Shepton Mallet

Rurally situated south of the Mendip Hills, the roots of this town lay along the ancient Fosse Way, the Roman road that connected Exeter to Lincoln in an almost perfectly straight line. In the Middle Ages Shepton Mallet developed a flourishing wool trade. During the 18th century the wool industry mostly disappeared and made way for other economic activities, in particular brewing. Today the town is an important producer of cider.
The river Sheppey runs right through Shepton Mallet.

Historic buildings. Over 200 buildings are listed, and walking around town will give you a good glimpses.

• Church of St Peter and St Paul12th century parish church.

• HM Prison Shepton MalletEngland's oldest prison still in use, although scheduled to close.

• East Somerset RailwayHeritage steam railway from Cranmore, near Shepton Mallet to Mendip Vale Station.

• Glastonbury FestivalShepton Mallet is the closest town to the famous festival grounds.

• Royal Bath and WestAnnual agricultural show. The showground is also used for other shows and events.

• The Kings Arms

  phone: +44 1749 343781
  address: Leg Square, Garston St, BA4 5LN
  This inn is a few miles outside Glastonbury and great if you have a car. Day trips to Bristol, Bath, and Stonehenge are all easy from this location, and the facilities are casual and comfortable. The owner offers a cooked breakfast in the morning and leaves out cereal, milk, tea/coffee, and juice. The food is quite good in the western-themed bar & restaurant.

• The Thatched Cottage Inn

  phone: +44 1749 342058
  address: 63-67 Charlton Rd, BA4 5QF

• Charlton House Spa Hotel

  phone: +44 344 248 3830
  address: Charlton Rd, BA4 4PR

• North to Bath and Bristol
• West to Wells and Glastonbury
• East to Warminster
• South to Wincanton, Sherborne and Yeovil