Things To Do
in Shepton Mallet
Shepton Mallet is a historic market town in Somerset, England, perched at the edge of the Mendip Hills. Its compact center blends centuries of architecture, from medieval Market Cross to family-run shops and pubs. The town serves as a gateway to the Mendips and the nearby Wells, Glastonbury, and Cheddar Gorge, making it a convenient base for countryside breaks.
Visitors enjoy a laid-back atmosphere, friendly locals, and easy access to cider production and rural Somerset scenery.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the picturesque streets of Shepton Mallet, soaking in the charm of its Georgian architecture. Visit the local market, where you can enjoy the fresh produce and artisanal goods. Don't forget to grab a coffee from a quaint café to savor as you take in the sights.
Visit the Shepton Mallet Prison, which offers an intriguing glimpse into the town's history, and take a guided tour to hear the fascinating stories of its past. Afterward, explore the nearby Kilver Court Gardens, where you can enjoy a peaceful afternoon surrounded by stunning flora. Stop at the on-site restaurant for a delicious lunch featuring seasonal ingredients.
As the sun sets, discover the local dining scene by visiting a traditional pub for a hearty meal. Engage with the locals and enjoy some live music if it's available that evening. Finish your day with a peaceful walk along the River Sheppey, enjoying the serene atmosphere as night falls.
Take a short drive to the iconic Glastonbury site, where the famous music festival is held annually. Spend your morning exploring the remnants of past festivals and marvel at the larger-than-life sculptures and installations. Be sure to snap some photos and experience the creative energy that this area exudes.
After lunch at a local café, head to Glastonbury Tor, a historic hill offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Hike to the top and visit the St. Michael's Tower at the summit, steeped in legend and lore. Spend some time relaxing on the hillside, soaking up the peaceful aura of this sacred site.
Return to Shepton Mallet for a casual evening at one of the local restaurants, where you can try regional delicacies. Engage with friendly locals over dinner and share stories about your day’s adventures. Conclude the evening with a visit to a nearby pub for a local ale or cider.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-20 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $2-5 |
| 🍷Glass of wine at a pub | $5-9 |
| 🧺Groceries or local produce | $6-15 |
| 🧢Souvenir or local craft | $5-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable town with historic charm
- Easy access to Mendip Hills and Wells for day trips
- Limited nightlife options within town
- Smaller town amenities compared to larger cities
Places to Visit in Shepton Mallet
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic market square with a medieval cross, ideal for daytime and golden hour shots.
A peaceful lakeside scene with reflections and trees in season.
Rugged limestone landscapes and sweeping views suitable for landscapes.
Dramatic limestone cliffs and caves offering dramatic sunrise or sunset photography.
Winding lanes and riverside paths for street and documentary photography.
Food in Shepton Mallet
Shepton Mallet Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Scones with clotted cream and jam, traditionally enjoyed with a pot of tea.
Must-Try!
Aged Cheddar from nearby farms served simply or on a cheese board.
Dishes featuring Somerset cider as glaze or marinade, common in pubs.
Meat or vegetarian pies made with local produce.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A local market with cheeses, preserves, bread, and seasonal produce.
Occasional pop-ups and food trucks near the Market Square on market days.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Queue patiently in shops and at bus stops; conversation is friendly and polite.
Greet with a polite hello; modest dress in some historic venues; avoid loud behavior late at night in quiet areas.
Safety
Tipping in Shepton Mallet
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is discretionary in the UK; 10-15% in restaurants if service is not included, or round up at pubs and cafes.
Cash and cards widely accepted; contactless payments common; some small pubs may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Flowers bloom along hedges and lanes; mild weather ideal for walking and early photography.
Long days and dry spells; outdoor cafés and market life; expect more visitors and open-air events.
Golden foliage and cider festivals in nearby towns; misty mornings add atmosphere.
Cool, wetter months with possible frost; cozy pubs and warm lighting create intimate scenes.
Shepton Mallet at Night
Hiking in Shepton Mallet
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
World-renowned limestone gorge with trails and caves; dramatic scenery for day hikes.
Extensive network of footpaths with limestone outcrops, valleys, and panoramic views.
A scenic route linking two historic towns with countryside landscapes.
Airports
How to reach Shepton Mallet by plane.
About 40–50 miles from Shepton Mallet; frequent domestic and European flights; accessible by car or bus via the A37/A303 corridor.
Around 60–75 miles away; serves domestic and some European routes; drive or bus connections via the A303.
Approximately 100 miles away; larger hub with international flights; typically a longer drive or train link.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mix of families, retirees, and commuters; stable, tight-knit community feel.
Some residents commute to larger towns for work and study; growth in nearby towns supports services.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local clubs and matches at community grounds are common in the area.
Rugby is popular across Somerset and nearby clubs host fixtures on weekends.
Seasonal cricket matches are popular during summer in parks and village greens.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Shepton Mallet.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available in pubs and cafes; ask for veggie mains, quiches, salads, and dairy-free dishes; most places will accommodate dairy and gluten-free requests with advance notice.