12 Places to Stay in Somerset and Hotel Recommendations
Are you looking for places to stay in Somerset? This blog post focuses on some of the best towns, villages and cities in the county, with plenty of hotel recommendations.
Somerset is a stunning region with rolling hills, a dramatic coastline and charismatic towns. It’s famous for Cheddar Gorge, the biggest gorge in the country, Glastonbury Tor and its spiritual connections, and the charming city of Bath with the notable Bath Abbey and the historic Georgian royal crescent.
You might want to stay here for a break in the countryside – there are plenty of historic coaching inns, places for glamping, holiday cottages and friendly B&Bs with striking views. Choose from the Mendip or Quantock Hills, Exmoor National Park or the Somerset Levels!
However, there are also lots of urban attractions. Visit the Roman Baths in Bath, Wells Cathedral, Glastonbury Abbey, and Shepton Mallet Prison. It’s a historic area with lots to learn about.
Somerset is great for kids as well – children will love the West Somerset Railway, Wookey Hole, the theme parks near Weston Super Mare and all of the attractions around Cheddar.
If you’re wondering where to stay in Somerset, this post will help you decide! Click through to any of these hotels to read more information and to book your stay.
Bath: Where to stay in Somerset for history and culture lovers
Bath is without a doubt one of the best places to stay in Somerset. Perhaps most famous for its ancient Roman baths, it is also famous for having an Abbey where the first king of all of England was crowned and its Georgian architecture.
There are so many things to do in Bath that you could spend a whole weekend here and not get bored, but you could also use it as a base while you see the rest of Somerset.
There are lots of places to stay in Bath, from cheap hostels to luxury spa hotels. The Somerset city is an ideal spot for a city break as a couple, a group (there are some bars if you are looking to party), and as a family, as there are lots of things to do in Bath with kids.
Things to do in Bath
- Learn about Roman history and culture and the Roman Baths
- Explore Bath Abbey, one of the most important churches in the country.
- Visit the Royal Crescent and go to Number 1 Royal Crescent, now a Georgian House Museum.
- See the rest of the Georgian buildings in the city.
- Relax in the Thermae Bath Spa.
- Walk around the Kennet and Avon Canal and up to Bath Skyline.
Here are all of the things to do in Bath
Hotels in Bath
Gainsborough Bath Spa Hotel is one of the best luxury hotels in South West England. Situated close to Bath Abbey in the city centre, it is the only UK hotel with natural thermal waters in its spa. It also has an indoor pool. It’s a five-star property with luxury rooms, helpful staff and plenty of amenities. Click here to book your stay.
The Bird is one of the most unique accommodation options in Bath. It is a boutique hotel with unique furnishings – every room has its distinct style. If you’re looking for something special, try their room with a hot tub! Click here to read more and reserve your spot.
If you’re visiting the historic city on a budget, try Z Hotel. This hotel is great value but has all of the mod cons you’ll need, and is in an enviable city-centre location. Click here to read more about it.
What is the best hotel near Bath Abbey?
The Gainsborough Bath Spa Hotel is the best luxury hotel, but Z Hotel is close by too if you’re on a budget.
Bristol: the best place to stay in Somerset for nightlife and city culture
Bristol isn’t technically in Somerset, but I am recommending it because there are loads of hotels here and it is really easy to reach Somerset from the city. In fact, I used to live in South Bristol and was just a five minute walk from the North Somerset border!
There are also loads of things to do in Bristol – so if you like cosmopolitan cities, here’s your place! Things that you can’t miss include the SS Great Britain, walking over the Clifton Suspension Bridge (which connects Bristol to Somerset!) and trying the diverse food scene – like these vegan Chinese restaurants.
There’s also a distinct history in Bristol – don’t miss King Street, a cobbled street in the old city that maintains its original Medieval layout. Nowadays, it’s home to some of Bristol’s best beer gardens.
There are a few hotels to stay in Bristol city centre, as well as many dotted around the neighbourhoods of Clifton.
Any group of people will be happy staying here. There are lots of things to do in Bristol with kids, a great dining scene and excellent nightlife, and many romantic things to do if you’re with your other half – see all my Bristol date ideas here.
Of course, you can easily access Bristol Airport from the city – so if you are flying here, Bristol might be a good base.
Things to do in Bristol
- Climb onboard the SS Great Britain and learn about its nautical history.
- Walk over the Clifton Suspension Bridge, which spans from Bristol to Somerset.
- Explore the historic buildings of the Old City.
- See some street art.
- Explore Bristol’s dynamic food scene.
- Go shopping – Bristol has the best shopping scene in South West England.
Where to stay in Bristol
Number 38 Bristol is a beautiful Clifton-based boutique guesthouse with stylish rooms and impressive views of Clifton Downs. You’ll be able to enjoy a full English breakfast when you stay here! Click here to book your stay.
The Harbour Hotel and Spa is a great spot to stay in Bristol city centre if you want a spa break. It has excellent spa facilities and luxury rooms. Click here for more information about Bristol harbour hotel and spa.
If you’re looking for affordable accommodation Future Inn is a good value hotel, with spacious rooms with comfy beds. Click here to read more about Future Inn and book your stay.
If you’re looking for a hostel, try Rock and Bowl Hostel, located inside The Lanes Bowling Alley, or Kyle Blue, which is on a boat! These hostels are the perfect spot for backpackers looking to meet other people.
See all places to stay in Bristol here.
Weston-super-Mare: the best coastal place to stay in Somerset for families
Weston-super-Mare is a popular North Somerset seaside town that is one of the best day trips from Bristol and a fun holiday destination with many family-orientated attractions.
In Weston Super Mare, you can enjoy the town’s sandy beach and other beaches around. It’s also got an impressive pier, a few nearby theme parks like Brean Leisure Park, and is a good location to the Mendip Hills.
It’s probably the best place to stay in Somerset with kids, as it is a very family-friendly area.
Where to stay in Weston Super Mare
Holly Lodge is a friendly B&B with comfortable rooms and friendly staff. There are various rooms to choose from depending on your needs and budgets, and breakfast is served daily and included in Holly Lodge’s room rate. Click here to book your stay.
The Royal Grosvenor Hotel is one of the most popular hotels in Somerset. It is located in the centre of town, in a prime position on the seafront. Some rooms have a balcony with epic sea views. There’s also a large outdoor dining area. Click here to read more about the Royal Grosvenor hotel.
Beachlands Hotel has comfortable, individually decorated rooms all furnished to a high standard. There is also an indoor heated pool and sauna on-site. It’s the perfect spot for a relaxing trip away from the sea. Click here for more information about Beachlands Hotel.
Things to do in Weston Super Mare
- Enjoy the amusements on Weston Super Mare Pier.
- Relax on the main beach.
- Go to other nearby beaches in the area.
- Visit Brean Leisure Park.
- Learn about the town’s history at the Weston Super Mare Musem.
- Hike the first part of the Mendip Way, which leaves from Weston Super Mare.
The Mendips: where to stay in Somerset for rural living
The Mendip Hills are a lovely area of Somerset. Apart from Cheddar which is at the southern border of the area, the Mendip Hills aren’t too touristy. However, the Mendip Hills are a beautiful place to enjoy rural living and – of course – hiking in the hills. This is one of the finest examples of the English countryside!
There are various villages to visit in the Mendips, and hotels, B&Bs and pubs with rooms are dotted throughout the region. You could stay in the following towns and villages:
- Axbridge: this is a rural town – the smallest in the UK and is famous for its Medieval buildings. Make sure that you visit King John’s Hunting Lodge, a historic building that now houses the town’s museum.
- Priddy: this is a historic village which is home to some beautiful walks.
- Shipham: this is a small local Somerset village not too far from Cheddar. It is close to Blackdown Hill, which is the highest point in the Mendips.
- Blagdon: this is a village that is home to a small reservoir that you can walk around.
The Mendips are close to Bristol Airport, so if you are flying to the UK from abroad and are looking for places to stay in Somerset, this region is a good option!
Things to do in the Mendip Hills
- Hike the 30 mile Mendip Way.
- Do countless other short hikes, including Three Priddy Droves and to Blackdown, the highest point of the Mendips.
- Try local Somerset food and drink, including Thatcher’s Cider and Butcombe Beer.
- Visit the National Trust property of Tyntesfield.
- Explore the Somerset Levels which are just South of the Mendips.
- King John’s Hunting Lodge which is a museum in Axbridge.
You can see all of the best things to do in the Mendips here.
Where to stay in the Mendip Hills
The Swan Inn is one of the best accommodation options in the Mendips. It is a country pub and boutique hotel with beautiful rooms and elegant bathrooms. There is one dog-friendly room on site. There is a bar and restaurant downstairs, and English breakfasts are served daily. Click here for more information about The Swan Inn.
The Old Manor House is a 400-year-old historic coaching inn and is located on the A38 – it’s really easy to access from Bristol and the M5. It is a B&B that still retains some of its original features from its coaching history past. However, it has recently refurbished rooms with luxury bathrooms – some have a roll-top bath. Read more about The Old Manor House here.
Lilypool Farm Hotel is located between Cheddar and Shipham. It is a working farm with clean, comfortable rooms. A delicious hot breakfast is served every day. Read more about Lilypool Farm Hotel here.
Cheddar: the best place to stay in Somerset for hiking and family activities
Most famous for Cheddar Gorge and its fascinating caves where Cheddar Man was found, Cheddar is one of the best places to stay in Somerset.
There are so many attractions in the town, from hiking around Cheddar Gorge itself to visiting Gough’s Cave (which demonstrates the nature of the cave) and Dreamweaver’s Cave (which is an experience about the prehistoric human), to trying lots of cheddar cheese!
You won’t get bored in Cheddar, which makes it a great place to stay. You could easily spend two to three days in Cheddar exploring all of the attractions. You are also in a great location to visit the rest of the Mendips, the Somerset coastline and even further south in Somerset.
Two of the disadvantages of staying in Cheddar are that it is more expensive than elsewhere in the Mendips and that it can get very busy, especially in children’s school holidays!
However, it’s a great place to stay if you have kids in tow are there are many family-friendly attractions in town, and if you are visiting as a couple there are lots of spots in the countryside.
Things to do in Cheddar
- Hike around the gorge.
- Drive through the gorge and marvel at it above.
- Visit Cheddar Caves – Gough’s Cave, where you can learn about the nature and Dreamweaver’s Cave which discusses prehistoric humans.
- Try some local Somerset food – cheddar Cheese!
- Walk around the picturesque town.
Where to stay in Cheddar
If you want to stay just outside of Cheddar and enjoy rural country life, consider Strawberryfield Park. This holiday park has luxury lodges with hot tubs, spacious rooms and living areas. It’s perfect for couples or groups, although some of the lodges are great for families too! Click here to read more about Strawberryfield Park.
Bath Arms Hotel is a four-star property in the town centre. The Bath Arms is a gastropub, and there are a few adult-only rooms upstairs. Each room has beautiful furnishings, with flat-screen TVs and hair dryers, and a luxury bathroom. Click here to book your stay.
Gordon’s is a popular hotel with a seasonal outdoor pool. It’s a comfortable guesthouse with cosy, clean rooms, and a cooked or continental breakfast is served each morning. Click here for more information.
If you’re backpacking or looking for a cheap hotel, check out the YHA Cheddar for dorms and budget private rooms. Click here to read more.
See my full post of places to stay in Cheddar Gorge here.
Wells: where to stay in Somerset for history and local life
Wells is the smallest city in the UK, but it still has an impressive array of attractions and a good dining scene. Don’t miss Wells Cathedral, which is a gothic building dating from 1239. You can also visit the beautiful Bishops Palace and Vicar’s Close, which is the oldest residential street in Europe.
Wells is a good place to stay if you want to be in easy reach of restaurants and a few tourist attractions. If you are visiting with children, Wookey Hole is nearby. It’s also a unique city break for groups or couples, and there is a bit of nightlife in the city.
It’s also a useful place to stay if you are travelling by public transport – you can get a bus from Bristol, Bath or even Cheddar.
Things to do in Wells
- Go back in time at Wells Cathedral.
- See Vicar’s Close, the oldest residential street in the country.
- Explore the grand Bishop’s Palace.
- Shop at the local farmer’s markets.
Where to stay in Wells
The White Hart Inn is a 15th-century property with 15 bedrooms. You’ll see remnants of the inns past everywhere, but all of the rooms have been refurbished to a high standard and contain contemporary features. The attached restaurant serves delicious pub food. Click here to read more.
The Crown is a coaching inn in the middle of the historic city centre. All of its rooms maintain tradition – some have four-poster beds – but are kitted out with all of the mod cons you’ll need. You can choose from a cooked or continental breakfast every morning. Click here for more information.
The Ancient Gatehouse is a boutique guesthouse with period features. However, all rooms are decorated to a high, luxurious standard – it’s an effortless fusion of old and new. There is an Italian restaurant on site. Click here to read more.
What are the best hotels near Wookey Hole Caves?
All of the hotels in Wells are close to Wookey Hole Caves. However, Wookey Hole Hotel is right by the entrance and is perfect if you want to stay right by the caves! Wookey Hole Hotel is a modern property with contemporary features, and a hot breakfast is served every day.
Glastonbury: where to stay in Somerset for quirky culture
Glastonbury is definitely one of the most popular places to visit in the West Country, so it’s definitely worth considering staying here when you are visiting Somerset!
Famous for Glastonbury Tor, its high street is full of supernatural shops and the ruins of Glastonbury Abbey, this town is a popular tourist town. Don’t miss the Museum of Rural Life and Chalice Well, where you can try what is supposed to be healing water.
Glastonbury is the place to visit if you like the weird and wonderful – it is also in a good position to explore the rest of Somerset. It can be slightly more expensive than elsewhere in the county, but you can get some good deals.
Things to do in Glastonbury
- Hike up Glastonbury Tor.
- Try some water at Chalice Well.
- See the ruins of Glastonbury Abbey.
- Explore the shops of Glastonbury High street.
- Learn about everyday Somerset living at the Museum of Rural Life.
Where to stay in Glastonbury
The Covenstead is a historic property with elegant themed rooms, some with four-poster beds. The hotel is rated very highly on Booking.com, thanks to the friendly staff and unique decor – it’s certainly a trendy place to stay in Glastonbury. Click here for more information.
The Who’d A Thought It Inn is a charismatic pub with rooms. The rooms are clean and trendy, and each has its own bathroom. Food and drinks are available downstairs. Click here to read more.
Orchard Farm Luxury Glamping is a holiday park with pods, all equipped with a kitchenette, comfortable beds, and some have a living and dining area. Click here for more information.
Shepton Mallet: luxury place to stay in Somerset
Shepton Mallet isn’t an immensely popular place to stay in Somerset, but it does have the luxury Bannatyne’s Hotel, and it is in a good location for days out to the rest of the region.
Some things that you can do in Shepton Mallet are to explore the historic town centre, to ride on the East Devon Railway which is a historic steam train that runs around the Mendips, and visit the Shepton Mallet Prison.
The Shepton Mallet Prison closed in 2009 and, at the time, was the oldest in the country. Tours around the prison will enable you to learn about its history and some facts about the UK’s penal system.
Shepton Mallet is a good place to stay if you want to find somewhere that’s good value for money, and don’t mind driving a little to get to some of Somerset’s attractions.
Things to do in Shepton Mallet
- Go on a tour of Shepton Mallet Prison.
- Walk around the historic market town centre.
- Ride on the East Devon Railway.
Where to stay in Shepton Mallet
Bannatynes Charlton House Spa Hotel is a luxurious property and is one of the best hotels in South West England. It features uniquely designed rooms, all with luxury bathrooms. The spa has a crystal steam room, ice fountains other amenities, including a state of the art gym and indoor pool. Indulgent breakfasts are served each morning. Click here for more information.
The Well Inn has comfy rooms above a traditional English country pub right in the centre of town. The inn has friendly staff and clean rooms and it is great value for money. Choose from a full English or continental breakfast each morning. Click here for rates and to reserve your stay.
The Thatched Cottage is an affordable hotel, located in a grade II listed property with 340 years of history. All rooms have tea and coffee making facilities, a TV with Freeview and en-suite bathrooms. And, of course, the hotel has a traditional thatched roof! Click here to book your stay.
Minehead: best resort town in Somerset
Minehead is a popular seaside resort that is also the start of the South West Coastal Path. It’s a popular place with hikers because of this! It’s also famous for the West Somerset Railway, which travels from Taunton, and has lots of coastal attractions as well as a large Haven Holiday Park.
It’s worth visiting Minehead if you want to stay in a holiday park, go hiking on the South West Coast path, or stay somewhere where you can enjoy being in proximity to restaurants and other conveniences but also be on the doorstep of the epic beauty of the Quantock Hills and Exmoor. It’s a good place for family orientated holidays, but it’s also popular with hikers.
Where to stay in Minehead
The Old Ship Aground is a friendly, affordable hotel right on the beachfront. Rooms are comfortable and perfectly clean, and the property has an attached restaurant where you can have delicious breakfasts every morning. Click here to reserve your stay.
The Beach Hotel is a historic property in the centre of town with epic views over the Bristol Channel. It is a dog-friendly property and has a bar on site. Click here to book.
Alcombe House Hotel is a trendy B&B with modern rooms with flat-screen TVs, super comfy beds and en suite bathrooms. There is free parking on site. Click here for more information.
Taunton: the best place to stay in Somerset for cheap hotels
Taunton is the county town of Somerset, and while it doesn’t have a tonne of attractions, it’s a popular place to stay for lots of cheap hotels and modern conveniences.
While you’re in South Somerset, it’s worth visiting Taunton Castle, which nowadays houses the Museum of Somerset, the Taunton and Bridgwater Canal and the historic town centre.
You’re also in a great location to explore the nature of the Quantock Hills, and even to drive over the border into Devon.
Things to do in Taunton
- Visit the excellent Museum of Somerset.
- Walk down the Taunton and Bridgwater Canal.
- Explore the historic centre on a self-guided tour.
Where to stay in Taunton
Castle Hotel is a magnificent hotel right by Taunton Castle (and set in a castle itself!) it has elegant rooms with comfortable beds and marvellous furnishings. While the rooms look historic, they have all the mod cons that you’ll need. Indulgent breakfasts are served every day. This is considered one of the most luxurious hotels in South Somerset! Click here for more information.
The Corner House Hotel is in the centre of town and has plush, deluxe rooms with beautiful furnishings and lots of features, including bathrooms with luxurious toiletries. There is a bar and restaurant at the Corner House Hotel. Click here to book your stay.
The Holiday Inn Express is located a little way out of time, but has comfortable, spacious rooms and serves up a home-cooked breakfast each day. Click here to read more and to reserve your place.
The Quantocks: the best place to stay in Somerset for epic scenery
If you like beautiful countryside, why not stay in or near the Quantocks? These rolling hills that eventually give way to the sea are a fantastic spot for nature walks.
I’d definitely recommend walking around Staple Plain and up to Beacon Hill, where you can enjoy a fantastic view. Also, head to Klive Beach – a beautiful beach that is on the Somerset Jurassic Coast.
If you like hiking, you can do longer pasts of the Coleridge Trail. You’ll be staying in a rural spot, but there are some cosy, welcoming B&Bs in this area.
The Quantocks are a great place to stay in Somerset if you like hikes, staying in a beautiful setting, and don’t mind driving to get to attractions and restaurants.
Things to do in the Quantocks
- Do various short walks.
- Hike the longer Coleridge Trail.
- Head to Klive Beach, Somerset’s Jurassic Coast.
- Visit the National Trust property Fyne Court.
Where to stay in The Quantocks
The Castle of Comfort Country House Hotel is a cosy historic 16th century property. It’s a lovely rural spot with comfortable clean rooms, friendly staff, lovely gardens and epic views across the Quantocks. There is a restaurant on-site, and they serve indulgent breakfasts every morning. It is right by the A39, so it is easy to access, but it is still a great place for a relaxing break. Click here to see more information about Castle of Comfort Country House Hotel.
Combe House Hotel is a historic property in a wooded valley, with 18 en-suite rooms that have been decorated to resemble bright, airy spaces. The beds are comfortable and the rooms have all the mod-cons that you’ll need. It is a quiet spot, but it’s perfect for a relaxing trip, and there is an award-winning restaurant on site. Click here for more information.
St Audries Bay is one of the most relaxing holiday parks in the South West. It is located at the foot of the Quantocks. Here, you can book a chalet or caravan, all of which have en suite bathrooms and some which have full kitchens. As well as wonderful sea views, you can enjoy the leisure facilities on-site, including a sauna, swimming pool and tennis court. Click here to read more.
Exmoor National Park: where to stay in Somerset for beautiful beaches
With acres of countryside, Exmoor National Park is one of the best places to stay in Somerset. Like the Quantocks, this is a rural place, but you’ll be rewarded with epic nature and stunning views at every corner.
Exmoor National Park spans into Devon, but there are a few villages dotted around that are lovely places to stay. Porlock is a quaint village with two charismatic pubs, and you can take a countryside walk to Porlock Weir. Or, visit the Medieval village of Dunster and admire the beautiful Dunster Castle.
You’ll be able to drive to other hikes in the National Park, like Dunkery Beacon, which is the highest point in Somerset, and eat at local pubs on the way. You’ll need to drive around, as public transport is sparse, but it’s a wonderful place if you want to relax and unwind.
Things to do in Exmoor
- Walk part of the South West Coast Path.
- Explore local historic villages, like Porlock, Dunster and Exford.
- Go to Dunster Castle.
- Take the West Somerset Railway from Bishops Lydeard.
- Hike to Dunkery Beacon, Somerset’s highest point.
- Drive over the Devon border and visit the two twin villages of Lynmouth and Lynton.
Where to stay in Exmoor
The Porlock Weir Hotel is a lovely property right by the coastline of Exmoor National Park. Rooms at Porlock Weir Hotel are furnished to a high standard, with comfy beds and plush linen. Delicious breakfasts are served every morning, and the helpful staff will answer any questions that you have about travelling in the area. Porlock Weir is a hamlet, and it’s a quiet spot, but the hotel is walking distance from the rural town of Porlock. Click here to read more.
The Exmoor White Horse Inn is located in Exford. The 16th-century inn serves up delicious breakfasts every morning – choose from continental or cooked options. All rooms at the Exmoor White Horse Inn are cleaned to a high standard and are individually furnished, with flat-screen TVs and hair dryers. There is a restaurant downstairs that serves lunch and dinner specials. Click here to read more.
The Luttrell Arms is a popular property in the famous medieval town of Dunster. The hotel dates back to the 13th century and still has some of its original features and beautiful gardens. The rooms at the Luttrell Arms have all the mod cons that you’ll need, but some maintain the historical style – a few have four-poster beds! There is a bar and restaurant on-site, and you can buy indulgent breakfasts every day. Click here to read more.
FAQ
What are the best pet-friendly hotels in Somerset?
The Swan Inn in the Mendips has one pet-friendly room, or the Beach Hotel in Minehead is a pet-friendly hotel.
What are the best luxury hotels in Somerset?
We love Bannatyne’s in Shepton Mallet, Gainsborough Bath Spa Hotel and Bristol Harbour Hotel and Spa!
What are the best hotels on the beach in Somerset?
Try Porlock Weir Hotel for a relaxing break, or the Beach Hotel in Minehead for a fun holiday atmosphere.
Which hotels are closest to Bristol Airport?
Hampton by Hilton Hotel Bristol Airport is the closest and is a great place to stay if you have an early morning flight. However, the Swan Inn and other locations in the Mendips are just a short drive away, as are all the hotels in Bristol.
What are the best cheap hotels in Somerset?
We recommend the Z Hotel in Bath, Future Inn in Bristol, Old Ship Aground in Minehead and Holiday Inn Express in Taunton.
Which hotels in Somerset are good for families?
You could try a holiday park – such as St Audries Bay. Otherwise, Wookey Hole Hotel is popular with kids!
What are the best romantic hotels in Somerset?
For couples, check out Gainsborough Bath Spa, or go glamping at Orchard Farm Luxury Glamping near Glastonbury.
Places to stay in Somerset
There are so many wonderful places to stay in Somerset. Whether you want to visit a beautiful beach, majestic hills, the Somerset Levels, market towns, or cities, there’s a huge variety of destinations. You can even stay in a National Park if you desire!
There are also loads of options for hotels in each – so whether you’re after a heated pool, complimentary breakfast, I hope that this blog post has shown you the best hotels in the region!
