Information about Somerset

Somerset is a beautiful maritime county in the South-west of England. The county town of Somerset is a Taunton. Somerset borders quite a few counties with Bristol and Gloustershire to the north, Wiltshire to the East, Dorset to the South-east and Devon to the South-west. It is partly bounded to the north and west by the coast of the Bristol Channel and the estuary of the River Severn.

Somerset is a rural county of rolling hills such as the Mendip Hills, Quantock Hills and Exmoor National Park, and large flat expanses of land including the Somerset Levels. There is evidence of human occupation from Neolithic times, and subsequent settlement in the Roman and Saxon periods. Later, the county played a significant part in the consolidation of power and rise of King Alfred the Great, the English Civil War and the Monmouth Rebellion.

Agriculture is a major business in the county. Farming of sheep and cattle, including for wool and the county's famous cheeses, are traditional and contemporary, as is the more unusual cultivation of willow for basketry. Apple orchards were once plentiful, and to this day Somerset is known for the production of strong cider.

Somerset comprises of many long winding beaches and popular coastal resorts along with beautiful wild countryside. Many towns and villages in Somerset are full of history and heritage dating back centuries. The county has a large number of fascinating attractions such as Wells Cathedral, Glastonbury Abbey and the mystical Glastonbury Tor.

There are many different ways to enjoy and take in the spectacular scenery of Somersets flaura and fauna. There are several long or short walks to take part in, and if you don't fancy it by foot you could attempt one of hundreds of the county's cycling routes available, especially on the Quintock hills which offer tranquil and scenic views. Horse riding is one of the most popular pastimes of the region, why not try tackling some of the most challenging terrains available or take a unwinding ride along one of the many sandy beaches.

Photographs of Somerset