Somerset is a large county with a stunning coastline and many seaside resorts including Weston-Super-Mare (one of the highest tidal ranges in the world, but be careful due to sinking mud). Be careful when walking as due to be an old military testing site, unexploded bombs are often found here.
HM Coastguard advice: Never cross estuaries or walk through mud where there are hidden channels of fast-flowing water. Never take you (nor dogs) near anywhere with sinking mud warnings. If you do get trapped, sit back to spread your weight evenly across the surface, and you (or someone else) call 999 immediately and ask for the coastguard.
Tucked away in the heart of the West Country, Somerset is a county that dazzles with its varied landscapes and rich heritage. Experience the changing beauty of this region as each season brings new joys to behold. From spring blooms to winter wonderlands, Somerset is a gem waiting to be explored throughout the year.
Spring Awakening in Somerset
As winter’s grasp loosens, Somerset bursts into life. Spring transforms it into a vibrant tapestry of colours and sounds. The air fills with the sweet scent of blossoming flowers, and wildlife returns to its familiar haunts, making spring an ideal time to explore the county.
One of the jewels of Somerset’s spring is its wildflower meadows. The Quantock Hills become a canvas painted with bright hues, offering a delightful escape for nature lovers. The area is renowned for its abundance of wildflowers, from cheerful primroses to vibrant bluebells. Strolling through these meadows feels like walking on a natural carpet, and it’s a sight that never fails to amaze.
Spring also marks the return of migratory birds to Somerset, making it a prime destination for birdwatchers. The Somerset Levels, an expanse of wetlands, becomes home to species such as the lapwing and curlew. It’s a birdwatcher’s paradise, where you can spend hours observing these avian wonders in their natural habitat. Bring a pair of binoculars, and you’ll be in awe of the birdlife here.
Summer Adventures in Somerset
With the sun high in the sky, summer in Somerset is time for fun and adventure. Whether you’re a beach enthusiast or prefer cultural events, there’s something for everyone.
Nothing beats a day at the seaside, and Weston-super-Mare offers the quintessential British beach experience. The sandy shores invite you to relax, build sandcastles, or take a dip in the refreshing sea. Local attractions such as the Grand Pier provide entertainment for the whole family with rides and funfair games. It’s the perfect spot to soak up the summer sun.
Autumn’s Golden Hues
As the leaves change colour and the air turns crisp, autumn brings a serene beauty to Somerset. It’s a season for appreciating the quieter, but equally stunning, side of this county.
For those who love a good walk, the Mendip Hills provide trails that showcase the best of autumn’s golden hues. The crunch of leaves underfoot and the spectacular views are a feast for the senses. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or someone who enjoys a leisurely stroll, these trails offer a wonderful way to connect with nature and enjoy the season’s offerings.
Autumn is synonymous with harvest time, and Somerset’s agricultural heart beats strongly this season. Local produce is at its finest, with apples and cider stealing the limelight. Harvest festivals celebrate the region’s farming traditions, offering a taste of Somerset’s bounty. It’s the perfect time to sample local treats and learn about the importance of agriculture to the county’s way of life.
Winter Wonderland in Somerset
Winter in Somerset reveals a tranquil charm, as the landscapes become a blanket of snow and the festivities take centre stage.
Winter transforms parts of Somerset into a breathtaking winter wonderland. The rolling hills and picturesque villages dusted with snow offer perfect spots for keen photographers. Places like Cheddar Gorge look especially magical, providing unique scenes to capture and cherish.
The festive spirit is alive and well in Somerset, with Christmas markets and seasonal events creating a warm atmosphere. The Bath Christmas Market is a particular highlight, with stalls offering handcrafted gifts, mulled wine, and delicious treats. It’s a time when communities come together, creating an inviting setting to enjoy with family and friends.
One of England’s Largest Wetland Reserves
Avalan Marshes are one of our largest wetland reserves (to help protect endangered water voles, which also buffer homes and businesses from rising sea levels, due to climate change. Cheddar Gorge is one of England’s natural wonders, formed by floods during the Ice Age, and home to around 100 endangered cave-dwelling lesser Horseshoe Bats.
Home to England’s Smallest City
Wells is England’s smallest city (if you discount London’s financial district). Named after three wells from ancient times, it’s home to a Gothic cathedral with unique ‘scissor arches’, the second oldest clock in England, and one of only four chained libraries in the country. Next door is Vicars’ Close (the only medieval street left which today still has 27 homes, along with a chapel and library, nearby to the thriving town market.
The private Wells Cathedral School is just one of 5 nationwide dedicated to teaching music. One local resident was Harry Patch who until his death was the oldest man in Europe (age 111) and the 3rd oldest man in the world. Although Wells Cathedral rang its bells 111 times for his funeral, no gun salutes were allowed at the wishes of his family, as he was a pacifist.
Home to the Oldest-Ever Human Skeleton
There is where ‘Cheddar Man’ (the oldest-ever human skeleton from 10,000 years ago) was found. Interestingly, he was found to have dark skin and blue eyes, proving that racists have no idea what they were talking about!
Two other local boys with blue eyes (this time with blonde hair) from the local village of Cheddar were Matt & Luke Goss (from popular 90s pop band Bros).
