Top-rated services and premium providers in Somerset
Deep dive into local facts, traffic, jobs, and lifestyle data visualizations.
Somerset is a historic county in South West England, known for its rolling green hills, dramatic coastlines, and rich cultural heritage. The area has been inhabited since Paleolithic times, with evidence of ancient settlements such as the Glastonbury Lake Village and the Neolithic sites on the Mendip Hills. The Roman invasion left a lasting mark, with Bath becoming a major spa town around the natural hot springs. The Anglo-Saxon period saw the rise of the Kingdom of Wessex, and Alfred the Great began his fight against the Vikings from the marshes of Athelney.
Medieval Somerset flourished through the wool trade, which built many of the grand churches and manor houses seen today. The county played a role in the English Civil War, with sieges at Taunton and Bridgwater. In the 18th and 19th centuries, canals and railways transformed the economy, enabling the export of Somerset's famed cider, cheese, and coal from the Somerset Coalfield. Today, Somerset embraces a blend of tradition and modernity, with a thriving creative scene, festivals, and a strong focus on sustainable agriculture and tourism.
Modern Somerset is celebrated for its distinct identity: a slower pace of life, strong community spirit, and pride in local produce. The county hosts numerous festivals, from the Glastonbury Festival (held at Worthy Farm in Pilton) to the Bath Literature Festival. Somerset's culture is also defined by its contribution to the arts—many writers, painters, and musicians have been inspired by its landscapes. The county is also a hub for alternative and spiritual communities, particularly around Glastonbury.
Somerset is full of fascinating records and quirks that set it apart from other UK counties. From its unique geology to its cultural contributions, the county is a treasure trove of interesting facts. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a lifelong resident, there's always something new to discover about this beautiful region.
Did you know that Somerset has the highest number of Methodist churches per capita in England? Or that the Cheddar cheese we know today was first developed in Somerset caves? The county is also home to the oldest complete fossil of a human found in Britain, the Cheddar Man, who lived around 10,000 years ago. Here are more surprising facts.
Somerset is located in South West England, bordered by the Bristol Channel to the north, Gloucestershire to the northeast, Wiltshire to the east, Dorset to the southeast, and Devon to the west. The county's landscape is incredibly varied, ranging from the flat, marshy Somerset Levels to the rolling Mendip Hills, the steep cliffs of Exmoor, and the sandy beaches of the coast. The highest point is Dunkery Beacon on Exmoor, at 519 metres (1,703 feet).
The climate is temperate, with mild winters and warm summers, heavily influenced by the Gulf Stream. Rainfall is moderate but higher on Exmoor and the Quantock Hills. Average summer temperatures range from 16°C to 22°C, while winter temperatures rarely drop below freezing for long. Snowfall is infrequent in lowland areas but common on higher ground. The county is also prone to flooding on the Levels, leading to innovative flood management schemes.
Somerset offers a wealth of activities for all types of travellers. History buffs can explore ancient sites and stately homes, foodies can sample farm-to-table produce, and nature lovers can hike through national parks and along the coast. The county is also known for its family-friendly attractions, from theme parks to enchanting caves.
Somerset is a food lover's paradise, renowned for its Cheddar cheese, apple cider (and other ciders), and traditional cream teas. The county has a strong farm-to-table ethos, with farmers' markets held weekly in many towns. Local specialities include Somerset bangers (sausages), Bath chaps, and that famous regional cheese. Many restaurants and gastropubs emphasise local ingredients, often from within the county's borders.
The city of Bath and the county town Taunton have the highest concentration of fine dining restaurants, while smaller villages offer charming pubs serving classic British fare. Cideries like Thatchers and Sheppy's offer tours and tastings. The Somerset Food Trail guides visitors to producers across the county. Don't miss the chance to try a real Somerset cream tea: warm scones, clotted cream, strawberry jam, and a pot of tea.
Somerset's festival calendar is packed throughout the year, from the world-famous Glastonbury Festival to smaller, community-driven events. The county's festival scene covers music, literature, arts, food, and spirituality. Many events take advantage of the outdoors, from spring flower shows to autumnal cider celebrations.
The largest event is the Glastonbury Festival of Contemporary Performing Arts, held annually at Worthy Farm in Pilton (unless fallow years). Other major events include the Bath Literature Festival, the Frome Festival, and the Somerset Carnivals (the largest illuminated carnival procession in the UK). The Glastonbury Extravaganza and the Wells Artisan Market attract visitors year-round.
Somerset's cultural attractions range from ancient sites to contemporary arts centres. The county boasts five museums designated as 'nationally significant' by Arts Council England. Historic houses, galleries, and performance venues offer something for every interest. Bath's Roman Baths and Pump Room are iconic, while Wells Cathedral is one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in England.
Modern cultural spaces include the Brewhouse Theatre in Taunton, the Somerset Rural Life Museum, and the Fashion Museum in Bath. Street Theatre and the Glastonbury Assembly Rooms host various performances. The county also has a thriving crafts scene, with pottery studios, glassblowers, and jewellery makers open to visitors.
Somerset is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts. The Quantock Hills, Mendip Hills, Exmoor National Park, and the coast provide endless opportunities for walking, cycling, horse riding, water sports, and wildlife watching. The county also has several long-distance trails, such as the Coleridge Way, the West Mendip Way, and the Liberty Trail.
Cyclists enjoy quiet country lanes and off-road routes like the Strawberry Line (a disused railway path). Exmoor offers wild pony spotting and star gazing (Exmoor is an International Dark Sky Reserve). The Somerset Coast has beaches at Brean, Minehead, and the quieter Porlock Bay. Wookey Hole and Cheddar Gorge are prime spots for caving and climbing.
Somerset's economy is diverse, with strengths in advanced manufacturing, nuclear energy, agriculture/food production, tourism, and the creative industries. The county's gross value added (GVA) was estimated at over £16 billion in 2019. Major employers include the Hinkley Point C nuclear construction (which has boosted the local economy significantly), aerospace firms (like Leonardo Helicopters in Yeovil), and the public sector (health, education, councils).
Agriculture remains important, particularly dairy farming, cider apple orchards, and arable crops. Somerset is renowned for its quality produce, from cheese and cider to potatoes and vegetables. Tourism contributes over £1.6 billion annually, with attractions such as Bath, Glastonbury, Cheddar Gorge, and Exmoor drawing millions of visitors. The county also has a growing digital and tech sector, especially around Bath and Taunton.
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) form the backbone of the economy, with many family-run farms and independent shops. The creative and cultural industries are significant, with Bath as a UNESCO Creative City of Literature. The University of Bath and other higher education institutions also provide economic spin-offs in research and innovation.
Somerset offers a range of living environments, from vibrant cities like Bath to peaceful villages and coastal towns. Bath is a UNESCO World Heritage city with a strong cultural scene, excellent schools, and good transport links to London and Bristol. House prices are high, but the quality of life is exceptional. Taunton, the county town, is more affordable and has good amenities, including a redeveloped town centre and easy access to the M5 and railway.
For those seeking a rural idyll, villages such as Sandford, Wedmore, and Wrington offer quintessential English countryside living, often with a strong community focus. The coast at Minehead, Burnham-on-Sea, and Weston-super-Mare (in North Somerset) provide seaside living with more affordable property. Glastonbury and Wells appeal to those looking for alternative lifestyles and spiritual communities.
Families often choose areas with good schools, such as the Bath and North East Somerset catchment area, or places like Chew Magna and Keynsham. Commuters to Bristol or London favour towns with railway stations, like Bath, Frome, and Weston-super-Mare. The county is generally considered safe, with a strong sense of community and stunning natural surroundings.
As part of the United Kingdom, Somerset follows UK national immigration rules. Non-UK nationals will need a valid visa or settled status to enter, work, or study in the UK. Visitors from many countries can stay for up to 6 months without a visa (visa-waiver). However, since Brexit, EU/EEA citizens need to follow the same rules as other non-UK nationals, but those with EU Settled Status can continue living and working without additional permits.
For longer stays, such as work or study, applicants must obtain the appropriate visa before arriving. Common visa types include the Skilled Worker visa, the Student visa, the Youth Mobility Scheme (for certain countries aged 18-30), and the Family visa. The UK also has a Global Talent visa for leaders in academia, arts, and technology. The application process is mainly online, with biometrics often required at a visa application centre (local centres may be in Bristol or London).
Once in Somerset, residents must register with a GP, open a bank account, and obtain a National Insurance number (if working). Healthcare is provided through the NHS, which is tax-funded. New arrivals should be aware of integration services, such as English language classes and community welcome groups, available in larger towns.
Employment in Somerset is varied, with opportunities in aerospace, healthcare, education, retail, construction (especially linked to Hinkley Point C), and tourism. The region has a lower average salary than London but also lower living costs. The job market is relatively competitive in professional fields, though there is demand for skilled trades, engineers, and health professionals.
The working culture in Somerset mirrors typical British practices: a 37-40 hour week, 28 days paid annual leave (including bank holidays), and workplace pensions auto-enrolment. Many companies offer flexible or remote working, though rural areas may have slower broadband. Professional networking groups exist in Bath, Taunton, and Frome.
Self-employment is common in the creative and farming sectors. Startups are growing in Bath's digital sector. The job market for seasonal work (tourism, agriculture) is robust. To find a job, use national websites like Indeed, LinkedIn, and local recruitment agencies. The Somerset Chamber of Commerce provides business support and networking.
Somerset is an excellent place to study, with world-class institutions and a supportive environment. The University of Bath is consistently ranked among the top universities in the UK, known for engineering, sciences, and business. Bath Spa University focuses on creative arts, education, and environmental sciences. Both have beautiful campuses within easy reach of the city and countryside.
Further education colleges include Somerset College in Taunton, Bridgwater and Taunton College (BTC), and Yeovil College, offering vocational courses and A-levels. The county also has outstanding state and private schools for primary and secondary education. Many families move to Somerset specifically for the quality of schools, such as those in the Bath and North East Somerset area, or private schools like King's School Bruton and Millfield School.
Student life in Somerset is vibrant but balanced—smaller towns offer a more intimate community, while Bath provides a bustling city experience with plenty of nightlife, arts, and culture. Living costs for students are lower than in London but have been rising. Many students find part-time work in hospitality or retail to support themselves.
Banking in Somerset is well-served by the major UK high street banks: Barclays, Lloyds, NatWest, HSBC, and Santander have branches in larger towns and cities. However, many bank branches have closed in rural areas, with online and mobile banking now dominant. For newcomers, opening a UK bank account requires proof of identity and address (passport and utility bill or bank statement). Digital-only banks like Monzo, Starling, and Revolut are popular for their ease of setup and budgeting features.
Most people use contactless debit cards and mobile payments extensively. Credit cards are available but interest rates can be high. For international transfers, services like Wise, TransferWise (now Wise), and PayPal are common. Tax for residents is handled via PAYE for employees, while self-employed file Self Assessment with HMRC. Financial advisors are available for investments and mortgages.
Somerset is served by the National Health Service (NHS), providing free healthcare at the point of use for UK residents. To access the NHS, you must register with a local GP (General Practitioner) surgery. Hospitals include the Royal United Hospital in Bath, Musgrove Park Hospital in Taunton, Yeovil District Hospital, and Weston General Hospital (North Somerset). Walk-in centres and minor injury units exist in some towns.
Emergency care (A&E) is available at major hospitals. For non-urgent advice, call NHS 111 or use online services. Dental care under the NHS is limited; many practices are not taking new NHS patients, so private dental care is common. Pharmacies can treat minor conditions. The NHS is funded through taxation and National Insurance, but some services (prescriptions, dental charges) have small fees unless exempt.
Accommodation options in Somerset range from city apartments and suburban houses to rural cottages and coastal homes. The housing market is most expensive in Bath (average house price around £500,000+), while other areas like Taunton, Bridgwater, and Yeovil are more affordable (average prices £200,000-£350,000). Rental prices also vary: a one-bed flat in Bath can cost £900-1,200 per month, while in Taunton it may be £600-800.
For those moving to the area, it's wise to rent first before buying to understand the region. Popular property portals include Rightmove, Zoopla, and OnTheMarket. The county also has a market for holiday lets and second homes, especially near Exmoor and the coast. Social housing is available through local councils. Tenants typically pay a deposit of 5 weeks' rent and sign an assured shorthold tenancy (AST).
Relocating to Somerset requires careful planning, especially if moving from abroad. Key steps include securing a visa (if needed), booking a removal service (or shipping belongings), setting up a bank account, arranging health insurance (temporary before NHS registration), and finding accommodation. It's advisable to visit Somerset first to choose a location based on work, schools, and lifestyle.
Once settled, update your address with government agencies (DVLA for driving licence, council tax, electoral roll), register with a GP, and explore local amenities. The county has good transport links with the M5 motorway (junction 20-25) and mainline railway stations (Bath Spa, Taunton, Bridgwater, Weston-super-Mare) connecting to London Paddington (from Bath 1.5 hours, from Taunton 2 hours).
Leisure time in Somerset is well catered for, with excellent shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Bath is the primary destination for culture: the Theatre Royal, cinemas (Odeon, Everyman), and shopping streets filled with independent boutiques and high-street brands (SouthGate). Taunton offers the County Ground cricket, Brewhouse Theatre, and the Vivary Park. Glastonbury and Wells have more alternative shops, crystal stores, and bookshops.
Nightlife is varied: Bath has cocktail bars, clubs (like Sub13), and wine bars. Taunton has a lively pub scene and a few clubs. Smaller towns have quiet pubs with live music. For outdoor leisure, there are many parks and countryside spaces: Bath's Royal Victoria Park, Taunton's Vivary Park, and the Somerset Wetlands offer pleasant walks.
Somerset has a comprehensive transport network, though rural areas require a car for convenience. The M5 motorway runs north-south, linking the county to Bristol, Exeter, and the Midlands. The main arterial roads include the A303 (to London), A38, and A39. Bath is connected to London via the M4 from Bristol.
Rail services are frequent on the Great Western mainline from London Paddington to Bath Spa (1.5 hours), and onward to Chippenham, Swindon, Bristol, and Taunton (2 hours from London). Local trains run from Bristol to Weston-super-Mare, Taunton, Yeovil, and through
Essential information and unique highlights about the city at a glance.
We'll get back to you as soon as possible.
Your enquiry has been submitted. We'll be in touch shortly.
Verified