Castle Cary

Castle Cary is a vibrant market town with a beautiful winding main street of thatched cottages built of the local golden ham stone.

On Bailey Hill, in the heart of the town you will see the 18th-century 'pepper pot' lock-up, one of only four in the country and the Possi Gallery which hosts an excellent programme of art exhibitions.

The museum in the Market House has a display on diarist Parson Woodforde who lived at neighbouring Ansford; downstairs is a restored cell and the very useful local information centre.

Horse hair weaving became big business in Cary in the 19th century and today John Boyd Textiles, just out of town, is the only horse hair manufacturer in the UK. The King of Norway bought quantities of damasks from here for his Royal Palace in Oslo. (Viewing is by appointment only).

Nearby attractions include Hadspen House gardens, golf and the world famous Haynes Motor Museum at Sparkford.

The town is noted for its high quality shops - grocers, outfitters, ironmongers, books, antiques and local produce. There are several inns in the town, wonderful restaurants and tearooms making it perfect destination for a relaxing country break.