Taunton is the county town of Somerset and was originally established during the Saxon times. Set on the River Tone, the town is surrounded by the Blackdown, Quantock and Brendon Hills. Taunton has a variety of historical buildings which lead to a pretty town centre. The area is accessible by both road and rail, especially useful for people travelling to see Somerset Cricket Club or to enjoy racing at Taunton Racecourse.
The appeal of Taunton really is in its diversity. Whether you’re looking for a period property in the town centre, a family home in one of its desirable residential neighbourhoods or a country house in the surrounding villages, the area offers something for everyone. Its central location within Somerset also makes it an excellent base from which to explore the wider south west region whether for day trips or a weekend away.
Taunton is widely recognised as one of the South West's leading centres for education, making it particularly popular with families relocating to the south west. The town benefits from a strong selection of state primary and secondary schools and well renowned independent schools. Taunton is also within easy reach of higher education institutions in Exeter, Bristol and Bath.
Taunton is home to a range of residents from all different backgrounds. While families relocate to the area to be within easy reach of great education opportunities, those looking to relocate from larger cities are also flocking to the region. Working professionals move to Taunton in search of more space and a better work life balance whilst still being in easy reach of Bristol, Exeter and London.
Taunton High Street offers a fantastic shopping experience, with a range of major retailers, while the covered shopping centres at Crown Walk and Orchard Shopping Centre provide even more choice. If you’re after a more unique shopping experience, Bath place is a charming pedestrianised shopping street, home to a mix of well-known brands and independent retailers.
Taunton has a great food and drink scene that reflects Somerset’s agricultural heritage. Locally sourced products feature heavily on menus in the region, with a focus on Somerset cheese, cider and meats. There’s no shortage of great eateries in Taunton, from traditional pubs and cafes to more contemporary restaurants, you’ll find the perfect venue for every kind of occasion.
Taunton has a range of things to do to fill your days. The surrounding countryside provides miles of beautiful walking trails and cycling opportunities and the nearby Quantock Hills National Landscape and Blackdown Hills National Landscape are ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
The town itself is bursting with history with attractions like the Taunton Castle. Cricket plays a big role in local life with Somerset County Cricket Club within easy reach.
Taunton enjoys excellent rail connections, making it one of the South West's most accessible towns. Direct services operate to London Paddington, with journey times of around one hour and forty-five minutes, while Bristol, Exeter, Plymouth and Cardiff are also easily reached by train.
The M5 motorway runs immediately to the east of Taunton, providing convenient access to Bristol, Exeter, Birmingham and the wider motorway network. Major A roads connect the town to surrounding areas of Somerset, Devon and Dorset, making travel throughout the South West straightforward.
Bristol Airport and Exeter Airport are both within easy reach of Taunton, offering a range of domestic and international flights daily. Local bus services connect the town with surrounding villages and rural communities, while an extensive network of footpaths and cycle routes are perfect if you’re wanting to be a bit more active.
Our local experts are ready to arrange a confidential, no-obligation valuation of your Taunton home, taking into account local market trends, recent comparable sales, and your property's unique features.
