South E Countryside Somerset 3discoversouthsomerset.com/media/101687/discover2013_web.pdfThe living heart of Somerset with exclusive dress shops and galleries showing local artists

discoversouthsomerset.com

for more information call 01935 462781Countryside

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FREEVisitor Guide2013

SouthSom

erset

DISCOVER



for more information call 01935 462781

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Countryside



Contents

Countryside02

A perfect place for rambling and walking

Market Towns06

The living heart of Somersetwith exclusive dress shops andgalleries showing local artists

Heritage14

Beautiful buildings, ancient sites, traditions and folklore

Attractions16

Easy to reach with something foreveryone, all year round

Gardens22

Cottage gardens, secret gardens, pleasure gardens and landscaped estates

Food & Drink26

Famous flavours of cheddar and cider and many more…

Accommodation30

Stay in a hotel or a townhouse B&B, a farm or a friendly village inn

Events32

An exciting calendar frombig-splash events to village gatherings

Getting around35

Easy to get here – easy to get around

We can help36

Contact details for our information centres

Map

Useful map of the area

INSIDEBACK PAGE

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elcome

What makes South Somerset special?Come to South Somerset and enjoy beautiful countryside, lively market towns and pretty villages. There’s a warm welcome waiting for you and life goes at an easy pace.

The unspoilt landscape is perfect for exploring on foot, by bike or on horseback. Watch wildlife, go fishing or enjoy a round of golf. Take the car and enjoy the slow lane, meandering around orchards and woodlands, up on the hills, down in the valleys or across the fascinating Somerset Levels.

There are historic houses and gardens, museums and churches to explore. You will find plenty of choice for accommodation and places to eat and drink – for style and for price – and the

friendly locals make shopping a pleasure whether you’re looking for life’s necessities or a little bit of luxury.

In this 2013 edition of Discover South Somerset we give you a glimpse of some places and people that make South Somerset what it is – our countryside, communities and culture. Visit soon and experience it for yourself.

You can find out more about the South Somerset people featured in Discover on discoversouthsomerset.com

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for more information call 01935 462781 for more information call 01935 462781

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Countryside



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Planning a great escape? South Somerset is easy to reach and still unspoilt.

1,100 miles of paths and tracks make this the perfect place for people who love rambling and walking. The diverse landscape includes wooded hills and valleys and the Somerset Levels and Moors – one of the lowest and flattest places in the UK and an important habitat.

You can see buzzards and kingfishers, otters and water voles. Swell Wood has the largest grey heron colony in the west country. On the Levels in winter, huge numbers of starlings perform amazing acrobatics in the evening before roosting. Listen for the trumpeting call of the majestic crane, reintroduced to the area around Langport in a successful RSPB project. Or visit Collard Hill to see the Large Blue butterfly. This is one of only a handful of sites which are being managed for the reintroduction of this rare butterfly and the only place in Britain where people can freely visit to see the Large Blue. There are wonderful views over the Somerset Levels from here too.

South Somerset is proud to have three Green-Flag sites. Chard Reservoir local nature reserve adjoins the town. There is a nature trail through the woodlands and a fully accessible bird hide with information board listing the latest sightings: grebes, kingfishers and little egrets are often seen. Ham Hill is an ancient hill-fort with great views and picnic spots, woodland and meadow walks.

Discover our Countryside

Dennis PearceA life-long naturalist and talented wildlife artist, Dennis has helped with the identification and recording of some 2000 species in South Somerset’s Country Parks - some new to Somerset and even to the British Isles.

A favourite spot is where the Ninesprings stream flows into the pool: – “I remember watching water shrews hunting underwater there when I was a child. There are still water shrews in the Park”.

Yeovil Country Park offers a green breathing space close to the bustling heart of the town - amazingly otters are thriving here. The Country Parks are well signposted and offer good access with car parking and all-ability footpaths. Information and interpretation materials are available on site or at local Tourist Information Centres and the Countryside Rangers offer a programme of walks and activities throughout the year.

Ladies Walk, Montacute

Caring for the countryside Blackdown Hills AONB blackdownhillsaonb.org.uk 01823 680681

Butterfly Conservationbutterfly-conservation.org 01929 400209

Great Crane Project thegreatcraneproject.org.uk 01458 252805

National Trust nationaltrust.org.uk 01985 843600

RSPB nature reserves Swell Wood & Greylake rspb.org.uk /somerset 01458 252805

Somerset Wildlife Trust somersetwildlife.org 01823 652400

South Somerset Countrysidesouthsomersetcountryside.com 01935 462282

Sutton Bingham Reservoir wessexwater.co.uk/recreation 01935 872389

Woodland Trust woodland-trust.org.uk 01476 581111



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Adult Large Blue butterfly

Many organisations protect wildlife and help people to enjoy this precious landscape, with events for watching animals and birds, learning countryside skills and heritage crafts, or volunteering for conservation work. You can go on a bat-walk or learn hedge-laying, try willow-weaving or star-gazing.

Somerset levels



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South Somerset is great walking country with an extensive network of footpaths. There are short town walks and routes around the Country Parks - including all-ability trails if you use a wheelchair or buggy. You can stretch your legs a bit further using walks packs like Walking the Hills and Vales around Yeovil or Six Circular Walks in and around Chard, available from Information Centres. The Leland Trail is a long distance route starting at King Alfred’s Tower on the Stourhead estate. Following in the footsteps of 16th century traveller John Leland, it joins with the Liberty Trail on Ham Hill and continues cross-country to Lyme Regis.

Pedal power is one of the best ways to explore South Somerset with easy-going on the beautiful lowlands and plenty of hills for more of a challenge. Pedalling the Scenic Route is a free leaflet with five routes graded from easy to hard. The 80-mile Cycle Route around South Somerset links to the National Cycle Network and can be done in a day by serious cyclists or divided into sections over a longer period. Download cycle routes from discoversouthsomerset.com or pick up copies in Tourist Information Centres.

South Somerset is criss-crossed with ancient droves and bridleways ideal for horse-riding. There are six self-guided riding trails on discoversouthsomerset.com. Some farmhouse B&Bs offer stabling if you would like to bring your own horse with you on holiday here.

Explore on foot, by bike or on horseback

Moldrams Ground Local Nature ReserveBeautiful woodland and grassland wildlife site. Ponds with dragonflies and newts. Peaceful for bird watching and picnics.

Pen Selwood, Nr WincantonT: 01935 462462 W: southsomerset countryside.comMAP REF: 12E

Ham Hill Country Park400 acre open access Country Park, superb countryside and Iron Age earthworks. Panoramic views of Somerset. Green Flag Award winner.

Stoke sub Hamdon TA14 6RWT: 01935 823617 W: southsomerset countryside.comMAP REF: 8C

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Yeovil Country ParkGreen Flag Award winning countryside site. Woodlands and grasslands, river and lakes including Ninesprings and Valley Gardens.

Brunswick Street, YeovilT: 01935 462462 W: southsomerset countryside.comMAP REF: 9B

GreenBreaks Travel company - offering chance to explore South Somerset and Dorset, particularly local culture, food, customs, history, art and the countrysidethrough walking, cycling, and GreenBreaks.

Postal address:Manor Farmhouse, Norton Sub Hamdon, Somerset TA14 6SGT: 01935 881227 W: green-breaks.co.uk

Eastfield Local Nature ReserveA small, south facing, grassland site alive with insects and butterflies in the summer months.

High Ham, LangportT: 01935 462462W: southsomerset countryside.com

MAP REF: 7E

Chard Reservoir Local Nature ReservePeaceful countryside siteOrchid meadows, native woodlands and excellent bird watching on open water from hide. Good surfaced pathways. Green Flag Award winner.

Touches Lane, ChardT: 01935 462462 W: southsomerset countryside.com

MAP REF: 5A

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Disabled access

Partial disabled access

Refreshments Plant sales (garden section only)

Bus stop within 1/4 mile

Dogs welcome

Free entry

Advertising key



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Discover our Market TownsThe living heart of Somerset with plenty to enjoy, from exclusive dress shops to galleries showing local artists.

Take a break from the supermarket and enjoy traditional shopping in butchers and bakers, greengrocers, ironmongers and old-fashioned drapers. Look for special presents or satisfy your own whims in artisan shops offering the best of the creative community: paintings and pottery, heritage arts and crafts. You might have the added pleasure of meeting the maker.

South Somerset people love the planet! Our reduce, re-use and recycle philosophy means there’s an abundance of vintage clothes, shabby chic furniture, books and antiques waiting to be discovered in quirky shops and market stalls.

The towns have their serious side too. Look around to discover our heritage in beautiful churches and houses, curious street names and buildings that stand testimony to the traditional industries from which these towns grew – agriculture, rope, sail and glove-making. The best way to explore the towns is on foot. Local Information Centres will give

Richard Abbott Richard enjoys helping his passengers to get to their destination and sometimes to get back together with their belongings – usually phones and umbrellas! In his leisure time Richard is dedicated to the Railway Centre at nearby Yeovil Junction Station where there is a turntable, locomotive shed and water tower from the days of steam. “When I’m not working trains, I’m playing trains”.

you town trail leaflets to take you around famous features and historic hotspots.

And when you’re weary from exploring, seek out one of the many places to eat and drink. From quaint hostelries to modern bistros, you’ll find a place to suit your mood and your pocket.

Going shopping

Ilminster

Pick up a copy of to find out about the sights to see

Market Towns of South Somerset

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Bruton

Chard

Castle Cary Crewkerne

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BrutonA picturesque hillside town on the river Brue,with Jacobean almshouses, abbey remains and a famous National Trust dovecote. Narrow alleys link the high street with a riverside walk, 15th century Packhorse Bridge and a magnificent twin-towered church. Bruton Railway Station is on the Heart of Wessex Bristol to Weymouth Line.

Castle CaryBusy market town with a winding main street of golden stone, attractive market house and a round house lock-up dating from 1779. This town is good for shopping and Castle Cary Railway Station is on the Heart of Wessex Bristol to Weymouth Line and the London Paddington to Plymouth Line.

CrewkerneSet in wooded, hilly countryside, Crewkerne has many fine old buildings, interesting shops and a magnificent 15th century church. The people of the town proudly welcomed Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and His Royal Highness Prince Philip when they visited Crewkerne during their 2012 Diamond Jubilee Tour. The visit is commemorated on a hamstone plaque, hand-carved by a local stonemason, on the wall of the Town Hall. Crewkerne Railway Station is on the London Waterloo to Exeter Line.

ChardOn the borders of Devon and Dorset, Chard is the highest town in Somerset and a local centre for industry and employment. The high street is flanked by two streams and has a variety of shops. The museum’s Stringfellow Collection celebrates the inventor of powered flight who was born in the town and there is also a collection of early artificial limbs. The secluded nature reserve at Chard Reservoir is on the fringe of the town and the beautiful Blackdown Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is also nearby.

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Look on Discover’s Attractions pages 16 – 21 for museums telling the unique stories of the towns – their landmarks, characters, trades and traditions.

Langport

Martock Ilchester

MartockOne of the largest parishes in Somerset, Martock also has one of the oldest domestic dwellings – the Treasurer’s House - owned by the National Trust. Other notable buildings are the impressive parish church of All Saints, the old grammar school founded in 1661 and surely the prettiest Nat West bank in England.

IlchesterOnce a major Roman garrison town on the Fosse Way, Ilchester has some handsome Georgian houses and town hall and a 13th century church tower that changes from square to octagonal as it rises. The town prizes its close association with Royal Naval Air Station Yeovilton with the Fleet Air Arm Museum and famous international air show in July.

IlminsterThe imposing Minster church that gives the town its name, stands high amongst quality independent shops. Ilminster has a thriving arts centre and a small theatre. The open market house is at the heart of medieval crossroads that lead to excellent walking and cycling routes including the Stopline Way which connects with Chard.

LangportA busy river port in bygone days, this ancient market town is noted for its distinctive houses on Bow Street and the hanging chapel in the old town wall. The Battle of Langport in 1645 was one of the last battles of the first civil war. There are pleasant places to sit and to stroll beside the River Parrett and idyllic walking and cycling on the surrounding Somerset Levels.

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market cross known as The Butter Cross. The Somerset Guild of Crafts, based in The Old Court House, displays the work of up to 60 members at a time.

SomertonAn attractive town of architectural and historical interest, with fine houses, inns and almshouses. Somerton has a distinguished church and octagonal, roofed

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Somerton

Wincanton

Yeovil

WincantonElegant Georgian houses and coaching inns are a reminder of Wincanton’s importance as a staging post on the main London to Plymouth road. In the 1600s the town provided stabling for nearly 300 horses. Nowadays visitors come to enjoy horse-racing at Wincanton Racecourse on a hill above the town. Uniquely, Wincanton is twinned with a fictional town – Ankh Morpork in Terry Pratchett’s Discworld novels. Peach Pie Street, Treacle Mine Road and Kinklebury Street are named after places in the novels.

YeovilThe business centre of South Somerset, internationally known for helicopter manufacture and home of The Glovers football team. Yeovil has small shops and major high street retailers, twice-weekly market, theatres, indoor bowling, multi-screen cinema, music and sports venues. Yeovil Country Park adjoins the town centre with 127 acres of open space. The District Hospital is here and the town has two railway stations - Pen Mill on the Heart of Wessex Bristol to Weymouth Line and Yeovil Junction on the London Waterloo to Exeter Line.



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Around the villagesSouth Somerset has 121 parishes – here’s just a taste…

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Odcombe

Shepton Beauchamp (nearest town Martock)

A thriving village with pub, post office and general store, deli, a specialist clock and watch repair shop, hair and beauty salon and a pottery. See if you can spot the Fives Wall, on private land but easily seen from the road. Nearby is Barrington Court (National Trust) and the large village of South Petherton.

Horton (nearest towns Chard & Ilminster)

On the edge of the Blackdown Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Horton is easily reached from Taunton and the M5. There is a post office and general store and excellent places to stay in the area. Horton has an annual flower show going back 40 years. The nearby village of Curry Mallet has a small shop with a big reputation for cakes.

Hardington Mandeville (nearest towns Crewkerne and Yeovil)

In a beautiful position with good walking and extensive views. Hardington Moor is a National Nature Reserve with several species of orchids. St Mary’s Church has a Norman tower and nearby churches at Pendomer and Sutton Bingham have important features. The picture-book villages of East and West Coker are also close by.

Abbas and Templecombe (nearest towns Sherborne & Wincanton) In earlier days these were two separate parishes. Templecombe was a centre for the Order of the Knights Templar during the 13th century. A panel painting from this period, with a resemblance to the Turin Shroud, is on display in the Parish Church. The community suffered badly when the railway line was targeted in a bombing raid in September 1942.



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Barrington Farmers Market Village Hall 4th Saturday (except Aug & Dec) 10am – 12 noon

Chard Antiques & Collectors Fair Guildhall Thursday 8am – 2pm

Chard Indoor Market Guildhall 2nd, 3rd & 4th Saturday 8.30am – 2pm

Chard Outdoor Market Fore Street Saturday 9am – 2.30pm

Crewkerne Country Market Henhayes Centre Friday 9am – 11am

Crewkerne Outdoor Market South Street Car Park Wednesday 9am – 1pm

Crewkerne Farmers Market Falkland Square 3rd Saturday 9am – 1pm

Drayton Farmers Market Village Hall 3rd Saturday 10am – 12 noon

Huish Episcopi Farmers Market Rose & Crown pub Friday 4.30pm – 7pm

Ilminster Farmers Market Market Square 1st Saturday 8.30am – 12.30pm

Ilminster Outdoor Market Market Square Thursday 9am – 1pm

Kingsbury Episcopi Farmers Market

Church Rooms 1st Saturday (except Jan & Aug) 10am –12 noon

Langport Country Market All Saints Hall Thursday 9.30am – 11.30am

Langport “Under the Clock” Market

Town Hall Monday to Friday

Saturday

8am – 4pm

8am – 1pm

Martock Farmers Market Shopping Precinct 2nd Saturday 10am –1pm

Milborne Port Farmers Market

Queens Head pub 1st Sunday 10.30am – 1.30pm

Montacute Levels Best Market Old Stable Courtyard at Montacute House

23 Mar, 27 Apr, 18 May,

29 Jun, 27 Jul, 28 Sep, 26

Oct, 23 Nov and 14 Dec

10am – 2pm

North Curry Farmers Market Village Hall 1st Saturday (except January) 9.30am – 11.30am

Wessex Country Market (Somerton)

Unicorn Skittle Alley,

West Street

Saturday 9.30am – 12 noon

Wincanton Country Market Balsam Centre Friday 8.30am – 11.30am

Wincanton Farmers Market The Bear Inn, Market Place

1st Friday 9am – 12 noon

Yeovil Country Market St John’s School Rooms, beside Parish Church

Friday 8.30am – 1pm

Yeovil Outdoor Market Lower Middle Street Tuesday & Friday 9am – 3pm

Yeovil Farmers Market Middle Street 4th Saturday 9am – 2pm

Buy locally-produced foods, plants and crafts direct from the producer at markets across the area. Latest details on somersetfarmersmarket.co.uk and somersetcountrymarkets.co.uk or at Tourist Information Centres.

Markets in South Somerset


for more information call 01935 462781M

arket Towns

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Dennis ChinaworksHand thrown, decorated earthenware - collectable limited edition pottery produced on site. Seconds shop open Mon - Fri 10am to 4pm.

Shepton Beauchamp TA19 0JTT: 01460 240622 W: dennischinaworks.comMAP REF: 6C

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Community Resource ServiceEverything you need to satisfy your creativity. We have a large Art Shop, Scrapstore and equipment hire for community events. Please see website for opening times.

The Old Coach House, Hendford, Yeovil BA20 1UNT: 01935 462535 W: southsomerset.gov.uk/crsMAP REF: 9B

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Yandles & Son LtdAladdin’s cave with everything for the woodworker and hobbyist; from timber, machinery to beads and papercraft. Plus the 303 gallery and the Cedar Tree Café, all with free parking.

Hurst Works, Hurst, Martock TA12 6JUT: 01935 822207 W: yandles.co.ukMAP REF: 7C

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Somerset CountrywareSomerset Countryware is one range of decorative, domestic stoneware made by Mary Kembery. It is inspired by the landscape of the Somerset Moors.

Smocklands Farmhouse, Drayton Lane, Drayton, Langport TA10 0JST: 01458 251640 W: somerset countryware.co.ukMAP REF: 6D

Bailey Hill BookshopGeneral bookshop selling new and secondhand books. Large children’s section, galleried upstairs with lots of room to sit and browse the books.

Fore Street, Castle Cary, BA7 7BGT: 01963 350917 W: baileyhillbookshop.comMAP REF: 10E

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Antiques BazaarOver 50 traders offering pine and painted furniture, antiques, collectables, ceramics, art, textiles etc. Open 7 days a week. Free parking. Quirky French cafe!

Units 4-5 The Old Textile Mill South Street, Crewkerne, TA18 8AGT: 01460 77121 W: antiquesbazaar.co.ukMAP REF: 7B

John Leach Gallery Muchelney Pottery Well-known pottery with modern gallery selling ceramics, sculpture and paintings including signed work by John Leach, Nick Rees and Mark Melbourne. Adjacent shop selling Muchelney wood fi red kitchenware.

Open: All year, Mon - Sat 9am -1pm, 2pm - 5pm

Muchelney, 2m Sth Langport TA10 0DW

T: 01458 250324W: johnleachpottery.co.uk

John Leach GalleryM

uchelney Pottery

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PittardsA secret West Country resource for everything leather. Relax post-shop in the cafe with delicious coffee and homemade cake.

Sherborne Road, Yeovil, BA21 5BAT: 01935 474321W: pittards.com MAP REF: 9C

Drayton NurseriesA plantsman’s paradise. Traditional garden nursery selling trees, shrubs, flowering plants and sundries. Expert advice. Coffee shop with free Wi-Fi.

School Street, Drayton, Langport TA10 0LNT: 01458 251926 W: draytonnurseries.co.ukMAP REF: 6D

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Remains To Be SeenFriendly atmosphere-ceramics, decorative pieces, jewellery, kitchenalia, militaria, silver, thimbles, postcards – and everything in between! Pearls and beads rethreaded.

24 East Street, Ilminster TA19 0AJT: 01460 53028 W remainstobeseen.co.uk MAP REF: 6B

Basement Car Park Quedam Shopping Centre Yeovil BA20 1EYT: 01935 420889 W: yeovilshopmobility.co.uk

MAP REF: 9B

Yeovil ShopmobilityThis registered charity provides powered and manual equipment for both short and long term town hire. The service is for anyone with limited mobility. You don’t have to be registered disabled to use the scheme.



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Heritage

Look on Discover’s Attractions pages 16 – 21

for local museums and heritage centres



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HeritageDiscover our HeritageThe past is all around waiting to be explored in beautiful buildings and ancient sites, traditions and folklore.

Ham Hill Country Park is a landmark visible from miles around and a haven for wildlife and picnickers. It conceals the largest Iron Age hill fort in Britain. An exciting three-year project by the Universities of Cambridge and Cardiff is exploring the archaeology of the Hill, its past and its people. Visit Ham Hill Education Centre for information on summer tours of the dig or look at hamhillfort.info where you can also see some of the finds.

South Somerset’s landscape has been characterised by agriculture but a rich industrial heritage has also been handed down from the manufacture of rope and sails, textiles and leather gloves, engines and more recently, aircraft. At the peak of the gloving industry in the 1800s, three million pairs of gloves were made locally in one year and there were 40 factories. Protective gloves are still made here for use by emergency service workers all over the world and Yeovil’s football team is nicknamed The Glovers.

This part of Somerset has many memories of the Second World War. Around Chard and Ilminster you can see remnants of the Stopline, a defence constructed across England’s South West peninsula to deter invasion - there is a peaceful walking and cycling route along this local stretch. Many children were evacuated from the cities to Somerset and some revisit now with their families. East Chinnock church has stained glass windows given as an act of thanksgiving and reconciliation by a former prisoner of war held locally.

There has been a Royal Naval cemetery at St Bartholomew’s church in Yeovilton village by the Royal Naval Air Station, since 1942. In 1993, St Bartholomew’s became the Fleet Air Arm’s Memorial Church, home of the Fleet Air Arm Roll of Honour and a focal point for the history of the Fleet Air Arm.

There are plentiful local resources for exploring family history in town and county museums and heritage collections, military records, war memorials and church monuments and South Somerset people extend a warm welcome to visitors discovering – or returning to – their roots in this area.

Naomi Ireland-Jones Naomi is looking forward to a third summer working on the Ham Hill archaeological dig. She was thrilled to be part of the team discovering a bronze-age ditch and an iron-age roundhouse during 2012: “Ham Hill fort is so exciting and so massive – the biggest hill fort in Europe - and a beautiful place too”

Ham Hill archaeological dig



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Attractions



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Attractions

Discover our AttractionsSouth Somerset has major museums with large scale displays and international reputations and smaller collections offering a more intimate look at social and industrial history. Our visitor attractions are easy to reach and there is something for everyone, all year round.

Visit the rather famous Discworld Emporium; an ephemera-filled portal to Terry Pratchett’s fantasy world or journey back in time at the nostalgic TV, Toy and Radio Museum in the much-filmed village of Montacute.

Gain a sense of history at world famous National Trust and English Heritage sites or take a tour of Perry’s Cider Mill for an insight into a traditional industry.

For a sense of freedom, run wild in the great outdoors. The wonder of nature is free for all in Somerset’s countryside and there are many tranquil places to enjoy rambling and cycling, playing and picnicking – ask in Tourist Information Centres about places you can enjoy for free.

There’s family fun at leisure centres and playgrounds – indoors and outdoors. For the young and not-so-young who are crazy for wheels, Haynes International Motor Museum offers exhibition halls packed with stunning vehicles and Festival of Transport and Auto-jumble events. Railway buffs – there’s a choice of train attractions in Somerset and you can get here by rail with local stations at Bruton, Castle Cary, Crewkerne, Templecombe and Yeovil.

Feel the buzz of Somerset’s after-dark energy too with theatres and restaurants, leisure and sports venues and a flourishing music scene in pubs, clubs and arts centres.

Jane Pickford Jane is the third generation of her family in Martock’s timber trade. In the heyday of the business, there were 100 employees and 16 carthorses supplying 10% of the country’s coffins. Now, trade is more geared towards craftwork with popular wood-working shows held twice a year and regular wood-turning courses.

“I’ve known this sawmill all my life but I never tire of the smell of freshly sawn timber”

Perry’s, Dowlish Wake



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Attractions



Chard MuseumLocal history including industries & social life. Also John Stringfellow and James Gillingham, pioneers of powered flight and artificial limbs. Open between Easter and end October 10.30 – 4.30

Godworthy House High Street, Chard TA20 1QBT: 01460 65091 W: chardmuseum.co.ukMAP REF: 5A

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Crewkerne & District Museum & Heritage CentreSocial and industrial history. Research facilities. Room hire. Group visits all ages. Activities for children. Changing exhibitions. Adults £1 & children free.

The Heritage Centre Market Square Crewkerne TA18 7JUT: 01460 77079 W: crewkernemuseum.co.ukMAP REF: 7B

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Community Heritage Access CentreCentre for research into local history. Contains over 10,000 artefacts and 3,000 photos. Open Monday to Friday by appointment.

South Somerset District CouncilLufton Depot, 7 Artillery Road Yeovil BA22 8RPT: 01935 462855 W: southsomersetheritage. org.ukMAP REF: 9CP

Crewkerne Aqua Centre25 metre pool, warm teaching pool, aquarobics, swim school, gym, studio classes including spinning, pilates etc. See website for opening times.

Henhayes, Crewkerne TA18 7LZT: 01460 77665W: aquacentre.co.ukMAP REF: 7B

Gartell Light Railway2ft narrow gauge railway along the old Somerset and Dorset railway line. Train rides, restaurant, lake picnic area.

Common Lane, Yenston, Templecombe BA8 0NBT: 01963 370752 W: glr-online.co.ukMAP REF: 12DP

The David HallThe David Hall, South Petherton’s popular performing arts centre, offers Folk, Roots, Acoustic, Blues, Jazz, Dance, Theatre, Film - and more!

Roundwell Street, South Petherton TA13 5AAT: 01460 240340 W: thedavidhall.org.ukMAP REF: 7CP

Great Bow WharfBeautiful award-winning historic building on the banks of the River Parrett, hosting regular events, art exhibitions and business support. Restaurant/tearoom.

Bow Street, Langport TA10 9PNT: 01458 254257 W: greatbow.org.ukMAP REF: 7D

Open: Every day from March 16th to 3rd November. 10am – 5pm (garden, shop and café only on Tuesdays).

Don’t forget you could combine your visit with Tintinhull Garden only 10 minutes from Montacute

Montacute, Somerset TA15 6XP

T: 01935 823289W: nationaltrust.org.uk/Wessex

Montacute House A glittering mansion set in beautiful formal gardens and parkland. Home to over 60 portraits from the National Portrait Gallery. Excellent shop and courtyard café. Available for weddings.

Montacute House

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RNAS Yeovilton, Ilchester BA22 8HTClose to junction of A303 and A37. 7m North of Yeovil

T: 01935 840565W: fleetairarm.com

Fleet Air Arm Museum

Open all year: from 10.00am. (Closed on Mon and Tue during winter and Dec 24, 25 & 26) Ample free parking.Admission: Adult £13.00, Child £9.00, Family (2 Adults + 2 Children) £38.00. Concessions £11.70

As much an attraction as it is a museum, the Fleet Air Arm Museum is where Museum meets theatre. You’ll ‘fl y’ by helicopter to the replica of the aircraft carrier HMS ARK ROYAL. You’ll experience the thrills and sounds of a working fl ight deck and even see a nuclear bomb! You can go on-board the fi rst British built Concorde and see the largest collection of Naval aircraft anywhere in Europe. Restaurant, Shop, Adventure playground. Excellent disabled facilities.

Fleet Air Arm M

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Attractions

Montacute TV Toy & Radio MuseumAmazing nostalgic fun recalling your favourite TV programmes. Full size Dr Who. Jack the Ripper autobiography discovery. Cafe, garden, shop.

1, South St, Montacute TA15 6XDT: 01935 823024 W: montacutemuseum.co.ukMAP REF: 8C

Jungle Jungle Indoor Adventure PlaygroundIndoor adventure play-ground for accompanied children aged up to eleven. Open daily from 9.30 to 5.30. Birthdays a speciality.

4 Artillery Road, Lufton Trading Estate, Yeovil BA22 8RPT: 01935 433833 W: junglejungle.co.ukMAP REF: 9C

Haynes International Motor MuseumSee over 400 fantastic cars, from supercars to classics displayed in stunning style. Café, play area, kids activities.

Sparkford, Nr Yeovil BA22 7LHT: 01963 440804 W: haynesmotormuseum.co.ukMAP REF: 10D

Ilminster Arts Centre at the Meeting HouseA vibrant art facility for the community and visitors to enjoy with exhibitions, concerts, workshops, events, café and craft shop.

East Street, Ilminster TA19 0ANT: 01460 54973 W: themeetinghouse.org.ukMAP REF: 6B

P

Glastonbury AbbeyThe resting place of Saxon kings and the legendary King Arthur. Living history guides March to September and summer café. Parkland. Dogs on leads welcome.

Abbey Gatehouse, Magdalen Street, Glastonbury BA6 9ELT: 01458 832267 W: glastonburyabbey.comMAP REF: 8G

Muchelney, Langport, Somerset TA10 0DQ

T: 01458 250664W: english-heritage.org.uk/muchelney

Muchelney Abbey

Opening times: See website for opening times & admission prices

Step back in time at this exquisite Benedictine Abbey, the second largest in Somerset. It was founded in the 8th century at the heart of the Somerset Levels. Explore the 16th century abbot’s house, its carved stone doorways, oak ceilings and superb fi replaces. See the delightful south cloister walk and take a leisurely stroll or picnic in the grounds. Interactive visual tour.

Muchelney Abbey

MAP REF

7D

Mill on the Brue Outdoor Activity CentreFamily run, open all year, all ages. Fantastic activities, delicious meals, residential/ day. Booking essential.

Trendle Farm, Bruton BA10 0BAT: 01749 812307 W: millonthebrue.co.ukMAP REF: 11FP

Open: Every day from 30th March to 31st October [except Mondays & Friday] 11am – 4.30pm last admission. [Castle interior 2pm on Sat] Open bank holiday Mondays.

New Road, Sherborne, Dorset DT9 5NR

T: 01935 812072W: sherbornecastle.com

Sherborne Castle – Come and explore the Digby stately home built by Sir Walter Raleigh in 1594. See magnifi cent staterooms, Raleigh’s kitchen and relics from the civil war in the castle’s cellars. Enjoy delightful walks through one of the fi nest ‘Capability’ Brown landscapes you will see surrounding the 50-acre lake. Children’s quiz and garden trail. Children Free.

Sherborne Castle, Lake, Gardens and Grounds

MAP REF

10C



20

Attractions



Open: Mon, Tue, Fri & Sat 10am-4pm At other times by appointment. Admission Free

41 The High Street, Wincanton BA9 9JU

T: 01963 824686W: discworldemporium.com

The rather famous Discworld Emporium & Ankh-Morpork Consulate If you are a fan of TERRY PRATCHETT’S DISCWORLD novels then visit the DISCWORLD EMPORIUM in WINCANTON. It’s the only place in any known universe where you can fi nd all the books together with Discworld jewellery, prints & gifts.

The rather famous

Discworld Em

porium &

Ankh-Morpork Consulate

MAP REF

11E

P

P

The Octagon Theatre South Somerset’s leading venue hosting a wide variety of performances from comedians to dance and everything in-between.

Hendford, Yeovil BA20 1UXT: 01935 422884 W: octagon-theatre.co.ukMAP REF: 9C

Sherborne Old Castle Fortress Palace of the medieval Bishops of Salisbury, later besieged by Cromwell.

Castleton, Sherborne, Dorset DT9 3SAT: 01935 812730 W: english-heritage.org.uk /sherborneMAP REF: 10C

P

Stembridge Tower MillThe last remaining thatched windmill in England. Phone for opening times. A National Trust property.

High Ham, TA10 9DJT: 01935 823289 W: nationaltrust.org.ukMAP REF: 7EP

Priest’s HouseThis medieval hall-house, built in 1308 for the parish priest has been little altered since the early 1600s. Please note the house is tenanted.

Muchelney, Langport TA10 0DQT: 01458 253771 W: nationaltrust.org.ukMAP REF: 7D

P

Stoke sub Hamdon PrioryFarm buildings of 1300s – 1400s, formerly a priests residence. Great Hall open every day March - October.

North Street, Stoke sub Hamdon TA14 6QPT: 01935 823289 W: nationaltrust.org.ukMAP REF: 8C

The Swan TheatreYeovil’s leading Amateur Dramatic Society presents high quality drama in one of the great little theatres of the South West.

138 Park Street, Yeovil BA20 1QTT: 01935 428646 W: swan-theatre.co.ukMAP REF: 9CP

Thorney Lakes and Caravan Park A mile from historic Muchelney. Level parking in cider orchard. Coarse fishing lakes. Modern toilet block, free hot showers. Walks around farm and lakes.

Muchelney, Langport TA10 0DWT: 01458 250811 W: thorneylakes.co.ukMAP REF: 7D

P

Open: Regular steam services between February 9th and November. Festive Fun on selected dates in December.

The Railway Station, Minehead TA24 5BG

T: 01643 704996W: west-somerset-railway.co.uk

West Somerset Railway The West Somerset Railway is Britain’s longest standard gauge railway at 20 miles in length. It runs from Bishops Lydeard (near Taunton), through the Quantock hills emerging at Watchet before running along the coast to the seaside town of Minehead. In all, it has ten stations each lovingly restored and maintained by the staff. Relive yesteryear by travelling behind steam locomotives enjoying the smells that only steam engines can bring. There is a large free car park at Bishops Lydeard.

West Som

erset Railway

MAP REF

1G

The Museum of SomersetExtraordinary galleries to explore and objects to discover, including the famous Frome Hoard, a must-see for all ages. Open 10am - 5pm Tuesdays to Saturdays, and Bank Holiday Mondays.

Taunton Castle, Castle Green Taunton TA1 4AAT: 01823 255088 W: somerset.gov.uk/ museumsMAP REF: 4D

P





21

Attractions

Open: All year, Mon – Sat 9.30am – 5pm.

PH Coate and Son Ltd, Meare Green Court, Stoke St Gregory, Taunton TA3 6HY

T: 01823 490249W: englishwillowbaskets.co.uk

Willows and Wetlands Visitor Centre Visit this family business with over 170 years experience of the Willows industry. Situated in the heart of the beautiful Somerset Levels, our 80 acres of willow provide the natural material for our craftsmen to weave a wide selection of baskets, furniture and garden items. Willow also available to buy. Guided tours weekday morning and afternoon. Free exhibition, video, museum, shop, walks, tearoom.

Willow

s and Wetlands

Visitor Centre

MAP REF

5D

Old Station Road, Yeovil, BA20 1NP

T: 01935 476697W: yeoleisurepark.co.uk

Yeo Leisure ParkYeo Leisure Park is home to a fantastic range of entertainment for the whole family with 400 free car parking spaces. Take your pick of restaurants including Pizza Hut and Frankie & Benny’s, catch the latest movies at Cineworld, or take one home from Blockbuster. Why not strike out at 1st Bowl or energise at Nuffi eld Health Club, you could even improve your driving skills at BSM

Yeo Leisure Park

MAP REF

9C

Yeovil Recreation CentreNine-hole pitch and putt golf. tennis courts, flagship play area, great fun for all the family. Gallery snack kiosk. Open daily April to October and other weekends (weather permitting)

Mudford Road, Yeovil BA21 4AWT: 01935 462616 W: southsomerset.gov.uk/yrcMAP REF: 9C

P

Treasurer’s HouseSmall early medieval house, with great hall completed in 1293. Phone for opening times.National Trust.

Martock TA12 6JLT: 01935 825015 W: nationaltrust.org.ukMAP REF: 7C

Yeovil Railway CentreRegular steam train days, special events and santa specials (see website). Also see main line steam using turntable.

Yeovil Junction Railway Station, Stoford, Yeovil BA22 9UUT: 01935 410420 W: yeovilrailway. freeservers.comMAP REF: 9CP

Town Tree Nature GardenA 1.5 mile walk around a unique 22-acre garden with ponds. We are dedicated to nature conservation, recycling and landscaped beauty. Open daily 10am-1.5 hrs before sunset.

Town Tree Lane, Martock, TA12 6APT: 01935 823203W: towntreenature garden.co.ukMAP REF: 7CP

Gartell Light Railway



22

Gardens



23

GardensDiscover our GardensCottage gardens, secret gardens, pleasure gardens and landscaped estates, the romantic appeal of English gardens is enduring.

South Somerset has a captivating collection of gardens including a fine group of National Trust properties. Barrington Court, Lytes Cary and Tintinhull have unique character, atmosphere and contrast. These gardens – two with fine houses also open to the public - are linked by a cycle route through beautiful countryside and only a short driving distance from each other.

South Somerset gardens host many events for plant lovers and for fun! East Lambrook Manor Gardens, created by the famous plantswoman Margery Fish, hosts the Hardy Plant Society Early Spring Fair in March. Forde Abbey has Sweet Pea Fortnight in July and Giant Games on the Lawn in August. There are delightful walks from the gardens into the surrounding country too. Many beautiful and interesting private gardens are open to the public as part of the National Garden Scheme, raising money for

charities. Ask in Tourist Information Centres for the NGS yellow booklet giving all the details of this popular scheme or look at ngs.org.uk And if you would like to take home something grown in Somerset, there are many garden centres, nurseries and market gardens, including regular exhibitors and award-winners at the Chelsea Flower Show.

Mortimer the Kelways cat “South Somerset - purrfect for peonies”

Lytes Cary Barrington

Somerset Gardens have their own leaflet – ask at the TICs for The Classic Gardens of Somerset



24

Gardens



Barrington CourtBeautiful estate and gardens for every season surrounding a magnifi cent 16th century manor house.

Barrington, Ilminster TA19 0NQ

T: 01460 241938W: nationaltrust.org.uk

Barrington Court

MAP REF

6C

Cothay Manor A magical, romantic garden surrounding a classic medieval manor, with different garden rooms, a bog garden, river walk and fi ne trees. A plantsman’s paradise.

Cothay Manor, Greenham, Wellington TA21 0JR

T: 01823 672283W: cothaymanor.co.uk

Cothay Manor

MAP REF

2C

Hestercombe Gardens – Georgian landscape garden, Victorian terrace, shrubbery and inter-nationally acclaimed Lutyens/Jekyll Edwardian gardens, acknowledged as the pinnacle of their partnership. Full lunch menu, all day cakes and snacks available.

Cheddon Fitzpaine, Taunton TA2 8LG

T: 01823 413923W: hestercombe.com

Hestercombe

Gardens

MAP REF

4E

Kilver Court Gardens – With stunning backdrop of a 19th Century viaduct the gardens are an ‘Oasis of tranquillity’. Features of the 3.5 acre gardens include; rockery, parterre, organic vegetable garden, herbaceous boarders and millpond. Visit the cafe for lunch and fi nish with a spot of shopping in the Designer Village.

Kilver Court, Shepton Mallet BA4 5NF

T: 01749 3404 10W: kilvercourt.com

Kilver Court Gardens

MAP REF

10G

East Lambrook Manor Gardens Gardening legend Margery Fish’s iconic cottage garden. Beautiful plantsman’s paradise full of snowdrops, hellebores and geraniums with an excellent specialist nursery.

East Lambrook, South Petherton TA13 5HH

T: 01460 240328W: eastlambrook.com

East Lambrook

Manor Gardens

MAP REF

7C

Forde Abbey & Gardens Spectacular gardens, magnifi cent 12th century house, tearoom, gift shop, pottery exhibition and plant centre. A wonderful day out. Free to under 15s.

Forde Abbey, Chard TA20 4LU

T: 01460 221290W: fordeabbey-gardens-dorset.co.uk

Forde Abbey & Gardens

MAP REF

6A





25

Gardens

The Bishop’s PalaceStunning medieval palace and gardens surrounded by a moat and fortifi ed walls. Located in the centre of Wells.

The Bishop’s Palace, Wells BA5 2PD

T: 01749 988111W: bishopspalace.org.uk

The Bishop’s PalaceMAP REF

9G

The Walled Gardens of Cannington & Tea Rooms – Beautiful gardens within the grounds of a medieval priory, with classic and contemporary features and a botanical glasshouse.

The Walled Gardens of Cannington, Church Street, Cannington TA5 2HA

T: 01278 655042W: canningtonwalledgardens.co.uk

The Walled Gardens of

Cannington & Tea Rooms

MAP REF

4F

Tintinhull GardenA series of gardens around a 17th century manor house, including glittering pools, colourful borders and a working kitchen garden. Available for weddings.

Farm Street, Tintinhull, Yeovil BA22 8PZ


Tintinhull Garden

MAP REF

8C

Lytes Cary Manor Medieval manor house surrounded by Arts and Crafts garden, borders planted with mixed shrubs, roses and perennials.

Lytes Cary, Kingsdon, Somerton TA11 7HU


Lytes Cary Manor

MAP REF

8D

Countryside



26

Food & Drink

The abundance of food from excellent local producers includes beef, lamb and water buffalo, smoked fish, free-range eggs and poultry, seasonal fruits and vegetables, artisan bread and ice-cream. You can buy food from farm shops and wayside stalls only a few minutes from the fields where it was grown. And there are locally- brewed beers and cider brandy too.

For people who are serious about eating out, there’s plenty of choice whether it’s posh or plain that you’re after - character-full pubs, busy bistros and classy restaurants. CAMRA’s Somerset Cider Pub of the Year is The Queen’s Arms at Corton Denham.

Stop off for coffee and cake or a cream tea. Café society is strong here. When the weather’s kind, enjoy a pavement table and watch the world go by. In the winter, cosy up by an open fire.

Nathaniel Nathaniel’s farming family have a herd of beautiful Guernsey cows and grow asparagus and vegetables, specialising in unusual and heritage varieties. They have a farm shop brimming with local produce including their own. Nathaniel says: “I love coming to the farm. There’s a lot of mud sometimes but I don’t mind that. I like collecting the eggs and helping get the cows in for milking - and I like beans if I’ve picked them myself!”

CedricsTake away our Taste of the West 2012 award-winning Somerset cider and apple cake, local produce, gifts & hampers. Call in or ring & reserve any day. Open for lunch Thursday – Sunday from 12.00pm. Friday & Saturday Evenings from 7.00pm.

The White Swan, Misterton TA18 8NRT: 01460 72592 W: cedricscakes.co.ukMAP REF: 7A

P

Bridge Farm CiderChampionship farmhouse cider, 5-year-old cider brandy and pear cider, apple and pear juice.

East Chinnock, Yeovil BA22 9EAT: 01935 862387 W: bridgefarmcider.co.ukMAP REF: 8BP

Living PrettyHome from home ambiance where you can relax in the surroundings of the shabby chic interiors. Try homemade seasonal dishes cooked on the Rayburn serving breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea.

The Old Bakery, High Street, Curry Rivel TA10 0EST: 01458 253357 W: livingpretty.co.ukMAP REF: 6D

P

Countryside



27

Food & Drink

Discover our Food & DrinkCheddar and cider are famous flavours throughout the world and there are many more tempting Somerset tastes to try.

Langport market

Montacute Country Tearooms Delightful tearooms in attractive conservatory & sheltered garden alongside TV, Toy & Radio Museum. Homemade cakes, famous cream teas, lunches.

1, South St, Montacute TA15 6XDT: 01935 823024 W: montacutemuseum.co.ukMAP REF: 8C

P



28

Food & Drink



Open: All year, daily 10am – 4pm, closed Sundays.

Bowdens Farm, Hambridge, Langport TA10 0BP

T: 01458 250 875W: smokedeel.co.uk

Brown & Forrest SmokeryRestaurant and shop in converted barns at Bowdens Farm with a stunning view of the Somerset Levels. The smokery produces all kinds of smoked fi sh, meat and cheese using

proper old fashioned wood fi red smokers. You can taste some samples or buy from the smokery shop which stocks the whole range of produce, including smoked salmon and eel, smoked chicken and ham as well as superb chutneys, jams and honey. The licensed restaurant serves delicious light lunches using food fresh out of the smokers, also morning coffee, teas and cakes. 2 miles south of Curry Rivel on the B3168, just before Hambridge, see the sign.

Brown & Forrest Sm

okery

MAP REF

6D

Shop open: All year. FREE entry. Weekdays 9am – 5.30pm.Saturdays 9.30am – 4.30pm, Sundays 10am – 1pm. Tearoom closed Sunday.

Cider Mills, Dowlish Wake, Ilminster TA19 0NY

T: 01460 55195W: perryscider.co.uk

Perry’s Cider Award winning cider mills and rural museum set in a picturesque Somerset village. All our ciders are pressed, fermented and bottled from Somerset cider apples at our family farm. Taste of the West Best Alcoholic Drink 2011 and past winners of the prestigious Royal Bath and West Supreme Champion Cider. Sample and buy ciders in our farm shop, which is well stocked with local produce. Relax in our tearoom which serves tea, coffee, cakes and light lunches.

Perry’s Cider

MAP REF

6B

Red Barn Farm ShopFantastic range of home-grown and local produce: raw Guernsey milk and cream, seasonal vegetables (asparagus in season), free-range eggs, fresh meat.

Hinton Farm, Hinton, Mudford, Yeovil BA22 8BAT: 01935 850994 W: redbarnfarmshop. moonfruit.co.ukMAP REF: 9C

P

ProvenderWestcountry deli and café selling local produce and serving delicious coffee, lunches and cakes in a 30 seat café

3 Market Square, South Petherton, TA13 5BTT: 01460 240681 W: provender.co.ukMAP REF: 7C

P

The Potting ShedA traditional tearoom with the emphasis on home cooking using the very best of local, free range and organic produce. Award winning scones and cakes. Excellent lunches.

Old Kelways, Somerton Road, Langport TA10 9SJT: 01458 252885 W: thepotting shedlangport.co.ukMAP REF: 7D

P

North Perrott Farm Shop and Garden CentreShop with café selling local produce, our own apples, pears and 20+ varieties of apple juice. Farm walks available.

North Perrott, Crewkerne TA18 7SST: 01460 77090 W: parrettbrand.co.ukMAP REF: 7B P

Rose and Crown Grade 2 listed village inn circa 1645. Family run for five generations. Real ales & ciders. Home cooked food. Good parking. Garden area.

Langport TA10 9QT T: 01458 250494MAP REF: 7D

P

The Masons ArmsPretty thatched village pub offering great meals, micro brewery on site, six luxury en-suite rooms and peaceful campsite.

41 Lower Odcombe BA22 8TXT: 01935 862591 W: masonsarmsodcombe.co.ukMAP REF: 8C

P

Look on page 12 for selection of Farmers & Produce Markets

p12

The Bakehouse Coffee Shop & Thai CuisineTraditional English menu with homebaked cakes and Thai cuisine. Wide range of teas and coffee. Old stone building with vine covered courtyard.

High Street, Castle Cary BA7 7AWT: 01963 350067 W: castlecarybakehouse.co.ukMAP REF: 10EP





29

Food & Drink

Trading Post Farm Shop and Café“Aladdin’s Cave” for food lovers supporting eighty local producers plus wine and cut flowers. Organic home grown vegetables and salads.

On old A303, Lopenhead South Petherton TA13 5JHT: 01460 241666MAP REF: 7C

Opening Times: Open all year, Monday – Saturday 9am – 5.30pm

Pass Vale Farm, Burrow Hill, Kingsbury Episcopi, Martock TA12 6BU

T: 01460 240782W: ciderbrandy.co.uk

Somerset Distillery & Burrow Hill Cider Traditional cider farm and distillery making vintage ciders and cider brandies. Sample and buy cider brandy, liqueurs, apple juice, draught and bottled cider in the cider house. Across the yard, visit our working distillery with two copper stills - Josephine and Fifi . 150 acres of orchards producing 40 varieties of cider apples are great for exploring. Suitable for group visits.

Somerset Distillery

& Burrow Hill Cider

MAP REF

7D

Queens Arms The Queen Arms, in Corton Denham is an 18th century country inn, nestled in the hills that form the Dorset Somerset border. Situated two miles from medieval Sherborne with its castles and Abbey, awarded AA Rosette, CAMRA Cider Pub of the Year and Best National Freehouse all in 2012, the Queen’s offers a chic rural getaway for those in search of something special.

Open: every day from 8am. Breakfast served 8-10am, lunch 12-3 and dinner 6-10pm dailyEight en-suite letting rooms

Main Street, Corton Denham, Somerset DT9 [email protected]

T: 01963 220317W: thequeensarms.com

The Queens Arms

MAP REF

10D

West Country Water BuffaloDelicious, tasty, tender meat from our own herd of water buffalo, available from our small shop on our family farm.

Lower Oakley Farm, Chilthorne Domer BA22 8RQT: 01935 840567 W: westcountry waterbuffalo.comMAP REF: 8C

The Prince of WalesA traditional pub with cask ales and scrummy food, open all day, every day. Breathtaking views, walks and woodland. Car parking.

Ham Hill, Stoke-sub-Hamdon, Yeovil TA14 6RWT: 01935 822848 W: princeofwales hamhill.co.ukMAP REF: 8C

P

Camel Cross, West Camel, Somerset BA22 7RA

T: 01935 851804W: waynesbarandbistro.co.uk

Wayne’s Bar & BistroWayne’s Bar & Bistro has a great continental feel and is easy to fi nd on the A303 at the turning for the Fleet Air Arm Museum. Our extensive menu has a mix of continental and traditional dishes. Whether it’s a hearty breakfast, a leisurely lunch or a romantic dinner, there is something for everyone; all freshly prepared and cooked with the fi nest ingredients. Hawk House is our 4 Star rated Guest Accommodation with 6 en-suite bedrooms. Take a 360˚ tour on our website. Opening times: Every day from 7am to 9.30pm

Wayne’s Bar & Bistro

MAP REF

9D



30 discoversouthsomerset.com


30

Accomm

odation



31

Accomm

odation

Discover our accommodation

Unwind in your very own self-catering cottage or chill out in a yurt or on a well-equipped campsite. South Somerset has a variety of top quality accommodation.

Many local accommodation businesses show their availability online and offer online booking.

Serviced and self-catering accommodation is shown on discoversouthsomerset.com and a printed list is available in Tourist Information Centres or by email or post. Our knowledgeable TIC assistants will be pleased to advise you about the best places to suit your requirements.

Choose the perfect place to stay. Indulge yourself in a luxurious hotel or a smart, townhouse B&B. Stay on a farm or at a friendly village inn.

When you book accommodation using our list, please tell the owner that this is how you found them. discoversouthsomerset.com

Call Yeovil Tourist Information Centre on 01935 462781 for an

accommodation list or go to:

Local accommodation providers are great ambassadors for South Somerset! As well as a warm welcome, you will find your hosts can give you reliable information about places to eat, enjoyable walks and interesting sights close to where you are staying. Many local accommodation businesses have been awarded 4 stars (on a scale of 1 to 5 stars) by the national Quality in Tourism scheme and some have received special Gold and Silver awards.



32

Events



33

EventsDiscover our Events Take your pick from an exciting calendar of entertainment and events from big-splash occasions to folksy village gatherings.

Naturally, there’s a passion here for open air activities with snowdrop and crocus weekends, plant fairs and apple days. There are Yesterday’s Farming events, festivals and open gardens in the towns and villages.

Relax on the lawns and lakesides of historic houses with performances of Shakespeare, jazz and classical music.

Enjoy raw energy at the Tour of Wessex Cycle Race, rough and tumble at The Lowland Games and glitz and glamour at spectacular autumn carnivals.

Discover the diversity of local artists during Somerset Art Weeks in September, learn willow-weaving from local crafts-people or see timber and tools to try and to buy at a woodworking show.

If your family’s taste is more techno, South Somerset can do that too with Robot Wars, Dalek Invasions and a Rare Breeds Car Show all on the programme for 2013.

Ilchester Charity Car Boot SaleBig car boot every Sunday from April to end September. Gates open 7.00am for sellers (7.30am) for buyer

Sports Field, The Mead Road Ilchester BA22 8NZT: 07967 280754 ( weekends only)MAP REF: 9DP

Luke Simon Founder of School in a Bag, an initiative run by the Piers Simon Appeal charity providing basic classroom kit for children all over the world, Luke hosts a yearly music festival on the family farm as one of the main fund-raising events: “I love the buzz of our three-day festival but afterwards there’s nothing better than an early morning walk with my dogs around the misty fields”

Somerset Steam Spectacular

RNAS Yeovilton International Air DayMilitary airshow featuring fast jets, warbirds, aerobatic teams from UK and abroad. Plenty of ground attractions for all the family!

Saturday 13th JulyRNAS Yeovilton Ilchester, Yeovil BA22 8HTT: 08445 780780W: royalnavy.mod.uk/ yeovilton-airdayMAP REF: 9DP

And as the year winds down, look forward to punkie night, fireworks, Christmas

lights and winter horse-racing…



34

Events 2013

Events 2013Pirate Half Term at Fleet Air Arm Museum

11 – 15 Feb

Gilcombe Autojumble at Haynes Motor Museum

2 Mar

Hardy Plant Society Fair at East Lambrook Manor gardens

30 Mar

Easter Egg Hunt at Forde Abbey 31 Mar – 1 April

Yandles Woodworking Show 5 – 6 April

Robot Wars at Fleet Air Arm Museum

10 – 12 April

Yeovil Town Criers Competition 27 April

Abbey Hill Steam Rally at Yeovil Showground

3 – 6 May

Kingsbury May Festival at Kingsbury Episcopi

6 May

Swedish Car Day at Haynes Motor Museum

12 May

Royal Bath & West Show at Bath & West Showground

29 May – 1 June

Tour of Wessex through South Somerset

25 – 27 May

International Radio Controlled Air Day at Fleet Air Arm Museum

26 – 27 May

Yeovil Country Park Fayre 27 May

Ilminster Midsummer Experience Festival

6 – 9 June

Home Farm Festival in Chilthorne Domer

7 – 9 June

Langport Annual Walking Festival 8 – 9 June

Green Scythe Fair at Thorney Lakes

9 June

Jazz on the Lawn at Barrington Court

16 June

Sherlock Holmes Open Air Theatre at Montacute House

21 June

Petherton Folk Fest 29 June

Yeovilton Airday 13 July

Tintinhull Open Gardens 13 – 14 July

Somerton Summer Arts Festival 12 – 20 July

Somerset Steam Spectacular at Low Ham

20 – 21 July

Annual Charity Summer Fair at Forde Abbey

25 July

Farmfestival at Gilcombe Farm 26 – 27 July

Chard Countryside Day 27 July

Somerton Horse Show 27 July

The Lowland Games at Thorney Lakes

28 July

Music by the Lakes at Thorney Lakes

10 Aug

Dalek Invasion at Fleet Air Arm Museum

10 – 11 Aug

Gilcombe Festival of Transport at Haynes Motor Museum

10 – 11 Aug

Yesterday’s Farming Show at Leaze Farm, Haselbury Plucknett

17 – 18 Aug

Giant Games on the Lawn at Forde Abbey

25 – 26 Aug

Drayton Street Fair 31 Aug

Drayfest 3 Music Festival 31 Aug

Dillington House Open Day 1 Sept

Rare Breeds Car Show at Haynes Motor Museum

1 Sept

Ham Hill Fayre 7 Sept

Somerset Art Weeks 2013 21 Sep – 6 Oct

Yeovil Flower & Gardeners’ Market 28 Sept

Halloween Spooktacular at Montacute Museum

26 Oct – 3 Nov

Castle Cary Children’s Carnival 5 Oct

Chard Children’s Carnival 5 Oct

Ilminster Illuminated Carnival 5 Oct

Chard Illuminated Carnival 12 Oct

Castle Cary Illuminated Carnival 12 Oct

North Perrott Apple Day and Art & Crafts fair

12-13 Oct

Spies and Secret Operations at Fleet Air Arm Museum

28 Oct – 1 Nov

Christmas Concert under Concorde at Fleet Air Arm Museum

5 Dec

Boxing Day Race at Wincanton Racecourse

26 Dec



35

Getting around

Heart of WessexCalling at Castle Cary, Bruton and Yeovil, the famously scenic Heart of Wessex Line runs from Bristol to Weymouth. Connections can be made from other lines at Bristol, Bath and Westbury, and Castle Cary is also on the direct mainline route from London to the west.

www.firstgreatwestern.co.ukwww.heartofwessex.org.uk Plan your journey on www.nationalrail.co.uk 08457 48 49 50

T: national rail enquires 08457 48 49 50W: firstgreatwestern.co.uk

Heart of Wessex

With a carSouth Somerset is easy to reach from London and the east using the M25, M3 and the famous Highway to the Sun - the A303. Travel from the north using the M5 junctions 24 (Bridgwater) and 25 (Taunton) and from the south via the A35 and A37. From the west, use the A30 and A303.

Details of local car hire and taxi services are available from the Tourist Information Centres (TICs) on 01935 462781.

South Somerset easy to get here – easy to get around

Without a car Berry’s Coaches run a daily service between London and South Somerset while National Express links Yeovil with many other towns and cities. Yeovil TIC is an agent for both companies and the staff will be pleased to advise you about your journey.

The area is well served by trains. The London Paddington to Plymouth railway line stops at Castle Cary and Taunton. The London Waterloo to Exeter line stops at Templecombe, Yeovil Junction and Crewkerne. The Bristol to Weymouth Heart of Wessex line stops at Bruton, Castle Cary and Yeovil Pen Mill. For more information visit nationalrail.co.uk or call 08457 484950.

A series of car-free days out discovering more of Somerset can be downloaded from discoversouthsomerset.com or picked up at TICs.

Yeovil TIC has details of local bus services or contact Traveline at traveline.org.uk or 0871 200 22 33 for more information.

South Somerset is wonderful walking and cycling country. TIC staff will help you with ideas for making the most of the countryside and Cartgate TIC stocks the local Explorer Maps.

discoversouthsomerset.comVisit us at

A quick guide to Ham Hill

Chard Reservoir

Classic Gardens of Somerset

Heart of Wessex Rail Line Guide

Market Towns in South Somerset

Octagon Theatre Programme

Pedalling the Scenic Route

South Somerset accommodation list

Two Short Walks from Langport

Yeovil Country Park

Walking the Hills and Vales around Yeovil

Brochure Requests

Choose from a great range of literature for walks, cycling and more. Call or email for your FREE guides:



36

Tourist Information

Somewhere to stay We have a selection of UK holiday brochures and can book accommodation for you locally and nationwide

Exploring the area We have guides, maps and bus & train timetables to help you explore the area. We are agents for several coach companies and will be pleased to advise you about your journeys getting to and from South Somerset and in and around the area

Buying something to take home?Cartgate TIC & Gift Shop offers good quality gifts from Somerset and reasonably priced items for children

Accommodation advice From easy access accommodation to dog-friendly places, our friendly staff will be happy to advise you

Places to go and things to doWe use the latest information and offers to help you plan the perfect day out. We sell tickets for local events and have discount vouchers for many attractions

Our Tourist Information Centres can help you with...

discoversouthsomerset.comor email us at

Visit us at: Yeovil Tourist Information CentrePetters House, Petters Way, Yeovil, Somerset BA20 1SHT: 01935 [email protected]

Tourist Information Centre staff

Our Tourist Information Centres can help you with...

Tourist Information

discoversouthsomerset.comFor 24 hour information visit our website:

A303 Cartgate Tourist Information & Gift Shop Cartgate picnic site, A303/A3088, Stoke sub Hamdon TA14 6RA

T: 01935 829333 E: [email protected]

Yeovil Tourist Information CentrePetters House, Petters Way, Yeovil, Somerset BA20 1SH


Chard Tourist Information Centre The Guildhall, Fore Street, Chard, Somerset TA20 1PP


Local Information Centres (LICs) are staffed mainly by volunteers who are very knowledgeable about the local area. Some LICs have limited hours. We recommend you ring before visiting.

Somerton Market Cross Antiques, West Street, Somerton TA11 7PST: 01935 462462 E: [email protected]

Wincanton Town Hall, Market Place, Wincanton BA9 9LDT: 01963 31693 E: [email protected]

BrutonThe Dovecote Building, 26 High Street, Bruton BA10 0AA T: 01935 462462

Castle Cary The Market House, Castle Cary BA7 7AHT: 01963 359631 E: [email protected]

Crewkerne Town Hall, Market Square, Crewkerne TA18 7LN T: 01460 75928 E: [email protected]

Ilminster The Meeting House,East Street, Ilminster TA19 0ANT: 01460 57294

Langport Bow Street, Langport TA10 9PRT: 01458 253527 E: [email protected]

Published by: Tourism Team, South Somerset District Council, Brympton Way, Yeovil, Somerset.Telephone: 01935 462462 Email: [email protected]

Just ask in the Tourist Information Centres

South Somerset – Local Information Centres


Front cover: North Cadbury

Photo credits: Media Library SSDC, Ed Gorochowski, Deborah Johnson, Cliff Towler, Dave Simcox (butterfly), Bladon House and South Somerset District Council. Designed by: Bean-creative.co.uk 2012 Print: Latcham Direct Ltd

April – end October: Every day 10am – 5pm November – April: Monday & Friday 10am – 3pm

8CMAP REF:

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6BMAP REF:

All year: Monday – Friday 9am – 4pm

All year: Monday - Friday 10am - 4pm Saturday 10am - 1pm

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Chillington

NorthPetherton

CheddonFitzpaine

Stoke St. Gregory

BurrowbridgeOthery

Curry Rivel

SwellFivehead

Isle BrewersCurry Mallet

Beercrocombe IsleAbbotts

Westport

Barrington

Bishopswood

Horton

Donyatt

CombeSt. Nicholas

Whitestaunton

Ashill

Chardstock

FortonCHARD

High Ham

Aller Low HamPitney

Huish Episcopi

Long SuttonMuchelney

Muchelney Ham

Thorney Long Load

HambridgeKingsbury Episcopi

CricketMalherbie

DowlishWake

Cricket St. Thomas

Winsham

Dinnington

Hinton St. George

Hewish

Wayford

Beaminster

South Perrott

Chedington

Halstock

North Perrott

Evershot

SuttonBinghamHaselbury

Plucknett

Lopen

Merriott East Chinnock

West Chinnock

Pendomer

Hardington Mandeville

West Coker

East Coker

Chiselborough

OdcombeNorton-sub-Hamdon

Stoke-sub-Hamdon

Bower Hinton

South PethertonShepton

Beauchamp

Barwick

Tintinhull

Chilthorne Domer

Montacute

East Lambrook

Kingsdon

CharltonMackrell

Kingweston

Compton DundonBarton

St. DavidLydford-on-Fosse

CharltonAdam

Babcary

Cary Fitpaine

KeintonMandeville

Podimore WestCamel

SouthBarrow

North Barrow

Queen Camel

South CadburySutton Montis

Marston Magna

Bridgehampton

Yeovilton CortonDenham

North Cadbury

Sparkford

Lovington

Blackford

South CheritonCharltonHorethorne

StowellChilton Cantelo

Holton

Oborne

Mudford Poyntington

Milborne Port

StofordThornford

Bradford Abbas

Henstridge

YenstonTemplecombe

Abbas Combe

Horsington

Stoke Trister

Cucklington

Bayford

Holbrook

Charlton Musgrove

Pen Selwood ZealsSheptonMontague

StourheadHardwayRedlynch

South Brewham

Ansford

WykeChampflower

Alhampton

DitcheatWraxall

Lamyatt

BatcombeNorth Brewham

Pilton

Seavington St. Mary

Dowlish Ford

Buckland St. Mary

Marsh

Mosterton

Misterton

Broadway

Ilton

Drayton

Woolminstone

Coat Ash

Northover

ILMINSTER

CREWKERNE

MARTOCK

MINEHEAD

HONITON

LANGPORT

SOMERTON

ILCHESTER

SHERBORNE

CASTLE CARY

STREET

BRIDGWATER

SHEPTON MALLET

GLASTONBURY

WELLS

WINCANTON

BRUTON

YEOVIL

TAUNTONSOMERSET

DEVON

DORSET

WILTSHIRE

A30

A30

A30

M5

A30

A37

A37

A39

A361

A357

A37

A303

A303

A356

A359

A359

A303

A372

A372

Junction 24

Junction 23

Junction 25

A358

A35

8

A358

A303

WELLINGTON

A39

A38

Greenham

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

Find out more …… about places to visit and where to stay by looking on our website

or calling in at Tourist Information Centres

Miles Kms Drive time

Bath 40 64 1 hour 15 mins

Birmingham 150 240 2 hours 50 mins

Bristol 42 67 1 hour 10 mins

Cardiff 100 162 2 hours

Cheddar 35 56 1 hour

Dunster 50 80 1 hour 25 mins

Exeter 50 80 1 hour 10 mins

Glastonbury 19 31 40 mins

Longleat House 43 69 1 hour

London 135 217 3 hours

Lyme Regis 33 54 1 hour

Stonehenge 49 78 1 hour

Street 17 28 35 mins

Weymouth 29 47 45 mins

Wookey Hole 29 46 50 mins

Further afield

Estimated distances & driving times from the centre of Yeovil

Airport & Ferry distances

Bristol International Airport 49m / 79 km

Bournemouth Airport 58m / 93km

Cardiff Airport 95m / 153km

Exeter Airport 44m / 71 km

Poole Ferry Terminal 43m / 69km

Portsmouth Ferry Terminal 92m / 148km

Southampton Ferry Port 73m / 117km

Weymouth Harbour 29m / 47km

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F

E

D

C

B

A

Chillington

NorthPetherton

CheddonFitzpaine

Stoke St. Gregory

BurrowbridgeOthery

Curry Rivel

SwellFivehead

Isle BrewersCurry Mallet

Beercrocombe IsleAbbotts

Westport

Barrington

Bishopswood

Horton

Donyatt

CombeSt. Nicholas

Whitestaunton

Ashill

Chardstock

FortonCHARD

High Ham

Aller Low HamPitney

Huish Episcopi

Long SuttonMuchelney

Muchelney Ham

Thorney Long Load

HambridgeKingsbury Episcopi

CricketMalherbie

DowlishWake

Cricket St. Thomas

Winsham

Dinnington

Hinton St. George

Hewish

Wayford

Beaminster

South Perrott

Chedington

Halstock

North Perrott

Evershot

SuttonBinghamHaselbury

Plucknett

Lopen

Merriott East Chinnock

West Chinnock

Pendomer

Hardington Mandeville

West Coker

East Coker

Chiselborough

OdcombeNorton-sub-Hamdon

Stoke-sub-Hamdon

Bower Hinton

South PethertonShepton

Beauchamp

Barwick

Tintinhull

Chilthorne Domer

Montacute

East Lambrook

Kingsdon

CharltonMackrell

Kingweston

Compton DundonBarton

St. DavidLydford-on-Fosse

CharltonAdam

Babcary

Cary Fitpaine

KeintonMandeville

Podimore WestCamel

SouthBarrow

North Barrow

Queen Camel

South CadburySutton Montis

Marston Magna

Bridgehampton

Yeovilton CortonDenham

North Cadbury

Sparkford

Lovington

Blackford

South CheritonCharltonHorethorne

StowellChilton Cantelo

Holton

Oborne

Mudford Poyntington

Milborne Port

StofordThornford

Bradford Abbas

Henstridge

YenstonTemplecombe

Abbas Combe

Horsington

Stoke Trister

Cucklington

Bayford

Holbrook

Charlton Musgrove

Pen Selwood ZealsSheptonMontague

StourheadHardwayRedlynch

South Brewham

Ansford

WykeChampflower

Alhampton

DitcheatWraxall

Lamyatt

BatcombeNorth Brewham

Pilton

Seavington St. Mary

Dowlish Ford

Buckland St. Mary

Marsh

Mosterton

Misterton

Broadway

Ilton

Drayton

Woolminstone

Coat Ash

Northover

ILMINSTER

CREWKERNE

MARTOCK

MINEHEAD

HONITON

LANGPORT

SOMERTON

ILCHESTER

SHERBORNE

CASTLE CARY

STREET

BRIDGWATER

SHEPTON MALLET

GLASTONBURY

WELLS

WINCANTON

BRUTON

YEOVIL

TAUNTONSOMERSET

DEVON

DORSET

WILTSHIRE

A30

A30

A30

M5

A30A

37

A37

A39

A361

A357

A37

A303

A303

A356

A359

A359

A303

A372

A372

Junction 24

Junction 23

Junction 25

A358

A35

8

A358

A303

WELLINGTON

A39

A38

Greenham

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

discoversouthsomerset.comFor 24 hour information visit our website:Find out more …

… about places to visit and where to stay by looking on our website or calling in at Tourist Information Centres

Tourist Information Centre

Local Information Centre

approx.

SCALE

5 miles (8km)0

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Sparkford, Yeovil, Somerset BA22 7LH

01963 440804 haynesmotormuseum.co.uk

Bringing motoring to life…

GREAT VALUE Family Tickets

All weather family fun

Documents

South E Countryside Somerset 3discoversouthsomerset.com/media/101687/discover2013_web.pdfThe living heart of Somerset with exclusive dress shops and galleries showing local artists