See & Do
Nature Reserves
Westhay Moor
Westhay Moor National Nature Reserve (NNR) lies on the north side of the Avalon Marshes (part of Somerset’s Levels & Moors). It gives the visitor an insight into the landscape as it was; vast reed-beds, lakes and pools, wet woodlands and raised bogs. However, above all, it is a nature reserve teeming with wonderful wildlife. Managed by The Somerset Wildlife Trust.
Shapwick Heath
This magnificent and varied nature reserve covers over 500 ha at the heart of the Avalon Marshes (part of Somerset’s Levels and Moors). Shapwick Heath National Nature Reserve (NNR) is part of an area that’s steeped in history and is a superb place to watch wildlife, whether it’s an elusive bittern, an otter lurking in the reed beds, or the swirling flocks of starlings that come to roost in winter. Cared for by Natural England.
Ham Wall
Ham Wall National Nature Reserve (NNR) is a nature reserve of rustling reed-beds and glinting open water. This provides a vital habitat for a wonderful range of birds and other wildlife. Reed-beds were once common in our landscape, they’re now scarce. At Ham Wall abandoned peat workings have been transformed into a nationally important wetland teeming with life. Managed by the RSPB.
Shapwick Moor
Shapwick Moor is the Avalon Marshes’ newest nature reserve. It adjoins Shapwick Heath National Nature Reserve and shows how degraded agricultural land can be changed into a haven for wildlife combined with good public access. Here you will find former arable fields gradually being restored to herb rich grassland and fen. Managed by The Hawk and Owl Trust.
Towns and Shopping
Glastonbury
Glastonbury is known for its ancient and medieval sites, many rich in myth. Glastonbury Tor is a tower-topped hill, overlooking the marshy Somerset Levels. Once said to be King Arthur’s burial place, Glastonbury Abbey is a ruined monastery dating to the 7th century. Glastonbury is loved for it’s eclectic collection of weird & wonderful shops. It’s a unique High St full of colour and quirkiness. Crystals, esoteric books, witchcraft supplies, faery accessories and hemp. Glastonbury can provide!
Wells
Wells is the smallest city in England. It can call itself a city because of the famous 13th century Cathedral. It remains remarkably unspoilt and has many other historic buildings including the moated Bishop's Palace. The Wells Market Place hosts a lively markets twice a week. The High Street holds everything from cosmopolitan pavement cafes to traditional pubs and inns, specialist independent retailers to major high street names.
Clarks Village
Clarks Village is an outlet shopping village in Street. Built on the site of the old factory buildings of C&J Clark (Clarks Shoes), it hosts over 90 shops of designer and high street brands -selling their goods at outlet prices.
Wedmore
Wedmore is a beautiful and unique village a few miles north west of Godney. Even though it is smaller than Wells or Glastonbury, it still hosts numerous pubs, a fantastic farm shop, village shop as well as some great places to eat. There is a very friendly golf club with a challenging 18 golf course which welcomes you with those stunning views of the Mendips and the valley below.
Things to do..
Glastonbury Abbey
Set in 37 acres of beautifully peaceful parkland this is one of England's earliest, most important and most fascinating abbeys, providing sanctuary, tranquillity, history and heritage in one special place. Since Medieval times, the abbey has held legendary status as the earliest Christian foundation in Britain linked to Joseph of Arimathea and the burial place of King Arthur.
Other Glastonbury Sites
Other places worth visiting in Glastonbury are:
Wells Cathedral & The Bishops Palace Gardens
Wells Cathedral is set in the medieval heart of England’s smallest city and is the earliest English Cathedral to be built in the Gothic style. It’s has been called "unquestionably one of the most beautiful" and "most poetic" of English cathedrals. The Bishops Palace Gardens are hidden within the ancient ramparts and protected by the moat, 14 acres of stunning, tranquil gardens await you in the heart of the City of Wells.
Wookey Hole
Hidden away beneath the Mendip Hills is a spectacular underground network of breath-taking caverns! Wookey Hole is the UK’s largest show caves system, home to the infamous Witch of Wookey Hole and our new Chamber 20 with rare rock formations. With these world famous caves PLUS over 20 magnificent attractions, Wookey Hole is a great day out for all the family.