Discover the history and art of the traditional industry of willow growing and basket making in Somerset. Did you know? The Centre is owned by the Coate family, who have been growing willow on the Somerset Levels since 1819. Address Meare Green Court Stoke St Gregory Taunton Somerset TA3 6HY Telephone 01823 490249 Website http://www.englishwillowbaskets.co.uk … Continue reading Willows and Wetlands Visitor Centre, Stoke St. Gregory
Head for the imposing chimney stack of the pumping station rising out of the marshy Somerset Levels and find out how it has been possible to live and farm here for the past 190 years. The use of steam power on the Somerset Levels to reduce flooding and control drainage of the low-lying moorlands commenced … Continue reading Westonzoyland Pumping Station Museum
Weston Museum tells the fascinating story of Weston-super-Mare and the surrounding area from 400 million years ago to the present day. The museum celebrates the history of Weston-super-Mare and its surrounding areas from prehistoric times to the present day using the distinctive historic building, the former Weston Gas Light Company, which houses the diverse museum … Continue reading Weston Museum, Weston-super-Mare
The Museum and Victorian School Room are housed in the old school at Allerford, leased to us by the National Trust. The school, built in 1821, was in use to 1981 and then, in 1984, it was reopened as the Rural Life museum. The museum collection was originally started through the efforts of the West … Continue reading West Somerset Rural Life Museum, Allerford
The museum is the gateway to Wells and the Mendips and includes a Visitor Information Centre. Wells and Mendip Museum tells the story of the Mendip landscape and its inhabitants, with a large collection of geological specimens, as well as archaeological and social history artefacts. Explore the diverse collection which includes fossils, medieval carved sculpture, … Continue reading Wells and Mendip Museum
Explore this small museum's displays on local cinema, industries and residents all housed within a 300-year-old listed building. Don't Miss! The beautifully crafted Armada money chest with an intricate lock mechanism that was used to hold money and documents. Address 28 Fore Street Wellington Somerset TA21 8AQ Telephone 07971 242904 Website http://www.wellingtonmuseum.org.uk Price Entry is … Continue reading Wellington Museum
Choices, choices, choices! Fossils, sailors knots, photographs, alabaster sculptures, these are just some of the delights you will discover here. Located where the Esplanade meets Market Street and occupying the ground floor of Watchet’s former Market House is Watchet Market House Museum. The Market House is a two-storied stone building which was constructed during 1819-20 … Continue reading Watchet Market House Museum
Explore the maritime world of flatners, knots, maps, and a curious contraption known as a 'nossler'. In the museum can be seen many different types of flatner craft, plus nets and other items associated with their use. There are displays of maps, knotwork and boards showing the various uses of the withy. Try our ships … Continue reading Watchet Boat Museum
The Shoe Museum, based in Street, Somerset, houses more than 1,500 shoes from Roman to modern day. It tells the story of Clarks from its beginnings in the early 19th century. There are four galleries which showcase the development of the footwear industry in Street and items on display include shoemaking machinery and tools, advertising … Continue reading The Shoe Museum, Street
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 … Continue reading The Museum of Somerset, Taunton
The museum tells the story of the regiments of Somerset in war and peacetime and features the history of the following regiments: Somerset Light Infantry (Prince Albert's) Somerset and Cornwall Light Infantry West Somerset Yeomanry North Somerset Yeomanry Somerset Militia, Rifle Volunteers and Territorials The Light Infantry and its successor regiment, The Rifles The museum … Continue reading Somerset Military Museum, Taunton
Somerset and cricket go hand in hand. Explore the fascinating history of Somerset County Cricket Club housed in one of Taunton's oldest buildings. See displays about Women's Cricket. Enjoy objects relating to I Zingari - one of the oldest wandering cricket teams. Don't Miss! The size 15 boot belonged to Joel Garner, a 6ft 8in … Continue reading Somerset Cricket Museum, Taunton
The museum is dedicated to the local industry of brick and tile making, one of the many labour-intensive coal-based industries once found in Somerset. The core of the museum is the only remaining tile kiln in Bridgwater. It used to be one of six at the former Barham Brothers’ Yard at East Quay. It was … Continue reading Somerset Brick and Tile Museum, Bridgwater
Step back in time as you operate the levers in the reconstructed Midford Signal Box. Explore the mass of exhibits, ponder the old station names and soak up the atmosphere. Don't Miss! The larger of two steam locomotives owned by the Trust, No. 88, is a former Somerset and Dorset Joint Railway freight engine built … Continue reading Somerset and Dorset Railway Museum, Washford
Discover how cider is made and learn more about a rural way of life. Our new House of Cider is home to the full range of Sheppy’s finest award-winning ciders as well as home-bred English Longhorn beef. Don't Miss! An ancient solid oak screw used for pressing apples. Once built into the structure of a … Continue reading Sheppy’s Cider Museum, Taunton
A masterpiece of Elizabethan Renaissance architecture and design. With its towering walls of glass, glow of ham stone, and its surrounding gardens it is a place of beauty and wonder. Don't Miss! Etched into the glass of a library window is a poem in Latin entitled 'Happy is the man'. It celebrates the divinity of … Continue reading Montacute House (National Trust)
Facing the West Somerset Railway and next to the seafront. The museum opened for the first time in 2014. Displays show the development of Minehead from earliest times, including the town's maritime history; how it became a popular holiday destination; aspects of Minehead life since Victorian times; the famous Hobby Horse, and notable resident Arthur … Continue reading Minehead Museum
Delve into the archives and discover the history of this historic old market town and the families that lived & worked there. Including documents, photographs, maps, paintings and objects, the archive is open to all. Objects range from fine porcelain to cast iron & everything In between. See many of these objects at our annual … Continue reading Milverton Village Archive
Roam the planned gardens of this 700-year-old manor house that was once home to the Elizabethan herbalist Henry Lyte. Discover the medicinal uses of plants and herbs. Did You Know? Henry Lyte created a plant directory in 1578 on which the borders of the garden are based on. Address Ilchester Road Charlton Mackrell Somerset TA11 … Continue reading Lytes Cary Manor
From Vietnam veteran helicopters to the Queen's Royal Flight, the world's largest helicopter museum has it all! View aviation action in the museum's film theatre or experience a real flight along the coast (on selected dates only). See the world's fastest helicopter for yourself - the incredible Westland G-LYNX set a speed record of 400.87 KM/H … Continue reading Helicopter Museum, Weston-super-Mare
No matter what your age you'll find the car you've always dreamed of! This is reputedly the UK's largest exhibition of the greatest cars from around the world. Don't Miss! The 1973 Jaguar V12 E-type. Address Sparkford Somerset BA22 7LH Telephone 01963 440804 Website http://www.himm.co.uk Price Admission charges apply Opening Times Open all year Facilities … Continue reading Haynes International Motor Museum, Sparkford
There are many legends surrounding the once greatest and richest abbey in England. It is said King Arthur and Guinevere were buried at the site, and that Joseph of Arimathea planted the holy thorn nearby. Don't Miss! See the 500-year-old rare ecclesiastical robe found under a medieval pulpit in Othery. It would have been worn … Continue reading Glastonbury Abbey
Visit the Gauge Museum and take a journey of discovery through more than 500 artefacts relating to the West Somerset Railway, including drawings, books, photographs and models. Don't Miss! The beautifully restored Great Western Railway first class sleeping car built in 1897. Address The Railway Station Bishops Lydeard Taunton Somerset TA4 3BX Website http://www.wssrt.co.uk Price … Continue reading Gauge Museum, Bishops Lydeard
See the history of Frome come alive! Discover the company that forged world famous statues, including 'Justice' (that sits atop the Old Bailey in London) and 'King Alfred' (in Winchester). Don't Miss! A rare Iron Age Quern stone used by people at Tedbury Camp, near Mells, to grind their corn for flour. There is a … Continue reading Frome Museum
The Fleet Air Arm Museum offers a day out guaranteed to thrill the whole family. You’ll be up close and personal among Europe’s largest collection of Naval aircraft, plus you can step on board the first British Concorde and see the cockpit first hand. The museum takes you to the heart of the action within … Continue reading Fleet Air Arm Museum, Yeovilton
Come and meet our friendly staff and take a relaxing ride on our heritage steam train through the beautiful Mendip countryside. The train journey is approximately 40 minutes over our 5 mile round trip. Ride as many times as you like on your visit! We are one of the few steam railways where you can … Continue reading East Somerset Railway, Cranmore
An ancient castle and comfortable country home with dramatic vistas and subtropical gardens. Dramatically sited on a wooded hill, a castle has existed here since at least Norman times, with an impressive medieval gatehouse and ruined tower giving a reminder of its turbulent history. The castle that you see today became a lavish country home during … Continue reading Dunster Castle and Gardens
See the fascinating past of this unique Exmoor town. Discover the story of the Red Deer and Granny Baker's cottage. Explore the Exmoor Oral History archive, old photos and unique local cinefilm footage. Discover the local individuals who died in WWI and learn of their family's history. Visit the fascinating model railway of Dulverton Station … Continue reading Dulverton Heritage Centre
Explore this restored 15th century manor house nestled in the historic village of Porlock. It is home to a collection of local artefacts, photographs, books and tools from Porlock, Porlock Vale adjoining villages and communities. In addition, we have a themed exhibition, usually in the 'Solar', currently 'Farming through the year' This is a summer … Continue reading Dovery Manor Museum, Porlock
Explore the only surviving rural twineworks with its original machinery in England. The site, which has origins dating back over 600 years, includes machinery and fittings and represents all stages of the manufacture and finishing of twine. We also celebrate Coker Canvas, the Royal Navy's premium sailcloth. New oak posts and the removal, after 10 … Continue reading Dawe’s Twine Works, West Coker
From sailing ships to spaceships: discover the links with Crewkerne's webbing and sailcloth industry. With three special exhibitions a year, there's always something new to see. Don't Miss! The photographic collection and activities for children in galleries. Address The Heritage Centre Market Square Crewkerne Somerset TA18 7LP Telephone 01460 77079 Website http://www.crewkernemuseum.co.uk Price Admission charges … Continue reading Crewkerne and District Museum and Heritage Centre
Cowbridge Sawmill is situated in the village of Timberscombe, set in the midst of the beautiful Exmoor countryside. The first mill on this site dates from at least the 14th century when it produced flour for the local people. The amenity survived until the late 19th Century. In 1904 the mill was converted to a … Continue reading Cowbridge Sawmill and Forge Museum
Have you ever wondered where objects are stored? Visit by appointment to see anything from gloves, industrial machinery and paintings, to poison bottles and guns. Telling the story of Yeovil and South Somerset, CHAC gives you a rare opportunity to go behind the scenes and explore a museum store. Traditionally Yeovil has had a rich … Continue reading Community Heritage Access Centre (CHAC), Yeovil
Artificial limbs and flying machines! Marvel at the work of Chard's early inventors and much more. Don't Miss! The "Chard's Famous Five" exhibit celebrating inspiring stories of people from Chard. Address Godworthy House High Street Chard Somerset TA20 1QB Telephone 01460 65091 Website http://www.chardmuseum.co.uk Price Admission charges apply Opening Times Open March to October Facilities … Continue reading Chard and District Museum
Discover what life was like in the town in the late 1700s through the writings of local diarist James Woodforde (1740 - 1803) who’s writings give a vivid account of the life of a rural cleric in the 18th century. View the writings and sketches of Douglas Macmillan MBE (10 August 1884 – 9 January … Continue reading Castle Cary and District Museum
We tell the story of Bruton’s past and present through the display of artefacts from the Jurassic, Roman, Saxon and medieval times, along with more contemporary displays. Domestic objects, 20th century shoes, the unique sculptures of WWII German refugee, Ernst Blensdorf and the writing desk used by the American writer John Steinbeck, who lived in … Continue reading Bruton Museum
Hop aboard a Great Western steam train and discover one of the delights along the Somerset coast at Blue Anchor Station. The collection of Great Western railwayana, much of it relating to the West Somerset Railway ensures something for everyone. Don't Miss! A ticket-making machine that was used to print many millions of the traditional … Continue reading Blue Anchor Railway Museum
Journey into the heart of Bridgwater, a historic market town and port, and discover more about its fascinating history. The building is said to be the birthplace of the 'Father of the Royal Navy' Admiral Robert Blake, one of the country's most important military commanders. The museum has much more on the history of the … Continue reading Blake Museum, Bridgwater
The Bishop’s Palace & Gardens has been home to the Bishops of Bath and Wells for over 800 years and this stunning medieval palace is open for all to enjoy. Surrounded by a breath-taking moat (with resident swans!), visitors can cross a flagstone drawbridge, walk under the portcullis and experience a true hidden gem in … Continue reading Bishop’s Palace and Gardens, Wells
Visit a working watermill. Enjoy manikins depicting people milling and working at rural crafts. The museum is close to the West Somerset Railway, so why not arrange a double visit? Did you know? The waterwheel weighs over two tonnes yet can be turned from inside the mill using just two fingers. Address The Mill House … Continue reading Bishops Lydeard Mill and Rural Life Museum
Tread the creaking floorboards of this 500-year-old Tudor building. Uncover hidden stories about the people of Axbridge and the surrounding villages, from early settlers to the present day. Did You Know? The carved king's head found in the museum probably dates back to the 1600s and is thought to have served as the inn-sign for 'The King's Head' tavern. … Continue reading Axbridge and District Museum (King John’s Hunting Lodge)
The Alfred Gillett Trust is a Street-based charity that preserves and promotes the heritage collections of C & J Clark Ltd. and the Clark family, which established the globally-recognised shoe company in 1825. Founded by members of the Clark family, the collection now contains over 100,000 items relating to the shoemaking industry, social history, the … Continue reading Alfred Gillett Trust, Street
In September, the Alfred Gillett Trust hosted a hugely successful pop-up exhibition of fossilised ichthyosaurs found in Street as part of the national Heritage Open Days initiative. Over 2,200 people attended the four day exhibition, which saw the fossils on display in the town they were found for the first time in 40 years. 16 large ichthyosaur … Continue reading Celebrating a ‘Roarsome’ Exhibition!
