My Favourite Things to Do in Somerset
- Kate Fryer
- Jul 11
- 3 min read
Updated: Jul 15
One of the many reasons I love being an interior designer in Bristol is having Somerset right on my doorstep. It’s a part of the world full of charm, history and beautiful countryside - and whenever I’m not immersed in creating homes for my clients, you’ll usually find me outdoors, exploring some of my favourite local spots.
If you’re looking for a few weekend ideas or gentle inspiration for your own West Country escape, here are some of my personal favourite things to do in Somerset:
Cycle from Bradford-on-Avon to Bath Along the Canal
This is one of my absolute favourite ways to spend a sunny morning. The towpath route from Bradford-on-Avon to Bath winds alongside the Kennet and Avon Canal, passing beautiful stone cottages, old bridges and waterside pubs.
It’s peaceful, flat, and wonderfully scenic - with plenty of places to stop for coffee or a pub lunch along the way. There’s something so calming about cycling through nature with water alongside you.
A Day Trip to The Newt
The Newt in Somerset is a treat for the senses - a beautifully designed country estate with incredible gardens, woodland walks, orchards and one of the best farm shops you’ll ever find.
I’m endlessly inspired by the way they blend contemporary design with Somerset’s rural heritage. It’s the perfect spot for a slow day out: wander the gardens, have a long lunch at The Garden Café and pick up some cider and local produce to take home.
Sunday Lunch at Castle Farm
Tucked away in Midford, Castle Farm is a brilliant hidden gem. It’s a relaxed, family-run restaurant serving the most delicious seasonal, farm-to-table food in a charming old stone barn.
Sunday lunches here are something special - generous, thoughtful plates of local produce served in beautiful surroundings. The kind of place you almost don’t want to tell too many people about.
A Country Walk Followed by a Pint at Cross House, Doynton
The surrounding countryside of Bristol and Bath is criss-crossed with wonderful walks, and one of my favourite routes takes you through rolling fields to the Cross House pub in Doynton.
It’s a proper old village pub with a friendly atmosphere, great local ales, and a cosy fire in winter. The perfect way to round off a good country walk.
An Afternoon at Tyntesfield House
For a dose of history and interiors inspiration, I love visiting Tyntesfield House - a beautiful Victorian Gothic Revival estate just outside Bristol. The house itself is fascinating, with richly detailed interiors, while the gardens and grounds are ideal for a relaxed afternoon stroll.
As an interior designer in Bristol, I’m always drawn to places with a strong sense of character and history, and Tyntesfield never disappoints.
A Swim at Warleigh Weir
On a hot summer’s day, there’s nowhere better than Warleigh Weir for a wild swim. Just outside Bath, this spot is beloved by locals for its grassy banks and clear, cool water.
It’s a simple pleasure - pack a picnic, take a dip and lie under the trees with a good book. I always find I come away from afternoons like this feeling recharged and creatively refreshed.
Final Thoughts
It’s easy to see why so many people are drawn to this part of the country. The mix of nature, good food, history and independent spirit is what makes Somerset and the Bristol surrounds so special.
If you’re based nearby - or thinking of relocating and looking for an interior designer in Bristol to help you make a new house feel like home - I’d love to hear from you.
At Khaya Studio, I specialise in creating timeless, thoughtful interiors inspired by their surroundings. Do get in touch if you’d like to chat about your project, or perhaps swap a few Somerset recommendations too.
Comments