The Best Museums in Somerset
Somerset has a rich and varied history, from ancient landscapes and Roman remains to railways, rural life and modern art. The museums on this list have been chosen for the quality of their collections, exhibitions and visitor experience, making them the best places to explore the stories behind the county and its people.
Wake The Tiger – Bristol
Far more immersive than a traditional museum, with huge walk-through fantasy environments, art installations, secret passages and interactive features. It’s especially good for families and anyone wanting something unusual.
We The Curious – Bristol
One of the region’s best choices for children and families, with 200+ hands-on science exhibits and the UK’s only public 3D Planetarium. Visitors are encouraged to touch, experiment and learn through play.
Haynes Motor Museum – Sparkford
A must for car enthusiasts. It houses more than 300 cars and motorcycles across 15 exhibition areas, covering everything from early motoring to supercars, motorsport and modern vehicles.
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Fleet Air Arm Museum – Yeovilton
One of Somerset's biggest museums, with more than 90 aircraft and 30,000 artefacts. Highlights include Concorde 002 and the impressive Aircraft Carrier Experience.
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The Tank Museum – Bovington
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Just over the border in Dorset, but well worth including. It has around 300 military machines and tells the story of tanks and their crews from the First World War onwards through huge modern exhibitions.
Hauser & Wirth Somerset – Bruton
An excellent choice for contemporary art lovers. The combination of changing exhibitions, impressive architecture and landscaped gardens makes it quite different from a conventional museum.
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A2 Gallery, Wells
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A small independent gallery on Wells High Street that's ideal for discovering art in the heart of the city. It's a nice contrast to the much larger museums and visitor attractions on the list.Â
Bristol Museum & Art Gallery – Bristol
Brilliant for variety, bringing together art, archaeology, natural history and world cultures under one roof. It works particularly well for families because there's something to interest almost everyone.
Museum of Somerset – Taunton
One of the best places to discover the county's story. It's housed inside historic Taunton Castle, making the building itself part of the experience. This particular place always has small activities for children
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The Roman Baths – Bath
One of Britain's most extraordinary Roman attractions. Visitors can explore the remarkably preserved bathing complex and learn about Roman life in Aquae Sulis, making it one of the area's most important historical experiences.
American Museum & Gardens – Bath
An unusual museum devoted to American history and culture, with collections displayed in a beautiful manor house alongside extensive gardens and changing exhibitions.
Mary Shelley's House of Frankenstein – Bath
A much more theatrical museum experience exploring Mary Shelley, Frankenstein and its cultural legacy. The multi-sensory displays and horror elements make it particularly memorable.
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Taunton Classic & Vintage Car Museum – Taunton
A great smaller attraction for classic-car fans, with vintage vehicles and motoring memorabilia providing a nostalgic journey through motoring history.
Wells & Mendip Museum – Wells
Perfect for learning about the history and natural heritage of Wells and the Mendip Hills. It's also housed in the former Wells Cathedral Chancellor's House, adding plenty of historic character.
House of Marbles – Bovey Tracey
A quirky and very family-friendly attraction with marble runs, glassmaking, games and historic displays. It's actually in Devon, but makes a fun addition if your guide covers attractions within easy reach of Somerset.
