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As the county town of Somerset, Taunton serves as an administrative and cultural hub, known for its rich history dating back to the Saxon era, its charming blend of old-world architecture, and its strategic position along the River Tone.
Surrounded by rolling countryside, Taunton offers a peaceful yet vibrant setting with easy access to nearby cities like Exeter and Bristol, making it an appealing destination for those seeking a mix of rural charm and urban convenience, complemented by its reputation for cider production and agricultural heritage.
The Royal Ashton Town Hotel in Taunton is a comfortable and centrally located accommodation option, positioned near the heart of the town on Fore Street, providing guests with easy access to Taunton’s key attractions and amenities.
Housed in a building that reflects the area’s traditional character, the hotel offers a range of rooms equipped with modern essentials like comfortable beds, televisions, and en-suite bathrooms, catering to both leisure and business travelers.
Guests can enjoy on-site dining at the hotel’s restaurant, which serves a variety of hearty British dishes, and relax in the cozy bar area after a day of exploration.
Its prime location ensures proximity to shopping areas, historical sites, and transport links, while the staff are often recognized for their welcoming approach, making it a convenient base for visitors looking to experience Taunton’s unique blend of history and modernity.
Reaching the Royal Ashton Town Hotel in Taunton is relatively straightforward due to the town’s well-connected transport infrastructure.
For those arriving by air, the nearest major airports are Bristol Airport, approximately 45 minutes away by car, and Exeter International Airport, about an hour’s drive, with options for car rentals, taxis, or connecting train services to Taunton Railway Station, which is just a short walk or quick taxi ride from the hotel.
By train, Taunton Station is a key stop on the Great Western Railway network, offering direct services from cities like London Paddington, Bristol, and Exeter, with the station located less than a 10-minute walk from the hotel, making it highly accessible for public transport users.
By car, Taunton is easily reachable via the M5 motorway, with Junction 25 leading directly into the town center, though parking near the hotel may require using nearby public car parks like the Enfield Car Park due to limited on-site spaces.
Local buses, operated by companies like First Bus Somerset, connect various parts of the town and surrounding areas, with stops along Fore Street near the hotel, providing an affordable way to navigate the region.
Dining options near the Royal Ashton Town Hotel in Taunton are diverse, catering to a range of tastes and reflecting the town’s status as a regional center with a mix of traditional and contemporary eateries.
Just a short walk away on Fore Street, The Bank Kitchen & Bar offers a modern dining experience with a menu featuring locally sourced ingredients, serving dishes like gourmet burgers and seasonal specials in a stylish setting, ideal for a relaxed meal.
For a taste of classic British pub fare, The Coal Orchard, located near the River Tone, provides hearty meals such as pies and roasts, paired with local ales, in a cozy, historic atmosphere perfect for unwinding.
If you’re in the mood for international flavors, Augustus on East Street, a brief stroll from the hotel, specializes in Mediterranean and Italian cuisine with dishes like pasta and tapas, offering a warm, intimate dining experience.
For a quick coffee or light bite, Pitcher & Piano on North Street serves breakfast options, sandwiches, and desserts, making it a convenient spot for a casual break while exploring the town center.
For sightseeing and leisure, Taunton near the Royal Ashton Town Hotel offers a wealth of attractions that highlight its historical and natural appeal.
The Museum of Somerset, housed in the historic Taunton Castle just a few minutes’ walk from the hotel, provides an in-depth look at the region’s past with exhibits on archaeology, local history, and art, set within a stunning medieval building that’s worth exploring for its architecture alone.
Vivary Park, also nearby on Upper High Street, is a beautiful green space with formal gardens, a golf course, and play areas, ideal for a leisurely stroll or family picnic along the banks of the River Tone.
Further afield, the Quantock Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, a short drive north of Taunton, offers scenic walking and cycling trails with breathtaking views, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking to explore Somerset’s countryside.
Additionally, Hestercombe House and Gardens, about a 15-minute drive away, features meticulously restored gardens and a historic estate, providing a tranquil day trip option for those interested in horticulture and history.
Regarding official institutions, Taunton near the hotel has several key facilities to support both visitors and residents.
Somerset County Council, based at County Hall on The Crescent, a short walk or quick drive from the hotel, serves as the administrative center for local government services, including tourist information and civic matters, housed in a prominent building that reflects the town’s importance.
Taunton Police Station on Shuttern, also centrally located, ensures safety and assistance, with a visible presence in the town center for any emergencies or inquiries.
For medical needs, Musgrove Park Hospital on Parkfield Drive, a short drive or bus ride away, is the main healthcare facility offering comprehensive services, while the Taunton Health Centre on Victoria Gate provides walk-in care for minor issues, closer to the town center.
Postal services are available at the Taunton Post Office on North Street, within easy walking distance, catering to mailing and other essential needs for guests staying at the hotel.
For business travelers or those interested in local commerce, Taunton near the Royal Ashton Town Hotel supports a thriving economy focused on retail, services, and regional administration.
The Orchard Shopping Centre on Paul Street, just a short walk away, is a central commercial hub with a variety of high-street stores like Marks & Spencer and Next, alongside cafes and eateries, making it a convenient spot for shopping or business meetings.
Taunton High Street itself is lined with independent shops and larger chains, including WHSmith and Boots, contributing to a bustling trade atmosphere right outside the hotel’s doorstep.
Additionally, the Taunton Business Park on Bindon Road, a short drive from the town center, hosts a range of companies in sectors like technology and logistics, with firms such as Debenhams Distribution Centre operating there, reflecting the area’s role as a regional economic center, accessible by car or local bus for those with professional interests.
Sports and recreational facilities in Taunton near the hotel cater to a variety of interests, with options for both casual and competitive activities.
The Taunton Vale Sports Club on Gipsy Lane, a short drive away, offers facilities for hockey, cricket, and squash, with a welcoming community atmosphere for spectators and participants alike, ideal for those looking to engage in local sports.
Taunton Swimming Pool on Station Road, within walking distance or a quick bus ride, provides an indoor pool for public swimming, lessons, and fitness classes, serving as a convenient option for exercise during a stay.
Additionally, the Somerset County Cricket Club at the Cooper Associates County Ground on St James Street, near the town center, is a historic venue hosting professional matches and community events, with opportunities to watch games or explore its museum, easily reachable on foot or by short drive from the hotel for sports enthusiasts.
Educational institutions in Taunton near the hotel serve the local community and reflect the town’s role as an educational hub in Somerset.
King’s College Taunton on South Road, a short drive or bus ride away, is a prestigious independent school offering boarding and day education with a strong academic and extracurricular focus, set in impressive grounds that occasionally host public events.
For state education, The Castle School on Wellington Road, also nearby, is a well-regarded secondary school with a reputation for community engagement and outdoor learning, accessible by local transport.
Higher education options include Somerset College on Wellington Road, a key institution for vocational and further education, offering courses in arts, technology, and hospitality, reflecting Taunton’s diverse learning opportunities, reachable within a 10-15 minute drive or bus ride from the hotel for those exploring educational connections or open days.
Historical sites near the Royal Ashton Town Hotel in Taunton provide a deep dive into the town’s storied past as a significant center since medieval times.
Taunton Castle, just a short walk away on Castle Green, is a Grade I listed structure dating back to the 12th century, now housing the Museum of Somerset with exhibits on the town’s role in the Monmouth Rebellion and its Saxon origins, offering guided tours for a comprehensive historical experience.
St Mary Magdalene Church on Church Square, also nearby, is a stunning 16th-century church with a remarkable tower and intricate interior, often open for visitors to explore its history and architecture, reflecting Taunton’s religious heritage.
Additionally, Gray’s Almshouses on East Street, a brief stroll from the hotel, are historic 17th-century buildings originally built for the poor, now preserved as a testament to the town’s charitable past, providing a quieter historical stop for those wandering the town center.
For budget-conscious travelers seeking more economical accommodation alternatives near the Royal Ashton Town Hotel in Taunton, several options exist in and around the town center.
The Corner House Hotel on Parkfield Drive, a short drive or bus ride away, offers basic yet comfortable rooms with a focus on affordability, ideal for those looking to save while staying close to central Taunton.
Another choice is the Blorenge House on Staplegrove Road, slightly outside the immediate center but accessible by public transport, providing simple bed-and-breakfast style lodging with a homely atmosphere, suitable for short stays.
Additionally, the Premier Inn Taunton Central (North) on Massingham Park, near the M5 junction, offers no-frills accommodations with easy access to the town, catering to visitors prioritizing value over a central location, reachable by car or local bus from the hotel’s vicinity.
Guest reviews of the Royal Ashton Town Hotel in Taunton generally paint a positive picture, with many visitors highlighting its excellent location in the heart of the town, just steps from key attractions like Taunton Castle and Vivary Park, making it an ideal base for exploring on foot.
The hotel’s traditional charm is often praised, with guests appreciating the character of the building and the warm, welcoming atmosphere created by the staff, who are frequently noted for their helpfulness in providing local recommendations.
The on-site dining receives favorable mentions for its convenience and quality, particularly for those preferring to eat in after a day of sightseeing.
However, some feedback points to areas for improvement, with comments about certain rooms feeling dated or in need of minor updates to decor and facilities, alongside occasional remarks about noise from the busy town center location.
Overall, the consensus suggests the hotel offers a pleasant and practical stay for those seeking a central spot to experience Taunton’s historical and cultural offerings, though expectations of modern luxury might need slight adjustment for a fully satisfying visit.
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