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Welcome to Travel Somerset, your passport to the enchanting world of Somerset, England. We are a passionate team of travel enthusiasts dedicated to uncovering the hidden gems, rich history, and natural wonders of this picturesque county. Through vivid storytelling, local insights, and expert recommendations, we aim to inspire and guide you on a journey of discovery through Somerset’s diverse landscapes, historic landmarks, and vibrant communities.

Our Mission

At Travel Somerset, our mission is simple: to share the beauty and unique experiences that Somerset has to offer. We believe that every corner of this county holds a story waiting to be told, and we’re here to be your trusted companions on this exploration. From the ancient mysteries of Glastonbury Tor to the rugged majesty of Cheddar Gorge, we’re committed to showcasing the very best that Somerset has to offer.

Meet the Team

Sarah thompson – founder and editor-in-chief.

With a lifelong love for travel and a deep-rooted connection to Somerset, Sarah embarked on a journey to create Travel Somerset. Her vision was to provide a platform that not only celebrates the county’s natural beauty but also delves into its rich history and cultural tapestry. Sarah’s expertise in content curation and her passion for storytelling drive the heart and soul of Travel Somerset.

James Wilson – History and Heritage Specialist

A history buff with a penchant for uncovering untold stories, James brings a wealth of knowledge to Travel Somerset. His in-depth research and engaging narratives shed light on Somerset’s historical landmarks, connecting the dots between past and present. Whether it’s the legends of King Arthur or the medieval marvels of Wells Cathedral, James ensures that every historical aspect is presented with accuracy and flair.

Rebecca Turner – Nature and Adventure Enthusiast

Rebecca is the nature-loving adventurer of our team, always on the lookout for the next trail to blaze and the next vista to capture. Her expertise lies in exploring the natural wonders of Somerset, from the rolling hills to the serene lakes. Through her lens, readers can immerse themselves in the breathtaking landscapes and vibrant ecosystems that define Somerset’s outdoor beauty.

Emma Harris – Culture and Community Contributor

With an eye for detail and a passion for community, Emma is our cultural connoisseur. She dives deep into the heart of Somerset’s towns and villages, uncovering the vibrant arts scene, local traditions, and the spirit that makes each community unique. From the bustling markets to the quaint boutiques, Emma’s insights offer a window into the soul of Somerset.

Why Travel Somerset?

We understand that travel is a deeply personal experience. It’s about more than just ticking off landmarks; it’s about forging connections, creating memories, and finding meaning in the places we explore. Travel Somerset goes beyond the surface, offering you a curated experience that combines history, nature, and culture to provide a holistic view of this remarkable county.

Through our carefully crafted guides, immersive narratives, and practical tips, we aim to empower you to make the most of your Somerset adventure. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or a cultural explorer, there’s something here for everyone.

Join Our Community

We believe that the best travel experiences are shared. Join our community of fellow explorers, and be a part of the Travel Somerset family. Connect with us on social media, share your own Somerset adventures, and let’s embark on this journey together.

Thank you for choosing Travel Somerset as your guide to this extraordinary county. We can’t wait to be a part of your Somerset story.

Safe travels,

The Travel Somerset Team

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Roads, travel and parking

Includes problems on the road, road closures, Rights of Way, advertising and sponsorship

Car park locations in Somerset

A list of all car parks including the address, opening times and charges.

Popular pages

Roadworks and travel information

Find details on live travel, roadworks and weather affecting the roads

Report a problem

You can report a variety of road problems using our forms here

Also in this section

Problems on the road.

Includes how to report potholes, flooding, and traffic lights

Roadworks and closures

Includes information about plans for temporary and new works and closures

Includes road closures and other travel information during periods of severe weather, as well as some helpful links to other services

Pages in Problems on the road

Report a problem on the road

We repair potholes and other road defects, and maintain our roads, for the safe access of all road users

Flyposting and graffiti

Illegal temporary advertising and graffiti on Council property

Overgrown verge or hedge on the road

During the growing season we carry out a number of environmental maintenance operations to help keep all road users safe

Bridges and retaining walls

When you report an incident to us, we will assess the severity and assign an inspector

Drains and gullies

We provide a drain cleaning service which includes road drains on all the roads we maintain

Report problem with a tree by the road

We are responsible for maintaining most trees on roadside verges, including street trees in urban areas

Harmful or poisonous weeds

We are responsible for controlling certain noxious weeds, including ragwort

Hazards on the road

Examples of hazards can include hazardous waste, traffic cones, blown tyre, rubbish

Highway safety inspections

How we carry out our inspections and information on our policy and procedures

Mud on the road

We maintain the highway network in a safe and accessible condition for highway users

Dead animals

Contact us to report casualties on the road, footway or verge that may be a hazard to the public

Pavement and cycle path problems

We aim to provide safe footways and cycleways to encourage the public to use them more

Potholes, road damage and edge loss

Report a vehicle parked on a grass verge

What we will do depends on the nature of the obstruction

Snow and ice

Latest information about services like schools, waste collections and transport affected by snow and ice

Traffic lights

We maintain over 200 traffic light locations throughout the county

Unauthorised use of a highway verge

Weight limits and abnormal loads

A weight limit allows us to prohibit and restrict the movement of heavy goods vehicles

Pages in Roadworks and closures

Somerset traffic signal refurbishment

Somerset’s traffic signals replacement programme covers Taunton, Yeovil, Bridgwater, Chard, Wells, Shepton Mallet, Frome and Street

Traffic Regulation Orders

Road closures and restrictions are enforced by Traffic Regulation Orders (TROs).

Emergency road closure gates

Find out the current status of roads that have emergency closure gates

Apply to close a road or right of way for works

Contact us if you would like to close a road or right of way for works or safety reasons

Closing a road for an event

Helping to minimise traffic congestion and risks to safety on the highway if you are planning an event

Apply for a licence to do minor works on or near the road – Section 171

A company or contractor can apply on behalf of the land or property owner, but the licence will remain in the possession of the land or property owner

Apply to place temporary traffic lights on the road

To place temporary traffic lights or stop-go boards on the public highway you must have a licence

Apply for a licence to dig up the road

The licence allows the repair and placing of apparatus and services across the road

Substantial Roadworks List (section 58)

Details of all streets where restrictions apply

Street and roadworks problems

We maintain the roads and pavements that are managed at public expense in Somerset

Pages in Travel

Active travel

Our vision for healthy and active communities, with a good-quality cycling and walking experience for all

Flooding on the roads

We are responsible for helping to manage flooding through planning, investigation and supporting community recovery

Key information about our gritting routes and being prepared this winter

Gritting map

Visit our interactive map to see which roads will be gritted this winter

Home to school transport

Information and guidance for parents and guardians of children who use school transport

Getting Around Agusta Park

Information for residents of Agusta Park, Yeovil to help with sustainable travel around the local area

Getting Around Brimsmore

Information for residents of Brimsmore, Yeovil to help with sustainable travel around the local area

Getting around Kingsfield

For residents of Kingsfield, Glastonbury to help you make sustainable travel choices getting around the local area

Getting Around Orchard Grove

As part of the planning application process for the Orchard Grove development, a Travel Plan was produced for residents

Rights of Way

Includes footpaths, bridleways and open-access land

Public and community transport

Includes bus passes, park and ride information and community transport links

Includes paying or challenging a fine, blue badges and permits

Pages in Rights of Way

Protect land from new rights of way and town and village green claims

Protecting land from becoming a public right of way or registered as a town or village green

The River Parrett Trail

A scenic 50-mile walk that can be enjoyed over three to four days or as a series of shorter walks

South Somerset 80 mile cycleway

Download free section maps and cycle route information

Public Rights of Way

How we look after our rights of way network

Report a problem with a public right of way

Report problems on footpaths, bridleways and byways using our interactive map

Rights of way – requests

A summary of rights of way works and closures in Somerset

Request to view the Public Rights of Way Definitive Map and Statement

The Definitive Map and Statement is the legal record of the location and description of Public Rights of Way

Rights of ways – Closures

A list of closed rights of way

Rights of ways – Proposals

A list of proposed changes to our rights of way

Rights of ways – Fixed changes

A list of fixed changes to our rights of way

Apply to erect a new gate across a public footpath or bridleway

You need permission to erect a new gate across a public footpath or bridleway on your land

Apply for the temporary closure of a right of way

Find out how to close a public right of way temporarily

King Charles III England Coast Path

Information about the King Charles III England Coast Path in Somerset

Apply to divert a public right of way

Contact us to be put in touch with the relevant officer for your area

Apply to add, delete or upgrade a public right of way

Apply to modify the Definitive Map and Statement if public rights of way are incorrectly recorded

Apply to change the surface of a public right of way

If you want to change the surface of the public right of way, you must get our authorisation

Apply for consent to hold a motor event on a public right of way

To hold a motor vehicle event on any public right of way, you will need our consent

Walks and trails in Somerset

Information about many of the walks and trails in Somerset, including links to other websites and maps

Walking and cycling maps

We have produced a series of 20 walking and cycling maps to help you to explore the county

Footpath diversions

We process applications to divert, close and stop up footpaths and bridleways

Cycle to Work Scheme

Find out about Cycle to Work Scheme aimed at encouraging employees to cycle to work

Somerset Local Access Forum

The forum aims to improve access to the countryside in Somerset

Pages in Public and community transport

Concessionary bus passes

National Concessionary Travel Scheme Passes for Somerset residents of pensionable age or who are disabled

Bus Service Operator’s Grant Report

Grant survey and declaration information

SLINKY services

Demand Responsive Transport

Bus timetables

Find timetables for your local services and contact details for operators in Somerset

Taunton Park and Ride

Information about the two sites and running times

Bus it – You know it makes sense

We are joining forces with the Somerset Bus Partnership, which represents passengers to encourage more people in the county to use the bus

Somerset Bus Passenger Charter

This charter has been created in partnership between Somerset Council and local bus operators, bus users, and stakeholders.

How to give feedback about bus services

We welcome feedback about bus services across the Somerset area.

Legal scope of this charter

This charter was published September 2023, and will be reviewed annually.

Bus Charter Partner Links

For queries relating to timetable information, lost property or feedback, you can contact the relevant partners who have signed up to this Bus Passenger Charter

Car Schemes

A community car scheme is a not for profit organisation, usually run by volunteers, that operates a form of car sharing.

Community transport

Community Transport is there to serve those who don’t have access to public transport and are without access to suitable alternative transport.

School travel assistance for Special Educational Needs and/or Disabilities (SEND)

Information about school transport eligibility and SEND for compulsory school age and over 16 students

Plan your bus journey

You can plan your journey and find bus stops and routes.

Pages in Parking

Parking fines – Penalty Charge Notices

You can pay, challenge or make a representation about a parking fine

Information about the PayByPhone service in operation in some car parks around Somerset

Parking waivers – suspensions and dispensations

Find out about suspensions and dispensations

Electric vehicle charging cables

It is important to consider public safety when placing the cable from the power supply in your home to your vehicle

Loading permits

Information on how to apply for a Loading Permit and if you need one

Car park season tickets

We offer season tickets which are valid for long-stay car parks, residential and business areas

Parking revenues and controlled parking spaces

The Local Government Transparency Code

Residential parking permits

How to get a parking permit for residents, care workers, landlords and businesses

On-street parking restrictions

Information on parking restrictions and how to report a problem with badly parked vehicles

Coaches, motorcycles and motor home parking

Coach, motor home and motorcycle parking is available in some parts of Somerset.

Car parks and Pay and Display

Information about our car parks and pay and display

Appeal a Blue Badge decision

How to appeal if you have not been awarded a disabled parking badge

Apply for a Blue Badge if you have a hidden disability (a non-visible condition)

How to apply for a disabled parking badge under the hidden disabilities criteria

Apply for or renew a Blue Badge

Information about disabled parking badges and how to apply for one

Disabled parking bays

Our rules about how we can help with parking close to your home if you are a disabled driver

Report the misuse of a Blue Badge

How to tell us if you think someone is misusing a disabled parking badge

Request a replacement Blue Badge

What to do if your disabled parking badge is lost, stolen or damaged

Update or cancel a Blue Badge

How to update your disabled parking badge if you change your address or name, or you want to cancel it

Where you can park with a Blue Badge

Information about how you can use a disabled parking badge

Road and transport schemes

Includes information on car sharing, road projects and road safety.

Road and pavement alterations

Includes information on loading permits, skip licences, road and pavements works and how to apply for them

Road policy and plans

Includes information on transport strategies, policies, plans, road schemes and Electric Vehicle Infrastructure

Pages in Road and transport schemes

Road improvement schemes

You can submit a proposal for a new road improvement scheme

Roadside grass cutting

Find our grass cutting programme and environmental operations

COVID-19 Local Transport Authorities Bus Services Support Grant

Temporary grant to local transport authorities to make sure local bus services continue to operate

Surface Dressing

Find out more about why, when and how we surface dress roads

Emergency diversion routes for the A39 or A358

Diversion routes and signs for when the A39 or A358 must be closed in the event of an accident or an emergency

The National Bus Strategy – Bus Back Better

A national bus strategy with the aim of transforming local bus services

Road projects

We deliver Major Highway Schemes which have been identified through the Local Transport Plan process

Transport survey information

Our Data Team collects, processes, reports and shares a range of transport data to provide an evidence base

Reduction in street lighting in Somerset

Reducing the number of streetlights left on at night when vehicles and pedestrians are not present

Supported Bus Services Fund

The Government issued revenue funding for 2020/21 to support local bus service provision

Residential and commercial road development

Information for developers and house vendors about constructing new highways and housing estate roads

Supporting active travel and leisure in Mendip

There has been extensive voluntary work on 2 major connections within the Mendip District

Find small improvement schemes

View plans for small improvement schemes

Live Labs 2

Programme that aims to decarbonise the local highways network

UK Government funded highways repairs and maintenance

Highways repairs and maintenance made possible by reallocated HS2 funding

Pages in Road and pavement alterations

Dropped kerbs and driveways

Anyone who wants to make a driveway onto their property, or 'dropped kerb', will need approval from us

Request permission for decorations across the road

Get consent to put a banner, bunting, flags or decorations across or along a road

Apply for scaffolding licence

Permits for scaffold on the highway are only issued to accredited contractors

Apply for skip licence

Licences for skips on the highway are only issued to accredited contractors

Pages in Road policy and plans

Future Transport Plan

A plan that sets out our long-term strategy for getting the best from transport

Transport Asset Management Plan

The Transport Asset Management Plan outlines how the transport assets in the county are assessed and managed

Transport policy

We look at transport requirements and the best way to have a comprehensive and efficient transport network

Travel Plans

Travel plans will allow you to obtain planning permission more easily and are a requirement for most major planning applications

Insurance claims

Information about our insurance section

Road records

Request information on highway boundary ownership - stopping up requests and queries about retaining walls

Highway Authority consultation on planning process

We provide the Highway Authority's response to all development proposals in Somerset

Transport Strategy, Policies and Plans

We develop transport strategies, policies and plans to make the most of what we have now and to prepare for the longer term.

Electric Vehicle Infrastructure

Our strategy, vision and action plan for the further roll-out of electric vehicle charging Infrastructure

Creating Places for People

We want to know what you want to see from new development

Road signs, markings and lighting

Includes streetlights, traffic lights, signs, markings, advertising and sponsorship

Road safety

Includes how we promote safer driving through education and road safety campaigns

Major projects

Includes Environmental Monitoring, and Transport and Infrastructure evidence

Pages in Road signs, markings and lighting

Speed limits

Request information about new or existing traffic calming measures

Road signs, bollards and road markings

Includes information about non-illuminated bollards, pedestrian crossings, requesting a village nameplate and how to apply for a new road sign

Report a problem with a street light

We maintain and repair street lights to national standards to provide safe access to all road users

Street nameplate repairs

We aim to keep street nameplates in good repair and fitted in suitable positions. Please notify us of a damaged or missing nameplate

Advertising on roundabouts

Spin your success story: roundabout advertising that turns heads!

Advertising design requirements

Please follow these guidelines before submitting your artwork and we will send it to our contractor for your sign design.

Pages in Road safety

Cycle safety

Information on cycling safely, legally and keeping your bike in good condition

Somerset Road Safety

Find out about how we promote safer driving through education and road safety campaigns

Pages in Major projects

National Productivity Investment Fund

The Government provided a new capital grant for 2017/18 to be spent on local highway and transport network

Transport and infrastructure evidence

Transport and infrastructure evidence for planning policy documents

Environmental monitoring

Environmental monitoring schemes are to help minimise impacts and prevent complaints of dust and noise

Multi-user path in Shepton Mallet

This multi-user paths project transforms travel in the Mendip area

Check on a problem you have reported

You will need a report reference number to use this service

Latest travel news

Somerset council and kier launch new highways partnership.

A new era in Somerset’s highways maintenance was marked by Somerset Council and Kier this week. The new £225m contract…

• Somerset Council gives walkers access to B3191 Cleeve Hill route
• Council proposes new 20mph speed limits following requests from communities
• Check out Somerset’s Bus Passenger Charter
• Road reopens early as Bishops Lydeard wall works finish ahead of schedule
• Somerset to get 25 new electric buses for the county’s network in major £14.7m investment

Bus it - You know it makes sense

Somerset Council is joining forces with the Somerset Bus Partnership which represents passengers to encourage more people in the county to use the bus

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Relax, Restore, Unwind 

Book an appointment, somerset tours & travel, ltd.

Established in 2013. Somerset Travel is your home-style Full-service family agency providing concierge-style travel assisting with complex planning in addition to tour packages, cruises, and individualized travel arrangements to every part of the world. We work in conjunction with in-country destination specialists in over 80 countries worldwide and have a large network of suppliers who provide our clients with exceptional value and service. We also specialize in such things as Destination Weddings, Honeymoons, Group, and Family Travel.

Our Certifications Include:

➥ Destination Weddings and Honeymoons/Vow Renewals ➥  All-inclusives  ➥ Family Travel ➥ European Travel ➥  Ocean/River Cruises

Adventure Awaits

We'll make it meaningful and memorable.

"Hands down best travel agent you will ever hire. Kathleen has gone over and beyond, when we booked our Disney vacation and the Disney screwed up our room, we called her and within an hour we not only had everything fixed but had an upgrade to a suite. Then when we wanted to extend our stay she made all the arrangements with the hotel and flights.  "Hands down best travel agent you will ever hire. Kathleen has gone over and beyond, when we booked our Disney vacation and the Disney screwed up our room, we called her and within an hour we not only had everything fixed but had an upgrade to a suite. Then when we wanted to extend our stay she made all the arrangements with the hotel and flights.  

"Had an amazing experience! Highly recommended. Saved me money on my cruise. Thank you! Can't wait for the next!"                   

Catherine F.

"Great, new full service travel agency in Somerset! So glad they've opened... they do group tours, weddings, and all kinds of helpful information all easily available.  Good attention to detail and knowledgeable for all kinds of great resorts, cruises and all inclusive destinations. . Give them a call!"

"I recently met Kathleen, owner of Somerset Tours and Travel through a friend. She was a referral. I was hesitant at first because I never used a Travel Agent before. I really must share, all while this kind woman was helping me she was taking care of her dad in hospice care at his home. He passed last week but Kathleen kept in contact with myself and my nervous bride to be sister. Kathleen is, and has planned everything my sister has requested better than we imagined. We have 81 rooms. on the ship Shes a trooper. shes funny and does way more than she should. I am very impressed and grateful we went with Somerset Tours and Travel to plan this wedding. Blessings to you my new friend -"

Marge Tibbets

"Somerset tours is the only travel agency I use and I am never disappointed. Kathleen does the research and comes back with the perfect trip at the perfect price. I couldn’t be happier."

Marcia Mongeau

"My experience with Somerset Tours and Travel was exceptional. As I needed a last minute flight to Germany 🇩🇪 Kathleen Scallon was on point for accommodating my flight and a luxurious Hotel within 24 hrs. I’ve never seen such professionalism, and would recommend her every chance I get. Thank you Kathleen 🥰. With your quick response, you gave me 48 hrs of relaxation and down time for my very important meeting. ⭐️ I give u 10 stars for awesomeness"

Janice Mello

Travel licenses, certifications & awards.

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Alternate Phone: (508) 215-7771

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Open daily. Walk in is welcome. Appointments is highly recommended for your convenient.

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Fossils found in Somerset by girl, 11, ‘may be of largest-ever marine reptile’

Experts believe remains belong to a type of ichthyosaur that roamed the seas about 202m years ago

Fossils discovered by an 11-year-old girl on a beach in Somerset may have come from the largest marine reptile ever to have lived, according to experts.

The fossils are thought to be from a type of ichthyosaur, a prehistoric marine reptile that lived in the time of dinosaurs. The newly discovered species is believed to have roamed the seas towards the end of the Triassic, about 202m years ago.

The team have named the species Ichthyotitan severnensis , meaning “giant fish lizard of the Severn”.

“This giant probably represents the largest marine reptile formally described,” said Dr Dean Lomax, a palaeontologist at the University of Bristol and co-author of the research, adding that comparisons with fossils from other ichthyosaurs suggested the creature would have been about 25 metres in length – about the size of a blue whale.

“Of course, we have to be careful with such estimates because we are dealing with fragments of giant bones,” he added. “But nonetheless, simple scaling is commonly used to estimate size, especially when comparative material is scarce.”

The team say samples from the fossils suggest the creature was still growing. And there is another twist.

“We believe these ichthyosaurs are the last surviving members of the family called shastasaurida, which went extinct during the global mass extinction event at the end of the Triassic,” said Lomax.

Writing in the journal Plos One , Lomax and colleagues report how the first pieces of the jawbone were discovered by Justin Reynolds and his daughter Ruby – co-authors of the paper – on the beach at Blue Anchor in May 2020, when Ruby was 11.

The pair contacted Lomax, who alongside members of the Reynolds family, joined the search for further pieces. Among those who also joined the hunt was Paul de la Salle, an expert from the Museum of Jurassic Marine Life in Dorset who in 2016 had discovered a jawbone from what appeared to be a new species of ichthyosaur at a beach in Somerset. That specimen was subsequently studied by Lomax and colleagues .

When the team fitted the fragments of the new fossil together they found it belonged to the same species as the specimen discovered by De la Salle.

In both cases the fossilised bone is the surangular – a long, curved structure that sits at the top and back of the lower jaw.

Lomax said: “When my team described the first specimen in 2018, it showed unusual features that suggested it might represent something new. However, we refrained from giving it a name, considering that it was incomplete and also partly eroded.”

“Having two examples of the same bone with the same unique features from the same geologic time zone supports our identifications of something new, especially when combined with the fact that these two bones appear roughly 13m years after their latest geologic relatives with a name,” he added.

Dr Nick Fraser, a palaeontologist at National Museums Scotland, who was not involved in the study, said the identification of the bone as part of the lower jaw from an ichthyosaur was very convincing.

“It hints that its one-time owner was a gigantic beast, possibly one of the largest marine reptiles of all time,” he said.

But Fraser said it was questionable whether the creature should be assigned as a new species. “For me it is a bit too incomplete for that,” he said.

• Palaeontology
• Marine life

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