Things to do & places to visit in Somerset, United Kingdom

Somerset #6 destination in United Kingdom 2023. The average rating score is 4.45 based on 93.6k traveler reviews, of 34 attractions. Timezone: Europe/London, current date and time: Monday, May 06, 2024, 0:37.

Top things to do (33)

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 Wells Cathedral (3.881 reviews)
- Great place to visit
Monday: 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites • Architectural Buildings • Churches & Cathedrals

Wells Cathedral is set in the medieval heart of England’s smallest city and is the earliest English Cathedral to be built in the Gothic style. At the heart of Wells Cathedral is the daily pattern of prayer and worship, the rhythm of which forms the framework of all that we do. You are welcome to visit and enjoy Wells Cathedral at your own pace or take a guided tour. Tickets for tours are now available via www.eventbrite.co.uk The Loft Café boasts views of the magnificent West Front of Wells Cathedral and over the tranquil moat of the Bishop’s Palace. The Loft café is located on the first floor and is reached by a set of stairs or, for those in a wheelchair or with pushchairs, by lift. The Cathedral shop is situated on the ground floor by the Welcome desk. It’s the perfect place to browse Somerset produce and thoughtful gifts and books. See more..
5.0 Mayor's Honorary Guides (2.831 reviews)
- This tour is a MUST when you are visiting Bath!!!
Cultural Tours • Walking Tours • Sightseeing Tours

We visited Bath for two days. While there are so many things to explore in the city of Bath, I highly recommend this tour (free) plus the Roman Bath (entrance fee was around 20 pounds that you can purchase ahead of time- in 2023) if you only have limited time in the city like us. Shoutout to Mr. Mike Charleton (hope I spelled his name correctly!) as well as the city of Bath for a great tour! Mr. Charleton was extremely thorough in explaining Bath's history, architecture, and the city's relevance to modern pop culture (Harry Potter films, celebrity tidbits etc). The tour is about 2 hours, and you are free to leave in the middle anytime -- but it's so good that you want to stay for the whole time anyways. Thank you Mr. Charleton for giving my mom, boyfriend, and I a fantastic tour!!! :) I cannot stop raving about how pleasantly memorable this tour was out of our whole trip to London and Bath! See more..
5.0 Bath Walking Tours (1.253 reviews)
- Engaging Bath tour guide
Monday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM City Tours • Cultural Tours • Historical & Heritage Tours • Walking Tours • Sightseeing Tours

This was a brilliant introduction to Bath with such a knowledgeable guide, Andrew, whose passion for Bath and engaging story telling, seemed to give him as much pleasure as the group. He chatted to us all, we asked questions and with every question came another fascinating anecdote. He says he would run over time and he did, there was no rush at all. Really strongly recommend this tour. See more..
5.0 Original Wild (782 reviews)
- Amazing Experience!
Monday: 9:30 AM - 5:30 PM City Tours • Climbing Tours • Private Tours • Stand Up Paddleboarding • Kayaking & Canoeing

This was an amazing experience! We had Laurie as an instructor for our Stand up Paddle Board tour around Bath. He was so lovely and easy to chat with, and really added to our experience. No one in our group had paddle boarded before and some of us felt quite anxious and uneasy, and Laurie helped to put everyone’s minds at ease, and helped us build our confidence on the paddle boards. He also seemed to really enjoy what he was doing which made the experience all the better, time was no issue and he made sure we got the most out of the experience rather than rushing us back by the end of our slot. We had guests visiting us in Bath that we took on the paddle boarding tour and they said it was the best part of their trip! Would definitely recommend and will definitely do again! Thank you! See more..
5.0 The Golden Retriever Experience (469 reviews)
- Lovely experience
Monday: 12:00 PM - 9:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks

The Golden Retriever Experience (The GRE) is a family-run attraction in West Somerset that gives the unique opportunity for you and your family/friends to have a personal encounter with a pack of trained Golden Retrievers. See more..
5.0 West of England Falconry (340 reviews)
- Owlmazing Encounter!
Monday: Spent 1-2 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas

Multi-award winning bird of prey centre open to the public with twice daily flying displays. Join us for private Hawk Walk and Owl Encounter flying experiences - enjoy the thrill of flying a trained bird of prey in beautiful scenery. See more..
5.0 Tempo Escape Room (281 reviews)
- Absolutely riveting
Monday: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Escape Games

Bath's newest live escape room game. You are locked in a room for 60 minutes and you'll need to escape by solving puzzles and working as a team, with a few surprises on the way. Play our "Eternal Life" game and see if you will get behind the secrets of the mysterious secret society, The LIFE Organisation. Fun and exhilarating! See more..
5.0 Wells Cathedral (3.881 reviews)
- Great place to visit
Monday: 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites • Architectural Buildings • Churches & Cathedrals

Wells Cathedral is set in the medieval heart of England’s smallest city and is the earliest English Cathedral to be built in the Gothic style. At the heart of Wells Cathedral is the daily pattern of prayer and worship, the rhythm of which forms the framework of all that we do. You are welcome to visit and enjoy Wells Cathedral at your own pace or take a guided tour. Tickets for tours are now available via www.eventbrite.co.uk The Loft Café boasts views of the magnificent West Front of Wells Cathedral and over the tranquil moat of the Bishop’s Palace. The Loft café is located on the first floor and is reached by a set of stairs or, for those in a wheelchair or with pushchairs, by lift. The Cathedral shop is situated on the ground floor by the Welcome desk. It’s the perfect place to browse Somerset produce and thoughtful gifts and books. See more..
4.5 The Roman Baths (23.9k reviews)
- Wonderful Experience
Spent 2-3 hours Historic Sites • History Museums

The Roman Baths is one of the finest historic sites in Northern Europe, and one of the most popular tourist attractions in the UK. Hidden beneath the present city of Bath lies the stone remains of one of the finest religious spas of the ancient world. See more..
4.5 Bath Abbey (8.600 reviews)
- Fun and not at all stuffy
Monday: 10:00 AM - 5:15 PM Spent < 1 hour Historic Sites • Architectural Buildings • Religious Sites

Begun in 1499 by Bishop King, this is England's last great medieval church, dissolved in 1539 and now serving as a parish church. See more..
4.5 Royal Crescent (4.110 reviews)
- Iconic, grand Georgian Street
Monday: Architectural Buildings

Designed by John Wood II (1767-75), the Royal Crescent is comprised of thirty houses, shaped like a half-Colosseum, which uses a gigantic series of Ionic columns on high bases. See more..
4.5 Pulteney Bridge (4.008 reviews)
- Beautful Historic Bridge Line With Shops
Bridges • Flea & Street Markets

One of only three bridges in the world lined with shops, this exquisite 18th-century bridge is one of the most admired structures in Bath. See more..
4.5 No. 1 Royal Crescent (2.948 reviews)
- Lovely visit
Monday: Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums

Step into the past at one of England's finest Georgian townhouses. * 10 display rooms * Upstairs and downstairs * Georgian shop * Disabled access * Kids explorer packs. The website has an Access section which has details of nearest car-parks, floorplans, facilities and information specifically for our visitors with access needs. See more..
4.5 Glastonbury Tor (2.828 reviews)
- Lovely views on a clear day
Points of Interest & Landmarks • Geologic Formations

So the day we went was beautiful and sunny , especially so for mid March , which has elevated the Tor to 5 stars . Let’s face it , if you find yourself in Glastonbury , you really need to be able to say you’ve climbed the Tor. I would recommend parking at Drapers shoe factory £5 for the day if you plan to visit the town too, or £3 for 3 hours . Short walk to the Tor form there , the walk up is probably only 15/20 mins max with reasonable fitness levels , but obviously steep so can leave you a little breathless as you go up . On a beautiful clear sunny morning before the hoards arrive , it’s a lovely place to chill , a wet windy busy afternoon may have left us feeling different! See more..
4.5 The Circus (2.498 reviews)
- Striking Georgian Architecture
Points of Interest & Landmarks • Architectural Buildings

The Circus, just down the street from the Royal Crescent, is a companion part of the grand Georgian architecture that came to define Bath's character. It is very striking and like Royal Crescent it very much epitomises the Georgian aesthetic. It was designed by John Wood the Elder, one of the most important British architects of the mid-18th century. It is generally peaceful and an easy walk from central Bath. See more..
4.5 Fleet Air Arm Museum (2.095 reviews)
- Very enjoyable museum
Monday: Spent More than 3 hours Military Museums

The Fleet Air Arm Museum will thrill the whole family. Get up close and personal with Europe's largest collection of Naval aircraft and see the first British Concorde.You'll 'Fly' by helicopter to the replica flight deck of the Ark Royal where two enormous projection screens show aircraft taking off and landing. Witness an air sea rescue when a Buccaneer is lost over the side into the sea. There's even a nuclear bomb.Situated alongside RNAS Yeovilton, you may also see aircraft flying in and out.Visit The Fleet Air Arm Museum. The thrill is being there. Opening hours are 10:00 am to 4.30pm Wednesdays to Sundays. Closed Mondays and Tuesdays except during Somerset school holidays. See more..
4.5 Glastonbury Abbey (1.814 reviews)
- Beautiful, tranquil space
Monday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites • Ancient Ruins • Mysterious Sites • Religious Sites

A hidden jewel in the heart of Somerset, Glastonbury Abbey is traditionally associated with the earliest days of Christianity in Britain and figures such as Joseph of Arimathea, St Patrick and St David. It is also the resting place for three Saxon kings and the legendary King Arthur. Set in 36 acres of parkland in the middle of the town, the histories, mysteries and myths of Glastonbury Abbey define it as a place of extraordinary spiritual significance. Open 364 days a year, welcoming dogs on short leads, with summer cafe, costumed guides, accredited museum and gift shop. See more..
4.5 Fashion Museum Bath (1.707 reviews)
- Well explained collection of UK costumes from 1600s
Temporarily closed - Closed until further notice Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums

The Fashion Museum Bath left the Assembly Rooms on 30 October 2022. It is in the process of moving to temporary accommodation until a new location in the centre of the city, and purpose-built Fashion Collection Archive are finished. See more..
4.5 The Bishop's Palace and Gardens (1.680 reviews)
- Beautiful gardens
Monday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Historic Sites • Religious Sites • Gardens

Home to the Bishops of Bath and Wells for 800 years this stunning medieval palace is open for all to enjoy. Surrounded by a breathtaking moat with resident Mute swans, you can cross the Drawbridge to experience a true hidden gem in the heart of the City of Wells. The Palace sits within 14 acres of RHS partner gardens, including the beautiful well pools from which the city takes its name. In the Arboretum is the "Dragon's Lair" children's playground to tire out little legs. There are daily Guided Tours and the popular Bishop's Table café serving delicious breakfasts, lunches, cakes and drinks (including takeaways). Dogs are welcome on leads. Regular events and activities take place including children's activities in the holiday time, workshops, outdoor music and theatre. Admission: The People's Ticket - pay once and visit all year on any normal sightseeing day. Buy online or at the onsite Ticket Office. See more..
4.5 Haynes Motor Museum (1.633 reviews)
- Exciting Extravaganza at the Motor Museum
Monday: 10:00 AM - 5:30 PM Spent 2-3 hours Speciality Museums

A multi-award winning Museum and visitor attraction. Offering an excellent day out for everyone, with more than 400 cars and bikes displayed in stunning style, dating from 1885 to the present day. COVID 19: The Museum has been awarded the 'WE'RE GOOD TO GO' industry charter mark by Visit England. This means we have all the processes in place to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit for all. See more..
4.5 National Trust - Tynsfield (1.596 reviews)
- Ignite - mixed feelings
Monday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Historic Sites • Architectural Buildings

Spectacular Victorian Gothic Revival house with gardens and parkland, woodland, four play areas, two cafes, and an extensive shop. All on Bristol's doorstep. Open every day. See more..
4.5 Noah's Ark Zoo Farm (1.393 reviews)
- Brilliant
Monday: 10:30 AM - 5:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Zoos

Noah’s Ark is a unique hands-on zoo and working farm, located just outside Bristol. The home of the big zoo animals including African Elephants, White Rhinos, Giraffe, Lions and Spectacled Bears. You’ll be amazed at the variety of animals you’ll see with over 100 different species, set in 100 acres of Somerset countryside. Play all day in the adventure playgrounds and explore Britain's Longest Hedge Maze! The zoo is a multi-award-winning attraction and there’s something for all the family with interactive keeper talks on conservation, activity trails, adventure play, hedge maze and chances to feed the farm animals. See more..
4.5 Chalice Well (1.347 reviews)
- Beautiful, peaceful, tranquil!
Monday: 10:00 AM - 5:30 PM Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks

What a stunning place! The gardens are absolutely stunning, with ample spaces to sit and reflect. We spent over an hour here and didn't want to leave! Also took a short walk through the healing waters which had quite a profound effect on both of us :) Parking is a bit tricky. We parked near the Rural Life museum, but there is a factory just down the road slightly where you can pay for parking. See more..
4.5 Royal Victoria Park (1.249 reviews)
- Lovely park for a day trip
Parks

Opened in 1830, Royal Victoria Park is a visual delight with shady tree-lined avenues and towering mature trees encompassing botanical and woodland gardens. See more..
4.5 Montacute House (1.240 reviews)
- Enjoyable visit with very informative staff at hand
Spent 2-3 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks

Built at the end of the 16th century, this is considered one of the most beautiful Elizabethan houses in England, which was a symbol of Sir Edward Phelips' wealth and high social standing. See more..
4.5 Holburne Museum (1.207 reviews)
- Beautiful art, pottery and a fascinating exhibition by Grayson Perry.
Monday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Art Museums

With an impressive collection of fine and decorative art, this newly transformed Museum, with Garden Cafe, is situated in lovely grounds and is set to become Bath's must-see attraction. Open daily, admission £12.50/£7. 10am to 5pm (11am on Sundays) See more..
4.5 Vicar's Close (1.074 reviews)
- Don't miss these historic buildings.
Architectural Buildings

Beautiful Buildings ! This little close is a must see if you're visiting Wells. Right next to the Wells cathedral. I went quite early in the morning but made sure I was quite as people live here. I had the close to myself, I spent probably 30 mins just admiring these fantastic pieces of history. See more..
4.5 Theatre Royal Bath (951 reviews)
- Such fun!
Theaters

This prestigious theater was built in the 17th century and continues to sponsor performances throughout the year. See more..
4.5 The Museum of Somerset (914 reviews)
- Excellent Museum.
Monday: Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums

Housed in Taunton’s historic castle, the Museum of Somerset tells the county's fascinating story from prehistoric times to the present day. Within the 12th century castle walls you’ll find contemporary gallery spaces and great family visitor facilities, all situated within the town centre. With an amazing nine themed galleries, each with its own distinctive character, there’s something for everyone to discover. Our ‘must see’ exhibits include a 200 million year old Plesiosaur fossil (a type of marine reptile); the impressive Low Ham Roman mosaic; the Frome Hoard and a stunning Bronze Age Gold Torc. The museum also houses The Somerset Military Museum. See more..
4.5 Prior Park Landscape Gardens (836 reviews)
- Great view
Monday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Parks • Gardens

A beautiful 18th-century landscape garden featuring the Palladian Bridge, which is magically sited on a scenic lake with sweeping views of the city of Bath. See more..