Moving with family: Why Somerset is a perfect choice
Moving with family to Somerset isn’t just about buying a home; it’s about choosing a way of life.
Somerset’s communities are welcoming, the countryside is a constant source of adventure, and there’s no shortage of opportunities for children to grow, learn, and thrive.
For families thinking about a move, Somerset is a county that quietly ticks almost every box.
Somerset has a strong history of farming and food agriculture, there is space to breathe and room for the children to grow, yet still be part of a community and have access to amenities and culture.
Whether you are looking for a village property, land, or a place to reside in Bath, Bristol, or Wells, there are a variety of options that support a quality family life.
Amy Proctor, local property finder for Garrington, shares her experience of Somerset and looks at why it’s an appealing choice for those moving with family.
Family-friendly housing choices
One of Somerset’s biggest draws for families is the variety of diverse and beautiful homes on offer. Whether you’re drawn to history and character or prefer modern, architect-designed conversions or energy-efficient new-builds, Somerset offers an impressive choice to suit a wide range of lifestyles and tastes.
In its towns and cities, for example, you’ll find Georgian terraces in Bath and Bristol, cottages and family homes in Wells, and other character and period properties.
Away from the cities, you’ll find villages set amongst sprawling countryside with honey-stone houses in Bruton, converted barns in the Chew Valley, and smallholdings or equestrian properties on the outskirts of Bath, ideal if you want more land or a stronger connection with nature.
Excellent education options
When moving with family, Somerset’s renowned schools are a big selling point. Independent schools include Millfield, King Edward’s School in Bath, King’s Bruton, Clifton College, Kingswood School Bath, and Wells Cathedral, all of which have long-standing reputations for excellence.
Somerset and nearby areas include many highly rated state schools, while outstanding nurseries and pre-schools offer high-quality early years care.
Older students benefit from having the highly ranked universities of Bath and Bristol nearby, and the county’s emphasis on enrichment, from music and art to competitive sport, means there are plenty of ways for young people to explore their talents beyond the classroom.
Moving with family: Health and wellbeing
GP surgeries, dental practices, and local hospitals are within reach, along with leisure centres and community sports clubs, village cricket and tennis clubs, rugby clubs, and gyms.
There’s a rich blend of heritage, gardens, coastlines, and green spaces, along with festivals, markets, and cultural events, including Glastonbury Festival and Frome Festival.
Leisure and family attractions
From the historic Sydney Gardens in Bath to the new community-built skatepark and upgraded playground in Stoke-sub-Hamdon (delivered through a village-led initiative), there are plentiful green spaces and activities to enjoy.
In summer, Shepton Mallet’s seasonal heated outdoor lido and the Bristol Lido are perfect for sunny days, while Bath Leisure Centre and David Lloyd offer year-round swimming and fitness.
Families with a sense of adventure can climb Cheddar Gorge, explore the caves at Wookey Hole, or step back in time on the West Somerset Railway.
For family days out, history lovers will enjoy The Bishop’s Palace in Wells and the landscaped beauty of The Newt. Garden enthusiasts can explore Yeo Valley Organic Gardens and Tearoom, the Walled Garden at Mells, and Barley Wood Walled Garden, while the National Trust estates of Stourhead and Tyntesfield make perfect days out.
Throughout the year, events such as the spectacular light displays at nearby Longleat, Wells Cathedral’s community celebrations, and visits to Palette and Pasture’s ice cream farm keep the calendar full.
Nature and the great outdoors
Outdoor life is a huge part of Somerset, from hiking through Exmoor National Park and taking in the views from the Quantock Hills, to wandering the limestone trails of the Mendip Hills.
The Strawberry Line, a mostly traffic-free route of around ten miles, winds its way through gentle countryside, making it a safe and scenic option for a family bike ride. At Chew Valley Lake near Chew Magna, you can enjoy fishing, sailing, and the recently opened Chew Valley Trail.
Somerset’s coast: Beaches, sea air, and family adventures
Somerset’s coastline brings a different flavour to life here.
Clevedon, often ranked among the best places to live by the sea, blends relaxation with activity.
There’s a play park and skate park for the children, and the chance to try paddleboarding on Clevedon’s Marine Lake, often described as the world’s largest seawater infinity pool.
Convenient transport links
Somerset is superbly placed for reaching larger cities such as Bristol, Bath, and Exeter, whether for work, shopping, or cultural events.
- The county’s rail services are excellent, with fast services to London: fully electrified via Bristol Parkway, and bi-mode trains via Bath Spa offering journeys of around 1 hour 20 minutes.
- Road connections via the M5 and A303 put much of the South West within easy reach, with access to the Devon or Cornwall coast in a couple of hours.
- The county also borders the Cotswolds and boasts Bristol Airport, which is expanding its route network (including new international services), making family holidays and business travel simpler.
Places that capture the family spirit
Some towns in Somerset seem purpose-made for raising families:
- Frome, for example, is full of creative energy, with places like Rye Bakery café, Super Pirates, and a variety of playparks, plus a packed programme of festivals and events.
- Bath blends elegance with family-friendly appeal: the Bath Skyline Walk offers incredible views. Victoria Park’s Tree Top Café is a popular stop, and My Small World toy shop is a new favourite.
Moving with family? Here’s how Garrington can help
With so many choices, from villages, towns, and cities in Somerset, finding the right home here often means looking beyond what’s on the open market.
At Garrington Property Finders, we take time to understand exactly what you need. Using our access to on- and off-market properties, local knowledge of Somerset’s towns, villages, and school catchments, and trusted relationships with agents and developers, we will help you find your next family home.
If you are moving with family, at Garrington Property Finders, we can help. From your first viewing to moving day, we’ll make the process as smooth, informed, and tailored to you as possible.
Please contact us for a no-obligation discussion today.
