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Welcome to Yeovil, a charming town nestled in the heart of Somerset. With its rich history, beautiful architecture, and stunning natural landscapes, Yeovil is the perfect destination for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you’re an aviation enthusiast or art lover, there’s something for everyone in this hidden gem of a town. In this blog post, we’ve curated a list of the top 10 best things to do in Yeovil that will make your visit unforgettable! So pack your bags and get ready to explore all that this wonderful town has to offer!
Best Things to Do in Yeovil – Top 10
1. Explore the Fleet Air Arm Museum
If you’re an aviation enthusiast, then the Fleet Air Arm Museum is definitely a must-visit attraction in Yeovil. This award-winning museum is home to one of Europe’s largest collections of naval aircraft and has something for everyone.
The museum showcases over 100 aircraft ranging from early biplanes to modern jets, giving visitors an insight into the evolution of British naval aviation. You can also explore the various exhibitions that display uniforms, medals, and other artefacts related to naval aviation history.
One of the most popular exhibits at the museum is “Carrier Strike,” which allows visitors to experience what it’s like on board an aircraft carrier through interactive displays and simulations. Another highlight is walking through Concorde Alpha Foxtrot – one of only twenty Concordes ever built!
The Fleet Air Arm Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into Britain’s proud naval aviation heritage that will leave you awe-inspired!
2. Visit Montacute House
If you’re a fan of history and architecture, Montacute House is definitely worth a visit. This Elizabethan mansion located just outside Yeovil boasts stunning gardens and an impressive collection of art and artefacts.
As soon as you step inside the house, you’ll be transported back in time to the 16th century. From the ornate ceilings to the intricate tapestries on display, every detail is a testament to the grandeur of this era.
But it’s not just the interior that will leave you in awe – the gardens are equally breathtaking. Take a stroll through perfectly manicured lawns, marvel at beautiful flower beds or simply relax by one of several fountains dotted throughout.
For those interested in art, Montacute House has plenty to offer too. The Long Gallery features an extensive collection of portraits dating back centuries, while other rooms showcase exquisite examples of furniture and ceramics from different periods.
Whether you’re a history buff or simply looking for some inspiration for your own garden design, Montacute House is sure to impress with its timeless beauty and elegance.
3. Enjoy Nature at Yeovil Country Park
Yeovil Country Park is an ideal place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. The park offers a vast expanse of natural beauty, with picturesque walking trails that lead you through woodlands, open spaces, and tranquil waterways.
If you’re looking for a peaceful spot to relax, Yeovil Country Park has plenty of secluded areas where you can unwind. Pack a picnic basket filled with your favourite snacks and enjoy a leisurely afternoon in the great outdoors.
For those who prefer more active pursuits, there are plenty of outdoor activities to choose from at Yeovil Country Park. Take a stroll or jog along the well-marked trails or test your skills on one of the two mountain bike circuits.
The park also features several play areas for children as well as designated dog-walking routes so that furry friends can join in on all the fun too!
Whether you want to spend time with nature alone or make it a family day out, Yeovil Country Park is perfect for everyone. It boasts breathtaking views over rolling hillsides making it unmissable if you’re ever visiting Yeovil!
4. Discover History at the Sherborne Castle
History buffs will surely have a great time discovering the Sherborne Castle, located just a stone’s throw away from Yeovil. Built in the 16th century by Sir Walter Raleigh, this historic castle has stood tall through centuries of wars and political turmoil.
Inside the castle, visitors can marvel at its impressive collection of art and antiques, including works from renowned artists such as Van Dyck and Gainsborough. The Great Hall is particularly impressive with its intricate woodwork ceilings and grand fireplace.
Outside the castle, visitors are greeted with breathtaking views of the Dorset countryside. Take a leisurely stroll through its gardens that feature stunning waterfalls and an ornamental lake that looks like it came straight out of a fairytale.
The estate also boasts beautiful walks along well-manicured paths around deer-filled parks. During your visit don’t forget to stop for tea at their quaint tearooms that offer delicious locally sourced cakes and teas.
Whether you’re interested in history or not, visiting Sherborne Castle is truly an experience worth having when visiting Yeovil – one where you can appreciate architectural beauty while enjoying nature’s splendour all in one place!
5. Shop at Quedam Shopping Centre
The Quedam Shopping Centre is a shopper’s paradise in Yeovil. Located right in the heart of town, it offers visitors a wide range of stores, boutiques, and eateries all under one roof. Whether you’re looking for high-street fashion brands or unique independent shops, the Quedam has something for everyone.
The shopping centre is home to many popular retailers like H&M, River Island, Next and Debenhams. You can also find boutique stores selling speciality products such as handmade jewellery and vintage clothing. With over 50 shops to choose from, there’s no shortage of options at the Quedam.
After a day of retail therapy, take a break at one of the many restaurants or cafes located within the shopping centre. Grab some sushi at Yo! Sushi or enjoy an Italian-inspired meal at Pizza Express. There are plenty of options available whether you’re looking for a quick bite to eat or want to sit down for something more substantial.
Beyond shopping and dining experiences, there are other forms of entertainment available too: catch up with the latest movies by visiting the Cineworld cinema located inside this mall where blockbuster films are screened regularly throughout each week.
Finding something enjoyable won’t be difficult when you visit Quedam Shopping Centre – it’s definitely worth checking out if you’re ever in Yeovil!
6. Attend a Performance at Octagon Theatre
The Octagon Theatre is a cultural hub in Yeovil that offers an array of entertainment options all year round. Whether you’re into theatre, music or comedy, the Octagon caters to all tastes and ages.
For theatre enthusiasts, the Octagon presents a range of plays and musicals from classic to contemporary productions. From Shakespearean dramas to Broadway hits, there’s always something for everyone on stage. The impressive sound quality and lighting design add to the overall experience making it memorable.
Concert-goers can enjoy live performances by local artists as well as national acts across various genres including rock, pop, jazz and classical music which play throughout the year. With its comfortable seating arrangements and state-of-the-art acoustics system; concerts at this venue are sure to be an unforgettable experience.
Comedy lovers have plenty of reasons to visit too! As top-rated comedians like Jack Dee, Jimmy Carr and Russell Howard perform their stand-up shows here regularly along with other hilarious comics who keep audiences laughing throughout the night.
With reasonable ticket prices plus excellent facilities like on-site bars and restaurants serving delicious food; attending a performance at Octagon Theatre guarantees a great evening out for visitors looking for some entertainment in Yeovil!
7. Take a Walk Along the Yeovil Railway Path
The Yeovil Railway Path is a fantastic way to explore the countryside and nature surrounding Yeovil. This scenic path follows the former railway line, which has been converted into a walking and cycling trail. It’s perfect for those who enjoy outdoor activities while taking in breathtaking views of the natural landscape.
Walking along this trail offers an opportunity to escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. You can breathe in fresh air, listen to birds singing, and even spot some wildlife along the way. The path is well-maintained, making it ideal for families with children or those looking for a leisurely stroll.
Cycling enthusiasts will also love this route as it provides an excellent workout while enjoying stunning scenery at your own pace. The trail is flat and easy to follow, so riders of all levels can enjoy it.
One notable feature of this pathway is that it passes through several small villages where you can stop by local establishments such as cosy pubs or cafes offering refreshments after your walk or cycle.
Exploring Yeovil via its former railway line offers visitors a unique perspective on the area’s history while getting closer to nature. Take advantage of this beautiful network of paths – grab your walking shoes or bike today!
8. Visit the Haynes International Motor Museum
Are you a car enthusiast or just love vintage and classic cars? If so, then the Haynes International Motor Museum is a must-visit destination for you. Located in Sparkford, just a short drive from Yeovil, this museum boasts an impressive collection of cars and motorcycles.
As soon as you enter the museum’s doors, you’re greeted with a stunning display of vehicles spanning over 100 years of automotive history. From early pioneers like the Ford Model T to modern-day supercars like the Bugatti Veyron, there’s something for everyone here.
The museum doesn’t only showcase cars but also features an extensive collection of motorcycles. Vintage bikes from Triumph and Harley-Davidson sit alongside more modern machines from Ducati and Kawasaki.
One unique aspect of the Haynes International Motor Museum is the memorabilia section. Here visitors can see iconic items related to motoring such as petrol pumps, signs, toys and other automobiles that take them on a trip down memory lane.
If all that exploring works up an appetite or thirst – fear not! The museum features its own café where visitors can relax with some refreshments while soaking in their favourite automobiles on display.
If you are looking for things to do around the Yeovil area then visiting this iconic motor museum should be at the top of your list!
9. Explore the Yeovil Art Space
If you are an art lover, then Yeovil Art Space is a must-visit attraction in Yeovil. This contemporary gallery is dedicated to showcasing the works of local and regional artists. Inside, visitors will find a wide range of exhibits that feature various forms of art, including paintings, sculptures, photography, and more.
The gallery’s mission is to provide a platform for emerging artists to showcase their work and connect with the community. In addition to exhibitions, the space also hosts workshops and events that encourage creativity and artistic expression.
What makes Yeovil Art Space unique is its commitment to promoting diversity in art. The gallery features works from artists who come from different backgrounds and cultures. As such, visitors can expect to see a range of perspectives on display.
Whether you are an avid collector or simply appreciate visual arts, Yeovil Art Space offers something for everyone. It’s a great place not only to admire but also to support local talent while getting inspired by new ideas and concepts.
10. Attend Events and Festivals
Yeovil is a vibrant town that hosts a variety of events and festivals throughout the year. If you’re looking for some fun activities to do during your visit, make sure to check out the local calendar to see what’s happening.
One of the most popular events in Yeovil is the annual food fair. This event brings together food enthusiasts from all over the country and showcases some of the best cuisine that Yeovil has to offer. From freshly baked bread to locally sourced cheese, there’s something for everyone at this festival.
If music is more your thing, then you won’t want to miss out on one of Yeovil’s many concerts. Whether it’s classical music or rock and roll, there are plenty of opportunities to catch a live show in this town.
For those interested in cultural celebrations, Yeovil offers several festivals throughout the year that highlight different aspects of local culture. These include traditional dance performances, art exhibitions, and historical reenactments.
No matter what you’re interested in, there’s always something going on in Yeovil. So be sure to keep an eye on the local calendar and plan your trip accordingly!
Conclusion
Yeovil is a charming town that offers a range of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. From exploring the history and culture of the area to experiencing live performances and admiring art, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant community.
Whether you’re looking to relax in nature or indulge in some retail therapy, Yeovil has plenty to offer. So why not plan your next trip here and discover all that this beautiful town has to offer? You won’t be disappointed!
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