DAYTIME.
Summer is here - and what a great time to be in Taunton. Schools and colleges are out, so how about lazing in one of the lovely parks? Or relax on the banks of the River Tone flowing through the town.
There are some great shops. You'll find the usual national chains in the town centre, but there are some great independent shops in Bath Place, the Independent Quarter around St James Street, East Reach, High Street and Station Road.
Coming this summer is the Trash Trail, with sculptures made out of items from a recycling centre sited around the town, ranging from a ladybird, an owl and a crocodile to a three-tonne elephant and a 14-foot polar bear.
NIGHT TIME.
You'll find plenty of places to wind down. There are national pubs and restaurants and plenty of locally-run eateries and watering holes. And with the Coal Orchard development complete there's a chance of some places to while the night away on the river front.
The longer evenings offer a great opportunity to wander round the town and check out some of the historic buildings such as Taunton Castle, the former Tudor Tavern in Fore Street and the Old Municipal Buildings in Corporation Street.
There's a packed calendar of events throughout the year. Among the highlights are the Christmas lights switch on, when families congregate around The Parade at the start of the festive season. Taunton Carnival is another well-supported event after dark in October.
EATING.
For those who love dining out, there's something for everyone during the daytime and the evening. Depending on what you like, the restaurant offer includes British fare, alongside Italian, Chinese, Indian, Greek and more. And the town is well served with takeaways.
The eat:Taunton events held at various times of the year bring in thousands of visitors to the town. It gives people a chance to check out some of the best food and drink produce from across the South West.
Taunton Independent Market is a destination street market showcasing dozens of the South West’s best artisan traders of food and drink, crafts, gifts, homewares, beauty, fashion, and more. It takes place on Castle Green on the second Sunday of every month.
SHOWTIME.
Taunton Brewhouse theatre, situated beside the River Tone off the town centre, has a full programme of events running through the year. Whether it's a play, a music performance or dancing classes, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
A concert in Vivary Park this summer will see top performers including The Proclaimers and Alfie Boe. And Lionel Richie recently appeared at the Cooper Associates County Ground, which has previously attracted two knights - Sir Rod Stewart and Sir Elton John.
Taunton lays claim to hosting the longest running flower show in the world. The magnificent event staged in Vivary Park attracts thousands of visitors with a high standard of entries and some top class entertainment for all the family.
Share