There’s so much for families to do in Somerset, which is known for its natural beauty, outdoor adventures and historical houses. Here’s our guide to some of the best family-friendly days out for Middlewick guests staying with us over the summer holidays.
Places to visit in Somerset during the Summer holidays
Around 15 minutes or less from The Middlewick
Somerset Rural Life Museum
Discover local history, meet visiting animals and get creative with craft activities at the Rural Life Museum, which is less that a 5-minute drive from The Middlewick. There’s also a poetry-inspired trail around the museum, available all summer.
Glastonbury Abbey
The Abbey has so many family-friendly activities in 2025 – from crafting to nature walks to medieval weekends and Horrible Histories productions. The Abbey is a short drive away in Glastonbury town centre. There’s lots to see in Glastonbury town, too, including shops selling real magical items!
Avalon Marshes Centre
The Centre is the gateway to Somerset’s famous wetlands – important nature reserves which are teeming with wildlife – especially birds. History fans can visit the Archaeology Museum on Saturdays and Sundays throughout the summer holidays from 19 July – 31 Aug 2025. Some parts aren’t dog-friendly.
30 minutes or less from The Middlewick
Glastonbury Tor (30-minute walk)
Glastonbury Tor is around a 30-minute walk all the way to the top from The Middlewick. Pass our Reception building, through the orchard and then around the edge of Paddington Farm. Quiet country lanes will lead you to the base of the Tor. At the top, enjoy stunning views across Somerset.
Cheddar Gorge and Caves
Cheddar is very special – whether you’re above ground taking in the awe-inspiring scenery or having a subterranean adventure in the caves. Kids can explore the Stone Age – and even dress up – as part of their Surviving the Stone Age summer experience. We recommend the Cliff Top Walk and Jacob’s Ladder.
Montacute House
Just 35 minutes from The Middlewick, Montacute is a great choice for sunny days, with parkland, lawns, gardens and a natural play area. There are drop-in wood crafting sessions in July and August. Plus, you can borrow mallets and balls from the staff and play croquet on the Cedar Lawn.
Up to 1 hour away from The Middlewick
Ferne Animal Sanctuary
This 72-acre Somerset retreat is home to over 300 animals and birds who have come from difficult backgrounds. Each animal’s needs and each day is different, so you never know who you’re going to meet, but there’s plenty of space to relax, unwind and explore the sanctuary. Dogs can visit, too.
Somerset Lavender Farm
With acres of purple fields for you to roam, a trip to Somerset Lavender Farm is a great way to spend the day in nature and discover some of Somerset’s wonderful wildlife. You can also pick your own sunflowers. Make sure you see the lavender fields before the harvest in August. Dogs welcome.
Longleat Safari and Adventure Park
No visit to Somerset with kids is complete without a trip to Longleat. There’s a railway, hedge maze, adventure castle and of course, lots and lots of animals on the Drive Through Safari – including wolves, tigers, hyenas and giraffes. Drive through the rhesus macaque enclosure if you dare.
Looking for summer holiday accommodation in Somerset?
We have a few cottages available for the summer holidays, so if you haven’t booked yet, there’s still time to stay in one of our cottages and enjoy everything the area has to offer. Kids love our indoor swimming pool, and grown-ups tend to love our Spa – a great way for one parent to rest and recharge while the other is on duty! We also have super high-speed internet with a private dedicated line, so if you must work, you can do so easily in your home away from home.
