Taunton
Taunton is the county town of Somerset, on the River Tone and 167 miles from London. It has been a town from the Saxon period.
St. Mary`s Church has one of the largest and finest of the celebrated Somerset church towers. Elaborately pinnacled and built of red sandstone, it is 163 feet high.
St. James` Church also has an impressive tower.
Taunton Castle was originally built by Ine, King of the West Saxons, about 710AD. The Norman rebuilding dates from the 12th century, although most of the surviving buildings were adapted in the 18th and 19th centuries. Within the castle complex are the Somerset County Museum and Somerset Light Infantry Military Museum.
The grammar school was founded in 1522.
Taunton was the terminus of the Bridgwater and Taunton Canal, completed in 1827.
The Duke of Monmouth was proclaimed King of England here in 1685. Many of Taunton`s citizens were subsequently executed, after Judge Jeffreys` Bloody Assizes, held at the castle.
Cider is one of the best known products of the area.
There are three public schools, one of which was founded in the 13th century.
A thatched building, surrounded by lawns, is mostly from the Tudor period. Built as a leper hospital, it is now used as offices.
The actress Jenny Agutter was born at Taunton.
Blue Badge Guide Colin Crosby is available to lead Guided Walks around Taunton for groups.