The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Mendip

Nestled in the heart of Somerset, The Bishop's Palace is a magnificent 13th-century medieval residence that has served as the official home of the Bishops of Bath and Wells for over 800 years. Surrounded by impressive stone ramparts and a picturesque, swan-inhabited moat fed by natural thermal springs, the estate offers a breathtaking glimpse into ecclesiastical history. Entering via the medieval gatehouse and drawbridge reveals 14 acres of beautifully manicured, tranquil grounds. Visitors can explore the meditative well pools—the very natural springs that gave the historic city of Wells its name—alongside vibrant herbaceous borders and the romantic, ivy-clad ruins of the Great Hall. The palace seamlessly blends centuries of architectural heritage with quiet, natural elegance. The resident mute swans even add a charming touch to the experience, famously trained to ring a bell near the gatehouse when they are hungry. It is a wonderfully peaceful destination that invites guests to slow down and immerse themselves in a quintessential slice of English history.

Great local recreation area, ideal for relaxing, hiking and wildlife watching

On the patronage of this church dedicated to "Saint Lawrence": He is one of the early Christian Roman martyrs from a time when Christianity was still strictly forbidden. He was archdeacon to Pope Sixtus II and, after his execution, was ordered by the pagan Emperor Valerian to hand over the church's treasure. Lawrence asked for three days to do this, distributed the church's assets among the poor inhabitants of Rome, and after the agreed time, came to the emperor with the poor to present them to him as the church's treasure. He was then martyred to death. Legend says he was roasted alive on a grate – this attribute can be seen in many depictions of Saint Lawrence – over coals. He is said to have been in good spirits and to have asked his executioner if he would like to turn him over. Saint Lawrence's feast day in the calendar of saints is August 10, the traditional date of his execution in A.D. 258.

About the patronage of this church: Saint ANDREW is one of the twelve apostles that Jesus Christ called to follow him. However, in the biblical accounts he is usually somewhat overshadowed by his much more famous brother: Saint Peter. In the Gospels we find the calling of the two siblings presented in different ways. According to the text of the Gospel of John (John 1:40-42), Andrew is called first (together with another disciple whose name is not mentioned). Later he tells his brother that he has found the Messiah. The feast of Saint Andrew in the calendar of saints is on November 30th in all major Christian denominations. The X-shaped white "St. Andrew's Cross" on which he was executed forms the national flag of Scotland against a blue background and has also found its way into the national flag of the United Kingdom of Great Britain.

Great legendary place!

Mystical place for walks and those who travel in search of Arthurian legend!

Unusual landscape with wetlands, ponds and streams. Cultural and historical place with a special charm.

Beautiful, somewhat remote church that is always open, unlike churches on the continent. It's worth a visit.