Somerset Towns and Villages

***Seasonal Greetings to you all*** ***********************   (This site was last updated on 18th December 2011)

 

This page links to photographs of Somerset Towns and Villages that, at the moment, some are in low resolution thumbnail form and some are in high resolution form. It’s in this form as web space was limited but all will be upgraded in due course. This is an on going project and will be constantly added to so look back regularly for updates.

 

The objective is to record as much of the County as possible before a lot of it is changed or gone forever. Post Offices, filling stations, shops, schools, pubs etc, are disappearing at an alarming rate. Old barns are either being converted or being demolished to make room for new bungalows or houses.

 

All photographs are taken in high resolution so if you would like a copy of a particular picture or pictures, contact me, stating your interest, and I’ll e mail you. Also, if a particular village is not listed that you have an interest in, let me know and I’ll attempt to photograph it the next time I’m in that area. Your suggestions are always welcome.

 

Links: These links are to places and events not necessarily directly connected to Somerset Towns and Villages.

  

Recently added           Axbridge

 

 

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To see a collection of all the towns and villages on this site plus a few extras (one picture of each) click here

 

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A

 

Alford    map

Alford is a very small settlement about 10 miles southeast of Glastonbury. In 2003 the population was just 63.

Press F11 and click here to see a hi-res slideshow       

 

Alhampton    map

Alhampton Tin Tabernacle built in 1892.    

 

Allerford   map

One of the village's main attractions is the much photographed Packhorse Bridge. Built as a crossing over the River Aller, it was probably constructed in the 18th Century.

 

Angersleigh    map  

Angersleigh is about four miles to the south west of Taunton and is situated near the Blackdown Hills. The Church is dedicated to St. Michael the Archangel and dates from the early 12th century.

To see one hi-res photo of Angersleigh click here.

 

Ashcott   map

Ashcott lies on the Polden Hills about five miles from Glastonbury.

To see one hi-res photo of Ashcott click here.

 

Ashill   map

001 the Ashill Inn, 002 Jubilee Green and the Ashill Inn, 003 the old road looking towards Taunton, 004 the old road looking towards Ilminster, 005 Ashill House and Ashill Farm, 006 Ashill farm with a road direction sign in the garden, 007 village triangle, 008 Rectory cottage and the Old Rectory, 009 the village school, 010 the Old Rectory, 011/ 012 St. Mary’s Church, 013 the north porch, 014 the west tower, 015 the sealed up south porch, 016 the west tower, 017 the south aspect, 018 the priest’s door on the south wall of the Chancel, 019 a gargoyle on top of the west tower, 020 the font, 021 the nave, 022 an unknown tomb, 023 the pulpit, 024 the chancel, 026 the organ in loving memory of Rhoda House who was organist here for many years, died 16th April 1993, 027 the chancel, 028 the Altar, 030 tomb in chancel of William Speke, died 1680 and also contains the body’s of his wife Ann and their 2nd daughter, 032 looking from the Altar, 033 looking from the pulpit, 034 list of vicars of Ashill, the earliest being Thomas Gremy in the year 1312, 035/036 north windows, 037 the nave ceiling, 038 the chancel ceiling, 040 the school viewed from the churchyard, 041 weather cock dated 1867 on top the west tower,042 the east and north faces of St. Mary’s church, 043 looking towards Windmill Hill Lane, 044 the old rectory.

To see one hi-res photo of Ashill click here

 

Ashington   map

Ashington is a very small village about three miles north of the large market town of Yeovil in the south of the county.

To see a hi-res slideshow press F11 and click here

 

Axbridge    map  

The medieval town of Axbridge lies on the southern slopes of the Mendip Hills. In the Square, you’ll see King John's Hunting Lodge, a half timbered building now owned by the National Trust.

 

B

 

Babcary   map  

Babcary is very small village situated five miles east of Somerton in the South Somerset District.

 

Badgworth   map

Badgworth is a village in the Sedgemoor district of Somerset lying 20 miles southwest of Bristol and about 25 miles north of the County Town of Taunton.

 

Baltonsborough   map

The village of Baltonsborough lies about four miles southeast of Glastonbury with views towards Glastonbury Tor and the Mendip Hills.

To see one hi-res photo of Baltonsborough click here.

 

Banwell    map

Banwell is a village in North Somerset that lies on the edge of the Mendip Hills. Unfortunately it also lies at the meeting point of several major roads that lead between Weston super Mare, Bristol Airport and the M5 motorway.

 

Barton St. David   map

Barton St. David is a quite, peaceful village in the central part of Somerset. It lies about 25 miles from the Somerset coast and about 33 miles from the Dorset coast.

 

Beercrocombe   map

Beercrocombe is a village near the County Town of Taunton between the Somerset levels and the Blackdown Hills.

To see one hi-res photo of Beercrocombe click here.

 

Berrow and Brean    map

Berrow has a medieval church dedicated to St Mary Magdalene and it dates from the year 1150. The magnificent stretch of sandy beaches run from the seaside resort of Burnham-on-Sea right up to the foot of Brean Down.

 

Bicknoller   map

Bicknoller is a picturesque village on the Quantock Hills. The 12th century church is dedicated to St. George.

To see one hi-res photo of Bicknoller click here.

 

Bishops Lydeard   map

Located in the Vale of Taunton Deane, Bishops Lydeard is a small village near the market town of Taunton.

 

Blagdon   map

The village is located on the northern edge of the Mendip Hills overlooking Blagdon Lake. The church, dedicated to St Andrew has a 116 foot high tower.

To see one hi-res photo of Blagdon click here.

 

Bleadon   map

Bleadon lies about four miles south of the popular seaside resort of Weston super Mare. The 14th century Church of St. Peter and St. Paul dominates the village and is a Grade 1 listed building.

To see one hi-res photo of Bleadon click here.

 

Bradford on Tone   map

Bradford on Tone is a village situated on the River Tone, four miles south west of the County Town of Taunton. The church is dedicated to St. Giles.

To see one hi-res photo of Bradford on Tone click here.

 

Brent Knoll   map

The Church of St Michael dates back to the 11th century but has undergone several renovations. The village is only three miles from the seaside resort of Burnham on Sea and is only a short distance from the M5 motorway.

To see one hi-res photo of Brent Knoll click here.

 

Bridgetown   map

Bridgetown is a small village on the eastern side of the Exmoor National Park and is close to the beautiful Brendon Hills.

To see one hi-res photo of Bridgetown click here.

 

Bridgwater   map

The town of Bridgwater is situated on the edge of the Somerset Levels with the Mendip Hills to the north and on the west the Quantock Hills. The town lies along both sides of the River Parrett.

 

Broadway   map

The earliest record of the village of Broadway is in the Domesday Book of 1086 where reference is made to the small settlement of Bradewei.

      To see a hi-res slideshow click here

 

Brompton Regis   map

Brompton Regis was formerly known as Kingsbrompton. It lies within the Exmoor National Park and is at the southern part of the Brendon Hills.

To see one hi-res photo of Brompton Regis click here.

 

Broomfield   map

Broomfield is situated about five miles north of the County Town of Taunton. The village is the highest village on the Quantock Hills and lies on the Quantock Greenway footpath which travels through many different types of landscape.

To see a slideshow click here

 

Bruton   map

Bruton is a picturesque Town on the River Brue founded in about the 5th century. Located in the Vale of Blackmore, it’s surrounded by tranquil countryside.

 

Burnham on Sea   map

Collectively, Burnham on Sea, Berrow and Brean have one of the longest stretches of golden sand in Europe stretching to a total of seven miles.                   

To see a short movie click here.         New. For a hi-res Slideshow click here.

                                                                                                (Line slideshow up and then Press F11 for a bigger picture)

Burrington   map

There is a legend that Augustus Montague Toplady was inspired to write the hymn ‘Rock of Ages’ while sheltering in a cleft in the rock at nearby Burrington Combe during a thunderstorm in the late 18th century. The rock was subsequently named after the hymn.

To see one hi-res photo of Burrington click here.

 

Burrowbridge   map

Burrowbridge is a village situated either side of the River Parrett and on the edge of the Somerset Levels. The road bridge over the River Parrett was built in 1826 and was the last toll bridge in Somerset until 1946. The village is overlooked by Burrow Mump, a natural sandstone hill owned by the National Trust. On the top are the ruins of an 18th century church. The Mump is also a memorial to those in the village that lost their lives during the first and second world wars.

To see one hi-res photo of Burrowbridge click here.

 

Bury   map

Bury is a very small village on the southern tip of the Exmoor National Park and about 25 miles west of the County Town of Taunton.

To see one hi-res photo of Bury click here.

 

Butleigh  map

The village of Butleigh lies about four miles due south of the Town of Glastonbury.

To see one hi-res photo of Butleigh click here.

 

C

 

Cannington   map

The village lies about three miles west of the town of Bridgwater. Continuing west for a few miles will bring you to the beautiful Quantock Hills. Travelling north from the village will lead to the nuclear power station at Hinkley Point.

To see one hi-res photo of Cannington click here.

 

Carhampton   map

Carhampton is a village in North West Somerset 4 miles to the east of the seaside resort of Minehead.

Carhampton is famous for its wassailing celebration which was started in the 1930's by the Taunton Cider Company. Wassailing in Carhampton takes place each year on January 17th in the orchard of the Butchers Arms Pub. This is preceded by a smaller event in the Community Orchard in the centre of the village next to the pub. The villagers form a circle around the largest apple tree and hang pieces of toast soaked in cider in the branches for the robins, which represent the good spirits of the tree. A shotgun is fired overhead to scare away evil spirits.

To see a hi-res slideshow press F11 and click here

                             

 

Castle Cary    map

Castle Cary lies about 30 miles east of the County Town of Taunton and about 26 miles south of the City of Bath. It is a small, friendly market town with a beautiful winding main street of thatched cottages built of the local ham stone. There are many types of shops and several Inns in the town, lovely restaurants and tearooms making it a perfect destination for a relaxing country break. To see a hi-res slideshow press F11 and click here

 

Chaffcombe   map

Chaffcombe is a quiet little village in the south of the county, about two and a half miles from the town of Chard and less than fifteen miles from the Dorset coast.

To see one hi-res photo of Chaffcombe click here.

 

Chard   map

Chard is a market town laid out in 1234 by Bishop Jocelyn of Wells. It grew into a prosperous wool town. In the 19th century cloth making was replaced by lace making and producing agricultural machinery.

 

Charlton Adam   map

Charlton Adam is a small, quiet village in the east of the county. It's situated about three miles east of the market town of Somerton in the district of South Somerset.

 

Charlton Mackrell   map

Charlton Mackrell has a long history and was mentioned in The Domesday Book. It's a small village on the eastern side of the county.

 

Cheddar   map

Set in the Mendip Hills, Cheddar is famous for its Gorge, the largest in England and for the caves. Gough’s cave is where the remains of Cheddar Man were found dating from approximately 7150 BC. Cheddar cheese is now made worldwide but only one producer now remains in the village.

To see one hi-res photo of Cheddar click here.

 

Chilthorne Domer   map  

The village of Chilthorne Domer lies in the south of the County. It is just 3 miles from the large town of Yeovil and 26 miles from the Dorset coast.

To see one hi-res photo of Chilthorne Domer click here.

 

Chilton Cantelo    map

 

Chilton Trinity   map

Although a very small village in its own right, it is more of a suburb, north of the town of Bridgwater just a mile or so away.

To see one hi-res photo of Chilton Trinity click here.

  

Chipstable   map

Situated on the edge of the Brendon Hills in West Somerset, the parish of Chipstable also contains the hamlets of Waterrow and Raddington.

 

Chiselborough   map

The village consists mainly of small cottages built of the local golden Ham Hill stone. It’s situated about five miles west of the town of Yeovil in the south of the County.

To see one hi-res photo of Chiselborough click here.

 

Clevedon   map

The town of Clevedon is a seaside resort on the north coast of the County. Picture 2003 is of the Curzon Cinema. The Cinema is historically unique. It is the oldest continually running Cinema in the world. It opened on April 20th 1912, with a special matinee to raise funds for the Lord Mayor of London Appeal for the survivors and relatives of those lost in the RMS Titanic disaster a few days previous. The Cinema opened at 7:00 pm that evening with a full programme and the admission price was 3d, 6d and 1/-.

To see one hi-res photo of Clevedon click here.

 

Coat   map

A small village in the south of the County with at least one unfriendly person.

To see a hi-res slideshow press F11 and click here 

 

Combe St. Nicholas     map

The villages lie about 11 miles south east of the County Town of Taunton in the South Somerset district on the edge of the Blackdown Hills in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. A number of villagers are known to have emigrated to America in 1642, sailing from Weymouth in Dorset and settling in Massachusetts.

To see a hi-res slideshow click here 

  

Combwich   map

Combwich (pronounced "Cummidge") is about 5 miles from Bridgwater on the road to Hinkley Point Nuclear Power Station. It lies beside the River Parrett and served as a port for the export of local produce and the import of timber from the 15th century. It also served the local brick yard from 1842 until the creek silted up in the 1930s.

To see one hi-res photo of Combwich click here.

 

Congresbury   map

The village is in the north of the County, about six and a half miles west of Bristol International Airport and 13 miles south of the City of Bristol. The River Yeo flows through the village.

To see one hi-res photo of Congresbury click here.

 

Corfe   map

Corfe village is four miles from the County town of Taunton and lies at the foot of the Blackdown Hills.

To see one hi-res photo of Corfe click here.

 

Creech St. Michael   map

The village is situated three miles east of the County town of Taunton. The name is derived from creek, on the River Tone, which creates an island in the river to the south of the village and the 12th century Church which is dedicated to St. Michael. The Bridgwater & Taunton Canal carries pleasure boats through the village and the tow path is open to pedestrians and cyclists. To see one hi-res photo of the village click here.

 

Crewkerne   map

The Georgian market town of Crewkerne lies in South Somerset which is near Ham Hill where splendid churches and villages are built of the golden coloured stone which is still quarried on Ham Hill to this day.

 

Cross    map

The village of Cross is now by-passed by the A38 main road. The village was once the hub of the stagecoach trade that used the Bristol to Bridgwater turnpike road. It lies about 18 miles south of Bristol.

 

Crowcombe   map

Crowcombe lies at the foot of the Quantock Hills, just off the A358 road that runs between Taunton and Williton on the way to Minehead. Crowcombe has the only Church in the country dedicated to the Holy Ghost.

To see one hi-res photo of Crowcombe click here.

 

Curry Mallet   map

The village is situated about eight miles east of the County Town of Taunton.

To see one hi-res photo of Curry Mallet click here

 

Curry Rivel   map

Curry Rivel is situated ten miles east of the County Town of Taunton. The name of the village comes from the Celtic word ‘crwy’ meaning boundary and Rivel from its 12th Century landlord Sir Richard Revel.

To see one hi-res photo of the village click here

 

D

 

Dinnington   map

Dinnington is in the south of the County and only about 17 miles from the Dorset coast. A railway once ran through the village right beside the village pub but it remains a mystery as to its history. Please contact me if you have any knowledge of it so that these records can be updated.

To see one hi-res photo of the pub click here

  

Ditcheat   map

The village is in the Mendip District of the County and lies 26 miles due south of the City of Bristol. 

To see one hi-res photo of Ditcheat Church click here and one of the beautiful interior click here

 

Dodington   map

Dodington is a small village in the parish of Holford on the northern slopes of the Quantock Hills.

To see one hi-res photo of Dodington Hall click here

 

Dowlish Wake   map

The village is situated 2 miles south of Ilminster and 5 miles north east of Chard in the district of South Somerset. Cider is produced at Perry's Cider Mill, manufacturers of several award winning Ciders. The barn is used as the Cider Mill, and now contains a museum. A cafe opened at the mill in 2008.

To see one hi-res photo click here

 

Drayton   map  

Drayton is a village situated about a mile from Curry Rivel and five miles southwest of Somerton in the district of South Somerset.

 

Dulverton   map

Dulverton is situated on the south edge of the Exmoor. The town stands between the Rivers Barle and Exe, which meet a little further down the valley. The River Barle is crossed by an attractive three arched bridge where artists are often to be found painting down by the river.

To see one hi-res photo click here

 

Dunster   map

Situated in the hills of Exmoor National park Dunster is an idyllic medieval village that is an ideal base for a holiday in the South West of England.

To see one hi-res photo of the village click here. To see a short movie about the village click here

 

Durleigh    map

Durleigh is a village on the outskirts of Bridgwater in the Sedgemoor District of Somerset. The village lies on Durleigh Brook, which was dammed in 1938 to form Durleigh Reservoir.

To see a slideshow press F11 and click here

 

Durston    map

The village of Durston lies about 5 miles northeast of the County Town of Taunton and is on the main A361 road between Taunton and Glastonbury.

To see one hi-res photo click here

       

E

 

East Huntspill   map

East Huntspill village lies about 20 miles north of the County Town of Taunton and 30 miles south of the City of Bristol.

 

East Lambrook    map

East Lambrook is a delightful little village in South Somerset about 20 miles east of the County Town of Taunton.

 

East Lyng    map

East Lyng is a small village 8 miles east of the County Town of Taunton and 14 miles west of the Town of Glastonbury. Most people are just passing through but it’s worth stopping off if you want fuel or a meal in the local pub.

To see a hi-res slideshow click here

 

East Pennard   map

East Pennard is a very small village about five and a half miles from the town of Glastonbury in the Mendip district of Somerset. The 14th century Church has the heaviest peal of five bells hung for English change ringing by rope and wheel.

To see a slideshow press F11 and click here

 

F

 

Fitzhead   map

The village is situated approximately six miles north west of the County Town of Taunton.

309 outer wall of Fitzhead Court. 310 the old village water pump. 311 Court Cottages. 312 Lantern Cottage.313 Fitzhead Court. 314 The Fitzhead Inn. 315 the old smithy. 316 the Old School dated 1846. 317 the Old School House next to the Old School. 318 main road looking west. 319 Hill’s Farm. 320 shelter with old water pump dated 1904. 321 old pump in the shelter complete with bench seats. 322 old type telephone box and post office sign. 323 Fitzhead Court outer wall. 324 entrance to the Old Rectory. 325/326 St. James’s Church. 327/328 the 13th century preaching Cross in the churchyard. 329 the south face of the west tower. 330 the priest’s door in the south wall leading to the Chancel. 331 the west tower. 332 the Lych-gate. 333 memoriam in the Lych-gate to Charles Wallis, died 1905 and Mary Wallis, died 1926. 334 the west tower. 336 the Font. 337 the Nave. 338-340 stained glass windows in the north wall. 341 the 15th century roodscreen. 342 the Pulpit. 343 the east window over the Altar. 344 the 15th century roodscreen showing the detailed fan vaulting. 345 the Chancel and the Altar. 346 the organ that was made by the village blacksmith in 1820. 347 looking from the Altar. 348 the west window in the north aisle. 349 ancient gargoyles inside the main entrance. 350/351 the ancient Tithe Barn, used as the Parish Room since 1908. 352 corner of the ancient Tithe Barn and St. James’s Church.

To see one hi-res photo click here

 

Four Forks   map

Four Forks is a hamlet of the village of Spaxton situated four and a half miles from Bridgwater.

To see a slideshow press F11 and click here

             

G

 

Glastonbury   map  

Glastonbury is a small town situated 31 miles south of Bristol and is steeped in history, myths and legends. The town is reputed to have had the oldest Christian Church in England and has a long history as a place of pilgrimage. In more recent times it has attracted 'pilgrims' from many faiths and beliefs and remains a spiritual centre to this day.

To view two slideshows press F11 and click on the link Part 1 (107 pictures)  Part 2 (56 pictures)

 

Glastonbury Abbey    map

The Abbey Ruins are in 36 acres of beautiful grounds which include a fish pond, duck pond, herb garden, cider orchard, and picnic and wildlife area. It is also possibly the burial place of King Arthur.

 

Goathurst   map

A small village about three miles from Bridgwater at the foot of the Quantock Hills. On the outskirts of the village is the Temple of Harmony, a folly built in 1767 by Sir Charles Kemeys Tynte and is a replica of the Temple of Fortuna Virilis in Rome.

To see one hi-res photo of the village click here

 

H

 

Halse  map

Halse is a village situated 6 miles north west of the County Town of Taunton.

219 looking towards the old school from Church Lane. 220 the Old Rectory. 221 Church Hill Cottage. 222 the old school. 223 looking north east from Church Lane. 224 Church Lane. 225 the old school dated 1856. 227 looking along the road to Milverton. 228 Priory Lodge. 229 looking along the road to Fitzhead. 230 the Old Bake House. 231 Rock House. 232 Little Thatch and Rock Cottage. 233 Moss Cottage. 234 the Old Forge. 236/237 the New Inn. 238 Blakes House. 239 old barns at Blakes House. 240 Blakes Cottage. 241 looking southwest towards Manor Farm in the distance. 242 probably The Lodge at the entrance to Halse House. 243/244 ‘Cinques’ with the porch and an unusual chimney. 245/246 looking towards Church Lane with a water feature in the wall. 247 Manor Cottage on the left and School Cottage on the right. 248 looking south in the direction of Heathfield. 249 St. James’s Church. 250 The Rectory. 251 the south aspect of St. James’s Church. 252 wooden Memorial in the churchyard. 253 the Preaching Cross. 254 the South Porch. 255 the west tower with five bells. 256 the 12th century Font. 257 the Nave. 258 the Chancel roof and crucifix. 259 list of the Rectors of Halse with the earliest recorded as Herbert, capellanus (meaning Chaplain) in the year 1180. 260 the west window in the north aisle. 261 the roodscreen. 262 the Pulpit was designed, carved and given to the parishioners by W.G.Giles to commemorate the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Victoria in 1897. 263 wall paintings over the east window. 264 the Chancel. 265 view from the Pulpit. 266/267 south windows. 268 the east window over the Altar. 269/270 wall paintings either side of the east window. 271 The Altar. 272 view from the Altar. 273 the Priest’s door. 274 the medieval Church Chest carved from a solid piece of oak. 280 the bench ends were designed by Grace Smith and the carving was commenced in 1900 by the parishioners in their own homes. 281/282 paintings either side of the Belfry. 285 The War Memorial on the church cross.

                  To see a hi-res slideshow click here

 

Ham   map

A very small village near the River Tone about five miles southwest of the County Town of Taunton.

To see one hi-res photo click here

 

Ham Hill   map

Ham Hill is the site of a very large Bronze Age and Iron Age Hill Fort. There are fine views to the Mendip Hills, the Blackdown Hills and the Quantock Hills. It’s located about 20 miles to the east of the County Town of Taunton.

To see one hi-res photo click here

 

Haselbury Plucknett   map

The village is situated six miles south-west of Yeovil in the South Somerset district. There is a small village shop and Post Office. Also the White Horse pub and restaurant.

 

Hatch Beauchamp   map

Hatch Beauchamp is situated five miles south-east of the County Town of Taunton. The village has an inn, and a Manor House, Hatch Court, built around 1750. In the Churchyard is the grave of Colonel John Chard VC, RE (21 December 1847 - 1 November 1897) a British soldier who won the Victoria Cross at the battle of Rorke’s Drift during the Zulu Wars of 1879. Colonel John Chard was played in the film ‘Zulu’ by Stanley Baker.

 

Heathfield    map

287 entrance to St. John the Baptist church. 288 remains of the 15th century Church Cross in the churchyard. 289 St. John the Baptist Church. 290 the south porch and entrance. 291 the west tower. 292 the south face and the churchyard. 293 the Font, a modern perpendicular type of 1869. 294 the Nave. 295 the Pulpit thought to have been carved from old 16th century pew ends in 1841. 296 the Chancel was rebuilt in 1841. 297 a monument of 1595 on the north wall of the Chancel commemorating two members of the Hadley family. 298 a list of the Rectors of Heathfield, the earliest being Gilbert Foliot in 1130 who was the Bishop of Hereford and London in 1163. He was one of the instigators of the murder of Thomas a Becket. 299 the east window over the Altar. 300 a candle chandelier in the Chancel. 301 looking from the Altar. 302 a north window in memory of Robert Popham Spurway, Captain in the Royal Scots Guards who died 4th December 1898. 304 looking south towards the Blackdown Hills outside the Church entrance. 305 Jockey Cottage just off the main road. 306/307 Heathfield House.

To see one hi-res photo click here

 

Hestercombe Gardens    map

Acknowledged as one of the ten most important historic gardens in Britain, Hestercombe is a unique combination of three distinctive gardens, designed over three centuries. There are breathtaking views across the Vale of Taunton to the Blackdown Hills. Note that Hestercombe House is an administrative centre for the Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service and is not open to the public.

To see one hi-res photo of the gardens click here

 

High Ham     map

The village is recorded in the Domesday Book (1086) as Hame meaning ‘home’ from the Old English ham. It is situated on an elevated peninsular 280 feet above sea level, with panoramic views across the Levels. In times past it was an island rising from the surrounding marshes. There is a fine village green surrounded by trees and a fine group of listed buildings. The village lies 15 miles east of the County Town of Taunton.

To see a slideshow press F11 and click here

 

Highbridge    map

Highbridge is situated on the edge of the Somerset Levels near the mouth of the River Brue. It grew to importance with the railways, but has suffered with their decline.

 

Hillfarrance    map

Hillfarrance is a small hamlet 3 miles from the M5 junction at Wellington, in the Taunton Deane district.

To view one hi-res photo click here

 

Hinton St. George   map       

Hinton St George is situated 3 miles from of Crewkerne, ten miles south west of Yeovil in the south of the County.

To see a hi-res slideshow press F11 and click here

 

Hornblotton   map

Hornblotton is a small village just off the A37 about 8 miles Southeast of Glastonbury. A most unusual feature is the interior of the Church.  It is decorated using a technique known as sgraffito. Here two layers of different colour plaster are laid on the walls and then one layer is carved to reveal the other colour below. It is probably the only church interior in the country to be wholly decorated by this technique. Press F11 and click here to see a hi-res slideshow  

 

Horner   map

Horner lies in the Exmoor National Park between Porlock and the village of Luccombe. It is on the eastern bank of Horner Water which is crossed by a Packhorse Bridge.

 

Horton    map

The village is in the south of the County about two and a half miles from the town of Ilminster and about 17 miles from the Dorset coast.

To see a hi-res slideshow press F11 and click here

 

Huish Episcopi   map         

The village lies about 15 miles east of the County Town of Taunton.

To go direct to a slideshow press F11 and click here

 

Hutton   map

The village of Hutton is four miles from Weston-super-Mare and the Bristol Channel. The village was recorded in the Doomsday Book of 1086, and the earliest known buildings are the 13th century Church and the Manor House of Hutton Court.  To see a slideshow press F11 and click here

 

I

 

Ilchester   map

Ilchester lies 4 miles southeast of Somerton, 5 miles north of Yeovil, and 122 miles southwest of London. The town stands on the south bank of the river Yeo, over which is a stone bridge connects it with the parish of Northover.

To view one hi-res photo of Market Place click here

 

Ilminster   map

 

Ilton   map

 

Isle Abbots   map

 

Isle Brewers   map

 

J

 

 

 

K

 

Keinton Mandeville    map  

Keinton Mandeville lies about 23 miles east of the County Town of Taunton. At the time of the Domesday Book it was known as Chintone meaning the Noble's enclosure. The Mandeville part of the village's name came from Stephen de Mandeville in about 1243.    To see a slideshow press F11 and click here

 

Kewstoke   map  

Kewstoke is three miles from Weston-super-Mare and twenty miles southwest of the City of Bristol overlooking Sand Bay. Amenities in the village include a shop, post office, takeaway, hairdresser, public houses, restaurants, cafes and two hotels.

To see a slideshow press F11 and click here

 

Kilton   map

 

Kilve    map

Kilve is situated on the main A39 road about halfway between the Towns of Bridgwater and Minehead and lies within the Quantock Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the first A.O.N.B. (area of outstanding natural beauty) to be established in 1957. The village is served by a Post Office, public house and general store with the beach approximately one mile away. For those who enjoy the countryside, there are footpaths enabling superb walks on the Quantock Hills.

 

Kingsdon   map

 

Kingston Seymour   map

Kingston Seymour is a small village near the Bristol Channel about 15 miles southwest of the City of Bristol.

192 East face of All Saints church, 193 the priest’s door in the Chancel, 194 the cross in the churchyard, 195 the west tower, 197 the Lych gate is dedicated to the memory of George Octavius Smyth-Pigott, Rector of this parish for 37 years who died on January 24th 1892 aged 64 years, 198 the south entrance, 199 the weather cock on the top of the church tower, 200 the Font, 201 the Nave and Chancel, 202 the Pulpit, 203 the Chancel and Altar, 204 the east window, 205 the Chancel roof, 206 the organ, 207 the south aisle, 209 Ham lane, 210 the village cross in the triangle, 211 Bentham house, 212 church cottage on Ham lane, 214/215 Bentham house, 216 a building on Lampley road that may have been the old village hall.

To see one hi-res photo of the village click here

 

Kingston St. Mary   map

 

Kingstone   map

 

Kingweston   map

 

Knole   map

 

L

 

Langport   map

 

Lilstock    map

 

Limington   map

 

Long Load    map

The village is situated on the River Yeo five miles south of Somerton and about fives mile north of Martock in the district of South Somerset. A bridge over the river is known to have existed by 1335, while by 1448 there were wharves for the loading and unloading of cargoes from boats using the river. The river was the subject of the abortive ‘Ivelchester and Langport Navigation’ in 1795, and although the works were never completed, traffic on the river was sufficient for the coal merchants Stukey and Bagehot to establish a coal yard near the bridge by 1824. Cargoes arriving at the wharves included slates, bricks, tiles and coal, while the main export was timber.           To see a hi-res slideshow press F11 and click here

 

Long Sutton    map

 

Lopen    map

 

Lovington   map

 

Low Ham    map

At the time of the Domesday Book Low Ham was part of the estate of Serlo de Burcy, and was later known as Ham Burcy and Nether Ham. The village lies 16 miles east of the County Town of Taunton.

 

Luccombe    map

Luccombe is a quiet backwater village with traditional thatched cottages lying in the Exmoor National Park.

 

Luxborough   map

 

Lympsham   map

 

M

 

Mark   map

 

Marston Magna   map

 

Martock   map

 

Mells   map

 

Merriott   map

 

Middlezoy   map   (temporary unavailable)

Middlezoy, meaning the middle stream island, is situated on the Somerset Levels, 13 miles north east from the County Town of Taunton. At one time the village had three shops but all were eventually closed including the village Post Office. After a lot of hard work by the villagers, the Post Office and shop were reopened in the grounds of the Chapel opposite the village school.

  

Milverton   map

 

Minehead   map

 

Monksilver   map

Monksilver is a village is on the eastern side of the Brendon Hills and on the border of the Exmoor National Park.

To view a hi-res slideshow press F11 and click here

 

Montacute    map

Montacute lies 4 miles west of the town of Yeovil and 23 miles east of the County Town of Taunton.  The village is built almost entirely of the local hamstone.  From the 15th century until the beginning of the 20th century it formed the heart of the Estate of the Phelips family of Montacute House.

 

Muchelney   map

 

Mudford   map

Mudford is a village situated three miles from the large town of Yeovil in South Somerset on the River Yeo. You are sure of a warm welcome at the 15th century Church by the Churchwarden Dr. Bill Watkins who very kindly unlocked the Church to enable the interior shots to be taken. To view a hi-res slideshow press F11 and click here

 

N

 

Nether Stowey   map

 

North Curry   map

 

North Newton    map

The village is just over seven miles north east of the County Town of Taunton. The Newt Beer Festival is held every year in the village and is host to some of the finest beers to be found in the Country.

 

North Perrott   map

 

North Petherton   map

 

Norton sub Hamdon   map

 

Nunney   map

 

Nynehead   map

 

O

 

Odcombe   map

 

Old Cleeve   map

 

Otterhampton   map

 

Over Stowey   map

 

Over Stratton  map

 

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Pawlett   map

The village is well served with amenities. There are two shops, one of them also being a Post Office, two social clubs, a superb village hall, a school, two parks and children’s play areas, a sports field, a church, a chapel, a garage, a cafe and a thirty minute bus service to either Bridgwater and Taunton in one direction or Highbridge and Burnham on Sea in the other.

 

Penselwood    map

Penselwood is a small village on the east of the County near the Somerset – Wiltshire border. It lies about 42 miles east of the County Town of Taunton.

 

Pensford    map

Pensford lies in the Chew Valley 7 miles south of Bristol and 8 miles west of Bath. It is on the A37 road from Bristol to Shepton Mallet and is on the route of the 615 mile Monarch's Way long distance footpath.

 

Pilton   map     

Lying just over six miles to the east of the town of Glastonbury, Pilton is famous as the location of the Glastonbury Festival, which is run by farmer Michael Eavis and his daughter Emily. Pilton is now almost 20 miles from the sea but is on the edge of the Somerset Levels which has now been drained but was once a shallow tidal lake. In Saxon times Pilton, then known as Pooltown, was a harbour and according to legend it is where Joseph of Arimathea landed in Britain in the 1st century.

To see a slide show press F11 and click here

 

Pitminster   map   

 

Pitney  map

 

Podimore   map

Podimore is a very small village in the south of the County lying about 8 miles north of the town of Yeovil and 26 miles east of the County Town of Taunton.

 

Porlock   map

Porlock is a charming village with narrow streets and many interesting shops. Its origins can be traced back to the 12th century and has some lovely old thatched buildings, an ancient parish church and a museum.

 

Puriton   map

 

Puxton   map  

The small village of Puxton is situated on the road from Bristol to Weston-super-Mare, and near the river Axe. It’s very sparsely populated and the Church was made redundant in 2002.   

 

Q

 

Queen Camel   map

 

R

 

Raddington   map  

 

Rickford   map

 

Roadwater   map

 

Rodney Stoke   map

 

Rooksbridge   map

The village of Rooksbridge lies about 15 miles north of Bridgwater and about 21 miles south of the city of Bristol. The bridge on the main A38 trunk road that crosses the small Mark Yeo River is probably where the name "Rooksbridge" came from as on 16th century maps it's shown as 'Rokes Bridge' which means "A Bridge over a River".

 

Ruishton   map

The village of Ruishton is close to the River Tone and took its name from the rushes that grew there. It's only two and a half miles from the County Town of Taunton but the pace of life is much more relaxed and tranquil.

 

S

 

Sampford Brett   map

 

Seavington St. Mary   map

 

Seavington St. Michael   map

 

Selworthy   map

 

Shapwick   map

 

Shipham   map

Shipham is a Village on the Western edge of the Mendip Hills approximately 15 miles south of Bristol. It is in the district of Sedgemoor.

 

Somerton  map

 

Spaxton   map

The name of Spaxton originates from "Spakr", a Dane who settled in the area in about the 9th century. It was recorded as Spacheston in the Domesday Book of 1086. The village lies about 6 miles west of the town of Bridgwater at the foot of the Quantock Hills. To see a slideshow press F11 and click here

 

Staple Fitzpaine   map

 

Staplegrove   map  

The village of Staplegrove is situated about one and a half miles north west of the County Town of Taunton. For walkers, there is an excellent network of footpaths leading from the heart of the village.

 

Stogumber   map

 

Stogursey   map

 

Stringston   map

 

Swell   map

 

T

 

Tarr Steps   map

The ancient 3000 year old bridge of Tarr Steps is a well known visitor attraction but the beautiful wooded valley of the River Barle is also worth exploring for its wildlife. Located within the Exmoor National Park it lies 30 miles west of the County Town of Taunton.

 

Thurloxton   map

 

Timberscombe   map

 

Trull   map

The village lies about two miles south of the County Town of Taunton. The name Trull is thought to derive from the word ‘Trendle’ meaning circle or wheel.

To go direct to a slideshow press F11 and click here

 

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Uphill    map

Uphill is situated at the south end of Weston Bay, where the River Axe flows into the Bristol Channel, and was once a busy port. There is evidence of a port at Uphill since Roman times, probably for the export of lead from the Mendip Hills. The village is dominated on its southern side by a large hill. On top of the hill stands the unroofed Norman "Old Church of St Nicholas". The present day Church of St Nicholas is situated on lower ground towards the north end of the village.

To go direct to a slideshow press F11 and click here

 

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W

 

Watchet   map

A charming little seaside town on the north coast of Somerset with an active marina, excellent holiday accommodation, quaint cottages and shops. An ideal place to stay for a few days or even longer, with many walks in the beautiful countryside, along the lovely coastline or just sit on the Esplanade and relax by the harbour.

 

Waterrow   map

Waterrow is half way between Wiveliscombe and Bampton on the B3227 and is on the southern fringe of the Exmoor National Park.

 

Wedmore   map

 

Wembdon   map

 

Wells   map

 

West Bagborough    map

The village of West Bagborough lies on the slopes of the Quantock Hills about eight miles from the county town of Taunton. When the Doomsday book was compiled in 1086 the village was mentioned as Bageberge.

To see a slideshow press F11 and click here

 

West Bradley   map

The very small village lies about five miles east of Glastonbury in the Mendip District of the County.

To see a slideshow press F11 and click here

 

West Buckland   map

 

West Camel  map

 

West Coker   map

 

West Hatch  map

075/076 St. Andrew’s 16th century church. 077 the south porch. 078 the west tower. 079 the vicarage from the churchyard. 080 the churchyard. 081 the north face of the tower. 082 the nave. 083 the font. 084 the north aisle. 085 the Chancel. 086 the pulpit. 087 looking from the altar. 088 the altar. 089 the old school, now the village hall.

To see one hi-res photo of West Hatch click here.

 

West Lydford   map

 

West Monkton  map

 

Westonzoyland   map

Westonzoyland is in the District of Sedgemoor and lies about 14 miles north east of the County Town of Taunton and is the site of the last battle fought on English soil in 1685.

Press F11 and click here to see a hi-res slideshow.

 

West Pennard   map

West Pennard village lies on the main A361 road 3 miles east of the town of Glastonbury.

Press F11 and click here to see a hi-res slideshow.

 

Wheathill   map

Wheathill is not a village as such but a couple of farms and a church that is now privately owned. It lies about 9 miles southeast of Glastonbury. Press F11 and click here to see a slideshow. 

 

Whitelackington   map

 

Wick St. Lawrence   map

The village lies on a small creek known as Slutspill near the River Yeo which was inundated in the Bristol Channel floods of   1607. It is about 17 miles southwest of the city of Bristol. To see a hi-res slideshow click here Press F11 for larger screen.

 

Williton     map

Williton is situated in the north of the County about equal distances from the towns of Bridgwater, Minehead and the County town of Taunton. The quite large village is home to one of the ten stations on the West Somerset Railway which is the longest private railway in the country. Williton is a good centre for visiting the Quantock Hills, the Brendons and Exmoor as well as the coastal resorts of Minehead, Dunster, Blue Anchor and Watchet which are on the West Somerset Coast Path.

 

Winscombe   map

Situated on the western edge of the Mendip Hills, the village of Winscombe is a thriving community with many shops selling a vast range of goods with a greater selection than some small towns.

 

Winsford

 

Withycombe

 

Withypool

 

Wiveliscombe

 

Wookey    map

The village lies about two miles to the west of the City of Wells and is not to be confused with the village of Wookey Hole which is about two miles to the north. It is a charming little village with very friendly people. There is a 12th century Church and an Abbey which is now a care home.

To see a hi-res slideshow press F11 and click here

 

Wookey Hole    map

This is the village of Wookey Hole where the famous caves are situated. There are plenty of other web sites to see the caves so we'll leave that to them. The village lies just over two miles northwest of the City of Wells.

To see a hi-res slideshow press F11 and click here

 

Wootton Courtenay

 

Wrantage    map

049 approaching the village from the east. 050 Wrantage house. 051 Lane End cottage. 052 Wrantage Mills. 053 the Canal Inn. 054-056 remains of the Taunton to Chard canal aqueduct. 057 Higher Wrantage farm. 058 Canal Inn and Wrantage mills in the distance. 060 Crimson Hill, part of the canal route. 061 Wrantage mills. 063 appears to have once been a skittle alley next to Wrantage house. 064 canal bridge just north of Lillesdon farm, to the north west of Wrantage. 065/067 what remains of the old canal. 070 the route of the canal into Wrantage. 071 the old post office. 072/073 the old Methodist chapel.

To see one hi-res photo of Wrantage click here.

 

Wrington

 

Y

 

Yatton   map

Yatton is a very large village in North Somerset located 11 miles south west of the city of Bristol.  The village has at one time or another been called Jatune, Eaton and Yatton Blewitt, and is recorded as Lature in the Domesday Book of 1086.

To see a hi-res slideshow press F11 and click here

 

 

 

 

Links:

 

Bridgwater Firefighters in the 50s

B&W pictures of Firefighters of Bridgwater, Somerset, England in the 1950s and 1960s.

 

Winter Scenes in Somerset 2010

Some snow scenes around the area at the beginning of 2010.

 

Paignton and Goodrington, Devon, England.   map

Torbay in the South of Devon is known as the English Riviera. This article shows just a very small part of it.

 

Dawlish and Starcross, Devon, England.    map

Dawlish is a small town and seaside resort on the southeast coast of Devon, England. Tourism is still its main industry attracting many thousands of visitors during the spring and summer months.

 

Clovelly, North Devon, England.    map

This lovely village dates back over a thousand years. Situated on the north coast of Devon it is a step back in time.

 

Funeral of the last Tommy.     map 

The funeral took place on the 6th August 2009 at Wells Cathedral in Somerset of Harry Patch who was the last of the soldiers of the First World War who fought in the trenches.

 

British Icons....Red Telephone Boxes.

The red telephone box was once a familiar site in the UK but they are getting rarer. This album is constantly being added to.

To go directly to a slideshow press F11 and click here

 

Whitby, North Yorkshire, England.    map

This traditional maritime town, with its old cobbled streets, picturesque houses and sandy beach is a great place for a holiday or short break.

To go directly to a slideshow press F11 and click here

 

Floods on the Somerset Levels.    map  

Due to the heavy rain during November 2009 the rivers on the Somerset Levels filled to capacity and eventually overflowed.

To go directly to a slideshow press F11 and click here

 

Western National Bus Company Reunion    

Western National Bus Company Reunion held at the Rugby Club, North Petherton, Somerset in November 1990.

 

Westonzoyland Secondary Modern School in the 1950s 

A collection of old black and white pictures taken in the 1950s. 

 

Tribute to William Keirle, Middlezoy, Somerset.

William Keirle died on the 8th September 2007. He loved Harvest Festival and this was the theme held at the Holy Cross Church in his memory on the weekend of the 27th and 28th September 2008 with the beautiful displays made by many volunteers from the village.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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