Shepton Mallet is a historic town on the fringe of the Mendip Hills that provides easy access to some of Somerset’s top tourist attractions. Cheddar Gorge, Wookey Hole, Glastonbury Abbey, and Wells Cathedral are all within reach for day trips, but the town itself has much for the visitor to discover. Also within relatively easy reach from this part of the West Country is the impressive city of Bath which is less than 20 miles away. Whether you have in mind a relaxed self-catering break or an action packed getaway, enjoy reading more about what this part of Somerset has to offer for cottage holidays.
Close to the River Sheppey, the town has historically been a centre for sheep farming and also for the silk and wool industries, with the river supplying the energy source for mills springing up on its banks. Brewing also played a major part in Shepton Mallet’s development and still does today, the town being the base for Gaymers the English cider-maker that has its Babysham trademark fawn proudly standing outside the factory. The imposing building that once housed the Anglo Bavarian Brewery, the first brewers in the country producing lager, still dominates the skyline. We trust that you find our information on this part of the West Country helpful. For more local knowledge, hints and tips we recommend that you visit the town’s Tourist Information Centre on arrival which is situated on the High Street. Pick up free leaflets and get friendly advice from the staff there.
With its past so steeped in history it is not surprising that Shepton Mallet has become a centre for the antiques industry. Scores of antique and bric-a-brac shops have opened in the town that also hosts a large flea market and a number of antique fairs. Add to this Shepton Mallet’s 218 listed buildings and its warren of narrow streets and you have a true haven for people interested in all things historic or antiquated to discover on a cottage holiday.
Away from the town and up on the hills is a haven for all those who have a love of the countryside, wildlife and nature. The Mendip Hills are an area of outstanding natural beauty providing beautiful landscapes and stunning views. Walking, cycling, abseiling and horse riding all are popular pastimes of the Mendips.
One great way of seeing the Mendips whilst on a self-catering break is to take a leisurely trip on the East Somerset Railway. A round trip of 10 miles from East Cranmore, near Shepton Mallet to Mendip Vale takes in some wonderful sites as the train pulled by vintage steam locomotives chug by. The company also offers special themed excursions for adults and children as well as its scheduled services. On certain Sundays you can enjoy a traditional 3-course lunch in the first class dining carriages of the Mendip Belle.
All in all this is a fantastic part of the West Country for a self-catering break. Choices include romantic cottages, pet-friendly properties, large country houses and rural country cottages. Whatever your requirements, we hope you find the best accommodation to meet your needs in or near Shepton Mallet.
Information on Cottage Holidays in Shepton Mallet
Whether you choose to book a holiday cottage in Shepton Mallet, an apartment, a lodge or another type of self-catering holiday accommodation, we hope you have your best holiday yet in Somerset.
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