Why go there?
Well worth a visit in Shepton is Kilver Court Gardens and Designer Emporium for its farm shop stocking gifts, homeware products and local produce from Sharpham Park, which specialises in organic spelt products. Stop in Harlequin Café for spot of lunch and a coffee before exploring the spectacular gardens set beneath the Charlton viaduct. The gardens were kept secret for many years until being opened to the public in 2008. The gardens are home to many beautiful exotic flowers and trees that change in colour all year round, with a millpond, boating lake waterfalls, streams and an intimate dove coat. The beautiful grounds are perfect for any garden enthusiast or someone who simply wants to enjoy a bit of peace and quiet.
Image © Copyright Martin Bodman
Where to stay
Minutes away from Shepton is the Bath and West Showground and the site of Glastonbury Festival, therefore it is a perfect location if you want somewhere to stay overnight either to make a weekend of it at a show or stay clear of the mud at the festival. The Highwayman Inn is a perfect spot for both situated on the edge of town in the picturesque Cannards Grave area, offering en-suite bedrooms at reasonable price and use of the inn’s restaurant and bar.
If you’re looking for something a little bit more upmarket why not treat yourself to a stay Charlton House Spa Hotel with 27 luxurious bedrooms, a spa, beautiful grounds and a wonderful restaurant you really will get the chance to spoil yourself.
Image © Copyright Sarah Smith
Where to eat
There are various places to eat in Shepton Mallet all at reasonable prices, from Whitstone’s Fish and Chip Takeaway and Restaurant, Blostins bistro style restaurant situated closely to the viaduct, Mughal Empire Indian restaurant and The Thatched Cottage Inn offering superb food and accommodation in an elegant setting.
Tell us a local secret
Shepton Mallet is also home to some impressive buildings including Britain’s oldest prison, a Grade-II listed building. Take a walk along the high stoned walled alleyways and lanes that surround the prison and discover the oldest part of the town and uncover charming cottages and grand mansions that were once owned by friends of the Duke of Monmouth. Be sure to also stop by The Kings Arms, known to locals as ‘The Dusthole’, which offers great food and drink.
Image © Copyright Tom Jolliffe