tourist information yeovil

• Login/Register

Visiting Yeovil

What's here

Food & drink.

Feeling Hungry? We have many choices here in Yeovil to tickle your tastebuds or quench your thirst

Music, Film & Theatre

Every week brings new sounds, live productions and stars from the silver screen to our town.

Accommodation

Want to stay longer? then there is plenty choice to rest your head after a long day in Yeovil

Nature & Wildlife

Feeling active? Great, there is plenty places for you to stay active and enjoy your favourite sports

Shopping & Markets

Got your spending shoes on? There are many great retailers within the town for you to come and visit

Arts & Crafts

Creativity is encouraged in our town and there’s a growing art scene in Yeovil and its surrounding villages.

Sports & Leisure

Whether you're looking to join a sports club, or have something more recreational in mind, Yeovil has a whole host of sporting options to keep fit whilst having fun.

Discover some great gardens in and around Yeovil

Learn about Yeovil's past and history!

Follow our news & social media to stay up-to-date

• Accessibility options

All Experiences

Outdoor Activities

Historical & Cultural

• Attractions

Glastonbury Abbey

The Bishops Palace

East Lambrook Manor Gardens

Submit Festivals & Events

August 2024

September 2024

October 2024

November 2024

December 2024

Fantastic events across Somerset West and Taunton this month!

Somerset Carnivals

Glastonbury Festival

What’s on at the CACG

• Frequently Asked Questions
• Paranormal Somerset
• Somerset Towns and Villages
• South Somerset
• North Somerset
• North West Somerset
• North East Somerset
• West Somerset
• Popular Somerset Towns
• Shepton Mallet
• Burnham on Sea & Highbridge
• Glastonbury
• Weston-super-Mare
• Inspiration
• Explore by Map
• Visit Somerset Ebook
• Somerset Itineraries
• Visit Somerset Image Library
• Local Culture
• Hidden Gems
• Coastal Adventures
• National Landscapes
• History and Heritage
• Visiting, Staying & Living in Somerset
• Somerset Arts Week
• Visit Somerset Community Pages
• Somerset Jobs
• NHS Somerset Jobs
• Virtual High street
• Dog Friendly Somerset Beaches
• Somerset Train Stations

Visitor Information

• Somerset Wedding and Event Venues
• Somerset Wedding Venues
• Event Venue
• Coach and Bus Travel
• National Trust Properties and Landscapes
• Team Building Days in Somerset
• Birthday Parties in Somerset
• Archery and Axe Throwing in Somerset
• Water Sports in Somerset
• Arts & Crafts
• Family Days Out
• Health & Wellbeing
• Outdoor Pursuits
• North Somerset Walks
• ART Galleries
• Animals and Nature
• Places of Worship
• Somerset Caves
• Somerset Houses & Gardens
• Somerset Museums
• Somerset Railways
• Somerset Theatres /Galleries
• Sporting Venues
• Somerset Food, Drink & More!
• Somerset Recipes
• Breweries and Distilleries
• Farm Shops & Farmer Markets
• Made in Somerset
• Restaurants
• Somerset Cafes & Tea Rooms
• Somerset Food & Drink Producers

Accessibility Accommodation

Dog Friendly Accommodation in Somerset

B&B. Guest Houses

Camping & Glamping

Farm Holidays Somerset

Holiday Parks Somerset

Hotels Somerset

Somerset Self Catering

Stay In Bath

Bath Self Catering

• Market Towns in South Somerset
• Experiences Search
• Accommodation Search

Petters House, Petters Way, BA20 1SH, Yeovil

Description

Known as Ivell in Thomas Hardy’s Wessex, Yeovil is mentioned in the Domesday Book as a thriving market community and is still a country town at heart surrounded by beautiful countryside. An important centre for the leather industry in the 19th century, the town is famous for its glove-making with its football club nick-named the Glovers and for making helicopters. It has numerous shops, a country park, theatre and entertainment centre. Settled in ancient times on a major Roman route through the West Country, Yeovil means ‘town on the river’. It’s south Somerset’s centre for entertainment and shopping, and is a centre for everything from top-league football to leather goods to military technology.

Its strategic position on the Fosse Way (now A37) between Dorchester and Ilchester was vital to the Romans, and makes it easy to reach for you.

The name just means ‘town on the river’, which goes for most places round here, but no two Somerset towns are alike, and you’ll find that its character is unique. 

Throughout Saxon and medieval times the town continued to thrive.

A market charter from King John, who took a big interest in Somerset, guaranteed its status as the local farming centre.

While most Somerset towns surrounded by upland grazing went in for wool, Yeovil developed the speciality of glove making, and the name still survives in the nickname of ‘giant killers’ Yeovil Football Club – the glovers.

These days the gloves are off, and you can’t buy a pair made in the town.

We can probably fix you up with a helicopter or two, as military equipment is the town’s biggest export, and Leonardo Helicopters the biggest employer. 

Yeovil is one of these towns which is much bigger than it appears.

You can ramble for what seems like miles through the historic centre, built around the noble C14 church of St John the Baptist, passing many fine old buildings, and not passing up many shopping opportunities.

There’s a theatre, all sorts of arts and crafts, and the famous football club.

If you remember Stephen Potter’s Lifemanship books from the 1950s, they’re based on Yeovil, which Thomas Hardy had previously recreated as Ivell.

These days Yeovil only has two railway stations, a comedown from its original four, but it’s on the A37 and A30, a stone’s throw from the A303.

Yeovil Tourist Information Centre

Yeovil Tourist Information Centre  can help you with travel to the area, places to stay and eat, events and attractions - and lots more great ideas for the whole family. Easily accessible for visitors with disabilities, low counter, hearing loop. A pay and display car park is situated at the rear of the building.

Opening Times - 9.00am - 4.00pm

Please follow the link for more information on South Somerset and the surrounding area, or use the red 'What's Nearby' box to search for things to see and do in the area.

Local and national tourist information * Somewhere to stay - both locally and nationwide * Ideas for things to do - days out, attractions and events discount vouchers available

Tickets agents for:- - Berry's Coaches to London - Bluebird Coach Holidays - Condor Ferries - National Express - South West Coaches daytrips -  Advance discount tickets for local events including:- - Royal Bath & West Show - Yeovilton Air Day -  Dorset Steam Fair

For visiting coach parties please call Yeovil TIC for meet and greet service as well as parking arrangements and discount vouchers .

Yeovil Petters House Petters Way Yeovil Somerset BA20 1SH United Kingdom

T: 01935 462781

E: [email protected]

W: discoversouthsomerset.com

Things to do!

Our award winning Spirit of Glastonbury ® hand crafted

The all-weather attraction is the perfect place for all the family.

Accommodation Near By

Horizon is a three bedroom detached barn, set in 3 acres available to let for self catering holidays

Subscribe for news, updates and special offers

Become a Member

Find out about all the fantastic benefits of becoming a member of Visit Somerset & its business operation the Somerset Tourism Association.

Book a Conference

Here you will find all that you need to know about booking your meeting, conference or exhibition, whilst receiving first class service along the w...

Here you will find lots of useful information to help you plan your perfect trip to Somerset whether you are visiting for a day out, holiday or sho...

• Barrington Court
• Cheddar Gorge & Caves
• Coleridge Cottage
• Countryside, Nature & Wildlife
• Dunster Castle
• Festivals and Events
• Holnicote Estate
• Montacute House
• Parks and Gardens
• Places To Stay
• Two Day Train Itineraries
• Where to stay in South Somerset

• Things to do

25 Things to Do in Yeovil

Yeovil or “town on the river” is a Somerset town with a long and varied history. First mentioned in a Saxon charter back in 880 (although the town was known as Gifle at the time), it’s set on an old Roman road and takes its name from the River Yeo, which runs through it.

Through time, Yeo Village became Yeovil and so the unusually-named town we know today was born. Famous for both glove-making and helicopter manufacture, Yeovil’s close proximity to major tourist spots like Stonehenge and Durdle Door make it a natural stopping point on any tour of the South West. For those who choose to stay a little longer, however, Yeovil itself has a wealth of attractions to enjoy. So, get that itinerary ready and take a look at some of the best things to do in Yeovil.

1. Explore the largest country park in the area

Yeovil Country Park is the largest country park in the South West of England, and covers 20 acres in total, making it hard to believe that it’s only existed since 2002. The park has five separate areas to enjoy:

• Ninesprings is a wooded hillside containing a Victorian pleasure garden, cafe and cycleway.
• Summerhouse Hill was once part of the Newton Surmaville estate and consists primarily of an open grass hillside, perfect for picnics.
• Wyndham Hill is a mixture of pasture and woodland and was once part of the same estate. 
• Penn Hill Park offers excellent views over Yeovil and also contains a community wildlife garden.
• Riverside Walk follows the course of the River Yeo, and is home to a wide variety of wildlife including birds, otters, butterflies and reptiles.

2. Take an alpaca for a walk

A must for animal lovers,  Cary Alpacas  offer two-hour alpaca experiences , in which you get to choose your own woolly friend, and take him or her for a walk. You’ll learn everything you could ever want to know about these friendly creatures during your experience, and will leave with a certificate as a souvenir of your walk.

3. Spend the night in a Classic British Inn

Located in the heart of town, The Manor is a characterful building dating back to the 18th century. Each of the Greene King site’s 42 en-suite bedrooms combines the original manor house features with modern styling for a warm, homely feeling. There’s also a charming on-site bar and restaurant, boasting traditional favourites.

One Night Classic British Inn Break for Two

Treat yourselves to a night away with this One Night Classic British Inn Break for Two.

Find out more

4. Step on board the first ever Concorde

Fleet Air Museum  is home to Europe’s largest naval aviation collection, and has four exhibition halls containing over 90 aircraft, and 30 thousand artefacts. While there, you can even step inside the first ever Concorde aircraft or take a ride on the Aircraft Carrier Experience,  a virtual helicopter flight to the deck of the aircraft carrier HMS Ark Royal.

5. See a show at The Octagon

South Somerset’s premier entertainment venue,  The Octagon Theatre  has a varied programme of events to suit all ages and tastes, serving as the perfect place to wind down and end your day in Yeovil.

6. Visit the Somerset Reindeer Ranch

Just a short 10 minute drive from Yeovil, you can reach Domer - the site of the Somerset Reindeer Ranch. Available throughout the year (although particularly popular at Christmas), meet real reindeers up close, feed them by hand and enjoy photo opportunities galore.

Somerset Reindeer Ranch Feed the Reindeer and Hot Chocolate for Two

Get up close to one of the most magical creatures in the animal kingdom with this Meet and Feed the Reindeer with a Hot Chocolate for Two at Somerset Reindeer Ranch.

7. Try some Somerset cider 

Somerset is famous for its cider, and at the  Somerset Cider Brandy Company  you can see how it’s made and sample some as you follow its progress from orchard to glass. Tour the orchards, visit the distillery and end your day at the shop, where you can stock up on your favourite drinks.

8. Take the kids to Yeovil Recreation Centre 

If the little ones in your group need to burn off some energy, Yeovil Recreation Centre is a great choice of location. The flagship play space is an opportunity to let little imaginations run wild, with a wooden “shipwreck” surrounded by sand, water features, aerial zipline, slides and more. There are also football pitches plus a miniature golf course at the site, if you’d like to stay a little longer.

9. Set your heart racing with a Zombie Survival Experience

Not for the faint of heart, battle good and evil and prepare to keep your wits about you in this thrilling zombie adventure. Set in a real air hangar full of jets, helicopters and army zombies, The Hangar will see you solve puzzles and face film realistic SFX zombies in a thrilling two-hour experience.

10. Browse a traditional market 

On the first Sunday of every month, Yeovil’s Middle Street is transformed into a bustling marketplace, with stalls run by local shops and independent traders. Browse the different goods on offer and sample some of the local dishes as you soak up the atmosphere of the town on market day.

11. Take a trip down memory lane at Montacute TV Radio Toy Museum

With a huge selection of toys and other memorabilia related to TV shows like Doctor Who, Coronation Street and the Magic Roundabout,  Montacute TV Radio Toy Museum  is a real blast from the past, and a totally unique family day out. Just a short drive or bus ride from Yeovil, there’s even a life-sized Dalek and Tardis to explore!

12. Learn golf from the experts 

Golfing enthusiasts will love this golf lesson with a PGA professional, who’ll show you the ropes, help you improve your technique, and give you all everything you need to make the most of your game. Each lesson is tailored to your specific skill level, so it’s suitable for everyone - even those who have never picked up a golf club in their life!

30 minute Golf Lesson with a PGA Professional

You could try improving your golfing game with books and instructional videos, but they're no substitution for tuition from the genuine article. Get some one-to-one expert advice and work on your skills with this 30 Minute Golf Lesson with a PGA Professional.

30 minute Golf Lesson for Two with a PGA Professional

You could try improving your golfing game with books and instructional videos, but they're no substitution for tuition from the genuine article. Get some one-to-one expert advice and work on your skills with this 30 Minute Golf Lesson for two with a PGA Professional.

13. Visit Yeovil Railway Centre 

A model railway, art gallery, miniature railway and a wide range of locomotives are just some of the attractions you’ll find at Yeovil Railway Centre . The oldest train there dates back to 1915, and there’s also a cafe and visitor centre, where you can learn more about the railway and Yeovil’s place in its history.

14. Visit Dawes Twineworks 

Dawes Twineworks  is the UK’s only surviving Victorian Twineworks, and aims to educate and entertain visitors on Somerset’s twine and rope industry. There’s a visitor centre, plus a 100m twinewalk which allows you to imagine what life must have been like in a Victorian factory. The Twineworks is open to the public only on the 4th Saturday of every month, so be sure to check their website before you go!

15. Take a helicopter flight

What better way to see Somerset than from the air? This helicopter tour lasts 30 minutes, and gives you ample opportunities to see all of the area’s major landmarks in the course of one thrilling flight.

Themed Helicopter Pleasure Flight for One - 30 minutes

Nothing compares to the unusual sensation of being suspended mid-air in an almighty, agile helicopter, and what better way to sightsee than with a tour in a helicopter like this? Do something bold and adventurous, with this thrilling flight experience.

Themed Helicopter Pleasure Flight for Two - 30 minutes

Nothing compares to the unusual sensation of being suspended mid-air in an almighty, agile helicopter. These creatures don’t just fly forward, they are the only aircraft capable of flying sideways and backwardundefined what better way to sightsee than with a tour in a helicopter like this?

Beauty Spots near Yeovil 

Although Yeovil itself has plenty of green space to enjoy, the area surrounding the town is particularly scenic, so it’s worth hiring a car, or checking out the public transport if you’d like to explore a little further. Here are some of the most beautiful spots within striking distance of the town:

16. Ham Hill Country Park

Centred around an iron age hill fort, Ham Hill offers stunning views of the surrounding area. The nearby quarry is popular with rock climbers but if you’d rather do something a little less energetic, a leisurely walk around the country park should fit the bill and allow you to enjoy some of Somerset’s best scenery.

17. Corton Hill Beacon 

Once the site of the Cadbury Hill Fort, and believed by some to be the location of King Arthur’s Camelot, on a clear day you can see as far as Glastonbury Tor from the top of  Corton Hill . Popular with walkers, the scenery might just have you believing in some of the myths and legends that surround the place.

18. Glastonbury Tor

Glastonbury is most famous for its music festival but  Glastonbury Tor  is an equally iconic uniquely shaped hill with the ruined St Michael’s Tower at its summit. The source of many myths and legends, climb the Tor to take in the breathtaking views of Somerset and beyond.

Niklas Weiss

19. Cheddar Gorge

Sometimes described as one of Britain’s greatest natural wonders, Cheddar Gorge is a limestone gorge dotted with caves - one of which was the last resting place of the world-famous Cheddar man: a 9,000 year old skeleton found in these hills. It’s a popular spot for hikers, painters and photographers, and it’s not difficult to see why so many visitors flock here every year to take in the amazing views.

20. The Quantock Hills 

Designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the  Quantock Hills  are an unspoilt oasis of calm, buried deep in North West Somerset. Should you get tired of the panoramic views, however, there are also plenty of picturesque villages in the area where you can stop for a breather, and grab something to eat.

21. Tintinhull Garden 

Describing itself as “a gardener’s garden paradise”,  Tintinhull Garden  is an arts and crafts garden, which forms the grounds of a 17th century manor house. Designed by Phyllis Reiss, who left the property to the National Trust after her death, the gardens are influenced by those found in France and Italy and offer a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life.

Ray Harrington

22. The Village of Frome 

Frome was once voted the prettiest village in England, so you’ll want to make sure you have your camera at hand as you wander its cobbled streets and navigate the winding lanes. There’s a market here three days a week, and the village is packed with places to eat and drink, all just an easy drive from Yeovil.

Outdoor Activities near Yeovil 

With so much natural beauty surrounding it, it’s no surprise that Yeovil is popular with outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some of the best outdoor activities you can try in this corner of Somerset:

• 23. Visit the motor museum. Haynes International Motor Museum  near Yeovil is the largest international motor museum in the UK, and has more than 400 cars and bikes to view, with some dating back to the late 19th century. You don’t have to be a car enthusiast to enjoy a visit here, though: there’s also a children’s race track, themed play area, soft play and more.
• 24. Visit Montacute House. If you’ve seen the film adaptation of Jane Austen’s Sense & Sensibility or the 2004 movie The Libertine, then you’ve already seen  Montacute House,  which was a filming location for both. A walk around the stunning Tudor mansion in person, however, would be hard to beat, with one wing of the house used as an outpost for the National Portrait Gallery, and the stunning gardens also open to the public.
• 25. Have an adventure day. No matter what your chosen adventure, Wall Eden Adventure can probably cater to it. From paddleboarding and kayaking to axe throwing, archery and metal detecting, there’s something for everyone. And if you’re too tired to make it home after all of that, there are also luxury lodges and glamping pods for hire.

Axe Throwing Experience for Two at Wall Eden Farm

Ready, aim, throw. Prepare for an action-packed day with this Axe Throwing Experience for Two with Wall Eden Farm.

Paddleboarding Experience for Two at Wall Eden Farm

Discover one of the world’s most popular watersports with this Paddleboarding Experience for Two at Wall Eden Farm.

By Georgia Thwaites

Content & Communications Manager at Virgin Experience Days.

Other Popular Locations

Glastonbury, keep me updated about new experiences and offers from virgin experience days..

By entering your email address you agree to receive emails from Virgin Experience Days about our latest experiences, news, and deals.

• War Memorial
• Locate Yeovil
• Visitor Info
• Announcements
• Add Your Business
• Members Area
• Photo Gallery
• Accommodation
• Business & Services
• Community Resources
• Financial Services
• Going Out / Staying In
• Health & Beauty
• Health Services
• Home and Garden
• Home Improvement
• Leisure Activities
• Party Planning / Event Services
• Travel and Transport
• Wedding Services

Read about Yeovil and Yeovil Holiday Cottages on TripAdvisor

Visitor Information - Facilities

Cookies on the yeovil town website.

All of our cookies are used to ensure the best user experience and some are essential for this website to operate correctly. To find out more about the cookies used on our website, see our cookies policy .

• © Third Dimension Ltd
• Cookie Policy
• Accessibility
• Terms of Use
• Contact Webmaster
• Site by Third Dimension Ltd

• Yeovil Tourism
• Yeovil Itineraries
• Yeovil Hotels

Top Tourist Attractions in Yeovil

• United Kingdom
• Things To Do In Yeovil

Best Things To Do in Yeovil, United Kingdom

Have you ever visited a new place and felt ‘wow’ about it? For many visitors, it happens at Yeovil.

Yeovil may not be as popular as other cities in United Kingdom, but don’t let that fool you. Yeovil is a smaller but beautiful upcoming tourist destination that is worth a visit. You will be surprised by some of the unique things to do and places you can explore at this hidden destination.

You can definitely plan a few hours of a side trip here while traveling to Bath or Bristol. You might wish to revisit it someday again, to take a break and relax at Yeovil.

If you have plans to visit United Kingdom and are not sure if Yeovil should be included in your itinerary, keep reading. In this list, we have put together some of the things to do in Yeovil and around. We have a hunch that if you include this city in your travel plans, you will be thrilled you did so.

• Adventure activities in Yeovil
• Things to do with Family & Kids in Yeovil
• Leisure Activities in Yeovil

Tourist Attractions in Yeovil

Here is the list of things to do in Yeovil and tourist attractions in city.

Watermarque Aquatic Superstore

Address: Lufton Way

Finking Aquapets

Address: 7 Princes St

Museum Of South Somerset

Yeovil Recreation Centre

Address: Chilton Grove, off, Mudford Rd, Yeovil BA21 4AW, UK

Abbey Manor Park

Yeovil country market, ninesprings park, yeovil town council, rspb west sedgemoor.

• Things to do in London
• Things to do in Bath
• Things to do in Bristol
• Things to do in Edinburgh
• Things to do in Manchester
• Things to do in Liverpool
• What to do in Yeovil in 1 day
• What to do in Yeovil in 2 days

Welcome to the South Somerset Countryside

This website is now the home of information about the beautiful Somerset Countryside.

Please note that the TOURISM information content is no longer supported and might be out of date. Please check visitor details with the venue or attraction before visiting.  

Easy to get to...

• Arrive in South Somerset by train from London in just over 2 hours 
• Easy to reach from North, South, East and West, making it one of the most accessible places to holiday in South West
• A great base to explore city life with Bristol and Bath only a short distance away 

Don't miss...

Incredible local menus and fantastic eateries for all budgets. Check out South Somerset's new foodie film to tempt the taste buds..

The wild and natural beauty of Somerset’s River Parrett Trail , a stunning, tranquil 50 mile walk traversing source to sea. Find a taster of what to expect here in this beautiful film...

The  South Somerset 80-mile Cycleway - a greener way to explore this fantastic region; discover hedge-lined sleepy country lanes, pretty market towns and villages and the stunning Somerset Levels. 

Ham Hill Country Park , a wildlife haven centred around an Iron Age hillfort, offering fantastic dog walks, walking and spectacular scenic views.

History and heritage in our characterful market towns and villages; lose yourself in magical landscapes.

Boutique hotels and characterful cottages to gorgeous camping and glamping sites, there is something for everyone here. 

Planning ahead just got a whole lot easier! Enjoy our free guides to help make the most of your time here...

Things to Do Guide 2023   

Dog-friendly Days Out 2023

Accessibility 2023

**  These guides were produced in 2023 and while most of the content is still current, we advise checking websites directly or call  in advance to check latest opening times. PLEASE NOTE THAT THE SOUTH  SOMERSET VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE AT THE CARTGATE PICNBIC SITE IS NOW CLOSED. Printed copies of the guides can be obtained from the self service point at Petters House on Yeovil. **

Stay up to date

Latest news for South Somerset Tourism and Leisure & Recreation...

Important tree preservation work at Ham Hill

New green estates team vacancy, yeovil country park awarded five stars by rhs prid....

Top Tips Guides

Blessed with award winning country parks, museums, unique attractions and a great range of activities, our free guides will help you make the most of your time here. Bringing the dog? Check out our Dog Friendly Days Out Guide too.  

Enticing Itineraries

Discover and share the secrets of South Somerset with our enticing itineraries. Walkers, naturalists, cyclists, foodies, garden enthusiasts, historians and fans of all things quirky - you'll be happy here. 

Brochures, Trails & Maps

Enjoy your time in South Somerset by downloading these handy maps, walks, brochures and more.  Planning ahead just got a whole lot easier. 

© 2024 Visit South Somerset - Website By Kontrolit

Visit South Somerset Cookie Policy

We use cookies to give you the best possible experience on our website. By continuing to browse this site, you agree to our use of cookies. For more information, including how you can amend your preferences, please read our  Cookie Policy.

Allow Cookies