Holiday cottage break in the heart of Somerset

Where to stay in Somerset

With beautiful views of Cheddar Gorge, I stayed at Twin Barns holiday cottage near Axbridge, Somerset. The cottage has everything you need – a lovely kitchen, cosy living room, parking, garden with a view, terrace with seats, BBQ and more. The friendly hosts are happy to provide suggestions of where to visit but with Glastonbury, Cheddar and Wells nearby you won’t struggle to find the best things to do in Somerset. This cottage is also near a choice of beaches and many lovely walks.

Best walks in Somerset

Cheddar Gorge walk

Cheddar Gorge is England’s largest gorge and is three miles long, next to the village of Cheddar and not far from my cottage. The four-mile National Trust Cheddar Gorge walk starts at the centre of the village with a steep climb up to the top of the gorge, from where you can enjoy panoramic views of Cheddar, Glastonbury Tor and the Somerset levels. Avoid the busy Cheddar Gorge tourist attractions and follow this trail through the beautiful gorge, along the top of the cliffs, past caves and back down into the village. Don’t miss out on an ice cream at 100 Flavours after your walk (vegan options available)!

Ebbor Gorge

Lesser known Ebbor Gorge is not for the faint-hearted and is known as the ‘mini Cheddar Gorge‘. It is designated a National Nature Reserve with a free car park. Follow the marked trail through the woods and along the stream. The centre of the gorge is small and is a challenging scramble over boulders to reach the top. A beautiful off-the-beaten-track walk in the Mendip Hills.

Climb Glastonbury Tor

No trip to Somerset is complete without seeing Glastonbury Tor. I have climbed this a few times and have happy memories looking out over the hills and town below. In true Glastonbury style, people are often playing music or singing at the top. From the town, head to the top of the highstreet and turn right. Follow the signs to the top of the tor and allow a few hours in total for the walk.

Brean Down walk

At Brean Down, the cliffs form a natural pier. There’s a beautiful dog-friendly beach, stunning views and even a Victorian fort. I visited in the evening and enjoyed the sunset from the top of the cliffs. It was once home to a Roman temple and is now a place with lots of wildlife.

Best days out in Somerset

Explore Glastonbury

Steeped in history, myth and quirkiness, visit Glastonbury’s markets, climb Glastonbury Tor, explore Glastonbury Abbey and unwind in the magical Chalice Well Gardens.

Visit Wells

Wells is the smallest city in England and has a beautiful cathedral, regular markets and independent shops to explore.

Walk around Cheddar

Cheddar village is small but is a great stop for holidaymakers and families. To really appreciate it, follow the Cheddar Gorge walk or climb to the top of Jacob’s Ladder. I also recommend dinner or a takeaway from Zen Thai.

Book your Somerset holiday

A 7-night break in June for up 2 people costs from £605. Book online at cottages.com or call 0345 498 6900.