Trains to Somerset

As the home of Glastonbury Festival, Somerset is known around the world for being a place with a thriving cultural scene. Apart from the world’s biggest music festival, there’s the fantastic Bridgwater Carnival and, of course, historic towns and cities like Bath. Visit the stunning medieval Bishop’s Palace, or take a stroll in the beautiful grounds at Hestercombe Gardens. There’s also stunning National Trust properties that you won’t want to miss such as Montacute House and Barrington Court.

See Europe’s largest naval aviation collection at the Fleet Air Arm Museum, or head to Wookey Hole Caves to explore. For the thrill seekers, try some rides at the hugely popular Grand Pier in Weston-super-Mare, with a 300-metre indoor go-kart track, dodgems and robo-coaster. Interested in cars? Haynes International Motor Museum has some of the greatest cars in history – all under one roof. For a magical day out with the family take a step back in time on the West Somerset Railway. Hop on and off at beautiful villages of Bishops Lydeard and Dunster, embark on a walk of the Quantock Hills or enjoy the seaside town of Minehead. The 28 bus is just a short journey from Taunton station to the West Somerset Railway at Bishops Lydeard. For something truly unique, visit The Newt, a short journey from Castle Cary Station, offering luxury accommodation, spa facilities and the exquisite tranquil gardens.

Somerset has always been famous for apples, ciders and cheddar cheese. These are well worth a try, but you’ll also find a wide range of great food – and quite often tasty local produce – at pubs, cafés and restaurants across the region. Make sure you visit the local farmers' markets too.

As rugby fans will know, Somerset is home to Bath Rugby Club, while the region’s cricket team calls the County Ground in Taunton home. You can also enjoy a number of other fun sporting days out in Somerset, like watching horse racing at Bath Racecourse or some motorsport action at Castle Combe Circuit. If walking and beautiful scenery is your thing then head to Minehead where you can join the 630 miles of the superb coastline on the South West Coast Path.

For a big night out Bath is your best bet, but you’ll find plenty of good pubs in towns and villages across the region. And when it comes to live music, you’re truly spoilt for choice – particularly if you’re lucky enough to get a ticket for Glastonbury Festival.

Love a bargain? A trip to Clarks Village at Street is a must. For boutique shopping try Shepton Mallet’s Kilver Court, or simply browse the dozens of independent stores that can be found in the region’s towns and villages. You'll find markets selling local food and drink too.