somerset uk tour 2014

Somerset: a British road trip to rival the world's great highways

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written by Keith Drew

updated 20.07.2021

Keith Drew sees Britain's Somerset in a different light from behind the wheel of a six-man motorhome.

“This part of the county rewards patient exploration”

“craggy limestone cliffs tower 500ft above the snaking road”.

Cotton-budded wisps of mist hung lazily above the water, the early morning sunlight glinting off the pools. Freshly brewed tea in hand, we settled down in chairs outside our motorhome to survey the reedbeds in front of us, looking for signs of life. There was nobody else around.

Dried bulrushes crackled in the breeze. Suddenly, a huge bird, perhaps startled by the silence, took flight from the water’s edge, angling up over us and only just clearing our overhead cab.

We had spent the last few days exploring a wildly scenic region of limestone gorges, rolling hills and now vast open marshland – wildlife-rich landscapes that took on a cinematic quality through the widescreen windows of a monster motorhome.

But this wasn’t California or Canada. This was somewhere far closer to home. This was Somerset .

At Shapwick Heath, we saw marsh harriers hunting around the reserve’s lakes, gracefully arcing back and forth in search of prey. At Ham Wall, we heard the “boom” of a bittern, brought back from near extinction in the mid-1990s. Further south, in Swell Wood, we spotted spikey-feathered heron chicks (“tiny pterodactyls”, according to our seven-year old) at one of the biggest heronries in the UK.

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20 days  / from 2994 USD

The Great British Road Trip

Get ready to explore Britain on this unique self-drive road trip. Choose the car of your liking before you hit the road: from the Cotswolds and its picturesque villages over the Beatle's favorite hang-out in Liverpool to Scotland's capital Edinburgh: this trip includes many highlights to be explored

7 days  / from 1350 USD

Magical 7-Day Family Adventure in Scotland and England : From Harry Potter to Loch Ness!

Searching for an unforgettable family adventure? Scotland is the perfect destination! With a perfect balance of nature, adventure, and Scottish culture. This 7-day trip offers a delightful mix of activities that everyone in the family will enjoy. Get ready to create life long lasting memories!

5 days  / from 638 USD

Refreshing English Countryside Break

Outside of London, England is known with a countryside full of history, picturesque villages, patchwork hills, and winding country roads. Explore the countryside with its castles, parks, and historical cities such as Oxford.

I’d grown up in north Somerset, but I soon discovered that this part of the county rewards patient exploration. We spent long days pottering around Hamstone villages and ambling along forgotten back roads – when you’re driving a house on wheels that is nearly 23 feet long and over 10 feet high, you certainly don’t rush.

Every now and then, as the novelty of riding up high with a bird’s-eye view over the hedges started to wane, we would pull over to light up the hob for a quick cup of tea or to make an occasional on-board loo stop.

Our aptly named Fiat Grande had more living space than my first flat, and any worries that our family of five would go stir crazy all holed up together vanished quicker than it took for the kids to decide who was sleeping on the top bunk.

Image courtesy of Bunk Campers

The convenience of ferrying around our own living quarters (complete with oven, fridge, freezer and shower) was matched by a freedom to explore and a happy balance of outdoor life and creature comfort.

One night, we parked up alone in an apple orchard in what can quite accurately be described as the middle of nowhere. Another, we squeezed amongst a field full of tents in the back garden of a village pub. Both nights, the kids played outside until darkness fell, and when the drizzle descended and the wind started whipping the canvas around us, we just flicked on our diesel heater and cranked the temperature up to a toasty twenty degrees.

Ruins of Glastonbury Abbey, was a monastery in Glastonbury, Somerset, England © irisphoto1/Shutterstock

We drove through Cheddar Gorge, the largest in Britain, where craggy limestone cliffs tower 500ft above the snaking road and Billy goats skitter about its upper ledges.

We stopped in Glastonbury , an intriguing little place built on a history of tall tales and religious lore and – outside of June, when the area is besieged by wellie-wearing festivalgoers – a quietly alternative town, predominantly populated by New Age mystics.

We nosed around the spectacular ruins of Glastonbury Abbey, the cradle of Christianity in the UK and the supposed final resting place of King Arthur and Guinevere, and peered through a thick fog of incense into shops bearing names such as Natural Earthling and The Wonky Broomstick.

We’d been told that nearly everyone has one at some point during their first road trip, where you suddenly feel that this is how you want to see the world and you do a few speculative sums and start trying to convince yourself that you might just about be able to afford a motorhome of your own.

After trundling along the dramatic coastal route, where the UK’s highest sea cliffs plunge down to the Bristol Channel, we had cut inland to a very different landscape of open moors that are home to Exmoor ponies and herds of red deer.

He paused for a couple of seconds and was gone. It was only a moment, but it was the moment.

Bunk Campers have depots in Dublin, Belfast, Edinburgh and near Gatwick Airport. Campervan hire starts from £35 per day for a two-berth “Roadie” and includes unlimited mileage and a comprehensive kitchen kit; bedding, outdoor table and chairs, and GPS can be hired at additional cost. Renting a six-berth Fiat Grande for four nights costs £775 in peak season. Compare flights , book hostels and hotels for your trip, and don’t forget to purchase travel insurance before you go.

A former Rough Guides Managing Editor, Keith Drew has written or updated over a dozen Rough Guides, including Costa Rica, Japan and Morocco. As well as writing for The Telegraph, The Guardian and BRITAIN Magazine, among others, he also runs family-travel website Lijoma.com. Follow him @keithdrewtravel on Twitter and @BigTrips4LittleTravellers on Instagram.

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Somerset, England, is a treasure trove of history, natural splendor, and cultural richness that beckons travelers from near and far. With its diverse landscapes, historic landmarks, and vibrant communities, Somerset offers an immersive experience that caters to a wide range of interests. In this guide, we’ll embark on a journey through Somerset’s tourism highlights, exploring the attractions and experiences that make this county a captivating destination.

Wells Cathedral: A Masterpiece of Ecclesiastical Architecture

Wells Cathedral, nestled in the heart of the city of Wells, stands as a crowning achievement of medieval architecture. Its intricate Gothic façade, adorned with countless sculptures and ornate carvings, is a testament to the craftsmanship of centuries past. Visitors can explore the awe-inspiring interior, with its soaring nave and stunning scissor arches. The tranquil Vicar’s Close, adjacent to the cathedral, provides a glimpse into the daily life of medieval clergy.

Cheddar Gorge: A Geological Wonder and Adventure Hub

Cheddar Gorge, an awe-inspiring limestone ravine, offers a wealth of experiences for nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike. The towering cliffs, sculpted by millennia of natural processes, provide a dramatic backdrop for hiking and rock climbing. Gough’s Cave, within the gorge, unveils a subterranean world of stalactites and underground rivers. The gorge’s visitor center provides an educational experience, shedding light on the geological history of this remarkable site.

Glastonbury: Myths, Legends, and Spiritual Significance

Glastonbury, steeped in myth and legend, is a town of profound spiritual and historical significance. Glastonbury Tor, a conical hill crowned with the remains of a medieval church, offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The town is also linked to Arthurian legend, with Glastonbury Abbey believed by some to be the final resting place of King Arthur and Queen Guinevere. Today, Glastonbury continues to draw pilgrims and seekers of spiritual enlightenment.

Bath: Elegance and Roman Heritage

The city of Bath, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is synonymous with elegance and historical grandeur. The Roman Baths, dating back to the 1st century AD, are a marvel of engineering and a window into Roman Britain. The stunning Georgian architecture, exemplified by the Royal Crescent and the Circus, evokes a sense of timeless beauty. Bath’s spa heritage lives on, with the modern Thermae Bath Spa offering a rejuvenating experience in naturally warm waters.

Exmoor National Park: A Wilderness Retreat

Exmoor National Park, spanning across Somerset and Devon, is a haven for nature lovers seeking unspoiled landscapes and abundant wildlife. The park’s rugged coastline, heather-covered moorland, and serene river valleys provide a diverse range of habitats. Red deer, Exmoor ponies, and a variety of bird species call this wilderness home. The park offers a wealth of opportunities for hiking, wildlife watching, and stargazing.

Wookey Hole Caves: A Subterranean Wonderland

Wookey Hole Caves, located near the village of Wookey, are a mesmerizing network of limestone caves that have captivated visitors for centuries. The subterranean chambers, adorned with otherworldly formations, create an enchanting underground world. The cave system’s rich history, including tales of a resident witch, adds an element of mystery to this captivating natural wonder.

The Somerset Levels: A Wetland Paradise

The Somerset Levels, with their intricate network of waterways and wetlands, are a haven for wildlife and a sanctuary for birdwatchers. The RSPB reserves at Ham Wall and Shapwick Heath offer prime opportunities to observe a diverse array of bird species, including marsh harriers, bitterns, and kingfishers. The Levels’ unique landscape, shaped by centuries of human interaction with the environment, provides a fascinating backdrop for exploration.

Dunster Castle: A Stately Fortress in Exmoor’s Embrace

Dunster Castle, perched on a hill overlooking the village of Dunster, is a historic gem that spans a thousand years of history. The castle’s medieval origins, combined with subsequent renovations, create a captivating blend of architectural styles. The castle’s terraced gardens, teeming with vibrant blooms, offer stunning views of Exmoor and the Bristol Channel.

West Somerset Railway: A Journey Through Steam-era Nostalgia

The West Somerset Railway, Britain’s longest heritage railway, offers a nostalgic journey through time. Vintage steam locomotives chug along a scenic route, passing through picturesque villages and offering glimpses of the countryside. The railway’s stations, including the historic Dunster station, provide an authentic experience of travel from a bygone era.

Shepton Mallet: Cider, Caves, and Culture

The town of Shepton Mallet, nestled in the Mendip Hills, offers a blend of cultural heritage and modern attractions. Shepton Mallet Prison, a former penitentiary turned museum, provides a fascinating glimpse into the history of incarceration. The town is also known for its connection to the cider industry, with visits to local cider producers providing a taste of Somerset’s culinary heritage.

In Somerset, tourism is not merely about visiting attractions; it’s about embarking on a journey through time, nature, and culture. Each destination and experience contributes to the rich tapestry of Somerset’s heritage. As visitors explore the county’s

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Be enchanted, Visit Somerset

Welcome to Somerset, where lush countryside landscapes, historic charm, and captivating culture converge to offer an unforgettable experience. Nestled in the heart of South West England, Somerset beckons with its picturesque rolling hills, quaint villages, and meandering rivers. From the iconic Glastonbury Tor shrouded in myth and legend to the majestic Wells Cathedral boasting stunning architecture, Somerset is a treasure trove of heritage and history waiting to be explored. Indulge in the region's culinary delights with its renowned cider, delectable cheeses, and farm-fresh produce, or embark on outdoor adventures along the rugged coastline of Exmoor National Park. Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, Somerset promises a truly enchanting escape for every traveller.

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England: Somerset’s Secret Gardens

One of England’s most scenic counties is Somerset, whose lush green pastures, orchards and little villages provide a wonderful backdrop to a most colourful and varied collection of private gardens at a time when they will be looking at their absolute best.

We begin with a visit to Coldharbour Cottage, an idyllic rural garden with a sublime mix of thoughtful planting. The same can be said of Batcombe House, an outstanding plantswoman’s garden in two parts, one a riot of colour, the other an oasis of contemporary calm. After some free time in the cathedral city of Wells we visit Milton Lodge, an Edwardian terraced garden, and sympathetically planted Stoberry, both with breathtaking views over the Vale of Avalon. Closer to our base in Taunton we call at Bradon Farm, a classic formal garden with good use of structure; Lane End House, where a rough grazing field has been transformed into a well-stocked garden, and Hillcrest, a garden full of interest and with stunning views over the Somerset Levels. Finally, after a scenic drive the Quantock Hills, we visit the Walled Gardens of Cannington, which has both classic and contemporary features.

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What to Expect

• Careful planting and natural features at Coldharbour Cottage
• Breathtaking views of Wells and the Vale of Avalon at Milton Lodge and Stoberry
• Specimen trees at Lane End House
• The hidden gem of Cannington Walled Garden
• Scenic drive through the Quantock Hills

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Historical highlights tour.

Have you ever wondered what Somerset House was built for and what has taken place within this Grade 1 listed building over the years?

Have you ever asked why Somerset House is located on this particular bend on the River Thames or its part in the naval history of the country? Have you ever considered how its identity today as a home for cultural innovation resonates with a rich history of art, science and pioneering figures who have shaped our society?

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Please note there will be no tours taking place on Saturday 11 May.

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Our tours will answer all these questions and many more. In this 1 hour experience, you'll take a walk through the varied and surprising history of the site, take a peek behind closed doors, step into our fascinating Deadhouse, explore an unrivalled architectural gem and learn more about the very special story of this building and amazing individuals who have lived and worked here across the centuries. Please note this tour takes you to part of the building that has uneven surfaces and small raised sections between doorways, therefore may not be suitable for all. Please email our [email protected] to discuss your access requirements. 

Please arrive at Seamen's Hall in the South Wing 15 mins before your tour is due to commence.

Private Tours

Interested in booking a private Historical Highlights tour of Somerset House? The Historic Highlights Tour would be perfect for a work outing, if you are keen history buffs or just want to learn more about the rich history of the building.    We can take groups of up to 20 people at a time for £400 per tour. If you have any particular interest let us know and we will try and accommodate elements of this within your tour.   Tours can be arranged at any time within opening hours seven days a week, subject to availability.  Payment is required two weeks in advance.

If you would like to find out more about private tours please email [email protected] with your preferred date and time.

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Somerset House: Sonic Histories

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PGA Championship invites 7 LIV players to get top 100 in the world

Patrick Reed reacts to his tee shot on the fourth hole during final round at the Masters golf tournament at Augusta National Golf Club Sunday, April 14, 2024, in Augusta, Ga. (AP Photo/Ashley Landis)

Rory McIlroy, left, of Northern Ireland, and Joaquin Niemann, of Chile, walks off the 18th hole after final round at the Masters golf tournament at Augusta National Golf Club Sunday, April 14, 2024, in Augusta, Ga. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)

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The PGA Championship officially has Tiger Woods in a field released Tuesday that includes invitations to seven players from Saudi-funded LIV Golf, giving the major 99 of the 100 in the world ranking at Valhalla next week.

The PGA of America strives to have the top 100 in the world to maintain its reputation for having the strongest field of the four majors, although it is not part of the criteria. Those hopes ended late Tuesday when Rikuya Hoshino (No. 94) withdrew.

The PGA leans on a catch-all category of “special invitations.” The group of LIV players includes Patrick Reed, whose tie for 12th in the Masters moved him inside the top 100. He is at No. 92, and the invitation keeps alive his streak of playing every major since the 2014 Masters.

The PGA Championship returns to Valhalla in Louisville, Kentucky, for the fourth time on May 16-19. Rory McIlroy won at Valhalla the last time it was there in 2014. The course is best known for Woods winning a playoff over Bob May in 2000 for his third straight major.

Joaquin Niemann, who won the Australian Open in December and has two LIV Golf wins this year, already received an invitation. The surprise was Talor Gooch announcing in an X post on Monday that he had been invited.

It was a sign the PGA of America’s selection committee was looking at LIV results on their own, as Gooch doesn’t play much outside the Saudi league. He won three times on LIV in 2023 and won the season points list.

Other invitations went to Dean Burmester, Lucas Herbert and Adrian Meronk, all of them inside the top 100 in the world. The seventh invitation went to David Puig, the 22-year-old from Spain who is No. 106 in the ranking. Puig has finished in the top 10 in six of his last seven tournaments on the Asian Tour, including two wins.

LIV will be represented by 16 players, down from 18 a year ago.

There might have been one more, except British Open champion Louis Oosthuizen turned down his invitation. Oosthuizen, who is No. 125 in the world, won twice late last year in South Africa in tournaments co-sanctioned by the European tour.

His manager, Carlos Rodriguez, said in a text message that Oosthuizen already had some personal commitments.

The LIV group includes defending champion Brooks Koepka, who goes for a fourth PGA Championship title. He is the only active LIV player to win a major.

Kerry Haigh, the championship director for the PGA of America, has said he would consider deserving players from tours around the world. Invitations were given to Tim Widing of Sweden, who has won consecutive tournaments on the Korn Ferry Tour.

Another invitation went to Kazuma Kobori, a 22-year-old born in Japan who now plays under the New Zealand flag. He has won three times this year in the Webex Players Series on the PGA Tour of Australasia.

The field has 21 club professionals — 20 from the PGA Professional Championship last week, and Michael Block, who qualified by finishing among the top 15 last year at Oak Hill.

The PGA is keeping two spots open in case the winners of the Wells Fargo Championship and the Myrtle Beach Classic are not already eligible. Only four players in the 69-man field at the Wells Fargo Championship have not qualified. The first alternate is Alex Smalley.

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The Somerset Levels Flood Case Study

The Somerset Levels are a coastal plain and wetland area in Somerset, England. Thousands of years ago, the area was covered by the sea, but today it’s a landscape of rivers and wetlands – artificially drained, irrigated and modified to allow productive farming.

It is claimed that the Somerset Levels are one of the lowest areas in the UK. This is because much of the area lies below the high-water mark of spring tides. The area is very flat and has a maximum altitude of 8m above sea level. All rivers in this area, including Axe, Sheppey and Brue, are in the north, while to the south, the rivers the Cary, Yeo, Tone and Parrett drain into the Bristol Channel.

In January 2014, the Somerset Levels experienced floods greater than any other in living memory. Estimates suggest that 10% of the area was underwater when the flooding was greatest.

Somerset Levels 2014 flood map

What were the physical causes of flooding in the Somerset Levels?

A quick succession of prolonged Atlantic storms, with persistent rainfall and gale-force winds, was the primary cause of flooding. The rivers could not cope with the significant amount of rain that fell. High tides in the Bristol Channel and its narrowing also create tidal surges. These blocked the floodwater, trying to escape the Somerset Levels. Coastal defences coped with the tidal surges.

What were the human causes of flooding in the Somerset Levels?

There had been less dredging of the river channels on the Somerset Levels leading up to 2014. However, as a result, the channels had risen due to sediment accumulation. This reduced the capacity of rivers to transport water, leading to flooding.

Change in farming practices has also contributed to flooding. Much of the land has been converted from grassland to grow maise. This more intensive use of the land means it is less able to retain water, causing it to run over the surface rather than being absorbed.

What were the impacts of flooding in the Somerset Levels?

The flood was the most significant hazard to affect this area ever. The event was so significant it dominated the national news coverage.

The flooding had a range of social, economic and environmental impacts.

What were the social impacts of the Somerset Levels floods?

Over 600 homes and 16 farms were evacuated, resulting in many people requiring temporary accommodation, where many stayed for several months. In addition, several villages, such as Moorland and Muchelney, were cut off after roads were flooded. Power supplies were cut off during a time when temperatures were low.

What were the economic impacts of the Somerset Levels floods?

Somerset County Council estimates that the cost of flood damage was over £10 million. The agricultural industry was among the hardest hit, with over fourteen thousand hectares of agricultural land used for crops and grazing flooded for three to four weeks. One thousand livestock were evacuated from the affected farms.

Many main roads were closed, including the A361 linking Taunton and Street. Flooding disrupted train services on the main Bristol line between Taunton and Bridgwater.

Fuel used to power emergency pumps cost £200 000 per week. An estimated £1 million was lost by local businesses. The Somerset floods cost the county’s tourism industry an estimated £200 million.

There were several incidents of crime during the floods. Nine hundred litres of fuel was stolen from a pumping station in Westonzoyland. There were also reports of heating oil and quad bikes being stolen from homes affected by flooding.

Insurance costs increased in flood-hit areas of Somerset.

What were the environmental impacts of the Somerset Levels floods?

The environmental impact included the extensive contamination of floodwaters by sewage, oil, and various chemical pollutants. Following the recession of floodwaters, a significant amount of debris required clearing, while stagnant water accumulated over several months needed to be re-oxygenated before reintroduction into rivers. Failure to do so would have caused substantial harm to marine ecosystems.

The soil was damaged after being underwater for nearly three months. In some areas, it took over two years to restore the soil before crops could be grown.

Immediate response to the Somerset Levels flood

As expected for a high-income country (HIC), the response to the flood was well-organised and rapid.

Local people in South West England were warned of heavy rain when the Met Office issued an amber warning. The public was advised to prepare for significant flooding by the Environmental Agency. Many people used sandbags to protect their property and moved valuable items upstairs. In Moorland, a man constructed a large wall out of clay and mud to protect his house from flooding.

Rescue boats were used to help stranded people by the fire brigade who also visited hundreds of properties. Rescue crews supported residents of Moorland in evacuating. The owners of some 80 homes agreed to evacuate; however, around 30 residents stayed at home. Additional police patrols were introduced as a result of increased crime.

The army was sent into the area with specialist equipment towards the end of January. They issued sandbags and distributed food. 40 Royal Marines later joined them to provide additional support.

Sixty-five pumps were used to drain 65 million m3 of floodwater.

Local people, led by the Flooding on the Levels Action Group (FLAG), provided local support to the people affected. This included fundraising and the collection and distribution of food. They also used social media, such as Facebook and Twitter, to share the news.

The government made an estimated £15m to meet the immediate costs of protecting lives and properties.

Long-term response to the Somerset Levels flood

The long-term response to the Somerset Levels flood focussed on management techniques to reduce the risk of future floods. As a result, the Somerset Levels and Moors Action Plan was developed and included measures such as reintroducing dredging, constructing a tidal barrage and additional permanent pumping stations. The scheme is part of a 20-year plan for the Somerset Levels and will total £100 million.

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