11/05/2026
Happy Somerset Day! Somerset Day is celebrated on 11 May and marks King Alfred the Great's call to arms and the gathering of 'all the people of Somerset' to march against the invading Viking army.
Here's our Top 10 most unique things to see and do in Somerset for your next stay with us:
1. King Alfred's Tower is one of our 15 nearby National Trust properties and is free to visit (11 miles). The Anglo Saxon King hid from Danish invaders in 878 AD. During this time, he was scolded by a swinherd's wife for allowing her cakes to burn, as he was too focused thinking about defeating the Vikings. King Alfred's Tower marks the start of the Leland Trail, a famous walk in Somerset. 🧁
2. Visit the Wyvern Grotto at The Newt in Somerset, just outside of Castle Cary (4 miles). The wyvern is the symbol of Somerset - a little like a dragon, but smaller and with only two legs. The grotto is situated in the woods at The Newt and is covered in beautiful shell-covered walls. You'll find a sleeping wyvern in the middle of the grotto! 🐉
3. Take a walk up to King Arthur's Camelot at South Cadbury (2 miles). The walk is fantastic for dog owners, with over 8 hectares of land to explore. The hillfort is recorded as being occupied from Neolithic times, with excavations showing a Great Hall and a grand, round table which was in use from 470 - 580 BC. On moonlit nights, King Arthur's knights are seen to run along the hunting trail to Glastonbury. Further mystery surrounds Midsummer's Eve, where it is said that, if you leave a silver coin at the bottom of the hillfort, you will find your horse re-shod in the morning. Another legend says that the hillfort turns as clear as glass at Midsummer, with King Arthur and his knights visible in the ruins. ⚔
4. Explore the mystical Glastonbury Tor (15 miles), one of Somerset’s most iconic landmarks. Legend says the Tor is linked to Avalon, the final resting place of King Arthur. The tower at the top offers stunning panoramic views across the Somerset Levels and is especially magical at sunrise or sunset. 🌄
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