10 Awesome Activities In Taunton For The Perfect Day Out

Nestled in the heart of Somerset, the quintessentially British town of Taunton offers a plethora of activities that are certain to make for an unforgettable day out. Whether you're looking for an adrenaline-fuelled adventure or a relaxing stroll through picturesque scenery, Taunton has it all. In this article, we've rounded up the 10 most awesome activities in Taunton for the perfect day out. So, grab your walking shoes, camera and sense of adventure, and let's explore this charming town together.

Visit the Museum of Somerset

If you're looking for a rich dose of history and culture, you should definitely visit the Museum of Somerset in Taunton. Located in the heart of the county town, this museum is a treasure trove of archaeological and historical artifacts that tell the story of Somerset over the centuries.

The museum is housed in the beautiful 12th-century Taunton Castle, which itself has a fascinating history. Once a mighty fortress, it was transformed into a residence for the bishops of Winchester in the 13th century, and later used as a courthouse and prison. Today, the castle's walls are adorned with interactive displays, paintings, and artifacts that take you back in time and tell the story of Somerset.

One of the key highlights of the Museum of Somerset is the Alfred Jewel, which is considered one of the most important Anglo-Saxon artifacts in existence. Discovered in 1693, this incredibly ornate jewel was created in the late 9th century to commemorate King Alfred the Great, who united England against the Vikings. The jewel is a masterpiece of craftsmanship and design, featuring intricate scrollwork and a giant purple amethyst.

But the Alfred Jewel is just one of many treasures you'll discover at the Museum of Somerset. There are galleries filled with archaeological finds from Roman, Saxon, and Viking times, as well as more recent objects that illustrate the county's social, economic, and cultural history. You can see medieval tiles, Tudor portraits, Victorian dresses, and even a reconstructed Iron Age roundhouse. There's also a collection of fossils, minerals, and geological specimens that highlight the natural beauty of Somerset.

The museum's interactive exhibits make learning fun for all ages, and there are plenty of hands-on activities for children. From dressing up in historical costumes to digging for fossils, there's something for everyone. There's also a café and gift shop on site, where you can grab a bite to eat or take home a memento of your visit.

So if you're planning a trip to Taunton, be sure to add the Museum of Somerset to your itinerary. It's a great way to experience the rich history and culture of this beautiful county, and a perfect day out for the whole family.

Walk through Vivary Park

If you're looking for a peaceful oasis in the heart of Taunton, look no further than Vivary Park. This beautiful green space is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, offering a relaxing respite from the hustle and bustle of the town center. Whether you're seeking some fresh air, a scenic stroll, or a leisurely picnic, Vivary Park has something for everyone.

One of the highlights of a visit to Vivary Park is the stunning floral displays. The park boasts an impressive array of flowers, shrubs, and trees, which are carefully tended by the dedicated gardening team. In the spring and summer months, the flower beds burst with colorful blooms, creating a vibrant and uplifting atmosphere. If you're a keen gardener yourself, be sure to take note of the varieties on display – you're sure to pick up some inspiration for your own garden.

Another must-see feature of the park is the ornamental pond. This tranquil spot is home to a variety of waterfowl, including ducks and geese, which can often be seen paddling around or perched on the banks. The pond is surrounded by lush greenery and provides a picturesque backdrop for photographs. If you're lucky, you may even spot a glimpse of the resident heron, which is known to visit the pond from time to time.

A walk through Vivary Park is a feast for the senses. As well as the colorful flowers and peaceful pond, you'll be treated to the sounds of birdsong and the rustling of leaves in the trees. The park is also home to several pieces of public art, including sculptures and murals, which add a touch of creativity and whimsy to the surroundings.

If you're feeling active, there are plenty of opportunities to get moving in the park. The large expanses of grassy lawn are perfect for a game of frisbee or kicking around a ball, while the fitness trail provides a challenging workout for those who want to improve their stamina. There are also several play areas for children, including swings, slides, and climbing frames.

Finally, no visit to Vivary Park would be complete without a visit to the park café. This cozy spot serves up a range of delicious snacks and drinks, including hot and cold beverages, ice creams, and cakes. The café has indoor and outdoor seating, so you can enjoy your refreshments while taking in the lovely surroundings.

In short, Vivary Park is a real gem in the heart of Taunton. Whether you're looking for peace and quiet or an active afternoon out, this green oasis has something for everyone. Next time you're in town, be sure to pay it a visit.

Watch a movie at Odeon Cinema

Taunton, a large town situated in Somerset, England, is renowned for its rich cultural legacy, long history, and stunning countryside. The town welcomes an array of tourists every year, thanks to its various tourist attractions, including its bustling streets, scenic landscapes, and countless entertainment options. One such enjoyable activity in Taunton is watching a movie at the Odeon Cinema, a world-renowned cinema hall that offers a range of top-class movie experiences.

The Odeon Cinema in Taunton is located conveniently in the center of the town, making it easy to access from any part of the region. With a state-of-the-art facility that comes equipped with advanced technology, comfortable seats and stunning visuals and sound system, moviegoers are welcomed into a world of astonishing movie experiences. The theatre has six screens with various seating options, including regular, Premier, and Luxe. The cozy seats offer ample legroom and even come with the option of reclining to ensure optimum comfort.

The cinema hall plays new releases regularly, including blockbuster hits from Hollywood, Bollywood, and other movie-making industries globally. They also showcase films in different genres, ranging from action to romance, to cater to the interests of all movie lovers. From the latest superhero movies to family-friendly films for kids and adults, Odeon Cinema has a catalogue of films to suit any taste.

The food offerings at the cinema are extensive, from classic cinema snacks like popcorns and candy to fast-food like hotdogs, loaded fries, and a range of soft drinks. Additionally, Odeon Cinema provides exclusive packages for special occasions like birthdays, anniversaries, or corporate events.

In conclusion, if you're looking for fun things to do in Taunton, one thing you can't afford to miss is watching a movie at the Odeon Cinema. Offering a modern, comfortable, and exciting cinematic experience, the theatre is a perfect place to catch up with the latest movies, have a few snacks, and relax with friends and family. With the unique offerings, it’s not just a cinema but a perfect family outing.

Go shopping at Orchard Shopping Centre

Characteristic	Description
Name	Orchard Shopping Centre
Type	Shopping mall in Taunton, England
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.1 / 2,939
Address	Paul St, Taunton TA1 3TP, United Kingdom
Phone	+44 1823 326556
Hours	Friday - 9 AM–5:30 PM Saturday - 9 AM–5:30 PM Sunday - 10:30 AM–4:30 PM Monday(Early May Bank Holiday) - 9 AM–5:30 PM Tuesday - 9 AM–5:30 PM Wednesday - 9 AM–5:30 PM Thursday - 9 AM–5:30 PM
Profiles

If you're looking for a great shopping experience in Taunton, you'll definitely want to head over to the Orchard Shopping Centre. This modern, spacious centre is packed with everything from high-end fashion to home goods to delicious treats, so it's the perfect place to indulge your inner shopaholic.

One of the things that makes the Orchard Shopping Centre so great is its convenient location right in the heart of Taunton. You can easily get there by car or bus, and there are plenty of parking spaces available. When you arrive, you'll be greeted by a bright, open space with plenty of shops and restaurants to explore.

One of the standout features of the Orchard Shopping Centre is its selection of fashion stores. Whether you're looking for the latest designer styles or more affordable high-street brands, you'll find lots of options here. Some of the top fashion stores include H&M, Topshop, and River Island.

Of course, fashion isn't the only thing on offer at Orchard. You'll also find plenty of home goods stores, where you can pick up everything from bedding to cooking utensils. Some of the standout home decor stores include Dunelm and The Range.

When you need a break from all that shopping, there are plenty of restaurants and cafes in the Orchard Shopping Centre where you can grab a bite to eat. Options range from fast food joints like McDonald's and KFC to sit-down restaurants like the popular Italian chain, Prezzo.

Overall, if you're looking for a great shopping experience in Taunton, the Orchard Shopping Centre is definitely worth a visit. With its convenient location, wide range of stores, and tasty dining options, it's a shopper's paradise.

Take a guided tour of the Taunton Castle

Taunton Castle is a historic landmark in the town of Taunton, Somerset, England. The castle was originally built in the 12th century and has since been used as a military fortress, a courthouse, a jail, and even a museum. Today, Taunton Castle serves as a local history museum, where visitors can learn about the rich history of the town and its surrounding areas.

One of the best ways to explore Taunton Castle is by taking a guided tour. These tours are led by knowledgeable guides who will take you on a journey through the castle's history, sharing stories and providing insights into its past. The guided tours will take you through the castle's various rooms, including the Great Hall, the Regency Room, and the Castle's Chapel.

The Great Hall is the most impressive room in the castle, with its stunning vaulted ceiling and impressive oak beams. This room was once used by judges presiding over the court cases in Taunton, and visitors can still see the court bench where they sat.

The Regency Room is another highlight of the tour, with its Georgian-style decor and period furniture. This room was added to the castle in the early 19th century when it was used as a registry office where couples could get married.

The Castle's Chapel is equally impressive, with its rare 17th-century carved wooden screen, which depicts scenes from the Bible. This room is still used today for religious services and concerts.

The guided tour of Taunton Castle also includes a visit to the castle's museum, where visitors can learn more about the castle's history and the town of Taunton. The museum's collections include paintings and portraits, historical artifacts, and exhibits on local industry and agriculture.

Overall, taking a guided tour of Taunton Castle is an excellent way to learn about the history of the town and experience the castle's unique architecture and historic significance. These tours are available throughout the year, and visitors of all ages are welcome to explore the castle's many treasures.

Enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants in the town center

As one of the largest towns in Somerset, Taunton is a hub of activity, especially when it comes to dining out. Thanks to its diverse selection of eateries, the town center is a perfect spot to head to when it's time to enjoy a great meal.

Whether you're strolling along the historic streets or exploring some of the town's hidden gems, you'll be sure to find something that suits your taste. From cozy cafes to upscale restaurants and everything in between, Taunton is a foodie's paradise.

One popular spot to grab a bite is the Willow Tree, which is known for its traditional pub fare and relaxed atmosphere. Located just a few blocks from the town's train station, the Willow Tree is a great spot to meet up with friends and enjoy a hearty meal. The menu features a range of classic dishes such as fish and chips, burgers, and bangers and mash, as well as a selection of daily specials.

For those looking for a more upscale dining experience, the Willow Tree's sister restaurant, Reeves, is an excellent choice. Situated in a historic building right in the heart of Taunton, Reeves offers a sophisticated menu of contemporary British cuisine. The restaurant's elegant decor and attentive service make it an ideal spot for a special occasion or romantic dinner.

If you're in need of a caffeine fix, The Cosy Club is a must-visit spot in Taunton. This quirky café/bar boasts an eclectic interior that's equal parts vintage and contemporary. Whether you're in the mood for coffee, cocktails, or brunch, The Cosy Club is a laid-back spot where you can relax and unwind.

Another town center gem is the Castle Hotel, which houses two restaurants – the Castle Bow and the Castle Bow Bar & Grill. Both locations offer imaginative dishes using locally sourced ingredients, and the hotel itself is steeped in history, dating back to the 12th century.

With so many dining options to choose from, Taunton is a town that truly has something for everyone. Whether you're in the mood for traditional pub fare or gourmet cuisine, the town's center is a great place to start your culinary adventure.

See a show at the Brewhouse Theatre

Characteristic	Description
Name	Taunton Brewhouse
Type	Theatre in Taunton, England
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.6 / 702
Address	Coal Orchard, Taunton TA1 1JL, United Kingdom
Phone	+44 1823 283244
Profiles

If you find yourself in the charming town of Taunton in Somerset, England, there is no better way to spend an evening than by catching a show at the Brewhouse Theatre. This cultural hub of the town offers a range of performances that are sure to enthrall and entertain its visitors.

The Brewhouse Theatre is located at the heart of Taunton town center, making it easily accessible to locals and visitors alike. The building itself is an impressive structure, with a modern and stylish design that reflects the contemporary and dynamic nature of the arts scene in Taunton. Its two auditoriums, the Studio Theatre, and the Main House, host a range of events throughout the year, including drama productions, dance performances, live music concerts, and comedy acts.

The Main House is the larger of the two auditoriums, with a capacity of up to 350 people. It boasts state-of-the-art lighting and sound systems, ensuring that every performance is of the highest quality. The Studio Theatre, on the other hand, offers a more intimate experience, with a seating capacity of 85. This smaller setting creates a more personal feel between the performers and the audience, making for a more immersive experience.

The Brewhouse Theatre has a rich history of hosting performances. It started as a cinema in 1977 and was then converted into a theater in 1979. Since then, it has been a popular destination for theater-goers, featuring shows from both local and international artists. The theater has worked with a range of theatre companies, including the Royal Shakespeare Company and the English Touring Theatre, to bring some of the country's most popular productions to Taunton.

The theater is committed to providing a diverse range of performances to cater to all ages and interests. They have a dedicated program for children and young people, featuring plays and workshops that are specially designed to inspire and engage the next generation of artists.

In addition, the Brewhouse Theatre has an on-site bar that serves a selection of drinks and light bites, making it perfect for a pre or post-show drink. Visitors can also browse the theater's merchandise, which includes theater programs and souvenirs to take home as a memento of their experience.

In conclusion, if you are looking for a fun and exciting evening in Taunton, be sure to check out the Brewhouse Theatre. With its range of shows and performances, modern facilities, and dedication to artistic diversity, it is a true gem of the cultural scene in Somerset.

Explore the wildlife at Hestercombe Gardens

Characteristic	Description
Name	Hestercombe House & Gardens
Type	Garden
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.5 / 1,730
Address	Hestercombe, Taunton TA2 8LG, United Kingdom
Phone	+44 1823 413923
Hours	Friday - 10 AM–6 PM Saturday - 10 AM–6 PM Sunday - 10 AM–6 PM Monday(Early May Bank Holiday) - 10 AM–6 PM Tuesday - 10 AM–6 PM Wednesday - 10 AM–6 PM Thursday - 10 AM–6 PM
Profiles

Taunton is a beautiful town in Somerset, England that boasts of several attractions that showcase its natural beauty. One of the must-see spots in Taunton is the Hestercombe Gardens, a stunning landscape that is home to a diverse range of wildlife species.

Located in the tranquil valley of the River Tone, the Hestercombe Gardens offer a perfect escape from the bustle of everyday life. The area covers over 50 acres of land and comprises three gardens - the Formal Garden, the Landscape Garden, and the Victorian Shrubbery.

One of the main attractions of the gardens is their vibrant array of wildlife that includes various bird species, butterflies, bees, and squirrels. On your stroll through the gardens, you are likely to spot woodpeckers, tits, finches, and thrushes flitting about. And if you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the resident kingfisher that often visits the river.

The gardens are also home to several bat species, which can be seen flying around at twilight. These furry creatures are fascinating to watch, and you can learn more about them during the Hestercombe Bat Walks that are held during the summer months.

The gardens are particularly popular with butterfly enthusiasts who come to marvel at the colorful insects that flutter from flower to flower. Some of the common butterfly species found here include the Peacock, Small Tortoiseshell, and Orange Tip. And if you're lucky, you might also spot the rare and beautiful Adonis Blue butterfly.

The bees, on the other hand, are drawn to the gardens' abundant flowers which provide them with nectar and pollen. The honeybees are particularly important as they help in pollinating the plants, thus contributing to their survival.

Overall, visiting Hestercombe Gardens is an unforgettable experience that allows you to connect with nature and explore the diverse range of wildlife in Taunton. So, don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity to take in the beauty of the flora and fauna of the area.

Play a round of golf at Oake Manor Golf Club

Characteristic	Description
Name	Oake Manor Golf Club
Type	Golf club in Oake, England
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.6 / 749
Address	Oake, Taunton TA4 1BA, United Kingdom
Phone	+44 1823 461993
Hours	Friday - 8 AM–5 PM Saturday - 8 AM–5 PM Sunday - 8 AM–5 PM Monday(Early May Bank Holiday) - 8 AM–5 PM Tuesday - 8 AM–5 PM Wednesday - 8 AM–5 PM Thursday - 8 AM–5 PM
Profiles

Located on the outskirts of Taunton, Oake Manor Golf Club is one of the top destinations for golf enthusiasts in the area. With stunning views of the Somerset countryside and a challenging course layout, it's the perfect place to play a round of golf with friends or family.

Oake Manor Golf Club offers an 18-hole, par 70 parkland course that is suitable for golfers of all skill levels. The course is well-maintained and features a variety of hazards, including lakes, bunkers, and challenging roughs. A recent renovation has also added several new holes to the course, including a spectacular par-3 with a 250-yard carry over water.

In addition to the main course, Oake Manor Golf Club also offers a 9-hole par 3 course, which is perfect for beginners or those looking to work on their short game. The club also has a driving range, putting green, and a chipping area, where players can practice their skills.

If you're new to golf or looking to improve your game, Oake Manor Golf Club offers golf lessons with qualified instructors. Lessons can be booked for individuals, groups, or families, and are tailored to meet the specific needs of each player.

After your game, you can relax and unwind in the club's restaurant and bar, which offers a range of delicious food and drink options. The clubhouse also has a pro shop, where you can purchase the latest golf equipment and clothing.

In conclusion, Oake Manor Golf Club is a fantastic destination for those looking to play a round of golf in Taunton. With its stunning views, challenging course layout, and range of facilities, it's a must-visit for any golf enthusiast. So grab your clubs and head to Oake Manor Golf Club for a fun-filled day of golfing!

Try your luck at the Taunton Racecourse

The Taunton Racecourse is a must-visit destination for all horse racing fans. Situated in the picturesque countryside, the course boasts a variety of events throughout the year, including the popular National Hunt race meetings.

If you're a racing enthusiast, you'll appreciate the top-class facilities on offer at the Taunton Racecourse. The course itself is impeccably maintained, meaning you'll enjoy a smooth ride while you cheer on your favorite horse. The seating area offers excellent views of the action, while the food and drink options are sure to keep you satisfied throughout the day.

Visitors to the Taunton Racecourse can also try their luck at betting on the races. Whether you're a seasoned punter or a newcomer to the sport, the course provides ample opportunity to test your knowledge and win big. Of course, betting on horses carries a risk, so it's important to approach it with caution and only spend what you can afford.

The Taunton Racecourse also offers a range of hospitality packages, perfect for groups or corporate events. These packages include access to private bars and restaurants, as well as exclusive views of the finish line. With such luxurious perks on offer, it's no wonder the Taunton Racecourse is a popular choice for parties and other special occasions.

Overall, the Taunton Racecourse is a fantastic day out for anyone with an interest in horse racing. The stunning location, top-class facilities, and thrilling races all add up to a truly unforgettable experience. So why not head to Taunton and see if your luck is in? Who knows – you could be leaving with a pocketful of winnings and a newfound passion for horse racing.

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