Bruton

This small and ancient town clings to a hill above the valley with the river Brue running through it.  With its narrow main street and crowded together buildings the town is protected from development by its geography.  Narrow medieval alleys called Bartons lead down from the High Street to Lower Backway running beside the river.  Unusual street names include Quaperlake Street and Plox.   

Sexey’s Hospital in the High Street was built in 1638 and consists of a chapel, hall and almshouses around a quadrangle with a beautiful view down to the river.  The quadrangle and chapel are open to the public.  An ancient bridge, a school first endowed in 1519, an imposing parish church and a dovecote high on a hill are only some of the other features which pack this little town with interest and make it a “must see”.  

Must See and Do

1. Learn about writer John Steinbeck's time here at Bruton Museum
2. Enjoy a walk to the Dovecote for a different view of the town
3. See anncient almshoussses at Sexey's Hospital
4. Play pooh sticks from the packhorse bridge
5. Look for the two hundred year old patwell pump
6. Get active at Mill on the Brue Activity Centre
7. Explore the Bartons - narrow medieval alleys off the
8. Find 1,000 years of milling history and a garden at Gants Mill

Local Facilities

• Museum
• Petrol Station
• Pharmacy
• Post Office
• Pubs and Restaurants
• Range of small shops