore the Roman Baths

The Roman Baths are one of the top tourist attractions in England. Located in the centre of the city of Bath , one of the prettiest cities in England , they are of outstanding beauty and fascinating history. 

The baths are incredibly well-preserved. You can see the main bath in all its glory, but also other smaller baths branching off of the centre.

The Roman Baths in Bath - one of the best places to visit in Somerset

There are also the remains of a temple to Minerva and even take an underground tour that includes sections of preserved ruins.

The Baths aren’t the only thing to see in this spectacular city though. There is also a wonderful Abbey, lots of fascinating museums, some unique Georgian buildings, and a stunning central park with views of the countryside.

2. Visit Weston-super-Mare

For anyone who loves the classic English seaside , a trip to Weston-Super Mare will be right up your street. Aside from the wide, sandy beach, there are also museums, beautiful coastal walks , and the infamous Grand Pier.

The beaches in Weston Super Mare in Somerset

Their pier is packed with attractions – from traditional seaside arcade machines to soft play areas for children. It even has its rollercoaster on it, which is the smallest roller coaster in Britain. Perfect if riding fast rides high above the sea sounds like your kind of thing. 

This place is perfect for whatever takes your fancy when it comes to British seaside attractions

3. Admire Cheddar Gorge

Easily one of the best things to do in Somerset, Cheddar Gorge is a beautiful limestone gorge with stunning scenery on every side. 

The magnificent Cheddar Gorge from above

The best way to see it? Take the walk down into the gorge itself. You’ll be able to explore caves, take pictures of some fantastic rock formations, and enjoy this natural wonder first-hand.

Cheddar Gorge is also part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, so if you’re interested in history at all be sure to check this place out.

4. Explore Wells Cathedral

Despite being a city, Wells has small town vibes, Byt the cathedral here is one of the most visited in the country.

Another of the best places to visit in Somerset, Wells Cathedral is stunning. It has some of the best examples of Gothic architecture outside of mainland Europe . 

The stunning Wells Cathedral in Somerset

Take a tour inside and you’ll be able to see famous medieval paintings as well as stained glass windows that date back centuries. It is the mother church of the Diocese of Bath and Wells.

5. Climb up Glastonbury Tor

A striking landmark that looks almost mystical, Glastonbury Tor is a great place to visit and there are lots of hiking trails you can take. At the top sits the Grade I listed roofless St Michael’s Tower, and you’ll be treated to panoramic views.

Glastonbury Tor

The Tor is said to be a gateway to the underworld in Celtic mythology, so if you’re interested in learning more about ancient mythologies or simply want a day trip that has something for everyone then this is the place to come.

6. Go hiking in Quantock Hills

For lovers of the outdoors, hiking in the Quantock Hills is one of the best things to do in Somerset. The steep hills have lots of different trails to follow, so you’ll be able to find something that suits your fitness level and ability.

There’s also an area where ponies roam free, and it’s lovely to see them out in the country.

The forest trails in Quantock Hills, Somerset

There are lots of different activities available here, so this is a great spot for all kinds of people. Whether you want to hike, cycle, horse ride, have lunch at one of the picnic areas, or just walk around and take some pictures of the stunning English countryside.

7. Ride West Somerset Railway

This historic steam train runs through the West Somerset countryside from Bishops Lydeard station to Minehead station.

It’s an incredibly scenic journey, so if you want to be taken away from it all on a train ride then this is the place for you!

The Steam Railway in Somerset

The steam trains are atmospheric too, and there are even special events where they dress up in old uniforms just like they did over 100 years ago when the line first opened.

The Railway is also a great chance to learn more about the history of the railways, from their earliest days all the way up to modern times. It’s a great place for the entire family and a wonderful Somerset attraction.

8. Visit Wookey Hole Caves

Another chance to explore nature, Wookey Hole Caves are a great spot for family fun. You can take tours through the caves, or you could learn about how they were formed at Wookey Hole’s modern visitor center.

Wookey Hole Caves are one of the best things to do in Somerset

If that sounds too educational then there are also lots of fun activities to do here too. You can check out their exciting adventure park, play mini-golf, explore their cave museum, or even wander around a fairy garden.

9. Walk the South West Coast Path

If you have a lot of time in the county, then you should really consider hiking the South West Coast Path. Of course, you really will need a LOT of time, there are over 630 miles of trails. But, it takes walkers along some of this country’s finest coastal scenery and is ideal for nature lovers.

One of the sections of the beautiful South West Coast Path

You’ll be able to see everything from dramatic cliffs to white sand beaches if you decide to take on this challenge. Even hiking just a section of it will provide enough variety for most people.

So, if you’re a keen hiker or love being out in nature then this is the perfect chance to explore some of the pretty places to visit in Somerset. You can get some exercise and see all kinds of wonderful sights at the same time.

10. Explore Montacute Castle

This stunning medieval structure is one of the top examples of castles in England.

It’s now a tourist attraction where you can learn about its history and see how it was once used as both home and fortress. It was constructed after the Norman Conquest of England in 1066. It is one of two castles recorded in the Domesday Book and is now a stunning National Trust site.

Montacute Castle

Simply wandering around this beautiful historic building is well worth your time, and the perfectly manicured gardens are also stunning.

It really feels like stepping into another world when you visit Montacute Castle and it’s truly one of the best things to see in Somerset.

11. Visit Sheppy’s Cider Farm

If there’s one thing that Somerset is known for, then it’s cider. Sheppy’s Cider Farm is a great chance to learn more about how cider was first made, and also an excellent spot for those of you who just want to taste some locally sourced fresh produce.

You can visit the orchards where the fruit grows before being brought here, as well as see how it’s turned into a scrumptious drink.

Apples in a bucket ready to be made into cider

There are also lots of other things to do here, from going on a tractor ride or seeing their animals up close. This is a great place for families or couples, but also for those people who want to find out more about the history of cider production.

12. Visit the Museum of Somerset

The Museum is a great place to learn more about this county’s local history. It has lots of things on show from all different eras, so you can really get an overview of what life was like here under Roman rule or in Victorian times. 

The museum of Somerset is one of the best things to do in Somerset

You’ll even information about local businesses and famous people who lived out their days in this stunning county, and it really is one of the best things to do in Somerset.

13. Explore the City of Bath

Whilst you’re here, you can’t really miss the city of Bath ! Nestled in the picturesque countryside of southwest England, it’s known for its elegant Georgian architecture, rich history, and natural thermal springs.

The stunning inside of the Bath Abbey

At its heart lies the iconic Roman Baths, but there’s much more to this city than its star attraction. You can also wander around admiring the city’s striking honey-coloured stone buildings, particularly around landmarks such as the Royal Crescent and the Circus.

There are also lots of museums, galleries, and theatres offering insight into its storied past and creative present. Plus, the surrounding countryside provides lots of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts, from leisurely walks along the Kennet and Avon Canal to exploring the nearby Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

14. Take a Trip to Bristol

Although technically a county in its own right, Bristol is a wonderful place to visit from Somerset. It’s a vibrant city with a rich maritime history and eclectic arts scene nestled along the banks of the River Avon.

The beautiful Clifton Suspension Bridge in Bristol

Bristol’s waterfront harbours historic ships, including the iconic SS Great Britain. You can also admire centuries-old landmarks like the Clifton Suspension Bridge. But also visit modern developments such as the harborside M Shed museum and the striking Cabot Circus shopping centre full of cool shops and restaurants serving delicious food.

Where is Somerset?

The county is in the southwest of England. It’s about three hours from London by car and slightly longer on public transportation.

The county is coastal and mountainous, and it is bordered by the Bristol Channel to the north and west. It’s also linked to Dorset and Devon by the River Tamar.

It’s divided into six districts: Mendip, Sedgemoor, South Somerset, Taunton Deane, West Somerset, and Bath and North East Somerset.

How to Get To Somerset

This depends, of course, on where you are starting. However, Somerset has good connections with London , so you have multiple options for getting here from any part of England or Europe.

By Car: If you are driving from London , you’ll be following the M25, and then the M4 West. It’s around 150 miles, so be sure to take a break halfway through.

Burrow Mump is one of the best places to hike in Somerset

By Train: Somerset has two main stations in Taunton and Bridgwater. Both are connected by trains on Great Western Railway’s Intercity route that runs between Penzance, Exeter St Davids, Bristol Temple Meads, Cardiff Central, and London Paddington. The best route to take is from London Paddington which will take around 3.5 hours.

By Bus: National Express runs a direct route between Paddington Rail Station and Hammersmith Bus Station to North Petherton every day.

What is the prettiest village in Somerset?

This county is known for its beautiful villages , and there are many pretty places to visit here. Some of the prettiest villages in Somerset include Frome, Bridgewater, Glastonbury, and Dunster.

Some of the cities, including Bath and Wells, are also incredibly pretty, especially during the spring and summer months when the flowers are all in bloom.

Final Thoughts on the Best Things to Do in Somerset

Overall, this is a stunning part of the UK although it’s vastly overlooked in favour of Dorset , Devon , and Cornwall .

But with gorgeous cities like Bath, amazing countryside scenery, and lots of adorable little villages, there are many wonderful places to visit in Somerset.

Don’t miss this gorgeous part of the country when you next visit England!

My favourite tools for finding cheap travel

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Rights of ways – Proposals

A list of proposed changes to our rights of way

Rights of ways – Fixed changes

A list of fixed changes to our rights of way

Apply to erect a new gate across a public footpath or bridleway

You need permission to erect a new gate across a public footpath or bridleway on your land

King Charles III England Coast Path

Information about the King Charles III England Coast Path in Somerset

Apply for the temporary closure of a right of way

Find out how to close a public right of way temporarily

Apply to divert a public right of way

Contact us to be put in touch with the relevant officer for your area

Apply to add, delete or upgrade a public right of way

Apply to modify the Definitive Map and Statement if public rights of way are incorrectly recorded

Apply to change the surface of a public right of way

If you want to change the surface of the public right of way, you must get our authorisation

Apply for consent to hold a motor event on a public right of way

To hold a motor vehicle event on any public right of way, you will need our consent

Walks and trails in Somerset

Information about many of the walks and trails in Somerset, including links to other websites and maps

Walking and cycling maps

We have produced a series of 20 walking and cycling maps to help you to explore the county

Footpath diversions

We process applications to divert, close and stop up footpaths and bridleways

Cycle to Work Scheme

Find out about Cycle to Work Scheme aimed at encouraging employees to cycle to work

Somerset Local Access Forum

The forum aims to improve access to the countryside in Somerset

Pages in Public and community transport

Concessionary bus passes

National Concessionary Travel Scheme Passes for Somerset residents of pensionable age or who are disabled

Bus Service Operator’s Grant Report

Grant survey and declaration information

SLINKY services

Demand Responsive Transport

Bus timetables

Find timetables for your local services and contact details for operators in Somerset

Somerset Bus Passenger Charter

This charter has been created in partnership between Somerset Council and local bus operators, bus users, and stakeholders.

How to give feedback about bus services

We welcome feedback about bus services across the Somerset area.

Legal scope of this charter

This charter was published September 2023, and will be reviewed annually.

Bus Charter Partner Links

For queries relating to timetable information, lost property or feedback, you can contact the relevant partners who have signed up to this Bus Passenger Charter

Taunton Park and Ride

Information about the two sites and running times

Bus it – You know it makes sense

We are joining forces with the Somerset Bus Partnership, which represents passengers to encourage more people in the county to use the bus

Car Schemes

A community car scheme is a not for profit organisation, usually run by volunteers, that operates a form of car sharing.

School travel assistance for Special Educational Needs and/or Disabilities (SEND)

Information about school transport eligibility and SEND for compulsory school age and over 16 students

Community transport

Community Transport is there to serve those who don’t have access to public transport and are without access to suitable alternative transport.

Plan your bus journey

You can plan your journey and find bus stops and routes.

Pages in Parking

Coaches, motorcycles and motor home parking

Coach, motor home and motorcycle parking is available in some parts of Somerset.

Car parks and Pay and Display

Information about our car parks and pay and display

Parking fines – Penalty Charge Notices

You can pay, challenge or make a representation about a parking fine

Information about the PayByPhone service in operation in some car parks around Somerset

Parking waivers – suspensions and dispensations

Find out about suspensions and dispensations

Electric vehicle charging cables

It is important to consider public safety when placing the cable from the power supply in your home to your vehicle

Loading permits

Information on how to apply for a Loading Permit and if you need one

Car park season tickets

We offer season tickets which are valid for long-stay car parks, residential and business areas

Parking revenues and controlled parking spaces

The Local Government Transparency Code

Residential parking permits

How to get a parking permit for residents, care workers, landlords and businesses

On-street parking restrictions

Information on parking restrictions and how to report a problem with badly parked vehicles

Appeal a Blue Badge decision

How to appeal if you have not been awarded a disabled parking badge

Apply for a Blue Badge if you have a hidden disability (a non-visible condition)

How to apply for a disabled parking badge under the hidden disabilities criteria

Apply for or renew a Blue Badge

Information about disabled parking badges and how to apply for one

Disabled parking bays

Our rules about how we can help with parking close to your home if you are a disabled driver

Report the misuse of a Blue Badge

How to tell us if you think someone is misusing a disabled parking badge

Request a replacement Blue Badge

What to do if your disabled parking badge is lost, stolen or damaged

Update or cancel a Blue Badge

How to update your disabled parking badge if you change your address or name, or you want to cancel it

Where you can park with a Blue Badge

Information about how you can use a disabled parking badge

Road and transport schemes

Includes information on car sharing, road projects and road safety.

Road and pavement alterations

Includes information on loading permits, skip licences, road and pavements works and how to apply for them

Road policy and plans

Includes information on transport strategies, policies, plans, road schemes and Electric Vehicle Infrastructure

Pages in Road and transport schemes

Transport survey information

Our Data Team collects, processes, reports and shares a range of transport data to provide an evidence base

Reduction in street lighting in Somerset

Reducing the number of streetlights left on at night when vehicles and pedestrians are not present

Supported Bus Services Fund

The Government issued revenue funding for 2020/21 to support local bus service provision

Residential and commercial road development

Information for developers and house vendors about constructing new highways and housing estate roads

Supporting active travel and leisure in Mendip

There has been extensive voluntary work on 2 major connections within the Mendip District

Find small improvement schemes

View plans for small improvement schemes

Live Labs 2

Programme that aims to decarbonise the local highways network

UK Government funded highways repairs and maintenance

Highways repairs and maintenance made possible by reallocated HS2 funding

Road improvement schemes

You can submit a proposal for a new road improvement scheme

Roadside grass cutting

Find our grass cutting programme and environmental operations

COVID-19 Local Transport Authorities Bus Services Support Grant

Temporary grant to local transport authorities to make sure local bus services continue to operate

Surface Dressing

Find out more about why, when and how we surface dress roads

Emergency diversion routes for the A39 or A358

Diversion routes and signs for when the A39 or A358 must be closed in the event of an accident or an emergency

The National Bus Strategy – Bus Back Better

A national bus strategy with the aim of transforming local bus services

Road projects

We deliver Major Highway Schemes which have been identified through the Local Transport Plan process

Pages in Road and pavement alterations

Dropped kerbs and driveways

Anyone who wants to make a driveway onto their property, or 'dropped kerb', will need approval from us

Request permission for decorations across the road

Get consent to put a banner, bunting, flags or decorations across or along a road

Apply for scaffolding licence

Permits for scaffold on the highway are only issued to accredited contractors

Apply for skip licence

Licences for skips on the highway are only issued to accredited contractors

Pages in Road policy and plans

Transport Strategy, Policies and Plans

We develop transport strategies, policies and plans to make the most of what we have now and to prepare for the longer term.

Electric Vehicle Infrastructure

Our strategy, vision and action plan for the further roll-out of electric vehicle charging Infrastructure

Creating Places for People

We want to know what you want to see from new development

Future Transport Plan

A plan that sets out our long-term strategy for getting the best from transport

Transport Asset Management Plan

The Transport Asset Management Plan outlines how the transport assets in the county are assessed and managed

Transport policy

We look at transport requirements and the best way to have a comprehensive and efficient transport network

Travel Plans

Travel plans will allow you to obtain planning permission more easily and are a requirement for most major planning applications

Insurance claims

Information about our insurance section

Road records

Request information on highway boundary ownership - stopping up requests and queries about retaining walls

Highway Authority consultation on planning process

We provide the Highway Authority's response to all development proposals in Somerset

Road signs, markings and lighting

Includes streetlights, traffic lights, signs, markings, advertising and sponsorship

Road safety

Includes how we promote safer driving through education and road safety campaigns

Major projects

Includes Environmental Monitoring, and Transport and Infrastructure evidence

Pages in Road signs, markings and lighting

Speed limits

Request information about new or existing traffic calming measures

Road signs, bollards and road markings

Includes information about non-illuminated bollards, pedestrian crossings, requesting a village nameplate and how to apply for a new road sign

Report a problem with a street light

We maintain and repair street lights to national standards to provide safe access to all road users

Street nameplate repairs

We aim to keep street nameplates in good repair and fitted in suitable positions. Please notify us of a damaged or missing nameplate

Advertising on roundabouts

Spin your success story: roundabout advertising that turns heads!

Advertising design requirements

Please follow these guidelines before submitting your artwork and we will send it to our contractor for your sign design.

Pages in Road safety

Cycle safety

Information on cycling safely, legally and keeping your bike in good condition

Somerset Road Safety

Find out about how we promote safer driving through education and road safety campaigns

Pages in Major projects

National Productivity Investment Fund

The Government provided a new capital grant for 2017/18 to be spent on local highway and transport network

Transport and infrastructure evidence

Transport and infrastructure evidence for planning policy documents

Environmental monitoring

Environmental monitoring schemes are to help minimise impacts and prevent complaints of dust and noise

Multi-user path in Shepton Mallet

This multi-user paths project transforms travel in the Mendip area

Check on a problem you have reported

You will need a report reference number to use this service

Latest travel news

Somerset council and kier launch new highways partnership.

A new era in Somerset’s highways maintenance was marked by Somerset Council and Kier this week. The new £225m contract…

  • Somerset Council gives walkers access to B3191 Cleeve Hill route
  • Council proposes new 20mph speed limits following requests from communities
  • Check out Somerset’s Bus Passenger Charter
  • Road reopens early as Bishops Lydeard wall works finish ahead of schedule
  • Somerset to get 25 new electric buses for the county’s network in major £14.7m investment

Bus it - You know it makes sense

Somerset Council is joining forces with the Somerset Bus Partnership which represents passengers to encourage more people in the county to use the bus

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Transport , route options, walking , walking speed, maximum walking time, mobility , accessibility aids, locations outside of county boundry.

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Watch CBS News

Earthquake maps show where seismic activity shook the Northeast today

By Lucia Suarez Sang

Updated on: April 5, 2024 / 7:51 PM EDT / CBS News

Residents across the Northeast were rattled by a  4.8 magnitude earthquake that shook  the densely populated New York City metropolitan area and much of the surrounding region on Friday morning. The U.S. Geological Survey was quick to release maps showing the spot where the quake was centered, in New Jersey, and the area where it was felt.

The USGS reported the quake occurred about 7 miles north of Whitehouse Station, New Jersey. It indicated that the quake might have been felt by more than 42 million people. There were several aftershocks later in the day, including one with a magnitude of 4.0.

Map shows area affected by earthquake centered in New Jersey

People in Baltimore , Philadelphia , New Jersey, Connecticut, Boston and other areas of the Northeast reported shaking. Tremors lasting for several seconds were felt over 200 miles away near the Massachusetts-New Hampshire border.

The map below shows the seismic intensity of the earthquake. The map, which is mostly a lighter shade of blue, shows that the intensity was light to weak, depending on the distance from the epicenter. 

image-1.jpg

Another map released by the European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre on X, formerly Twitter, highlights the eyewitness reports of shaking and possible damage levels during the seismic event. 

#Earthquake 18 mi W of #Plainfield (New Jersey) 23 min ago (local time 10:23:20). Updated map - Colored dots represent local shaking & damage level reported by eyewitnesses. Share your experience via: 📱 https://t.co/IbUfG7TFOL 🌐 https://t.co/wErQf69jIn pic.twitter.com/jBjVw1ngAD — EMSC (@LastQuake) April 5, 2024

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul and New York City Mayor Eric Adams have been briefed on the quake. 

"We're taking this extremely seriously and here's why: There's always the possibility of aftershocks. We have not felt a magnitude of this earthquake since about 2011," Hochul said. 

People across the region were startled by the rumbling of the quake. One New York City resident told CBS New York's Elijah Westbrook, "I was laying in my bed, and my whole apartment building started shaking. I started freaking out," 

It's not the first time the East Coast and New York City have been hit by an earthquake. 

A 5.0 quake was measured in New York City in 1884. 

The shaking stirred memories of the Aug. 23, 2011, earthquake that jolted tens of millions of people from Georgia to Canada. Registering magnitude 5.8, it was the strongest quake to hit the East Coast since World War II. The epicenter was in Virginia.

That earthquake left cracks in the Washington Monument, spurred the evacuation of the White House and Capitol and rattled New Yorkers three weeks before the 10th anniversary of the Sept. 11 terror attacks.

  • New England
  • Connecticut
  • Earthquakes
  • United States Geological Survey
  • Philadelphia

More from CBS News

How are earthquakes measured? How today's event stacks up to past quakes

What causes earthquakes? The science behind why they happen

Earthquake snarls air and train travel in the New York City area

NYC, New Jersey earthquake witnesses share first-hand accounts

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  24. Earthquake maps show where seismic activity shook the ...

    April 5, 2024 / 12:15 PM EDT / CBS News. Residents across the Northeast were rattled by a 4.8 magnitude earthquake that shook the densely populated New York City metropolitan area and much of the ...