North Somerset is filled with pretty villages crammed with historic character and beautiful scenery. Here are our favourite 5.
Wraxall
While Wraxall is one of Tyntesfield’s closest neighbours and has long associations with the great house and estate,it’s also a delightful North Somerset village in its own right. There are some beautifully restored 18th and 19th century homes here and nearby Watercress Farm has the only remaining working watermill on Land Yeo. The 12th century Church of All Saints is Grade I listed and and contains several fine monuments including the 16th century tomb of Sir Edmund Gorges and Lady Anne Howard – great aunt to Anne Boleyn and Catherine Howard.
Walton-in-Gordano
If you feel like taking one of the best coast and country walks in the area, follow the Gordano circular route from Clevedon to Portishead. The mix of forest, farmland and sea views is fantastic and you’ll also have the chance to stop for a bit in lovely Walton-in-Gordano. This tiny village sits in a small valley near the Gordano Nature Reserve and Walton Common and its surroundings alone would reserve a place on the prettiest North Somerset villages list.
Wrington
It’s sometimes hard to believe Wrington is under 10 minutes’ drive from Bristol Airport. This prosperous little village is known for its smart Georgian high street, specialist shops, gastropubs and weekly country market. A popular place to live for centuries, Wrington’s past residents include philosopher John Locke and philanthropist Hannah More. The little hamlet of Paradise with its famously pretty Cowslip Lane is just a few minutes from Wrington and makes a very pretty walk on a sunny day.
Kenn
In 1830, three local men were hanged in Kenn for arson, which makes this tiny village the last place in Britain to have executed anyone at the site of their crime. If this historical event wasn’t recorded it would be hard to imagine in such a peaceful looking North Somerset village. For the full Kenn effect take a walk and visit St. John the Evangelist. This ancient church is set in lovely grounds and prettily restored cottages nearby add to the rural charm. But don’t dismiss Kenn as sleepy. The Drum and Monkey is a lively local pub known for its Tribute Nights and the regular village market is always worth a visit.
Sandford
When you’re cycling the Strawberry Line this summer stop off at Sandford. This little village is home to Thatchers Cider Farm and the acres of orchards all around add plenty to the general atmosphere of unspoiled rural prettiness. If you’re going exploring on foot, keep your eyes open for traditional hives as the abundant apple blossom in this part of North Somerset makes bee keeping a popular local activity.
Do you agree with our choices? Which villages would you have included? Tweet us at @NSomTimes
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