Wincanton – History, Trails and Horse Racing

Wincanton combines a rich local history with designated trails, green spaces and horse racing. When planning your stay, you can focus on the topics that interest you most: from local life in centuries past to walking routes and race days.

Local History, from Market Life to Discworld

Wincanton Museum presents aspects of local life across the centuries. Among the early historical milestones is the market and fair charter granted to Wincanton in 1556. Various trades also shaped the town’s history, including clockmaking, Ireson’s brick and tile works, and pottery production. Together, these topics offer insights into different aspects of daily life and the local economy in the past.

Wincanton was also an important stop on the London-to-Exeter stagecoach route. During the stagecoach era, there were at least ten stagecoach inns in and around the town. This figure therefore includes inns outside Wincanton itself. Anyone interested in transport history will find a tangible link here to the former connection between London and Exeter.

The skirmish at Wincanton was one of only two actual battles during William of Orange’s march to London and the English throne. On his way to London, William spent the night at The Dogs in Wincanton. The museum, the history of stagecoach travel and this episode shed light on different aspects of the town, from local life to events with national historical significance.

Another cultural connection leads to the fantasy world of Discworld: Wincanton is twinned with Ankh-Morpork, a city-state in that world. For Discworld readers, this adds a literary and fantasy connection to the historical topics.

Trails and Green Spaces

The Monarch’s Way passes through Wincanton. A signpost marks it on a dead-end road north of the town. At Wincanton Recreation Area, a walk is marked out in two lengths: two miles, or a shorter three-quarter-mile option. If you plan to set off from there, check the route details on site before you go.

Coneygore is behind Carrington Way in Wincanton and is a nature and picnic area. Cale Park offers another specific option for a visit outdoors: the park is easily accessible and has a small car park and a toilet on site. This means Wincanton has both a designated picnic area and a park with the listed facilities.

Church and Race Days

St Peter & St Paul is open Monday to Friday, from 9 am to 3 pm. On weekdays, access is through the south door, which has step-free access. Check the opening hours before you arrive. Services are held on most Sundays, and everyone is warmly welcome. Depending on your stay, you can therefore plan a church visit either during the stated weekday opening hours or around a service.

Wincanton Races also has its own history: the first race meeting was held at Hatherleigh on 1 August 1867. For most events at Wincanton Racecourse, children can attend free of charge when accompanied by an adult; exceptions may apply on some race days. On race days, a free shuttle bus also runs from Templecombe to the racecourse. Departure times vary by event, so it is worth checking the timetable for the race day in question.

Discover more destinations: Cheddar, Washford, Puriton, Wellington, Somerton, Burnham-On-Sea, Nether Stowey, Axbridge.

For the regional travel overview: Somerset.