Taunton

Somerset’s county town has much going for it as a place to live and work. It’s the county’s third largest town and has all the amenities to match. Sport is high on the agenda, as it’s home to Somerset County Cricket Club, the County Rugby Club and Taunton Racecourse. Taunton’s location is good for business too, as it’s just off the M5, halfway between Bristol and Exeter. With lovely countryside all around, it’s an ideal setting for your new home.

Living in Taunton

Living here

The town centre balances new shopping malls, a high street with several national stores, and lovely independent shops tucked away in the old parts of the town. The checklist goes on; there’s history, culture, leisure facilities, green space, the county hospital is on hand, and there are edge of town superstores and retail parks.

Getting around

The M5 is on the eastern edge of the town, providing a very convenient route if you need to commute to Bristol or Exeter. Taunton Station is close to the town centre and Great Western Railway and CrossCountry train services connect you with Exeter, Bristol, London and the Midlands. You’ll also be conveniently midway for Exeter and Bristol Airports, each just over half an hour’s drive away.

Going to school

There’s a great range of primary education for younger children. Your teenagers have a choice of secondary schools (both independent and state), the Richard Huish or The Space sixth form colleges, and the Bridgwater & Taunton College of Further Education.

Enjoying yourself

Taunton will keep you occupied with its shops, the Brewhouse Theatre and Arts Centre, The Museum of Somerset and the historic castle – right in the centre. For a change of scenery, it’s a stone’s throw from the beautiful Quantock Hills and the Blackdown Hills, both are Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, where you can walk or cycle for unspoilt miles, stopping off at little village pubs on the way. Families will love the coast between Watchet and Minehead, where there are some great beaches. You can even take a steam train from Bishops Lydeard, just outside Taunton, to Minehead – arriving in style for a day at the seaside.