Somerset Travel Transport: Your Guide to Exploring Somerset’s Scenic Routes and Towns

Exploring the picturesque landscapes and charming towns of Somerset is a dream for any traveller, but navigating its transport options can make or break our experience. Whether we’re planning a relaxing countryside escape or a bustling city adventure, understanding the best ways to get around is essential.

From scenic train rides through rolling hills to convenient bus routes connecting quaint villages, Somerset offers a variety of transport modes that cater to every traveller’s needs. Let’s dive into the most efficient and enjoyable ways to traverse this beautiful county, ensuring our journey is as delightful as our destination.

Key Takeaways

• Diverse Transport Options: Somerset offers a variety of transport modes including trains, buses, car hire, cycling, walking, and taxis, suitable for every traveller’s needs and preferences.
• Scenic Train Rides: Travelling by train in Somerset not only offers efficiency but also picturesque views, with connections to key locations like Taunton, Bridgwater, and Weston-super-Mare.
• Extensive Bus Network: Buses in Somerset provide an extensive network covering urban and rural areas, offering a budget-friendly and eco-friendly travel option.
• Flexibility of Car Hire: Hiring a car in Somerset offers the flexibility to explore at your own pace, ideal for accessing remote areas and hidden gems.
• Cycling and Walking Routes: Somerset features numerous cycling trails and walking paths, such as The Strawberry Line and the South West Coast Path, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Accessibility and Convenience: Transport services in Somerset prioritise accessibility, with real-time tracking and scheduling tools enhancing travel convenience and reliability.

Overview Of Somerset Travel Transport

Somerset boasts a diverse range of travel transport options. Combining scenic and practical, these methods cater to every type of traveller. Whether exploring historic towns or rural landscapes, there’s a mode of transport suitable for all.

Train Services

Trains offer not just efficiency but also scenic views. Great Western Railway connects Somerset towns like Taunton, Bridgwater and Weston-super-Mare. Travelling by train allows seamless access to the county’s key locations while enjoying the journey.

Bus Routes

Bus services cover urban and rural areas, providing an extensive network. First West of England and Buses of Somerset operate numerous routes. They serve connections to major towns, tourist spots and remote villages. Adopting bus travel is convenient for those without personal vehicles and ideal for an eco-friendly approach. Examples of popular routes include the 21 from Bridgwater to Taunton and the 376 linking Bristol to Glastonbury.

Car Hire

Hiring a car offers flexibility. Several companies, such as Enterprise and Hertz, provide rental services in Somerset. Using a hire car allows travellers to explore at their own pace, accessing hidden gems off the beaten path. This option suits those favouring personal control over their itinerary.

Cycling

For outdoor enthusiasts, cycling presents an excellent way to navigate Somerset. The county features numerous cycling trails and paths. Routes like The Strawberry Line extend from Yatton to Cheddar, offering pleasant rides through picturesque countryside. Cyclists can enjoy the fresh air and exercise while discovering Somerset’s beauty.

Walking

Walking remains one of the best ways to explore Somerset’s charm. The region features various trails, such as the South West Coast Path and the Mendip Way. Walking offers a close-up experience of the county’s natural landscapes and historical sites.

Taxis And Ride-Sharing

Taxis and ride-sharing services provide an alternative for short journeys and convenience. Companies like Uber and local taxi firms operate widely in Somerset. This option suits those looking for door-to-door service without the need for a personal vehicle.

Public Transport Options

Somerset’s public transport system is extensive and efficient, making it easy for travellers to explore the county without a personal vehicle. We’ll dive into the primary options: buses and trains.

Buses

Buses in Somerset offer an extensive network connecting urban and rural areas. Operators like First West of England and Buses of Somerset provide reliable services. Key routes include the 28 from Taunton to Minehead and the 376 from Bristol to Glastonbury. Timetables are available on operators’ websites, ensuring easy planning. Buses are eco-friendly and affordable, making them ideal for budget-conscious travellers.

Trains

Trains offer fast and scenic travel across Somerset. Great Western Railway connects major towns like Taunton, Bridgwater, and Weston-super-Mare. The service is frequent, especially on the mainline routes. Passengers enjoy beautiful countryside views during their journey. Tickets can be booked online or at stations, and railcards offer discounts for regular travellers. Trains provide a comfortable and convenient travel option in Somerset.

Private Transport Choices

Besides public transport options, travellers can use private transport choices to navigate Somerset comfortably and conveniently. These choices provide flexibility and ease for those who prefer private travel.

Car Hire

Car hire in Somerset offers flexibility for those keen to explore at their own pace. Companies like Enterprise and Hertz have locations throughout the county. Prices start at approximately £30 per day for basic models and increase based on vehicle type and rental duration. Online booking allows travellers to compare rates easily. Optional extras like GPS navigation and child seats are also available. For those flying into Bristol Airport, car hire services can be arranged in advance and collected immediately upon arrival. Advanced booking often leads to better rates and guarantees vehicle availability.

Taxis

Taxis in Somerset provide an efficient option for travellers who prefer direct journeys. Local taxi services, including V Cars and A2B Taxis, operate in major towns like Taunton, Bridgwater, and Weston-super-Mare. Fares typically start with an initial fee of £3, plus £1.50 per mile. Specialised services such as airport transfers to and from Bristol Airport operate 24/7, ensuring availability at all times. Ride-sharing services like Uber also have coverage in some parts of Somerset, offering an alternative to traditional taxis. Booking can be done via phone calls or mobile apps, making it convenient for travellers.

Cycling And Walking Routes

Somerset offers numerous cycling and walking routes, providing a wonderful way to explore the natural beauty of the region. For cyclists, routes such as the Strawberry Line and the Somerset Levels offer varied terrain and breathtaking views. The Strawberry Line, a 14-mile trail, runs from Yatton to Cheddar, passing through picturesque villages like Congresbury and Sandford. This largely traffic-free route is ideal for families and casual cyclists, featuring gentle gradients perfect for leisurely rides.

For more adventurous cyclists, the Somerset Levels and Moors present a network of flat, easy-to-navigate paths enhanced by scenic wetlands and lush greenery. One notable route stretches from Bridgwater to Glastonbury, covering approximately 18 miles through the heart of the Levels, offering glimpses of historic landmarks and wildlife habitats. Detailed maps and guides are available online to aid planning.

Walking enthusiasts can enjoy numerous trails catering to different abilities and interests. The South West Coast Path, covering a segment near Minehead, provides stunning coastal vistas and rugged terrain. This national trail spans over 630 miles, with day walks available for those looking to experience just a portion of its beauty.

The Mendip Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) offers well-marked trails like the West Mendip Way and the East Mendip Way. The West Mendip Way stretches 31 miles from Wells to Uphill, while the East Mendip Way runs 19 miles from Wells to Frome, both offering diverse landscapes, including woodlands, limestone escarpments, and ancient monuments. These trails can be tailored for shorter walks or multi-day hikes, with accommodation options along the routes.

Walking routes in Quantock Hills AONB, such as the Coleridge Way, cover 51 miles from Nether Stowey to Lynmouth, intersecting with picturesque villages, dense woodlands, and open heathland. Signposted paths ensure ease of navigation, and local guides enhance the experience with historical insights.

For both cycling and walking routes, Somerset County Council provides resources like maps and safety tips on their website, ensuring well-informed and enjoyable excursions. Digital platforms like Komoot and OS Maps offer route planning and GPS navigation, enhancing the overall experience for adventurers.

Accessibility And Convenience

Somerset transport services ensure accessibility and convenience, catering to various traveller requirements. Let’s delve into the specifics of accessible transport services and real-time tracking and scheduling.

Accessible Transport Services

Transport operators in Somerset prioritise accessibility, making it easier for all travellers to navigate the region. Train services, such as those by Great Western Railway, offer wheelchair-accessible carriages and step-free access at major stations including Taunton and Weston-super-Mare. These services also provide assistance staff and portable ramps, ensuring smooth boarding and alighting for passengers with mobility issues.

Bus operators like First West of England and Buses of Somerset incorporate low-floor buses with designated spaces for wheelchairs and prams. Audio-visual announcements on these buses help visually and hearing-impaired passengers, enhancing travel convenience. Additionally, many taxi companies, including V Cars and A2B Taxis, offer accessible vehicles equipped with ramps or lifts to accommodate wheelchairs.

Real-Time Tracking And Scheduling

Real-time tracking and scheduling tools greatly enhance the convenience of Somerset’s transport services. Train operators, such as Great Western Railway, offer live departure and arrival updates via their app and website. This information includes platform changes, delays, and cancellations, helping passengers plan their journeys more efficiently.

Bus companies provide similar real-time data through apps like the First Bus app, which offers live bus locations and arrival times. Timetables on the operators’ websites are kept up-to-date, and digital displays at major stops like Taunton Bus Station show real-time information.

For car hire services, providers like Enterprise and Hertz offer mobile apps for managing bookings and tracking vehicle pickup and return times. Ride-sharing services like Uber also feature real-time tracking, allowing users to see their driver’s location and estimated arrival time.

Real-time tracking and updated scheduling make travelling in Somerset smoother and more predictable, catering to both locals and visitors.

Cost And Value For Money

Evaluating the cost and value for money of Somerset’s transport options is crucial for budget-conscious travellers. Each mode of transport offers distinct price points and benefits, ensuring there’s a suitable option for everyone.

Train Services

Train services in Somerset provide a cost-effective and scenic way to travel between key towns. Great Western Railway offers various fare options, including off-peak and advance tickets that can significantly reduce travel costs. Railcards, such as the 16-25 Railcard or the Family & Friends Railcard, offer additional discounts of up to 1/3 off, enhancing affordability for regular train users.

Bus Routes

Bus travel remains one of the most economical choices for exploring Somerset. Operators like First West of England and Buses of Somerset offer competitive fares, with single journey tickets typically costing between £1.50 and £4 depending on the distance. Day tickets, which offer unlimited travel within a certain area, are available from £6, making them ideal for day-trippers.

Car Hire Services

Car hire provides flexibility at a higher cost, starting at approximately £30 per day. Companies like Enterprise and Hertz offer online booking platforms for rate comparison. Fuel costs and optional extras like GPS navigation can add to the overall expense, but the personal convenience of setting one’s schedule often justifies the cost.

Taxis And Ride-Sharing

Taxis in Somerset offer efficient and direct travel options, with fares starting at £3 plus £1.50 per mile. Local services such as V Cars and A2B Taxis provide reliable services, and ride-sharing platforms like Uber are available in certain areas, offering competitive pricing for short journeys. For instance, a 10-mile trip may cost around £18.

Cycling And Walking

Cycling and walking not only promote health but also provide cost-free ways to explore Somerset’s natural beauty. Resources like maps and route planning tools are accessible through Somerset County Council, ensuring safe and enjoyable journeys. Popular trails, such as the Strawberry Line and the South West Coast Path, require no fees, making them exceptional value for money.

By evaluating these transport options, it’s clear Somerset offers diverse and affordable choices, catering to different travel needs and budgets.

Conclusion

Exploring Somerset is a delightful experience made even better by the variety of transport options available. Whether we prefer the scenic views from a train, the convenience of a bus, or the freedom of a hired car, there’s something for everyone.

For those of us looking to stay eco-friendly, buses and cycling routes offer excellent alternatives. Walking trails also provide an immersive way to appreciate Somerset’s natural beauty.

Accessibility remains a strong point, with services catering to diverse needs, ensuring all travellers can enjoy their journey. With so many affordable and efficient options, navigating Somerset is both easy and enjoyable.