Discover Somerset: A Campervan Adventure Awaits

Somerset is a county that lends itself perfectly to campervan travel. With varied landscapes, historic attractions, and plenty of quieter corners to explore, it’s ideal for a relaxed road trip through the South West. From dramatic gorges and ancient landmarks to coastal paths and historic houses, Somerset offers plenty to fill a short break or a longer stay. Here are some of the best things to see and do in Somerset when exploring by campervan.

Cheddar Gorge and the Mendip Hills

Cheddar Gorge

Cheddar Gorge is one of Somerset’s most famous natural landmarks and a highlight of the Mendip Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The dramatic limestone cliffs create a striking landscape, and the gorge road itself is an experience to drive through.

Visitors can explore attractions such as Gough’s Cave and Cox’s Cave, both offering insight into the area’s geology and history. Alternatively, take one of the walking routes along the cliff tops for far-reaching views. Nearby, Cheddar Reservoir offers a flatter circular walk and a peaceful setting, making it a good stop for a relaxed afternoon.

Bath: A City of Beauty

No trip through Somerset in a campervan is complete without a stop in Bath. This city is so beautiful it feels like driving onto a period drama film set. While the honey-colored Georgian terraces and the iconic Royal Crescent are best explored on foot, the city offers a unique atmosphere for those touring by road.

After marveling at the Roman Baths or grabbing a world-famous bun at Sally Lunn’s, the surrounding Somerset countryside provides some truly special places to settle for the night. For a more authentic experience, look to the hills overlooking the city. Sites like Lansdown or the "nearly-wild" pitches at Springfield offer spectacular views over the twinkling city lights and Solsbury Hill. It’s the perfect blend of cosmopolitan culture and hilltop serenity before you head deeper into the Somerset wilds.

Wells Cathedral and the Bishop’s Palace

Wells may be England’s smallest city, but it is home to some of Somerset’s most impressive historic sites. Wells Cathedral is the centrepiece, renowned for its Gothic architecture and distinctive west front filled with carved figures.

Just across the green lies The Bishop’s Palace and Gardens, complete with a medieval moat, springs, and landscaped grounds. Together, these attractions make Wells a rewarding stop and a practical base for exploring the Mendip Hills and surrounding countryside.

Glastonbury Tor and Glastonbury Abbey

Glastonbury Tor

Few places in Somerset are as recognisable as Glastonbury Tor. Rising above the Somerset Levels, the Tor offers wide views across the flat landscape below. The climb to the summit is relatively short and rewards visitors with a strong sense of place.

At the foot of the Tor, Glastonbury Abbey provides a quieter and more reflective experience. The atmospheric ruins are set within peaceful grounds and are closely linked to the town’s long history and legends. Glastonbury itself has a distinctive character, with independent shops, cafés, and a relaxed pace of life.

The Somerset Levels and Burrow Mump

The Somerset Levels are known for their wide skies, wetlands, and low-lying landscape. This area feels very different from the hills elsewhere in the county and is particularly appealing to those looking for open views and gentle walking routes.

One of the most distinctive landmarks here is Burrow Mump, a small hill topped with the ruins of St Michael’s Church. A short climb leads to panoramic views across the Levels, making it a worthwhile stop when travelling between Glastonbury and Taunton.

The West Somerset Railway

For something a little different, the West Somerset Railway offers a chance to see the countryside from a heritage steam train. Running between Bishops Lydeard and Minehead, it passes through rolling farmland and along parts of the coast.

Even if you don’t take the full journey, stopping at stations such as Watchet or Blue Anchor can add interest to a campervan itinerary. This combines coastal scenery with traditional harbour towns, making for a delightful day out.

Dunster Castle and Village

Dunster is one of Somerset’s most picturesque villages, dominated by the National Trust’s Dunster Castle. Set high on a wooded hill, the castle offers sweeping views across the Bristol Channel and surrounding countryside.

The village itself features historic buildings, the medieval Yarn Market, and a selection of independent shops and tearooms. Dunster works well as a stopping point when travelling between Exmoor and the Somerset coast.

Exmoor National Park and the Valley of Rocks

Exmoor National Park sits partly in Somerset and partly in neighbouring Devon, making it an ideal destination to include as part of a wider South West campervan route. The Somerset side of Exmoor begins just beyond Minehead, where rolling moorland, wooded valleys, and a dramatic coastline define the landscape.

One of the park’s most distinctive locations is the Valley of Rocks, near Lynton on the Devon side of the park. Here, unusual rock formations rise above the sea, creating one of the most striking coastal scenes in the region. Exmoor is also home to red deer and the iconic Exmoor ponies, which can often be spotted roaming freely.

With quiet roads, far-reaching views, and its status as an International Dark Sky Reserve, Exmoor is well suited to campervan travel. It offers a sense of space and wilderness that feels far removed from everyday life.

The Somerset Coast and Brean Down

Somerset’s coastline offers a mix of traditional seaside towns and quieter coastal walks. Brean Down, managed by the National Trust, is a prominent headland with well-marked trails and expansive views across the Bristol Channel towards Wales.

Nearby towns such as Burnham-on-Sea and Minehead provide easy access to beaches, coastal paths, and seafront walks. These locations are popular stopping points for campervan travellers looking to combine coastal scenery with nearby facilities.

Planning a Campervan Trip Through Somerset

Planning a campervan trip through Somerset is a breeze. The county is generally well suited to campervan travel, with a wide choice of campsites, farm stays, and rural stopovers spread across manageable driving distances. While some country lanes can be narrow, particularly in more remote areas, careful route planning makes it easy to explore comfortably.

Travelling by campervan allows you to experience Somerset at your own pace. Whether that means waking up near the coast, spending the day exploring historic landmarks, or enjoying a quiet evening in the countryside, the choice is yours.

Tips for a Memorable Adventure

• Pack Light: Bring only what you need to keep your campervan spacious and comfortable.

• Plan Your Route: Use maps and apps to find the best roads and attractions.

• Stay Flexible: Be open to spontaneous stops and discoveries along the way.

• Connect with Nature: Take time to enjoy the beautiful landscapes and wildlife.

  
  

Have you explored Somerset in one of our campervans? We love seeing where our vans take you — feel free to share your photos and stories with us on Facebook and Instagram.

Adventure is not just a destination; it’s a journey. We are always excited to send one of our lovely campervans off with you on yours!