Home / Somerset Food and Drink

Somerset Food and Drink

Somerset, literally translated means 'Land of the Summer People' and it is a county, which has been famous for centuries for its fruits of the land.

Somerset is the home of Cheddar Cheese, you can still see it being made today in Cheddar Gorge near the Mendip Hills. The Mendip Hills are also the home of the ancient city of Wells and just six miles away lies the mysterious Glastonbury, burial place of King Arthur.

Somerset apple orchards grow in abundance producing a drink, which gives you a real taste of the West Country - cider! From the tiny orchards making farmhouse 'scrumpy' (a very potent local brew) to the large commercial operations producing a smooth refined drink which is increasing in popularity throughout the U.K. and overseas - there has always been a strong association between Somerset and apples! There is even an Apple Brandy produced in the county called Somerset Royal which further strengthens this link. Many of the orchards are attractions in their own right so make a little time to explore.

A recent initiative in Somerset is the Levels Best project - the brand for high quality food and drink produced within the unique landscape of the Somerset Levels and Moors. See website for more details - www.levelsbest.co.uk.

Some are surprised to learn that Somerset has several vineyards - they may be small, but these present day vineyards are winning national and international acclaim.

Whilst travelling through the beautiful varied Somerset landscape, it's hard to resist a West Country Cream Tea - home-baked scones, farmhouse clotted cream and local jam are the perfect accompaniment to a refreshing pot of tea (forget the calories for a while and enjoy the fayre!). You will only find Somerset 'Whortleberries' on the Quantock Hills and Exmoor (of 'Lorna Doone' fame), this is a delicate and delicious berry used in local recipes to create a truly distinctive flavour of Somerset.

Farmers Markets are a wonderful way to buy local produce - direct from the supplier! These markets are held at various towns throughout Somerset.

A useful link to further general information about Food and Drink in Somerset, visit our Somerset Food and Drink website

Somerset Food Links - www.foodlinks.org.uk

Somerset Farmers Markets - www.somersetfarmersmarkets.co.uk

Levels Best - www.levelsbest.co.uk