Market Towns
The heart of Somerset's rural life
Market Towns are a traditional part of many rural Counties in England. Somerset is no different in that it too has many unique and historic towns that provide a real focal point for local communities.
The market towns below offer a whole range of entertainment, shops, markets, services and facilities, as well museums, attractions and somehwere to simply enjoy mooching around.
Discover our market towns...
Shepton Mallet
Nestling in a fold of the Mendip Hills, the historic town of Shepton Mallet dates back to Roman times. The Fosseway (now A37) passes through the town, and there have been many significant archaeological finds here.
Crewkerne
Crewkerne is an attractive market town with many fine buildings; shops and a striking 15th-century church made from the locally quarried honey coloured ham stone.
Taunton
The county town of Somerset, Taunton is a thriving, forward-looking town where modern life sits alongside relics of its dramatic past dating back to Saxon times.
Axbridge
Axbridge is a charming market town at the foot of the beautiful Mendip Hills, near to Cheddar, with a character all of its own. Once part of a Saxon defence system against the Viking invaders, its history goes back to King Alfred's time.
Castle Cary
Castle Cary is one of the most attractive of Somerset's market towns. Tucked away in a seculded spot a few miles off the A303, the golden stone of Castle Cary and Ansford exudes a warm glow complemented by its glorious setting.
Yeovil
Yeovil has been a traditional market town for centuries. Nowadays its bustling streets are lined with a mix of conventional high street stores and independent retailers, selling everything from crafts and clothes to pottery and food.
Bridgwater
Bridgwater is a lively town with a rich history going back over 1,000 years based on its strategic location as the lowest bridging point on the River Parrett.
