South Somerset
South Somerset is an accessible part of the County that is characterised by rolling farmland, orchards and land falling into the Somerset Levels. Crossed by the River Parrett, this area includes the popular market towns of Somerton, Langport, Castle Cary and Bruton.
History/Settlements
The area’s history is steeped in agriculture and the growing of apples. The settlements of Somerton, Castle Cary, Bruton and Langport established themselves as market towns and are full of character with strong communities.
Bruton is well known for its rolling countryside, excellent selection of antiques shops and eclectic mix of independent traders but is now a hub for art and contemporary design and food, boasting award winning restaurants, shops, galleries and fabulous places to stay. Hauser & Wirth Somerset is a draw for many as is the multi-award winning estate, garden and luxury hotel, The Newt in Somerset, located just a short distance outside of Bruton.
Castle Cary is a vibrant and picturesque town with characterised by golden stone. Tuesday is market day and there is an abundance of quality shops, delis, cafes and restaurants.
Langport is situated on the banks of the River Parrett and surrounded by the Somerset Levels. It has a wide range of popular cafes and shops.
Somerton is the ancient capital of Wessex and has a vibrant community. The old market place with the delightful Buttercross creates an attractive market town with plenty of charm. There are tearooms, pubs and independent shops.
Nature & Outdoors
The area is renowned for its beautiful landscape and access to nature with the Somerset Levels being a highly valued Environmentally Sensitive Area. There are a large number of nature reserves in the area with opportunities for bird watching and studying nature. Walking and cycling opportunities abound with a comprehensive network of footpaths, including the River Parrett trail, cyclepaths and quiet country lanes.
Food & Drink
You are spoilt for choice here with something for every taste and budget. Many of the villages have great and friendly pubs with the market towns offering a large range of bars, restaurants, pubs and cafes.
Shopping
The market towns provide a charming range of independent shops offering a range of goods including antiques and local produce. Castle Cary, Somerton and Langport have regular markets. Clarks Village Outlet Centre is located at Street. Supermarkets are located in Langport and Somerton whilst some excellent local grocery stores and village shops are found throughout the area.
Schools
There are highly rated village primary schools and secondary schools. Playgroups are throughout the area and independent schools are readily accessible.
Secondary Schools
Ansford
Sexeys, Bruton
Huish Episcopi, Langport
Primary Schools
Ash
Ashcott
Baltonsborough
Bruton
Burrowbridge
Butleigh
Castle Cary
Charlton Mackrell
Compton Dundon
Curry Rivel
Ditcheat
Hambridge
High Ham
Huish Episcopi, Langport
Keinton Mandeville
King Ina Academy, Somerton
Kingsbury Episcopi
Long Sutton
Martock
Othery
Stoke St Gregory
Independent Schools
All Hallows
Bruton School for Girls
Hazelgrove
Kings College, Taunton
Kings, Bruton
Millfield
Queens College, Taunton
Taunton School
Transport
The area is situated to the north of the A303 which provides easy access to London and the South East as well as the far South West. The A37, A371, A359 and A372 provide further good road connections to the north, south, east and west. The M5 can be joined at J25 (Taunton).
Mainline rail services are available from Castle Cary and Bruton.
Bristol Airport is situated to the north and Exeter Airport is also readily accessible.
Local Features/Attractions
There are many things to do and see in the area including:
Wells Cathedral and City
Glastonbury Abbey and Tor
Muchelney Abbey
Montacute House
Hauser & Wirth, Bruton
Carymoor Environmental Centre
Sports
There are football clubs in the area including Yeovil. Rugby teams are also based at Somerton and Castle Cary.
There are sport and leisure centres in Langport and Wincanton. Much of the surrounding countryside is accessible for walking and there are great cycling opportunities within the area.
There are a number of golf courses within the area including at Wheathill and Long Sutton. Horse racing takes place at Wincanton and there is an active horse riding community in the area.
