Is Shepton Mallet a nice place to live?

Shepton Mallet, a historic market town in Somerset, offers a blend of character, including the notable former prison and a charming market square. While it boasts scenic surroundings near the Mendip Hills and is conveniently located about 16 miles from Bath, it faces challenges with high levels of deprivation, limited recreational facilities for young people, and an uncertain high street, with some reports citing high rates of criminal damage and low income.

What is the nicest village in Somerset?

There's no single "prettiest," but Dunster, with its castle and medieval charm, and Mells, known for its hamstone houses and historic feel, are frequently cited as top contenders, alongside other picturesque villages like Selworthy (whitewashed cottages) and Wedmore (overlooking the Levels) for quintessential English beauty.
 

What is the poshest village in Somerset?

Wellow. Wellow has been designated one of Britain's poshest villages. As such, it is Somerset's most affluent region, with the average house price sitting at £1 million.

Why is Shepton Mallet famous?

Shepton Mallet Prison, often considered “the oldest prison in England,” plays a central role in the town's history and is now one of its most notable attractions.

What's Shepton Mallet like to live?

A Market Town with Character

Shepton Mallet is steeped in history. The town boasts one of the oldest prisons in the UK – now a fascinating tourist attraction – as well as a charming market square that harks back to its trading past. Buyers are often drawn to places with character, and Shepton certainly delivers.

Shepton Mallet Independent Living Centre

What has been filmed in Shepton Mallet?

In the media

The interior scenes at the fictional Portobello Prison in Paddington 2 were filmed at Shepton Mallet.

Where not to live in Somerset?

The next most dangerous is Minehead, and Wellington comes in as third most dangerous. There are safer parts of Somerset, identified using the same Crime Risk measurement, starting with Clevedon which ranks as the safest area in Somerset, followed up by Portishead in second place, and Yeovil Without in third place.

Where do celebrities live in Somerset?

Kevin McCloud

The presenter of Channel 4's 'Grand Designs' has succumbed to the charms of Bruton, which has become the place in Somerset to find a celebrity resident. The British designer has a few abodes across the UK, with his home in the Peak District costing a cool million.

What is the prettiest small town in the UK?

Castle Combe is often called the prettiest village in England and one of the most beautiful towns in the Cotswolds. Walking through this village truly feels like stepping back in time; no new houses have been built here for over 400 years, so it has kept its authentic, old-world charm.

Where is the best place to retire in Somerset?

Retirement living in Somerset FAQs

For those seeking seaside living during their retirement, areas such as Minehead, Clevedon, and Burnham-on-Sea are perfect. These areas promise walks on the beach, gentle sea breezes, and strong community networks. Plus, they are wonderfully peaceful in the winter months.

What is the prettiest village in Somerset?

There's no single "prettiest," but Dunster, with its castle and medieval charm, and Mells, known for its hamstone houses and historic feel, are frequently cited as top contenders, alongside other picturesque villages like Selworthy (whitewashed cottages) and Wedmore (overlooking the Levels) for quintessential English beauty.
 

What is the nicest seaside town in Somerset?

Minehead offers the perfect destination for a family seaside holiday. It boasts a wonderful long flat sandy beach, a charming harbour, a bustling town with Independent shops and cafes and heritage attractions.

Is Shepton Mallet worth visiting?

Shepton Mallet is worth visiting for its historic character, unique attractions, and welcoming atmosphere.

Where does Ryan Gosling live in the UK?

Yummy mummies of Hampstead watch out: Ryan Gosling is officially a local. The star has relocated to the London neighbourhood with his wife Eva Mendes and their two kids, making him the latest in a long line of celebs to call the area home.

Why are celebrities moving to the Cotswolds?

The area is a popular choice for celebrities because it offers a quiet and peaceful lifestyle while still being close to London and other major cities. The Cotswolds has been a popular setting for literature for centuries.

What is the most run down town in the UK?

There isn't one single "most run-down" town, as it depends on the metric, but recent reports frequently cite Walsall (West Midlands) as Britain's most deprived for overall quality of life (Good Growth for Cities Index 2025), while Jaywick (Essex) is repeatedly named England's most deprived neighbourhood by government data. Other towns often mentioned for significant decline due to economic hardship, unemployment, and urban decay include areas in Blackpool, Hastings, and Middlesbrough, alongside places like Portsmouth and Aldershot facing specific challenges.
 

Why was Somerset unpopular?

The unpopularity of Somerset's religious measures, along with agrarian grievances, resulted in unrest in England and provoked a series of uprisings (including the Prayer Book Rebellion and Kett's Rebellion). Costly wars and economic mismanagement brought the Crown to financial ruin, further undermining his government.

Where not to live in the UK?

Luton. Located in Bedfordshire with a population of around 215,000, Luton is often listed among the worst places in Britain to live. The town struggles with high crime rates, placing it in the top 20 most crime-affected areas nationwide.

What did Tom Cruise film in the Lake District?

Buttermere Valley, Lake District

Enjoy adventures on land and water at Buttermere Valley(opens in a new tab) , which includes the lakes of Buttermere, Crummock Water and Loweswater. The valley makes a jaw-dropping backdrop to a Tom Cruise stunt in Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One.

Was Harry Potter filmed in Yorkshire?

North Yorkshire is home to several Harry Potter filming locations that bring the wizarding world to life. The picturesque Goathland Station on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway line doubled as Hogsmeade Station in Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone.

What famous prisoners were in Shepton Mallet?

Shepton's infamous inmates

• Samuel Rylands, aged 23, executed 1889, for murder committed at Yeabridge, Somerset.
• Henry Dainton, aged 35, executed 1891, for drowning his wife in the River Avon.
• Charles Squires, aged 28, executed 1893, for murder of his wife's young child.