The Best Places to Visit Around Somerset
Top destinations for days out near Somerset
If you’ve ever visited us here at our Somerset used car dealership, you’ll know that the surrounding area is not only home to some beautiful countryside and a world-famous festival, but also some fantastic sights to see too. If you’re new to the southwest region that we’re proud to call home, you’re in for a treat - here are some of the best places to visit around Somerset…
Glastonbury Abbey
What better place to start than the special town in which we’re based? It’s Glastonbury of course! At the very centre of the town, you’ll find a structure that is as majestic in ruins as it once was in all its glory, set with 36 acres of stunning grounds.
Originally a monastery built in the 8th (yes, 8th) century and ruined by fire in 1184, the abbey is steeped in both history and folk legend. It's the earliest Christian foundation linked to Joseph of Arimathea, and serves as the final resting place of King Arthur.
Today, visitors can enjoy the spectacle and atmosphere that the remains of the building and the grounds surrounding it provide. Regular events and activities are held there, or you can simply book a ticket for a quiet walk around to soak it all up.
Glastonbury Tor
Another local place of interest, Glastonbury Tor is seen from miles around - after all, it is one of the highest points in the area. Tor is the name for a cone-shaped hill and in the case of Glastonbury Tor, a St Michael’s tower sits on top. Those that commit to the climb to the top are rewarded with stunning views across the Somerset Levels, Dorset, Wiltshire and even Wales, but not before passing the Chalice Well at the foot of the hill, a source of many local myths and legends.
Glastonbury Tor is a great place to head for families, dog owners, and those interested in the spiritual history of the area alike.
Wells Cathedral
Somerset is the proud owner of the smallest city in the country: Wells! At its heart is the first Gothic cathedral ever built, and has existed in this setting since 1175, though it’s said that it replaced a much smaller church that had been standing since 705 - it’s hard to get your head around such numbers!
It’s safe to say that not only is the building a beautiful one to look at and photograph, but there’s also a lot of history to absorb through the tours that run regularly - or you can book tickets for a casual wander around to take it all in.
You may also recognise this particular area from the hit film Hot Fuzz! Walking tours of the filming locations run on select Saturdays throughout the year, but a fun fact we can reveal is that Wells Cathedral isn’t one of them - they used clever CGI to edit it out of the film.
Cheddar Gorge
Set within the stunning Mendip Hills is the natural landmark of Cheddar Gorge and caves, which have in fact been awarded the status of Site of Special Scientific Interest. It’s Britain’s biggest gorge and is home to plenty of wildlife, nature, and history.
From spectacular cliff views to the one-of-a-kind experience that the cave tours provide, visitors of any age can be wowed by what this destination has to offer. If you’re heading up the Gorge, prepare yourself - there are 274 steps up to the top! We assure you though: the views are worth it.
Wookey Hole Caves
If the caves at Cheddar Gorge are right up your street, we’ve got some good news for you - you’ll find more of them at Wookey Hole!
Created in the limestone near Wells, the impressive caves at Wookey Hole boast an underground lake, plus there’s plenty to do when you’ve explored all the caves too, such as museums, soft play areas, and even arcades.
Avalon Motor Company
Well, we could hardly leave ourselves out as a destination to head for! It’s true that when it comes to used cars in Somerset, there’s no better place to pop into your sat nav.
Located on Wells Road in Glastonbury, our regularly updated selection of quality used vehicles gives those on the lookout for an upgrade plenty to choose from. Take a look at our current stock online today.
