Things To Do
in Taunton

Taunton is a historic market town located in Somerset, England, known for its rich heritage and picturesque scenery. It serves as the county town and boasts a blend of modern amenities and historical landmarks. The town is characterized by its charming streets, vibrant parks, and access to stunning countryside views.

Taunton is also a cultural hub with various events and festivals throughout the year.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Historic Taunton
morning
:

Start your day at the Museum of Somerset, which showcases the history of the region, followed by a stroll through the beautiful Vivary Park.

afternoon
:

Visit Taunton Castle and enjoy lunch at a local café before exploring the quaint shops in the town center.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional pub and take an evening walk along the River Tone.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin with a hike in the nearby Quantock Hills, enjoying the breathtaking landscapes and wildlife.

afternoon
:

Head back to Taunton for a visit to the Brewhouse Theatre for a matinee performance and lunch at a nearby bistro.

evening
:

Wrap up your trip with a visit to a local brewery for tastings and a relaxed dinner.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a restaurant$15
Coffee$3
🚆Local bus fare$2
🏨Hotel per night$100
🍺Pint of beer$6

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich historical and cultural heritage.
  • Beautiful parks and outdoor spaces.
  • Friendly locals and welcoming atmosphere.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Weather can be unpredictable, especially in winter.
  • Some attractions may have limited opening hours.

Places to Visit in Taunton

Visit one of these nice places.

Taunton Castle

A stunning medieval castle providing great views and historic architecture.

Vivary Park

A picturesque park with beautiful gardens, perfect for nature photography.

The River Tone

Capture scenic views along the river, particularly at sunset.

Culinary Guide

Food in Taunton

Taunton offers a delightful culinary scene with a mix of traditional and contemporary dishes that reflect the region's agricultural heritage.

Taunton Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Somerset Cider

A refreshing alcoholic beverage made from fermented apple juice, a must-try when in Somerset.

Must-Try!

Cream Tea

A traditional afternoon tea service featuring scones, clotted cream, and jam.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Taunton Farmers' Market

Held every Thursday, this market showcases local produce, meats, and artisan foods.

Street Food at Somerset House

A vibrant spot offering various street food vendors during special events.

Climate Guide

Weather

Taunton experiences a temperate maritime climate characterized by mild winters and warm summers. Average temperatures range from 3°C (37°F) in January to 22°C (72°F) in July. Rainfall is spread throughout the year, with the wettest months typically being October and November.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Queuing

Always form an orderly queue when waiting for services.

Polite Greetings

A simple 'please' and 'thank you' goes a long way in conversations.

Respect for Privacy

People value their personal space, so maintain a respectful distance.

Safety Guide

Safety

Taunton is generally a safe town, with low crime rates. However, like any place, it's wise to stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 999, and hospitals are easily accessible.

Tipping in Taunton

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

A tip of around 10-15% is customary in restaurants if service is not included.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and contactless payments are common.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather with blooming flowers, making it ideal for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm temperatures with longer days are perfect for festivals and outdoor dining.

Autumn

Cooler weather with beautiful fall foliage; great for hiking and enjoying local harvest festivals.

Winter

Chilly and sometimes wet; the town is beautifully decorated for the holidays.

Nightlife Guide

Taunton at Night

Taunton's nightlife is lively yet relaxed, with a variety of pubs, bars, and a few nightclubs. Popular spots include traditional pubs with live music and modern cocktail bars. The Brewhouse Theatre also offers evening shows, making it a cultural hub after dark.

Hiking in Taunton

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Coleridge Way

A scenic long-distance trail offering stunning views of the Quantock Hills, perfect for hiking enthusiasts.

Blackdown Hills

A network of trails through rolling hills and woodlands, ideal for both casual walks and more challenging hikes.

Airports

How to reach Taunton by plane.

Exeter International Airport

Located approximately 30 miles from Taunton, this airport offers flights to various domestic and international destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Taunton is highly walkable, with most attractions, shops, and restaurants located within a compact town center. Pedestrian-friendly streets and pathways make exploring the town easy and enjoyable. Public parks and riverside walks add to the appeal of walking around Taunton.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Professionals

A growing number of young professionals are moving to Taunton for its work opportunities and quality of life.

Retirees

Taunton is popular with retirees due to its pleasant environment and access to healthcare.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cricket

A popular sport in Taunton, with the county cricket team playing at The County Ground.

Rugby

Rugby is also well-loved, with local clubs hosting matches and community events.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Taunton can be busy during peak hours, but the town is manageable for driving and parking. Public transportation includes buses and trains, with regular services connecting to nearby cities. The town center is easily navigable on foot, reducing the need for driving in the area.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Taunton.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Most restaurants in Taunton offer vegetarian and vegan dishes; just ask the staff for recommendations.

Gluten-Free Choices

Many establishments provide gluten-free options; be sure to inform your server of any allergies.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Taunton is generally good, with several local clinics and the Musgrove Park Hospital providing comprehensive services. Emergency care is available through the hospital, and general practitioners (GPs) can be found throughout the town for routine medical needs.

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