5 reasons to love Bruton in Somerset

The Somerset town was recently named among the top 10 coolest places to live in the UK, we take a look at some of the reasons why people visit.

At the heart of art

A former farmstead in Bruton is the site of internationally-famous Hauser & Wirth’s Somerset home. It has a vibrant program of art exhibitions, events, learning activities and artists’ residencies, as well as stunning gardens.

A Michelin star

Osip in Bruton retained its one Michelin star on this year's guide. Describing Osip the guide said: ‘A thriving market town plays host to this elegant restaurant, which is owned by forward-thinking chef, Merlin Labron-Johnson, and run by a chatty and welcoming team, who are clearly passionate about its farm-to-table ethos.’

A bit of history

The ancient dovecote that overlooks Bruton stands in what was once the deer park of Bruton Abbey. The town also has an abundance of other historic buildings including the architectural gem, Sexey's Hospital, founded in 1638 for 'the relief and maintenance of elderly persons of honest life and good reputation'. Another old building, but one that has seen a massive change in what it does, is the converted At the Chapel. It is now a restaurant and hotel, but in its previous functions part of it saw life as a recording studio used, allegedly, by Genesis and Tangerine Dream.

Get active

Bruton is home to the Mill on the Brue, the family-run outdoor activity centre. This not-for-profit organisation offers provides activities that promote team building, resilience and communication. There are more than 40 activities to choose from scaling heights, to paddling the river and exploring underground.

Stop off

If you’re spending the day in Bruton, be sure to extend your visit with a stopover at one of the town’s great places to stay.

At The Chapel has eight converted bedrooms housed in a 17th century building with with an 18th century congregational chapel. It even has its won bakery and winestore.

Or, another unique setting is Number One Bruton. It is an elegant Georgian townhouse, with medieval forge and row of cottages carefully converted in to a twelve-bedroom hotel set around a pretty private courtyard.