Heritage & Historical Somerset

Bishops Lydeard Mill - Taunton
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Bishops Lydeard Mill - Taunton
Located in the Vale of Taunton Deane, Bishops Lydeard is a small village near the market town of Taunton. There were originally two mills in the village, Higher and Lower, supplying the area with flour. Higher mill has been subsequently demolished, leaving this excellent example of an overshot waterwheel at the lower mill. The Mill is open on : ...
MUCHELNEY ABBEY
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MUCHELNEY ABBEY
Muchelney Abbey, which lies two miles south of Langport, was once a landmark in the Somerset Levels and still has much to offer its visitors – history lovers in particular will enjoy this fascinating site but there is also plenty for families to do. It was once a wealthy Benedictine house and the second oldest religious foundation in...
DAWS CASTLE
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DAWS CASTLE
The clifftop fortress of Daws Castle was founded by King Alfred to defend the people of Watchet against Viking attacks. BEFORE YOU GO Access: The walk from Watchet is challenging, so we recommend wearing sturdy footwear. The site is exposed with no shelter. Parking: Paid parking is available in Watchet. How to Find it: From Watchet...
CLEEVE ABBEY
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CLEEVE ABBEY
In Washford lies one of the undiscovered jewels of Somerset, providing an interesting day out for families and budding historians alike. The Cistercian abbey of Cleeve is a haven of peace and tranquillity, said to contain the finest cloister buildings in England. Visitors today can catch a glimpse of monastic life 800 years ago; although the...
Somerset Rural Life Museum - Glastonbury
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Somerset Rural Life Museum - Glastonbury
The Somerset Rural Life Museum is based in Glastonbury.  In the Abbey Farmhouse the social and domestic life of Victorian Somerset is described in reconstructed rooms and there is a lively events programme as well as regular temporary exhibitions.  There is also a tea room and museum shop.   The magnificent...
Glastonbury Abbey
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Glastonbury Abbey
Visitor Attraction, Scheduled Ancient Monument and Church Romantic Ruins - Once the grandest and richest Abbey in England. A great Glastonbury experience awaits you here! Peaceful parkland - Such a special atmosphere within our 36 acres of Somerset parkland, ponds, orchard and wildlife areas. History brought to life by our...
MEARE FISH HOUSE
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MEARE FISH HOUSE
The only surviving monastic fishery building in England, Meare Fish House was the residence of Glastonbury Abbey's official in charge of the nearby lake and its fishery, and it provided facilities for fish-salting and drying. Read more about the history of Meare Fish House. BEFORE YOU GO Parking: There is free street parking available in...
GLASTONBURY TRIBUNAL
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GLASTONBURY TRIBUNAL
Glastonbury Tribunal is a fine, late 15th-century stone town house with an early Tudor façade and panelled interiors, once thought to have been the courtroom of Glastonbury Abbey. The Tribunal now houses a Tourist Information Centre and the Glastonbury Lake Village Museum, which contains dramatic finds from one of Europe’s most famous...
North Somerset Museum - Weston Super Mare
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North Somerset Museum - Weston Super Mare
This friendly family museum caters for all ages. The displays range from the archaeology of the earliest inhabitants to the wildlife that you can find today. Other displays cover the local history of the area. The Seaside Holidays Gallery is a speciality of the museum, and the cottage next door is laid out as a landlady's lodging house of...
Cheddar Gorge
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Cheddar Gorge
A major tourist attraction for over 200 years, with plenty to do above and below ground. Outstanding Natural Beauty, where you'll find many rare species. The Cathedral-like Caves and Britain's biggest Gorge are million-year-old Ice Age river beds.  Your ancestors have lived here for 40,000 years,   and world-famous...
Forde Abbey House and Gardens
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Forde Abbey House and Gardens
Forde Abbey Historical House and Gardens is a lovely working, family estate, with a number of features that offer an enjoyable day out for all ages. The house is open between April and October (inclusive), but the gardens are open throughout the year, and entrance is free to children under 15 years of age. There is a fantastic Children’s...
Dunster Castle - Minehead
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Dunster Castle - Minehead
The red turrets and towers of Dunster Castle rising up from their wooded perch is a dramatic spectacle for any visitor. Drama that is mirrored in the castle's history, more than 1,000 years of turmoil and change. Come and visit to find out more about the families of Dunster Castle, marvell at the beautiful interiors, enjoy the depths of the...
DUNSTER YARN MARKET
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DUNSTER YARN MARKET
This fine 17th century timber-framed octagonal market hall is a monument to Dunster's once-flourishing cloth trade. Managed by The National Trust. Read more about the history of the Yarn Market. BEFORE YOU GO Parking: Charged parking is available within the village (car park postcode TA24 6SE), not managed by English Heritage.  ...
DUNSTER BUTTER CROSS
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DUNSTER BUTTER CROSS
Set on the outskirts of the charming village of Dunster, this transplanted stump of a medieval stone cross was once a meeting place for butter-sellers. Managed by The National Trust. Read more about the history of the Butter Cross. BEFORE YOU GO Parking: Charged parking is available within the village (car park postcode TA24 6SE), not...
DUNSTER GALLOX BRIDGE
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DUNSTER GALLOX BRIDGE
This late medieval stone bridge - originally 'gallows bridge' - across the River Avill once carried packhorses bringing fleeces from Exmoor to the Somerset market town of Dunster. The town had become a centre of the wool trade by the 13th century, when it was the main source of England's wealth. Managed by the National Trust. Read more...
Wells Cathedral
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Wells Cathedral
Wells Cathedral welcomes visitors every day of the year and it is really only by coming in person that you can properly experience this wonderful and holy place. While admission to the Cathedral is free, donations are very welcome. We receive no direct state aid and need over £4,000 per day for the maintenance, upkeep and running...
The Bishops Palace
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The Bishops Palace
Admission: Second price is non Gift Aid Option Adult £7.99 £7.25 Concession (senior, unemployed, disabled, student) £6.90 £6.25 Children (Under 5 years) Free Children (5 to 18 years) £3.35 £3.05 Family (2 Adults, 2 Children) £19.25 £17.45    Opening Times:  Open...
Montacute House
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Montacute House
Montacute House was built at the end of the 16th century and is considered to be one of the most beautiful Elizabethan houses in England. Whether the kids want to be inspired by the art and history inside, or just run and explore, this place is worth a visit, especially during the summer when there will be 2 live shows of costumed and traditional...
Crewkerne and District Museum - Crewkerne
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Crewkerne and District Museum - Crewkerne
Crewkerne has a long and interesting history - its status as a Saxon royal Mint, its importance as a stopping place for travellers, and its prosperity based on the textile industry. The ancient Roman hill fort of Ham Hill is a few miles distant, and the town's more important buildings were constructed of stone quarried from the hill. There...
Cosmeston Medieval Village
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Cosmeston Medieval Village
One of the most exciting heritage projects in South Wales, Cosmeston Medieval Village lets you step back in time to see, touch, and even smell how life was in 14th century Wales. Meet the villagers, all dressed in period costume, and experience how they lived. Take a tour, book a party or enjoy one of the special events that take place throughout...
Penarth Pier
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Penarth Pier
Built in 1894, and opened a year later, the 658-foot-long Penarth Pier is reminiscent of more gentle times and is one of only two surviving pleasure piers in south Wales, the other being Mumbles. History of the Pier In 1907 a wooden pavilion was built at the seaward end that became a dance hall. In 1929 the existing pavilion entrance was built....
Fonmon Castle Park and Gardens
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Fonmon Castle Park and Gardens
Situated on one of Wales' most historical castle and grounds, Fonmon has now opened a fun family attraction that gives your children adventure from Dinosaurs to Dragons, Fairies to Medieval and a whole load of outdoor fun and adventure. Parks, woodlands walks and cafes. This unique 12th century castle is home to an exciting outdoors...
Axminster Museum
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Axminster Museum
Originally the Old Police Station and Courthouse, the museum is opposite St Mary's Church in the centre of Axminster. Visitors can discover the old police cells and see displays in the former court room. Opening Times: Open end of May to end of September (closed Bank Holidays) Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday 11am to 1pm, 2pm to...
Tiverton Castle
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Tiverton Castle
Tiverton Castle is a wonderful, romantic and atmospheric castle to visit and great fun for children.  One visitor commented “It`s not the biggest Castle to visit, but one of the most informative”. WHAT TO SEE: Try on some English Civil War Armour and imagine what it was like to...
Tiverton Museum
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Tiverton Museum
Explore the museum’s large, outstanding collections and trace the fascinating history of Mid Devon. The displays include the ‘Tivvy Bumper’ GWR steam engine, local industries (particularly lace making), farm waggons and the history of agriculture, and the every day home life of Mid Devon folk. Museum Opening Times ...
Haynes International Motor Museum - Yeovil
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Haynes International Motor Museum - Yeovil
The UK's largest exhibition of the greatest cars from around the world with over 400 amazing cars and bikes from nostalgic classics of the 50s and 60s glorious Bentleys and Rolls Royces to exciting super cars like the Jaguar XJ220. Opening Times 2nd March to 31st October Monday - Sunday 9:30am - 5:30pm (6:00pm in summer school holidays) 1st...
Fleet Air Arm Museum - Ilchester
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Fleet Air Arm Museum - Ilchester
The Royal Navy operates on the sea, under the sea, on the land and in the air. Welcome to the Fleet Air Arm Museum - representing the flying arm of the Royal Navy. Opening Hours ...
Museum of Welsh Life - Cardiff
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Museum of Welsh Life - Cardiff
A walk around Wales – from Celtic times to the present day. St Fagans is one of Europe's leading open–air museums and Wales's most popular heritage attraction. Before visiting why not watch our taster video and see the magic of St Fagans for yourself. Open to the public since 1 November 1948, the museum stands in the grounds of...
Cardiff Castle
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Cardiff Castle
C ardiff Castle is one of Wales's leading tourist attractions. Situated in the very heart of the capital, alongside city centre shopping and the magnificent Bute Park, the Castle's enchanting fairytale towers conceal an elaborate and splendid interior. Contained within its mighty walls is a history spanning nearly 2,000 years, dating from...
National Museum of Wales
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National Museum of Wales
Discover art, archaeology and the geological evolution of Wales. With a busy programme of exhibitions and events, we have something to amaze everyone, whatever your interest – and admission is free! Although not the oldest of Amgueddfa Cymru – National Museum Wales’s buildings, this is the first location of the National Museum...
Tyntesfield - Wraxall
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Tyntesfield - Wraxall
Spectacular Victorian Gothic Revival house with gardens and parkland A fine Victorian country house created by one of England’s richest commoners, William Gibbs, who built his fortune on fertiliser. Spiralling turrets and pinnacles adorn the roof, ornate stone carvings and church-like windows complete the Gothic look, giving...
BLACKBURY CAMP
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BLACKBURY CAMP
This hillfort in Devon was built during the 4th century BC. It was used by  an Iron Age tribal people , probably for several hundred years. Blackbury  Camp had impressive ramparts,  and the single entrance was protected by a large  triangular earthwork or ‘barbican’.  Now surrounded by woodland, the...
Sherborne Old Castle
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Sherborne Old Castle
After withstanding two sieges during the Civil War, all that remains today is a romantic ruin in the grounds of the ‘new’ Sherborne Castle. Only the Southwest Gatehouse and parts of the castle, including the Great Tower and the North Range, survive. Families and history lovers will all enjoy a day out to Sherborne Old Castle; bring...
Sherborne Castle
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Sherborne Castle
In 1969, Sherborne Castle opened its doors to the general public. Visitors from all over the world have been attracted to its, outstanding collections of art and furniture, connection to Sir Walter Raleigh and to admire Capabiltity Brown's landscape. Sherborne Castle remains the family home of the Wingfield Digby Family. Sherborne has had a...
The Town Mill
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The Town Mill
The Town Mill is an ancient watermill that was rescued by volunteers through a ten year restoration project, which saved it from dereliction. Today, the story of The Town Mill is shared by friendly volunteer millers and illustrates the history of England and its people. The restored mill buildings, which surround a cobbled courtyard, house a...
Stanton Drew Circles and Cove
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Stanton Drew Circles and Cove
Although this is the third largest complex of prehistoric standing stones in England, the three circles and three-stone ‘cove’ of Stanton Drew in Somerset are surprisingly little known. The Great Circle, 113 metres in diameter, is one of the largest stone circles in the country and has 26 surviving upright stones. Yet recent surveys...
Old Beaupre Castle - Cowbridge
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Old Beaupre Castle - Cowbridge
Beaupre Castle near Cowbridge is a Medieval Manor house that was modified during the Tudor period and includes a magnificently carved Renaissance porch. Much of Beaupre is ruined, but the exceptional three-storey gatehouse and porch are well preserved. The cluster of buildings surround an inner courtyard and the 14th Century hall boasts an...
St Quentin's Castle  - Llanblethian
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St Quentin's Castle - Llanblethian
Impressive remains of a large 14th Century castle.  The castle includes a massive twin-towered gatehouse. It is believed that the majority of the castle was built by Gilbert de Clare (the Last, d. 1314). Also known as Llanblethian Castle. Parking: Free Open: All year, 10am to 4pm daily. Charges: Free admission
Beer Quarry Caves
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Beer Quarry Caves
2000 years of history brought vividly to life, a visit to Beer Quarry Caves is an exciting and fascinating experience not to be missed. The workings are cool and even on a warm day a jumper is advisable. Light...
Killerton - Exeter
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Killerton - Exeter
Would you give away your family home for your political beliefs? Sir Richard Acland did just this with his estate, at 2,590 hectares (6,400 acres) one of the largest the Trust has acquired (includes 20 farms and 200-plus cottages). Killerton House, built in 1778–9, brings to life generations of the Aclands, one of Devon's oldest...
The Clifton Observatory - Bristol
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The Clifton Observatory - Bristol
The Observatory stands on the site formerly occupied by a snuff grinding mill that was burnt out in 1777 through having been over-driven in a gale. In 1828 the site was rented to Mr. West, an artist. He constructed the Camera Obscura and cut the underground passage to St. Vincents Cave. Both remain and are open to visitors. The cave's visiting...
Kumon Maths and English - Bristol
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Kumon Maths and English - Bristol
Kumon works to improve your child's skill set, unlocking their potential, inspiring a passion for lifelong learning and building self-confidence to achieve both in and outside the classroom. For more information please contact Kate to book an enrolment meeting.
Explore-At-Bristol
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Explore-At-Bristol
Explore-At-Bristol is one of the UK's most exciting hands-on science centres! Discover interactive exhibits and special exhibitions, take in a Planetarium show or join our Live science team for fun experiments and activities. A registered charity, Explore runs formal and informal learning programmes and aims to make science accessible to all. ...
Brunel's SS Great Britain - Bristol
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Brunel's SS Great Britain - Bristol
Welcome to Brunel's ss Great Britain Winner of 10 major awards in 2006 including the Gulbenkian Prize for UK Museum of the Year and shortlisted for major awards in 2007. Step back in time on board Brunel’s ss Great Britain – the world’s first great ocean liner. Explore the beautifully recreated First Class Dining Saloon,...
British Empire & Commonwealth Museum - Bristol
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British Empire & Commonwealth Museum - Bristol
The award-winning galleries of the British Empire & Commonwealth Museum have been created with children firmly in mind. Numerous hands-on and interactive exhibits tell the story of the biggest empire the world has ever known. Sample exotic spices, learn morse code, dress up in period clothes and find out how our lives are shaped by this shared...
Temple Church
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Temple Church
The leaning tower and walls of this large late medieval church in Bristol survived bombing during the Second World War. Temple Church is so called because the original church here was built by the Knights Templar, the medieval military order founded to protect pilgrims to the Holy Land. Their round church was later replaced with a more spacious...
Castell Coch - Cardiff
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Castell Coch - Cardiff
Late nineteenth-century 'fairytale'-style castle, built on medieval remains, designed for the third marquess of Bute by William Burges. Lavishly decorated and furnished in the Victorian Gothic style; a Romantic vision of the Middle Ages. OS map 171: ST 131826 Site exhibition, audio tour, parking, toilets, cafe, shop, guidebook, baby changing...
Caerphilly Castle
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Caerphilly Castle
Caerphilly Castle is one of the great medieval castles of western Europe. Several factors give it this pre-eminence - its immense size (1.2h), making it the largest in Britain after Windsor, its large-scale use of water for defence and the fact that it is the first truly concentric castle in Britain. Of the time of its building in the late 13th...
Westbury College Gatehouse - Bristol
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Westbury College Gatehouse - Bristol
15th-century gatehouse to the 13th-century College of Priests – where the 14th-century theological reformer John Wyclif lived.
Blaise Castle House Museum - Bristol
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Blaise Castle House Museum - Bristol
Situated in the beautiful parkland of the Blaise Estate at Henbury, the Museum is housed in a late eighteenth century mansion, and contains most of the Museums Service's social history collections. Here you can see all sorts of familiar - and not so familiar - items from homes through history, treasured...
Newport Museum and Art Gallery
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Newport Museum and Art Gallery
Since 1888 Newport Museum and Art Gallery has been collecting evidence of Newport’s history, culture and environment. Archaeology The archaeology collections span over 100 years of collecting and represent thousands of years of human activity in and around Newport. The oldest objects date to the Prehistoric periods before people could...
Nunney Castle
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Nunney Castle
Nunney Castle is a striking and picturesque moated castle, wich was built in the 1370s. Bring your little knights and princesses here to explore the still numerous walls and features of the castle, plus take some great photos and have a run around or a picnic in the grounds. Lovely! Kids will love it, because it has all the key qualities of what...
Walled Garden at Mells
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Walled Garden at Mells
Walled Garden at Mells is set in the historic Somerset village of Mells, a short distance from Bath and the pretty market town of Frome. The Walled Garden offers its visitors the opportunity to relax, recharge and enjoy the beautiful surroundings such as the honey coloured 17th Century walls and the view over the ancient church meadows. It's a...
Bill Douglas Centre (History of Cinema) - Exeter
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Bill Douglas Centre (History of Cinema) - Exeter
Founded in 1994, the Centre contains an enormous collection relating to the history of film and visual media. From shadow puppets to Shirley Temple dolls, from magic lanterns to Marilyn Monroe postcards, there is something to fascinate every visitor. Open every weekday from 10am to 5pm (except for Bank Holidays and between Christmas and...
THE NINE STONES
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THE NINE STONES
Now in a wooded glade, this small prehistoric circle of nine standing stones was constructed around 4,000 years ago. Read more about the history of the Nine Stones. BEFORE YOU GO Parking: Parking is permitted in the Little Chef car park. How to Find It: Follow the permissive path from the front of the restaurant and continue parallel...
WINTERBOURNE POOR LOT BARROWS
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WINTERBOURNE POOR LOT BARROWS
Winterbourne Poor Lot is a 'cemetery' of 44 Bronze Age burial mounds of varying types and sizes, straddling the A35 main road. Read more about the history of the barrows. BEFORE YOU GO Parking: Parking is possible in a small layby on a minor road adjacent to the site. Turn right off the A35 approximately 1.8 miles west of Winterbourne...
MAIDEN CASTLE
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MAIDEN CASTLE
OPENING TIMES 1 MAY 2017 - 24 MARCH 2018 Open any reasonable time during daylight hours 25 MARCH 2018 ONWARDS Opening times will be available nearer the time
Sir Bevil Grenville's Monument
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Sir Bevil Grenville's Monument
Sir Bevil Grenville's Monument was erected in the 18th century to commemorate the Royalist commander and his Cornish pikemen who fought at the Battle of Lansdown, 1643. Read more about the history of the monument. Before You Go Parking: There is a layby adjacent to the site. Dogs: Dogs on leads are welcome. Facilities: You can find shops,...
Exeter Phoenix - Exeter
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Exeter Phoenix - Exeter
Come and Join our Summer Sessions Jumping Beans - Dance Classes for under 5's on Tuesdays 1.45pm - 2.15pm, £2 per session Visual Art Workshop - Tuesday 2nd August, 10.30 - 1.30, £10 ages 8 - 12 Visual Art Workshop 23rd August, 10am - 4pm, £25 per person, ages 11 - 16 National Playday - 12 - 4pm at Exeter Catherdral...
Exeter's Underground Passages - Exeter
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Exeter's Underground Passages - Exeter
Discover medieval passageways that stretch under the city's streets at this visitor attraction in the heart of the city centre. Entry prices Adult £5.50 Child £4.00 Concession £4.50 Family ( Up to 2 adults and up to 3 children ) £17.00  For information with respect to group visits, please call:...
St Nicholas Priory - Exeter
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St Nicholas Priory - Exeter
Adorned with quality replica furniture and painted in the bright colours of the period, the Priory is presented as the 1602 home of the wealthy Hurst family. The display of Elizabethan items from the city's collection, the addition of modern amenities and new interpretation allows greater access to the Priory and gives a wonderful insight...
Caldicot Castle and Country Park
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Caldicot Castle and Country Park
Visit Caldicot Castle in its beautiful setting of tranquil gardens and a wooded country park. Founded by the Normans, developed in royal hands as a stronghold in the Middle Ages and restored as a Victorian family home, the castle has a romantic and colourful history. Find out about its past with an audio tour, explore the medieval towers and take...
Fashion Museum - Bath
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Fashion Museum - Bath
We look forward to welcoming you to the Fashion Museum Study Facilities at the Assembly Rooms. The Fashion Museum is open every day except 25 & 26 December. January - February  10.30 - 16.00 March - October  10.30 - 17.00 November - December  10.30 - 16.00 Exit 1 hour after these times...
The Jane Austen Centre - Bath
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The Jane Austen Centre - Bath
The exhibition at the Jane Austen Centre in Bath has been created with the guidance of local members of the Jane Austen Society and authorities on Jane Austen. Open all year Summer 2nd April to 30th October Open every day 9.45am to 5.30pm Late opening July and August – Thursday to Saturday until 7pm Winter 1 November...
Bridgerton Filming Locations Tour of Bath
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Bridgerton Filming Locations Tour of Bath
Enjoy a guided walking tour exploring Bridgerton's filming locations in Bath     Walk in the footsteps of Simon and Daphne from the hit show Bridgerton, on a guided tour of its Bath filming locations     Enjoy trivia and anecdotes about the making of Bridgerton, as well as behind-the-scenes gossip and fan theories...
Powderham Castle - Exeter
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Powderham Castle - Exeter
Powderham Castle lies in a beautiful deer park setting on the banks of the River Exe, just a stone's throw from the historic cathedral city of Exeter. The Courtenay family have been welcoming visitors to the Castle since 1959, and over the years in excess of a million people have been through the doors.  Very little of the Castle itself...
The Holburne Museum Of Art - Bath
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The Holburne Museum Of Art - Bath
One of the country's great small museums, the Holburne houses a wondefully rich collection of fine and decorative art including paintings by Breughel, Gainsborough, Stubbs & Turner, astonishing silver, beautiful porcelain and Renaissance bronzes. The Holburne runs a programme of art for all ages with events, lectures, workshops &...
Bath Postal Museum
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Bath Postal Museum
From clay mail to email Bath Postal Museum tells the history of writing from its earliest incarnation. With something for everyone from colourful and frequently changing exhibitions to dressing up and arts and crafts activities. We all love a good story and Bath Postal Museum is full of them. Monday to Saturday 11.00am - 5.00pm (Summer)  ...
Bath Abbey Vaults Museum
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Bath Abbey Vaults Museum
Pilgrims and visitors have been made welcome at Bath Abbey for hundreds of years. As one of the most visited places in the South West, we welcome over 350,000 people through our doors each year, but are fully aware that every visitor comes with their own expectations, beliefs and purpose. Summer Opening Times: 01 April to 31 October ...
Roman Baths and Museum - Bath
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Roman Baths and Museum - Bath
Walk where Romans walked on 2000 year-old pavements beside the steaming pool. Opening Hours January - February 09:30 - 16:30, exit 17:30 March - June 09:00 - 17:00, exit 18:00 July - August 09:00 - 21:00, exit 22:00 ...
Clip n Climb Exeter
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Clip n Climb Exeter
Clip n Climb Exeter is a brilliant introduction to climbing for children with all the challenge of proper bouldering and low level climbing but coated in bright colours, fun concepts, novelty grips and more! Climb commando style on the Jungle Gym, Test your resolve and determination on Inflated, take the Speed Climbing challenge, reach new...
The American Museum in Britain - Bath
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The American Museum in Britain - Bath
Discover the American way of life from colonial times, the joys and hardships of American children. Set in 30 acres of beautiful parkland. Regular events, Gift shop, tearoom, picnic area. Educational programme for schools. Tuesday to  Sunday, 12noon – 5pm ...
Farleigh Hungerford Castle
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Farleigh Hungerford Castle
Farleigh Hungerford Castle is a partially ruined fortified mansion and gardens that was occupied for 300 years by the Hungerford family and today their intriguing, yet sometimes gruesome stories are told through graphic interpretation panels and a free audio tour. It's worth noting in advance and mentioning to the kids that the old spiral stairs...
FIDDLEFORD MANOR
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FIDDLEFORD MANOR
The principal parts of a small stone manor house, probably begun about 1370 for William Latimer, Sheriff of Somerset and Dorset. It has undergone many changes since, but the splendid timber roofs over the great hall and solar are said to be the most spectacular in Dorset. Read more about the history of Fiddleford Manor. BEFORE YOU GO ...
Athelhampton House and Gardens
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Athelhampton House and Gardens
Athelhampton House and Gardens is a 15th century house with beautiful grounds, dating back to 1891. The Great Hall of this house, built in 1485 would once have served as the entire accommodation and is a good example of Tudor architecture. The other rooms of the house were added over time and include a Gallery, based on the second floor. There...
A La Ronde
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A La Ronde
A La Ronde is a unique 16 sided house that was built for two spinster cousins when they returned from a grand tour of Europe. It contains many objects acquired on their travels plus mementoes of their travels. The interior decoration includes a frieze made from feathers plus a shell encrusted gallery containing thousands of shells. Kids have the...
Castle Drogo - Exeter
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Castle Drogo - Exeter
The 'last castle to be built in England', set above the Teign Gorge with dramatic views over Dartmoor One of the most remarkable works of Sir Edwin Lutyens and the last castle to be built in England Perched above the Teign Gorge with dramatic views over Dartmoor Highest National Trust garden, at 900 feet Family activites every day...
Exmouth Museum
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Exmouth Museum
Exmouth Museum is situated in Sheppards Row, off Exeter Road in former town council stables and adjoining cottage. A treasure-house of objects relating to old Exmouth, the museum features a 1930's living room and a Victorian kitchen. Wartime Exmouth and the maritime and natural history of the Exe Estuary are explored along with...
Bradford-on-Avon Tithe Barn
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Bradford-on-Avon Tithe Barn
A spectacular 14th century monastic stone barn, 51 metres long, with an amazing timber cruck roof. Read more about the history of the barn. Before You Go Opening Times: Open daily from 10.30am-4pm. The barn may occasionally be closed for local events - please check with Bradford on Avon Preservation Trust before you visit. Parking: There is...
Dinosaur Museum - Dorchester
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Dinosaur Museum - Dorchester
Acclaimed as one of Britain’s top hands-on attractions, the Dinosaur Museum is unique. The incredible world of dinosaurs comes alive in a new way that visitors of all ages will love and enjoy. Actual fossils, skeletons and life-size reconstructions combine with audiovisual and hands-on displays to inform and entertain. A visit to this...
Tutankhamun Exhibition - Dorchester
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Tutankhamun Exhibition - Dorchester
The current exhibition of Tutankhamun follows the Treasures of Tutankhamun exhibition which was shown in London at the British Museum in 1972. The exhibition travelled to many countries including the USA, USSR, Japan, France, Canada and West Germany. During this period, in spite of expert supervision and care, the exhibits unfortunately suffered...
Old Wardour Castle
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Old Wardour Castle
Set in the peaceful Wiltshire countryside beside a lake, Old Wardour Castle, near Tisbury was once one of the most daring and innovative homes in Britain. It was built in the 14th century as a lightly fortified luxury residence for comfortable living and lavish entertainment. Today the castle ruin provides a relaxed, romantic day out for...
Bratton Camp and White Horse
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Bratton Camp and White Horse
The original Iron Age hillfort defences were built at Bratton Camp over 2000 years ago. These earthworks protected a settlement containing round houses, granaries, stores and workshops.  The design and construction showed the effectiveness of the hillfort to its enemies. The site was excavated in the 18th century. However, three thousand...
Dyrham Park
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Dyrham Park
Dyrham Park has plenty for a family to see and do. The mansion is stunning and full of collections of paintings, ceramics and decorative art such as taspestries. Your young explorers have the Old Lodge picnic and play area to run free in, plus nature trails to take part in. This area also has a straw maze, an allotment plus rustic play equipment...
Please find all castles and Stately homes, ancient abbeys and cathedrals in the Somerset area, if your looking  for a great day out at lush tree and flowered gardens and take in the sights of wonderful buildings and castles. These historic buildings also are steeped in rich history and visits to these buildings are extremely educational and informative.
If you cannot find what historical place you like by county level here, please use the search box for more detailed searches choosing 'historical'.