Shepton Mallet: Walks, History and Culture

Shepton Mallet combines historic walking routes and architectural heritage with a Friday market and a varied cultural programme. There are several ways to shape your stay: you can explore the town’s history through its routes and buildings, or focus on the market, art and events.

Historic walking routes around Shepton Mallet

Eight historic walking routes start at the Market Place. This shared starting point gives you a clear reference point when choosing a route; all eight begin in the same place. The walking routes are also available through a free-to-download app.

Shepton Mallet is recognised as a “Walkers are Welcome Town”. The Strawberry Line Path also offers a way to explore the surrounding area on foot or by bike: this 27-mile multi-use path runs between Clevedon and Shepton Mallet. Sections around Shepton Mallet are open. For a visit to the area, these open sections are therefore of particular interest, rather than just the length of the route as a whole.

Market history and prison architecture

Shepton Mallet’s Friday market dates back to 1318. It offers fresh food, local crafts and seasonal goods. Alongside the market’s long history, the focus is also on products whose selection is partly shaped by the season.

Shepton Mallet Prison received its first inmates in 1625. The traditional Victorian prison has two wings and 178 cells. The market and the prison offer different insights into the town’s history: one is a market with origins dating back to the Middle Ages, while the other tells the story of when the prison first began receiving inmates and how it is laid out.

Creative culture at the Art Bank

At the Art Bank, workshops and exhibitions focus on reuse. They feature items that might otherwise end up in landfill. The programme combines creative activities and exhibitions with a practical idea about reusing things.

The Art Bank bar hosts live music, open-mic nights, spoken word, comedy, theatre and a varied selection of DJ sets. As the programme may change, check the venue’s latest event listings if a particular date matters to your stay.

Location and garden visit

Shepton Mallet lies on the upper reaches of the River Sheppey, just off the fertile plain at the foot of the Mendips. The setting brings together the river and a landscape in which the plain and the Mendips provide distinct geographical reference points.

Kilver Court and Gardens is just outside Shepton Mallet and covers 3.5 acres. The garden is open to visitors daily from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm. If you plan to visit, check the latest opening information again before you travel.

Discover more destinations: Wedmore, Lovington, Bruton, Frome, Wiveliscombe, Ilminster, Stoke-sub-Hamdon, Taunton

For the broader travel overview: Somerset.