Somerset is home to some of the best cities and towns in the UK – but there’s so much more to our wonderful county than Bath and Bristol! So if you’re looking for some of the more hidden gems in Somerset, keep reading, because we’re talking about the village of Pensford.
Tucked away right in the middle of Bath, Bristol and Wells, Pensford is a village that is well worth your visit during your next trip to Somerset. Away from the hustle and bustle of these cities, Pensford, with an approximate population of only 1000, is perfect for a relaxed day out.
Dating back to the 14th Century, Pensford is a recognised conservation area because of its historical importance and architecture. Listed buildings include the Grade II listed St Thomas à Becket Church that overlooks the river Chew and boasts a tower that is nearly 700 years old.
Towering over the village is a the viaduct, which is another Grade II listed building. Standing at a dizzying 29m tall and consisting of 16 stone arches, it’s a difficult feature to miss. It once was the track for a busy railway line, but now the viaduct now serves as an impressive architectural feature and accentuates the beautiful landscape that can be found around Pensford.
We suggest exploring the walking trails around Pensford to fully appreciate the beauty of the village and the countryside. You can join parts of the Two Rivers Way and the Three Peaks Walk. This main route is around a mile long. Afterwards, rest your feet at one of Pensford’s three pubs: Travellers Rest, the Rising Sun, and the George and Dragon. If you’ve brought your dog, head to the Rising Sun – it’s dog friendly!
Fancy something a bit more adventurous? Head to Hidden Valley Bushcraft and Forest School, situated just outside the village. Here you can learn outdoor survival skills such as campfire cooking, shelter building and even overnight wild camping. Nearby are also the Stanton Drew Circles and Cove, the third largest complex of prehistoric standing stones in England.
If you’re looking for more hidden gems in Somerset, then stay tuned! We’ll be posting a new blog about some of the best hidden spots in Somerset throughout 2022.
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