Somerset

Historic County in

England

Somerset

Barrier on NCN3 at Back River Drove Barrier on the exit of the NCN3 path onto Back River Drove near Sharpham.
Spacing of the path either side of the barrier is approximately 1m.
The slope going up to the bridge behind the barrier is quite steep.
The path from here to Middle Drove is a gravel path, which is uneven and rutted in places and will be muddy in wet weather. — Barrier on NCN3 at Back River Drove Credit: Kevin Pearson

Somerset is a historic county located in the southwest of England. It is bordered by Bristol and Gloucestershire to the north, Wiltshire to the east, Dorset to the south-east, and Devon to the south-west. The county covers an area of approximately 4,170 square kilometers and has a population of around 940,000 people.

Somerset is known for its picturesque landscapes, featuring rolling hills, stunning moorlands, and charming villages. The county is home to the Mendip Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, which offers breathtaking views and opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and rock climbing. Additionally, the Exmoor National Park, located in the north-west of Somerset, is another notable natural attraction.

The county has a rich history dating back thousands of years. It was inhabited by the Celts, Romans, and Anglo-Saxons, and has numerous archaeological sites and historic landmarks. Somerset is particularly famous for Glastonbury Abbey, which is said to be the burial place of King Arthur, and the mystical Glastonbury Tor, a hill with a striking tower that dominates the landscape.

Furthermore, Somerset's agricultural heritage is evident in its numerous farms and orchards, producing renowned products such as cider, cheese, and strawberries. The county is also home to notable cultural events, including the Glastonbury Festival, one of the world's largest music festivals, which attracts thousands of visitors each year.

Overall, Somerset is a captivating county that seamlessly blends natural beauty, history, and cultural experiences, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

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Somerset Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 51.147388/-2.717838 or Grid Reference ST4938. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Barrier on NCN3 at Back River Drove

Barrier on the exit of the NCN3 path onto Back River Drove near Sharpham. Spacing of the path either side of the barrier is approximately 1m. The slope going up to the bridge behind the barrier is quite steep. The path from here to Middle Drove is a gravel path, which is uneven and rutted in places and will be muddy in wet weather.

Kevin Pearson

View from Amy's Picnic Area on NCN3 near Glastonbury

Looking east towards Glastonbury Tor from Amy's Picnic Area on the NCN3 path near Glastonbury. Amy's Picnic Area was built in memory of a local teenager who tragically died of an asthma attack - for information please see Link

Kevin Pearson

NCN3 path exit onto Middle Drove near Glastonbury

The gateway at the exit onto of the NCN3 off road path onto Middle Drove near Glastonbury. The space through the gateway is over 1m wide and 2m high, so there is no problem with accessibility, although there is a small lip at the bottom of the gate. The path up to here is a gravel path which can be muddy and rutted in places in wet weather.

Kevin Pearson

Lower New Close from NCN3

A view over the Somerset Levels at Lower New Close, taken looking north from the NCN3 path between Back Water Drove and Middle Drove.

Kevin Pearson

NCN3 path near Glastonbury

Looking east along the NCN3 path between Backwater Drove and Middle Drove. The path here is a gravel path, which can be muddy and rutted in wet weather.

Kevin Pearson

Glastonbury - Market Cross

The Victorian Gothic (1846) cross replaces its medieval octagonal predecessor and was designed on Waltham Cross in London by Sir Benjamin Ferry. In the background is The Crown.

Colin Smith

Glastonbury - Market Place

A busy and colourful corner of Glastonbury. The "Mendip Explorer" bus is operated by First Mendip and connects Bristol with Street.

Colin Smith

Glastonbury - High Street Shopping

Shop windows - flower power is still alive and well in Glastonbury.

Colin Smith

Glastonbury - The George & Pilgrim's Inn

Reputedly Europe's best preserved medieval inn, it was rebuilt ca 1455-75 to house abbey visitors. The old inn on the High Street is now a hotel.

Colin Smith

Glastonbury - Mural

"Glastonbury Experience" by Jon Minshull - one of several artworks on the Glastonbury Mural Trail. Link

Colin Smith

Glastonbury - High Street

Glastonbury Tribunal is a historic building dating back to the late 15th century. Link

Colin Smith

Glastonbury - The Goddess and The Green Man

A colourful facade and alternative shopping on the High Street. Link

Colin Smith

Glastonbury - The Goddess

Rainbow's End Cafe meets The Goddess - esoteric shops on Glastonbury's High Street. Link

Colin Smith

Glastonbury - Wearyall Hill

Seen here from the summit of Glastonbury Tor. These hills were prehistoric islands within the "Avalon Marshes" when sea levels were higher. Pilgrims allegedly trudged over this hill as they approached Glastonbury Abbey from the southwest.

Colin Smith