Attractions and Places To See around Somerton - Top 20

Somerton boasts a rich history with several notable landmarks. You can visit the iconic octagonal Buttercross in the Market Place, which has been a central feature since before 1390. The Church of St Michael and All Angels, with origins in the 13th century and a distinctive carved timber roof, is also a must-see. Don't miss the Old Hall in Cow Square, dating back to 1278, or the charming Hext Almshouses built in 1626.

Yes, for those who enjoy the outdoors, Somerton Moor offers excellent opportunities for walking, running, cycling, and birdwatching, with views of the Polden Hills. The town is also situated on the River Cary, and the wider region is known for the diverse landscapes of the Somerset Levels and Moors, characterized by vast flat plains and wetlands.

Somerton has a vibrant cultural scene. ACEarts, located in the Old Town Hall, is a contemporary art gallery and shop showcasing local artists. The town's quaint streets are also home to independent shops, including antique stores and boutiques. If you visit in July, you might experience the annual Somerton Arts Festival, featuring music, art, and talks.

Families will enjoy the Somerton Recreation Ground, which is well-equipped with a children's playground, a skatepark, football and rugby pitches, floodlit tennis courts, a multi-sport court, and outdoor bowls. For a unique natural experience, the Horsey Beach Seal Colony offers a memorable sight, especially between November and February when hundreds of grey seals breed there. Remember to keep dogs on a lead and maintain a respectful distance from the wildlife.

Somerton's quaint streets are perfect for browsing independent shops. You'll find a variety of antique stores and boutiques offering unique items and souvenirs, providing a pleasant shopping experience away from larger commercial centers.

Absolutely. Somerton offers several inviting pubs, such as The White Hart and The Unicorn Inn, perfect for relaxing and sampling local offerings. You'll also find various tea rooms and restaurants to suit different tastes.

The Horsey Windpump is a historical site that has been beautifully restored with a winding cap and turning sails. After standing silent since 1943, it now offers magnificent panoramic views of the Norfolk countryside and Horsey Mere from its top. There's also a tea room on site, and the National Trust maintains a car park nearby.

Sea Palling Beach is a Blue Flag beach known for its opportunities for relaxation and swimming. Its waters are calmed by man-made coastal defence reefs, making it a pleasant spot. In winter, it's also possible to spot seals on the beach, adding to its natural appeal.

There are several easy walking trails around Somerton. For example, you can explore routes like the "Brograve Mill – Horsey Windpump and Café loop from Horsey" or the "Horsey Beach Seal Colony – Horsey Gap Seal Colony loop from Horsey." Many of these trails offer scenic views and are suitable for various fitness levels. You can find more details on these and other routes in the Easy hikes around Somerton guide.

Yes, Somerton and its surroundings offer various cycling routes. Whether you prefer road cycling or touring, you can find options like the "Horsey Windpump – Horsey Windpump and Café loop from Winterton-on-Sea" for road bikes or the "Womack Staithe – River Bure at Horning loop from Martham" for touring bicycles. Explore more routes in the Road Cycling Routes around Somerton and Cycling around Somerton guides.

The Ruins of St Mary's Church, East Somerton, are a truly magical and atmospheric site. Abandoned in the 17th century, nature has reclaimed the church, with a large oak tree, known as “The Witch’s Leg,” growing dramatically in its center. It's a fascinating glimpse into history and nature intertwined, with glassless windows and tumbling walls creating a unique visual.

While Somerton is charming year-round, the spring and summer months (roughly April to September) generally offer the most pleasant weather for outdoor activities like walking, cycling, and exploring the natural features like Somerton Moor. However, if you're interested in seeing the grey seal breeding season at Horsey Beach Seal Colony, the period between November and February is ideal.