Places To See
If you are a visitor to Taunton or a resident, why not take a look at the town centre's most interesting places, history and views. Many of the attractions nestle in little pockets off the main roads, offering architecture, history, art and sport.
Museum of Somerset & Taunton Castle
The Museum of Somerset, which is located in Taunton Castle, is free to enter and is open from 10am to 5pm, Tuesday to Saturday and on Bank Holiday Mondays.
The Museum opened to the public on Thursday 29 September 2011, following a £6.93m redevelopment.
With many new galleries to explore, and extraordinary objects to discover, the Museum of Somerset is a must-see visitor attraction for people of all ages from across Somerset and beyond.
For more information visit www.somerset.gov.uk/museums
St Mary Magdalene - A Must See Splendour
Standing at an amazing 163 feet to the top of the pinnacles, St Mary's is one of the best-known examples of the exuberant Somerset towers financed by the prosperity created by the wool trade. There has been a church on this site since the 12th Century. The magnificent tower was rebuilt to its original design in 1862. The church's interior is a splendour with it's Tudor ceiling of the nave and chancel adorned with a hundred or more gilded angels. The stained glass too is particularly fine with some bright rich fragments remaining from medieval times on the north side. On looking up as you leave the church you cannot help but be stunned by the drama of the beautiful west window. click here for more
Taunton Heritage Trail
Visitors to Taunton can celebrate over 1100 years of history by following the Heritage Trail. This self-guided, circular walk illustrated by distinctive brass plaques in the pavement leads visitors past some great places of interest. You'll be able to find a modern interpretation of King Arthur's sword in the stone and a plaque at the Northern end of the High Street commemorating the declaration of the Duke of Monmouth as King in June 1685. For Information on the Taunton Heritage Trail and to download a copy of this circular walk around Taunton's historic town centre please visit www.heartofsomerset.com
Things to Do..
Taunton Swimming Pool & St James Street Pool
Situated in Station Road with Belvedere car park next door, Taunton Swimming Pool has 33 metre indoor pool and caters for all ages. St James Street Pool has more restricted times and caters for learners, groups and classes. St James Street Pool is ideal for those who wish to take advantage of the programs designed for children.
Vivary Park
Though best in the spring & summer months Vivary Park is a sheer joy and pastime to those who visit it and use its facilities. Children will love the Taunton Model Engineers event days when you can ride on the model railway and experience the thrill of working stram locomotives.
The Victorian Band Stand plays host to regular concerts during the summer months - a great way to spend a Sunday afternoon. A sensory garden was added in 2010 to complement the extensive flowerbeds and landscaping. Facilities include two childrens play parks, crazy golf, tennis and golf. The park is home to local bowling, golf and cricket clubs.
Vivary Park is really worth a visit and if you get to know its paths intimately you wouldn't even know you were right in the town centre.
Brewhouse Theatre & Arts Centre
The Brewhouse Theatre & Arts Centre, known locally as 'The Brew' is a busy regional arts centre. Many events take place in the evening and the centre is busy in the daytime too with kids activities, galleries, lunches, concerts and workshops. But the real beauty is its excellent arts program, so if you fancy some humour, some passion, some music or just love theatre, the Brewhouse can offer something for everyone.
Somerset County Cricket Ground
The home of County Cricket, Somerset County Cricket Ground offers the opportunity to view some world class sporting action with regular matches throughout the season. The ground has new and extensive conference facilities and is home to Somerset County Cricket Museum, located in the historic Priory Barn. The museum is open Tuesday to Friday throughout the summer. Thought to be part of the medieval Augustinian Priory, the museum and Barn are well worth a look.
Taunton Racecourse
Taunton Racecourse, Somerset, is England's youngest National Hunt racecourse and one of the most beautifully located racecourses in the country, with outstanding views across the Racecourse to the wooded slopes of the Blackdown Hills, yet only a few minutes drive from the M5 and the centre of Taunton.
