Things To Do
in Chard
Chard is a historic market town in Somerset, England, set in rolling countryside near the Blackdown Hills. Its well-preserved market square, 12th-century Chard Castle and independent shops give the town a distinctive character. The area serves as a friendly base for exploring rural Somerset and easy day trips to the Jurassic Coast and other Southwest countryside highlights.
Expect a peaceful, authentic English town with a strong sense of local pride and history.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at a quaint café in the heart of Chard. Afterward, stroll through the historic streets, admiring the beautiful architecture and stopping by local shops. Visit the Chard Museum to learn about the town's rich history and its significance in the textile industry.
Head to the Chard Town Park, where you can relax and enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the lush greenery. After lunch, take a leisurely walk around the park's lake, or engage in a game of frisbee or football on the open fields. Don’t forget to visit the historic Chard Church, known for its stunning stained glass windows.
As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a traditional pub, savoring local dishes and perhaps a pint of cider. After your meal, take a leisurely evening stroll through the lit streets, soaking in the charming atmosphere of Chard. If you're feeling adventurous, look for any live music events or activities happening in the town for some evening entertainment.
Start your day with a refreshing breakfast at your accommodation before heading out to the nearby Blackdown Hills. Take a guided nature walk to immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery and observe the diverse wildlife that inhabits the area. The crisp morning air and picturesque landscapes will invigorate your senses.
Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the stunning viewpoints in the hills, where you can soak in the panoramic views. After lunch, continue exploring the area, perhaps hiking along one of the many trails, or visiting a local farm for a taste of fresh produce. Capture the beauty of the landscape with some photography, ensuring the memories last a lifetime.
Return to Chard and unwind with a delightful dinner at a local restaurant known for its farm-to-table dishes. After dinner, consider visiting a nearby vineyard for a wine tasting experience, where you can learn about local wine production. Conclude the day with a quiet evening stroll through the charming streets, perhaps stopping for a dessert at a local patisserie.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at an inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🧃Milk (1 liter) | $0.90-1.20 |
| 🚆Public transport fare (one-way) | $2-3 |
| ☕Coffee at café | $2-4 |
| 🏠Rent for 1-bedroom apartment (city centre, per month) | $900-1,100 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Historic charm with a genuine sense of community
- Easy access to the Somerset countryside and the Jurassic Coast
- Limited nightlife compared with larger cities
- Smaller town amenities may require short drives for certain services
Places to Visit in Chard
Visit one of these nice places.
A quintessential English market setting with the historic market cross and surrounding architecture, ideal for early-morning or golden-hour shots.
Medieval ruins and hilltop views over the town; great for skyline and detail photography.
Water, reeds, and wildlife provide reflective surface photography and bird-life opportunities.
Rolling countryside vistas and hedgerows; spectacular sunrise or sunset landscapes.
Food in Chard
Chard Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Freshly baked scones with clotted cream and jam, best enjoyed in a village tearoom with a pot of tea.
Must-Try!
A classic Somerset platter with mature Cheddar, crusty bread, pickles, and salad.
Small savory pastries using regional meat and herbs, often available at pubs and markets.
Stews, pies, and roasted vegetables using local produce, typical of countryside pubs.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market in the Market Square offering fresh local produce, meats, bakery goods and seasonal treats.
Periodic markets in nearby towns such as Crewkerne or Yeovil featuring local cheeses, pies, preserves, and crafts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
British etiquette values orderly queues and polite conversation; please say please and thank you in interactions with shop staff and waiters.
Be punctual for appointments or guided tours; many local services run on a standard town schedule.
Smaller pubs and cafes may have outdoor seating; be mindful of noise levels and smoking regulations around entrances.
Safety
Tipping in Chard
Ensure a smooth experience
In the UK, rounding up or leaving 10-15% in restaurants is common if good service is provided; many pubs and cafes include service in the bill. If no service charge, a small tip for excellent service is appreciated in cash or via card.
Cards (contactless preferred) are widely accepted; cash is still useful in smaller pubs and markets. ATMs are common in town centers.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with fresh green hedgerows; best for countryside walks and blooming gardens around town.
Warmer weather and longer days; ideal for outdoor markets, riverside strolls, and longer coastal trips to Lyme Regis or Seaton.
Harvest flavors in local pubs and markets; golden light over fields makes for rich landscape photography.
Cooler and wetter months; cozy pubs and tearooms with seasonal specials; plan for shorter daylight hours.
Chard at Night
Hiking in Chard
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic hill-and-hedgerow routes with elevated viewpoints and woodland paths suitable for easy to moderate hikes.
A relaxed circuit around the reservoir with birdwatching opportunities and waterline scenery.
Expansive heathland and quiet lanes offering longer hikes and panoramic Somerset scenery.
Airports
How to reach Chard by plane.
About 40–60 miles from Chard; connections to domestic and some international destinations. Access via road or rail-linked services from nearby towns.
Approximately 60–90 miles away; larger international hub with a wide range of carriers and flights. Ground transport options include car and bus services.
Around 80–100 miles away; serves several European destinations and domestic routes. Accessible by road and rail with transfer to the local area.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of local families and commuters; schools and community events are common.
The area attracts retirees drawn to the peaceful countryside and slower pace of life.
Some residents commute to nearby towns and cities for work; the town has a growing range of cafes and services.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A traditional pastime in the countryside; local clubs and recreational matches are common in the summer.
Local teams and friendly matches can be found in and around Chard; many pubs also show live games.
Regional clubs and school-level rugby offer community matches during the season.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Chard.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many pubs and cafes offer meat-free options; look for veggie pies, cheese-based dishes, seasonal salads, and dairy-free options. When in doubt, ask for the chef’s recommendations or ask for substitutions to accommodate dairy or gluten preferences.