Location: Taunton
Top Things to do in Taunton
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Top 10 Free Things to do in Taunton, England
Taunton /ˈtɔːntən/ is a large regional town in Somerset, England. The town currently peaks at a population of 69,570 as of 2018. The town itself has over 1,000 years of religious and military history, including a monastery dating back to the 10th century and Taunton Castle, which has origins in the Anglo Saxon period and was later the site of a priory. The Normans then built a stone structured castle, which belonged to the Bishops of Winchester. The current heavily reconstructed buildings are the inner ward, which now houses the Museum of Somerset and the Somerset Military Museum.
Restaurants in Taunton
1. Vintage Picker
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 13 reviews
Vintage Picker has a yard selling all things vintage, rustic, salvage, antique and interesting in Taunton. The shop is open every Sunday 12 to 3pm.
2. Rocket and Bird
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 13 reviews
A unique gift shop offering a selection of original, high quality products created by Somerset Makers and Artists. With the work of 20+ Somerset based Makers under one roof...in Rocket and Bird you will find a large choice of unique gifts and items including handmade chocolate, handbags, homewares, original art, candles, ceramics, greetings cards, prints, jewellery and so much more!
Reviewed By Janey325streatham
Lovely bright little shop full of individually made pieces, all locally made. Great for gift shopping. I got 5 beautiful cards for the price of 4!
3. Somerset Towpath
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 60 reviews
Reviewed By stevepN8051KS - Launceston, United Kingdom
Walked from Bridgewater out to the boat and anchor pub which was just short of two miles. It's a lovely peaceful walk with good terrain. Not busy at all, canal looks a bit neglected in parts but still beautiful for the most part.
4. Coates English Willow Visitor Centre
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 278 reviews
Reviewed By Cool_Hand_123 - London, United Kingdom
A great day out to see the Original Basket Weaving and Museum together with a relaxing walk on the moor and nature trail.
5. The Museum of Somerset
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 875 reviews
Housed in Taunton’s historic castle, the Museum of Somerset tells the county's fascinating story from prehistoric times to the present day. Within the 12th century castle walls you’ll find contemporary gallery spaces and great family visitor facilities, all situated within the vibrant town centre. With an amazing nine themed galleries, each with its own distinctive character, there’s something for everyone to discover. Our ‘must see’ exhibits include a 200 million year old Plesiosaur fossil (a type of marine reptile); the impressive Low Ham Roman mosaic; a stunning Bronze Age Gold Torc and the shoes worn by 7ft4 Joseph Sewell. The museum also houses The Somerset Military Museum.
Reviewed By M787PLjohnb - Weston super Mare, United Kingdom
This museum was light, bright and totally interesting, great art exhibition, army history, uniforms, weapons, the rebellion, local history, from Jurassic to the present, great Roman mosaic, nicely laid out, modern, good cafe with reasonably priced food, museum, is in and old castle, great place to get away from the high street shops and it’s Free !
6. Vivary Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 445 reviews
Reviewed By T1m0te1 - Bath, United Kingdom
We wanted a stop en route to our holiday destination and found this park, with mention of mini golf and play areas. We were not disappointed. There are car parks close by- less than five minutes' walk- and shops if you didn't bring your own picnic. There are beautifully maintained flower beds and lawns, a lovely little golf course (18 holes and well-kept) plus high ropes, climbing frames, lawns and trees and ducks (and gulls, of course). The whole place was immaculate; even the gates in were majestic in white, red and gold paint. It is absolutely fabulous!
7. Half Moon Inn
8. Sheppy's Cider Ltd
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 65 reviews
Reviewed By RogerHabgood - Taunton, United Kingdom
I have visited Sheppys on a couple of occasions recently and I have been very happy with the experience each time.
9. The Grove
10. RSPB Swell Wood Nature Reserve
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 31 reviews
Part of a continuous strip of ancient woodland extending some 10 miles along the ridge from Langport to the Blackdown Hills. It has the largest colony of breeding grey herons in south-west England - more than 100 pairs and a small number of little egrets nest here. March-June is the best time to come and see the spectacle. If you're lucky, you might see a dormouse too.
Reviewed By KT1066 - Weston super Mare, United Kingdom
Wonderful quiet wood to spot lots of small birds in the car park using the feeders plus a hide to observe the herons.
