Somerset
Attractions
Ideally situated for outdoor enthusiasts, Cannington House is just a short drive from some of the UK’s most breathtaking landscapes. Whether it’s exploring the ancient trails of the Quantock Hills, spotting wildlife in Exmoor National Park, or taking in the dramatic coastal views along the South West Coast Path, nature lovers will be spoilt for choice. The Mendip Hills and Cheddar Gorge offer striking limestone cliffs and caves to explore, while the mystical Glastonbury Tor and the peaceful Somerset Levels provide rich history and stunning scenery. Here's some more information of what you can explore on your visit to Somerset.
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For those seeking culture and local events, the nearby town of Bridgwater hosts the world-famous Bridgwater Carnival, Europe’s largest illuminated procession, a dazzling celebration of light, music, and community. The area is also home to historic market towns, charming villages, and traditional pubs serving the finest local produce.
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Whether you’re planning an adventure-filled getaway, a relaxing countryside escape, or a vibrant cultural experience, Cannington House provides the perfect base to explore the very best of Somerset.
Exploring the Ancient Trails of the Quantock Hills
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The Quantock Hills, England’s first designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), offer a diverse landscape of woodland, heathland, and ancient combes. The hills are crisscrossed with centuries-old trails, once walked by Neolithic settlers, Iron Age tribes, and even Romantic poets such as Samuel Taylor Coleridge, who found inspiration for his works here. Whether you're hiking to Wills Neck, the highest point in the Quantocks, or wandering through the magical Great Wood, the area offers breathtaking views, hidden waterfalls, and an incredible sense of history.
Spotting Wildlife, Hiking, or Stargazing at Exmoor National Park
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Exmoor National Park is a wild and rugged paradise, home to dramatic moorland, deep river valleys, and windswept coastal cliffs. It’s one of the best places in the UK for wildlife spotting, with free-roaming Exmoor ponies, red deer, otters, and rare bird species calling this landscape home. Adventurers can take on some of Exmoor’s best hikes, such as the challenging Dunkery Beacon—the highest point in Somerset—or explore the picturesque valley of Watersmeet, where two rivers carve through ancient woodlands. By night, Exmoor transforms into a stargazer’s dream, being an official International Dark Sky Reserve with minimal light pollution, offering some of the clearest night skies in the country.
Taking in the Dramatic Coastal Views Along the South West Coast Path
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For those who love breathtaking seascapes, the South West Coast Path offers some of the most spectacular coastal walks in England. Stretching over 630 miles, the trail passes through steep cliffs, secluded coves, and endless ocean horizons. Along the Somerset stretch, walkers can marvel at the towering cliffs of Kilve, explore the fossil-rich beaches near Blue Anchor, or enjoy the picturesque harbor town of Porlock Weir. Whether it's a gentle coastal stroll or a challenging clifftop hike, this stretch of coastline is a haven for nature lovers and photographers alike.
The Mendip Hills and Cheddar Gorge – Striking Limestone Cliffs and Caves
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The Mendip Hills AONB is a geological wonder, offering dramatic limestone landscapes, hidden caves, and rich underground history. At its heart lies Cheddar Gorge, England’s largest gorge, featuring towering 450-foot cliffs and the famous Cheddar Caves, where Britain’s oldest complete skeleton, Cheddar Man (circa 10,000 years old), was discovered. The Gough’s and Cox’s caves provide a fascinating underground adventure, complete with stalactites, rock formations, and a rich archaeological past. Above ground, the clifftop walk offers unparalleled panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
The Mystical Glastonbury Tor
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Few places in England are as steeped in legend and spirituality as Glastonbury Tor. Rising 518 feet above the Somerset Levels, this iconic hill is crowned by the ruins of St. Michael’s Tower and is associated with both Arthurian legend and ancient pagan traditions. Some believe it to be the mythical Isle of Avalon, the resting place of King Arthur, while others see it as a powerful spiritual vortex. The climb to the summit rewards visitors with 360-degree views of Somerset, offering a truly mystical and awe-inspiring experience.
The Peaceful Somerset Levels – Rich History and Hypnotic Starling Murmurations
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The Somerset Levels are an ancient wetland landscape, known for their tranquil beauty and deep historical roots. Dating back to Neolithic times, this low-lying region is home to the Sweet Track, one of the oldest known wooden pathways in the world, built around 3,800 BC. The peat bogs of the Levels have preserved incredible archaeological finds, including prehistoric footprints and ancient settlements. Today, the Levels are a sanctuary for birdwatchers, especially in winter when thousands of starlings perform their breathtaking murmurations, creating mesmerising, swirling patterns in the sky.
Bridgwater Carnival – Europe’s Largest Illuminated Procession
Every November, the town of Bridgwater comes alive with the spectacular Bridgwater Carnival, the largest illuminated procession in Europe. Dating back over 400 years, this annual event features stunning, towering floats, each adorned with thousands of lights, intricate costumes, and themed performances. The carnival is a true feast for the senses, with music, dancing, and a vibrant atmosphere that attracts visitors from across the country. The festivities conclude with the famous Squibbing display, where huge hand-held fireworks light up the night sky, providing a thrilling end to this unmissable celebration of light, music, and community.
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Historic Market Towns, Charming Villages, and Traditional Pubs
Beyond its landscapes and events, Somerset is dotted with picturesque villages and historic market towns, each offering a unique taste of local culture. Places like Dunster, with its medieval castle and cobbled streets, or Watchet, a charming harbour town with maritime history, are perfect for a leisurely visit. Traditional country pubs and farm-to-table restaurants serve the finest local cheeses, ciders, and farm-fresh produce, making Somerset not just a place to explore—but a place to truly savour.
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Craving More Information?
Get in touch to book your stay and ask us for more things to do. There's a lot more!
