Top 5 things to do in Taunton with your grandparents

With the oldest parts constructed as early as 710 during the reign of King Ine of Wessex, Taunton Castle was built by the Normans during the reign of King Henry I. Since then, it has watched over Taunton for nearly a thousand years, and is now open to the public as an historical attraction.

As it was a Parliamentarian fortification, Taunton Castle was spared the destruction levied against other fortifications after the Civil War, and so is remarkably well preserved. Regular tours are held to take guests around the walls and main buildings of the Castle, and events are held regularly throughout the year.

Much of the Somerset Museum is free to walk around in, but be aware that some parts may be inaccessible by any means other than the stairs. Not all areas may be paved or have a lift in use.

The Museum of Somerset is in the heart of Taunton and can be reached by the Castle Green or by Goodland Garden park. Find it here.

‘A small, local museum that holds surprises like a full fossil and an impressive mosaic floor. Much of the focus was understandably on the Monmouth rebellion but had nice bits of local histories too like drinking games for cider! Good for little ones and adults and very empty on a weekday.’ – Zoe

Covering over 50 acres, the historic estate of Hestercombe House and its surrounding gardens is nearly as old as Taunton itself. The earliest charters for the area date back to the 7th century, and the oldest part still standing is a stone archway dated to around 1280.

After passing hands between several families over the centuries, which brought with it numerous renovations, the house briefly served as the headquarters for the local fire department before being acquired by the Hestercombe Gardens Trust from the local council. The House and its grounds are now open to the public, where they can enjoy its extensive gardens, on-site café, and second-hand book shop.

Because it was built in an age where such concerns were not common, there are sections of Hestercombe House that are inaccessible if stairs cannot be used. However, where alternative routes can be found, they’ve been marked on the house’s guides. Level access is available for the entirety of the ground floor, which is where the restaurant and bookshop can be found.

The Gardens are, naturally, much more accessible except for certain areas. In those spots, short flights of stairs or steps may be found. Benches can be found throughout the grounds, providing plenty of spots to stop and rest.

Not all surfaces are flat, with many gravel paths, uneven flag stones, and stone steps. During wet weather these can become slippery, so make sure that sensible footwear is worn. We recommend bringing a walking stick, if needed.

Find Hestercombe and it’s temples, lakes and formal beds towards Upper Cheddon in the heart of Somerset.

‘Lovely gardens originally designed by Gertrude Jekyll with lake and orangery, tea room, plant shop and house with gift store. Lots to see, very helpful volunteers, beautifully quiet when I visited on a Saturday during the bank holiday. Recommended.’ – Julie