Today this ancient market town still retains its unique identity and sense of community and it’s a great place to visit with lots to see and do

The historic town of Shepton Mallet dates back to Roman times, while its name derives from Saxon Times when it was called ‘Scaep Ton’, which literally means ‘sheep farm’. Indeed, the town was a significant wool-trading and market center through from the 15th to 17th centuries, after which the cloth industry was replaced by cider and perry production, brewing, cheese making and quarrying.

I decided to spend some time checking out what it has to offer these days on a weekend away...

Explore Kilver Court

Secret Gardens

Exploring Kilver Court’s Secret Gardens is a delightful way to lose yourself in beauty and tranquility for a few hours. The gardens were created more than 100 years ago by Ernest Jardine, a progressive industrialist, who wanted to give his workforce inspirational working conditions.

Today the painstakingly maintained landscaped gardens boast a sublime millpond, parterre, herbaceous borders and rockeries. One of the rockeries is a reproduction of George Whitelegg’s Chelsea Flower Show Gold Medal winner and is a must-see.

The three-acre plot is set against the 19th Century Charlton Viaduct, which gives even more drama to the landscape.

Experience the Magic of Steam at the East Somerset Railway

Steam through the rolling Mendip countryside on the heritage railway that runs between Cranmore and Mendip Vale. Nothing compares to the sounds and smells of travelling by steam – it really is a magical, nostalgic experience.

Book ahead to enjoy a traditional lunch in one of the first class dining carriages of the Mendip Belle dining train! If you want to experience the thrills of driving and firing a steam locomotive, you can book a Footplate Course or Steam Engine Driver Taster. There’s even a Driver for a Tenner option that lets you take control.

Shop for Antiques

We can’t think of anywhere better than Shepton Mallet to shop for antiques – the town has so many shops and dealers, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for, or maybe something positively gorgeous you weren’t looking for! Be sure to check out Somerset Antiques & Interiors and Parkways, both in the High Street.

Marvel at Market Cross

Head to the market place and you’ll see the imposing Shepton Mallet Market Cross, which has been at the hub of the town for more than 500 years. The cross is probably the most iconic piece of architecture in the town and has seen everything from a civil war skirmish to the hanging of Monmouth rebels! It was also featured on BBC One TV series Turn Back Time, where it was noted part of the stonework was in poor repair and so it’s since been subject to a £90,000 restoration – back to it’s former glory it’s a must-see.

Eat at The Dust Hole

Originally The Kings Arms, locals have always called the 15th century coaching inn the Dust Hole due to its close proximity to what is historically the stone mill and the flour mill - the patrons were always rather dusty! It was renamed in 2004 by landlord and chef, Tony Cockayne. It offers all the olde worlde charm you could wish for, including a gigantic log fire but also boasting a patio and sun trapped gardens for the good weather. The Sunday carvery is known throughout Somerset and for good reason – everything is local and cooked to perfection. In fact Marco Pierre White has enjoyed one of the famous roasts and left a very complimentary note, which is now on display in the foyer. What better accolade?

Visit the Oldest Building in Town

The Parish Church of St Peter and St Paul sits proudly in Peter Street and no visit to Shepton Mallet is complete without a glance – it’s the oldest building in the town, dating back to Saxon times. You’re bound to be impressed with the stone effigies on the exterior and the intricately carved barrel ceiling inside - one of the finest in the West Country.

Shop ‘Til You Drop

Kilver Court Designer Village is a shopper’s paradise. The Arcade and The Emporium together give the opportunity to shop labels that are rarely found outside exclusive stores like London’s Liberty or Selfridges, as well as contemporary eclectic brands at up to 60 per cent off. For homeware The Great House proves to be a treasure trove for the cool and quirky – you’ll find everything from vintage lighting and painted furniture to finish touches. There’s even a garden store and plant nursery plus The Sharpham Park Shop, which is bound to tempt you with something to edible to take home, from freshly baked bread to cheese and chutney.