Holiday homes & rentals in Somerset

Somerset, located in the West Country, is one of England's loveliest counties. Home to two historic cities, Bath and Wells, as well as many quaint towns and villages, this picturesque landscape is a place where you can discover history, get into the outdoors, and enjoy an atmosphere that is unique to this part of the world. It must be the best place in rural England to devour rich cheddar cheese and drink crisp apple cider while enjoying magnificent countryside views.

To explore the gastronomic, cultural, and natural attractions of this magnificent county, take your pick of the region’s typical dwellings for your accommodation, such as stone lodges or charming holiday cottage with thatched roofs. A Somerset holiday cottage is perfect for a peaceful getaway or family holiday.

How to get to Somerset

There are several representative urban centres that make for a good base to explore Somerset. Bath, the county's largest city, boasts a well-preserved network of Roman baths, Britain’s only natural thermal spa, and an impressive Medieval abbey. Alternatively, the picturesque towns of Glastonbury and Frome are also conveniently located close to Somerset attractions. And getting to these urban Somerset hubs is easy enough.

A quick train, direct train journey of about 90min brings you from London to Bath. From Bristol to Bath, you only have to travel for 15min. There are many other UK cities from which you can reach Bath in less than 2 hours, such as Oxford and Exeter. Depending on your city of departure, you may have to change trains once, but there are also many direct trains. If you're travelling deeper into Somerset trains from Bath service many nearby towns such as Glastonbury, Frome, Taunton, Yeovil, and Bridgwater.

If you prefer to fly to Somerset, there are many direct flights from UK airports to Bristol Airport. From Bristol Airport, you can reach most Somerset locations in about 60min. Train tickets from the airport to major cities like Frome or Taunton are available for a reasonable price. With such accessible transport links and an array of sights and activities to please everyone, it’s little wonder that Somerset’s historic cities and scenic villages rank so highly on the list of most prized UK holiday destinations.

Weather in Somerset

Somerset is a lush and green county, but there is a cost to pay for this loveliness, and that is the rain. While far from excessive, it does receive above average amounts of wet weather compared to the rest of England, so make sure you pack some waterproof clothing for your stay at your Somerset holiday home.

That’s not to say you won’t have nice weather during your stay - winter occasionally brings snow, but your Somerset holiday cottage will feel cosy all year round. Spring and summer also bring plenty of warm, sunny days to help you explore this great region.

What to do in Somerset

Booking a Somerset holiday cottage is a great place to start, so you can explore all of Somerset's cities, villages and natural beauty at your own pace. One of the best places to visit is Bath, the county’s biggest city and one of the UK’s most important historic sites.

A highlight of this UNESCO World Heritage city are the Roman Baths, which were founded in the first century A.D. and feature a stunning surrounding building, one of the most impressive in England, which was added around 200 years ago. Another must visit during your trip is Bath Abbey, England’s largest Gothic cathedral, which was founded in 1499. The Royal Crescent, a row of terraced houses, and the adjacent Royal Victoria Park also showcase the sophisticated atmosphere of Georgian Bath.

Somerset’s other city, Wells, is the smallest city in England. As it’s so small, you won’t need too long to see the highlights, which are the Wells Cathedral, which was built from the 12th-14th century, and Bishop’s Palace, which has been called home by local bishops for more than 800 years - and continues to be so to this day. Finally, make sure you go for a stroll along Vicar’s Close, Europe’s oldest residential street, which dates back to 1348.

Somerset is well known for its outdoor beauty, and nowhere is that felt more keenly that at Exmoor National Park. This large area is a joy to explore; go for a walk or a drive and you might come across rivers, waterfalls, woodlands, and deep valleys. The Exmoor Pony and wild red deer complete the spectacle of this enchanting region. There are more than 1000km of hiking trails, ranging from short strolls to long treks, so grab a map, strap on your walking boots, and head out for a day on the moors.

Wildlife for the whole family to enjoy in Somerset

Kids will love their stay in your Somerset holiday cottage just as much as you will. On rainy days, take them to the SeaQuarium situated on the sandy shores of Weston-super-Mare, which is home to a colourful array of fish species from around the world.

If they want to get a little more hands-on with wildlife, then Exmoor Falconry and Animal Park will do the trick. Here they can handle parrots and owls, as well as small furry animals and alpacas. Special events involving hawks and falcons are also a highlight. Wrap up with a trip to the North Somerset Butterfly House, a great attraction full of butterflies and plants from around the world, as well as a creepy crawly section that the kids will love.

Attractions in Somerset: Layer upon layer of rich history

Wells Cathedral

Located in Wells’s medieval centre, this beautiful Gothic cathedral offers free daily scheduled tours.

Bath Abbey

As one of South West England’s most visited attractions, Bath Abbey boasts fabulous architecture and a fascinating history.

West Somerset Railway

More than 22 miles of railway line make the West Somerset Railway England’s longest heritage railway. A rover ticket buys you unlimited travel, and there are special days out with cream teas and dining.

Glastonbury Tor

With deep connections to local legend, paganism, and Christianity, Glastonbury Tor is a celebrated spiritual site. Rising out from the Summerland Meadows, the Tor is a place of mystery and beauty.

Fleet Air Arm Museum

Home to Europe’s largest naval aviation exhibit, this collection spans the history of the Royal Navy, from 1909 to today. Visit to see its military aircraft displays and join one of its tours.

Frequently Asked Questions