Taunton’s ideal location and identity as county town of Somerset makes it perfect for exploring the wider area of Taunton Deane - everywhere from the cattle-grazed meadows of the Somerset Levels to the windswept heights of the Quantock Hills and striking Blackdowns. It also boasts an impressive cultural offering, ranging from museums and ancient monuments like the ancient Taunton Castle to contemporary centres like the Brewhouse Theatre & Arts Centre.
Explore the Museum of Somerset, based at the 12th-century Taunton Castle, and follow Somerset’s history from prehistoric times to the present day. Stunning Perpendicular Gothic style architecture can be found soaring 163 feet above Taunton at the historic St Mary Magdalene Church, while Hestercombe Gardens are a paradise for nature lovers with fifty acres of enchanting gardens, stunning terraces, lakes and cascades.
Taunton’s town centre is a mecca for shopping, with well-known high street brands and a brilliant selection of eateries and bars, as well as pubs serving locally-sourced food and drink. Take the Taunton Heritage Trail’s self-guided tour around the town’s historical sites to ensure you don’t miss a thing. Featured in the trail you’ll find Bath Place, a picturesque narrow street with 19th-century shop fronts now brimming with independent retailers and cafés. At the top of the high street proudly sits the Victorian-designed Vivary Park, home to the annual Taunton Flower Show, proudly described as the ‘The Chelsea of the West’.
Taunton’s world-class sporting scene doesn’t disappoint. Catch a lively cricket match at The Cooper Associates County Ground or visit the Somerset Cricket Museum to explore the game’s fascinating history. Soak up a thrilling atmosphere at the Taunton Races or attend one of the racecourse’s brilliant events throughout the year, ranging from rural shows to concerts and circuses.
For a quieter affair, the tranquility of Trull meadows and waterfall make them the perfect spot for a picnic or follow the towpath of the Bridgwater and Taunton Canal for a picturesque cycle ride.
Now based in the western wing of the landmark Market House, the Taunton Visitor Centre is the place to go to make the most of your time in Taunton. The county town has plenty to offer from individual boutiques to historic architecture, modern dining to traditional tea rooms and unspoilt views to the Blackdown Hills and Quantock Hills (both Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty). Taunton offers a wide mix of activities, attractions and events - we can’t wait to help you plan the perfect trip!
Services offered:
The Taunton Visitor Centre holds information on many wide and varied things to do within Taunton and the surrounding areas. Now a part of the bustling town centre mix, we welcome over 100,000 visitors and local residents through our doors each year.
The Visitor Centre Box Office offers tickets for most local and regional events taking place, including the hugely popular Taunton Flower Show. We are a box office for the Brewhouse Theatre and Tacchi-Morris Arts Centre in Taunton and the Playhouse Theatre in Weston-super-Mare. If you're looking for that special "experience" gift then give the gift of theatre with our Theatre Tokens Gift Cards.
The Travel Centre acts as an agent for Bakers Dolphin, Berry’s Coaches, Falcon bus service, Holiday Extras and National Express. As well as the booking service we offer friendly advice for local transport, parking and accommodation to make your trip stress-free.
We also offer multiple advertising and marketing opportunities to local businesses, events organisers, charities and more.
Souvenirs and Publications:
The Visitor Centre shop is bursting with products that will help you take home a taste of Taunton, including locally produced biscuits and preserves, hand-crafted cards and a variety of colourful souvenirs. We also stock a large range of local maps, guides and books to help you truly discover Taunton and the surrounding areas.