Guide: 5 picturesque places in Somerset-where-you-take-a-photo-perfect-for-social-media

Guide: 5 picturesque places in Somerset-where-you-take-a-photo-perfect-for-social-media

April 11, 2025

Somerset, a picturesque county in southwest England, is a true paradise for photography lovers and social media users. Famous for its rich history, breathtaking landscapes and unique attractions, this region offers countless opportunities to capture the perfect shot for Instagram or Facebook. In our guide, we'll highlight five unique places in Somerset that will not only impress you with their beauty, but also guarantee that your photos will be appreciated by your followers. From mysterious hills to majestic castles, each of these places has something magical about them that makes them perfect backdrops for unforgettable photographs. Get your smartphones and cameras ready, because you're in for a real photographic treat!

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Iconic views and artistic inspiration

Our journey through Somerset's photogenic locations begins with two locations that are absolute must-see for any lover of beautiful frames.

The first stop is the National Trust-owned Glastonbury Tor. This is a place with a unique aura of mysticism that has attracted pilgrims and tourists for centuries. The hill topped by the ruins of the medieval tower of St. Michael's Church offers panoramic views of the surrounding green Somerset plains. The best time to take photos is early morning or sunset, when the soft light envelops the track in a golden glow. Note that the climb to the top requires some effort - the road is steep, but the views reward every step. According to visitor reviews, on sunny days you can see as many as five surrounding counties! The place enjoys a rating of 4.8/5, which proves its uniqueness.

Another item on our list is Hauser & Wirth Somerset, a modern art gallery and cultural center that provides a fascinating combination of contemporary art and a picturesque rural landscape. It's the perfect place for those looking for unusual frames that combine nature with avant-garde art. The gallery is surrounded by beautiful gardens designed by Piet Oudolf, which are works of art in themselves. Changing exhibitions ensure that each visit can bring new and inspiring photos. Hauser & Wirth Somerset offers not only a feast for the eyes, but also for the palate - there is a restaurant serving dishes made from local products, which can be an additional attraction for culinary photography enthusiasts. The place enjoys a rating of 4.5/5.

Comparing the two sites, Glastonbury Tor offers more natural, epic views ideal for landscape and skyline portrait photography. Hauser & Wirth Somerset, on the other hand, is a paradise for art and architecture lovers, where you can capture the contrasts between modern design and traditional surroundings. Glastonbury Tor is free but requires some fitness, while Hauser & Wirth Somerset offers more amenities, such as a café and store, but may incur some admission costs to exhibitions.

Both venues are open year-round, but it's worth checking opening hours, especially for Hauser & Wirth Somerset. Whether you choose a mystical hilltop or a modern gallery, both places guarantee fantastic photos that are sure to attract attention on social media.

Historic gems and picturesque gardens

Continuing our tour of Somerset's photogenic corners, we'll visit two places that will take us back in time and delight us with their historical charm.

The third item on our list is the National Trust-owned Dunster Castle and Watermill. This impressive castle, which dates back to the 11th century, towers over the picturesque village of Dunster, offering unforgettable views of the Somerset coast and the Exmoor hills. The castle is surrounded by beautiful gardens that change their character with the seasons, providing a diverse backdrop for photographs. Particularly photogenic is the local watermill, which adds to the rustic charm of the whole. Dunster Castle enjoys a 4.7/5 rating, a testament to its remarkable appeal. Visitors praise not only the impressive architecture, but also the extensive green areas, which are ideal for walks and photo shoots.

A fourth site worth noting is the National Trust - Lytes Cary Manor. It is a charming medieval manor house surrounded by beautiful gardens that are a true paradise for garden photography enthusiasts. Lytes Cary Manor offers a fascinating mix of architectural styles, from medieval to Victorian, making it a very interesting subject to photograph. The gardens, designed in Arts and Crafts style, are divided into 'rooms', each with a unique character and atmosphere. The site is rated 4.5/5 and is highly recommended by visitors for its peaceful atmosphere and attention to historical detail.

Comparing the two sites, Dunster Castle offers more monumental views and a greater variety of scenery - from the castle walls to the picturesque coastline. This is an ideal location for those looking for epic panoramic shots. Lytes Cary Manor, on the other hand, is more intimate and intimate, perfect for lovers of architectural details and artfully designed gardens. It is the place to go for more sophisticated, stylized photos.

As for accessibility, both sites are open to the public most of the year, but it's always worth checking opening hours on the National Trust's official website. Admission prices are moderate, typical of sites managed by the National Trust, with free admission available to members of the organization.

Both Dunster Castle and Lytes Cary Manor offer a fascinating journey through time, but each in its own way. Dunster impresses with its monumentality and variety of views, while Lytes Cary charms with its intimate atmosphere and attention to detail. Whichever location you choose, both guarantee unforgettable shots that are sure to delight your social media followers.

Natural beauty of Somerset

To conclude our photographic journey through Somerset, we turn to the region's natural beauty, which provides the perfect backdrop for unforgettable photos.

Last, but certainly not least on our list, is the Mendip Hills National Landscape. This is a vast protected landscape area that offers almost endless opportunities for landscape and nature photography. The Mendip Hills, with their dramatic limestone cliffs, deep gorges and vast moors, make a fascinating backdrop for photos in any season.

The Mendip Hills are famous for their diverse landscapes - from wild, open spaces to dense forests and mysterious caves. The views from the highest points, such as Black Down and Crook Peak, are particularly photogenic, offering panoramic views of the Somerset Levels, the Bristol Channel and even the distant hills of Wales. The 4.7/5 rating attests to the immense popularity of the site among visitors.

One of the most striking features of the Mendip Hills landscape are the limestone rock formations, which make a dramatic backdrop for photographs, especially at sunrise and sunset. Nature photographers will appreciate the abundance of local flora and fauna, including rare species of butterflies and wildflowers that can be found on the moors.

Comparing the Mendip Hills with the previously discussed places, it is worth noting that it offers the most natural and diverse environment for photography. Unlike castles or gardens, here we are dealing with wild, untamed nature, which offers unlimited possibilities for creative approaches to photography.

Mendip Hills National Landscape is open year-round and, importantly, admission is free. However, due to changing weather and terrain conditions, it is advisable to plan your visit well and prepare accordingly. The best light for photography can be captured in the early morning or late afternoon, when the sun is low over the horizon, creating long shadows and warm colors.

It's also worth noting the variety of activities the Mendip Hills offer, from hiking to climbing or cave exploration. Each of these activities offers a chance to capture unique moments and create dynamic, action-packed photos.

To sum up our journey through Somerset's photogenic locations, from the mystical Glastonbury Tor, to Somerset's artistic Hauser & Wirth, to Somerset's historic castles and manors, to the wild beauty of the Mendip Hills, we can confidently say that the region offers an incredible variety of locations ideal for social media photos. Each of these locations has its own unique character and atmosphere, allowing you to create a diverse portfolio of photos that are sure to delight your followers.

Whether you prefer epic landscapes, historic landmarks or art installations, Somerset has something to offer for every photographer and social media lover. Remember to always respect the places you visit, obey local laws and use caution when taking photos. With your camera or smartphone in hand, you are ready to discover and capture the extraordinary beauty of Somerset!

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