Local Attractions
Animal Attractions
World Horse Welfare Glenda Spooner Farm - Learn about the work of World Horse Welfare and the rehabilitation programme. The farm sits in 220 acres of unspoilt countryside and there are many opportunities to spot wildlife around the lake. Admire the amazing views. Walk the paddock trail and meet the ponies; then enjoy a warm cuppa in the Café.
Open Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday 11:00- 16:00
Contact: 01963 841442
Ferne Animal Sanctuary - set within 72 acres of beautiful & protected countryside, in the Blackdown Hills on the Devon/Somerset border.
Ferne was set up through the foresight of a local lady – the late Nina, Duchess of Hamilton & Brandon – who realised that men and women going off to war had no one to take care of their animals so would require a temporary refuge for them. The Duchess put a call out on the BBC and legend has it that when she returned to her London home there were a number of cats and dogs on her doorstep and also a parrot! The need for caring and re-homing animals continues at Ferne. There are over 300 resident animals to see. Visitor Centre and Café.
Open Thursday - Monday 10.00-16.00 (April- October)
Contact: 01460 65214
Museums
Fleet air Arm Museum - Experience the thrills and sounds of a working flight deck and even see a nuclear bomb! You can go on-board the first British built Concorde and see the largest collection of Naval aircraft anywhere in Europe. Restaurant, shop, adventure playground. Excellent disabled facilities. Ample free parking.
NEW! - Thrilling new family-friendly Carrier Experience invites visitors to immerse themselves in the complex combination of skill, technology and teamwork that powers the airfields of the sea. Using the best of digital technology with a scale of a carrier flight deck, visitors will be transported through 100 years of this unique aviation history, from the pioneering years of the First World War all the way through to the modern HMS Queen Elizabeth carriers.
Groups booking must be made in advance. Check website for latest opening times. Save money by booking online in advance. Family tickets available.
Contact: 01935 840565
Haynes Motor Museum - Explore the UK's largest collection of cars and motorbikes from around the world. This Multi-Award winning museum is packed with over 400 beautiful and historic supercars. Visit the website for a full list of vehicles on display.
The Museum has lots for the whole family, from their interactive paint-a-mini to their outdoor motor-inspiring play area. Gift shop and café.
Save money by booking in advance; visit their website.
Check their website for current opening times.
Contact: 01963 440804
Gardens & Historic Houses
Barrington Court (National Trust) - offers an atmospheric fragment of old Somerset: an empty Tudor manor house, beautifully restored in the 1920s, with farm buildings, abundant flowers and orchards. Gift shop. Café and Restaurant. Check website for current opening times and admission prices.
Website
Lytes Cary Manor (National Trust) - an intimate medieval manor house with a beautiful Arts and Crafts garden where you can imagine living. Originally the family home of Henry Lyte, where he translated the unique Niewe Herball book on herbal remedies, Lytes Cary was then lovingly restored in the 20th century by Sir Walter Jenner.
The garden rooms contain a magical collection of topiary and
herbaceous borders, while tranquil walks on the estate take you along
the River Cary.
Children's play area. Dogs on leads welcome on estate walks. Café. Shop.
Muchelney Abbey (English Heritage) - lies two miles south of Langport, was once a landmark in the Somerset Levels and still has much to offer its visitors; history lovers in particular will enjoy this fascinating site but there is also plenty for families to do. With plenty of rooms to explore, this is an ideal day out whatever the weather and on sunny days, children have plenty of room to play in the grounds.
Art Galleries
Coates English Willow, Willow & Wetlands Visitor Centre- tucked away in the rural village of Stoke St Gregory, in the heart of the Somerset Levels. The Coate family have been growing withies on the moors since 1819 and making baskets and willow charcoal for almost 50 years.
At the Visitor Centre the Coate family has thoughtfully put together displays and collections to tell the fascinating story of willow. Willow and wetland walks, craft studios, workshops, basket museum, guided tours. Dog friendly. Café.
Open Monday -Saturday 10:00 - 16:00
Keep an eye out for their famous willow sculpture trails advertised on their website and social media channels. £3.00 per person (gift on completion).
Website
Shakespeare Glass & Arts
-Will Shakespeare is one of the country’s best known glass blowers. Will set up Shakespeare Glass over 25 years ago and has supplied many galleries and well-known stores in that time. Wide range of Shakespeare Glass on display in the gallery as well as work from selected other British makers including jewellery.
Open Monday - Saturday 10:00-15:00
Muchelney Pottery & John Leach Gallery - John Leach set up the pottery in 1965 having trained with his grandfather Bernard and his father David to continue the tradition of quality ceramics on the fringe of the ancient village of Muchelney. Visit the pottery, shop and contemporary John Leach Gallery which hosts a programme of exhibitions throughout the year supporting West Country artists and craft workers.
Shop and Gallery Open Wednesday- Saturday 10:00-13:00, 14:00-16:00