See Somerset lit up

THE Guy Fawkes fireworks #carnivals in November are among the highlights of the year in Somerset, when brilliantly lit and decorated floats – or carts, as they’re known locally – parade through the packed streets of some of the county’s main towns 

Medieval in origin, they were banned during the 19th century because of the bawdy and unruly behaviour they inspired.

Many visitors book an overnight stay, or catch several carnivals, making them the focus of a family-friendly autumn holiday.

The carnival towns in November are: Bridgwater, Burnham On Sea, Weston-Super-Mare, North Petherton, Shepton Mallet, Wells, Glastonbury and Wincanton which is tonight 16th October at 7.30pm

Whichever one you choose, check the route, arrive early as some roads may be closed, dress warm, be prepared for big crowds and a show lasting several hours, and bring plenty of loose change … it’s a free show, and there are collections for charities.

www.somersetcarnivals.co.uk 

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Picture Credit: Weston-super-Mare carnival 2011 Vagabonds CC Haunted Mansion by Geof Sheppard - Own work. Licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons

Country matters … in Somerset

 A CALENDAR highlight in the West Country is the one-day Mid Somerset Show (also known as the Shepton Show) in Shepton Mallet. 

Reputed to be Europe’s largest free one-day show – and now in its 163rd year – it’s a celebration of all things agricultural: livestock rearing, country crafts, local heritage, and farming history. Competitions are held for animals, produce, and handicrafts, and other attractions include trade stands, classic car displays, and craft demonstrations.

Each of the two show rings have a full programme of events throughout the day, which this year is Sunday, August 16.

Entry for pedestrians is free, but there is a parking charge of £10 per vehicle, irrespective of the number of passengers.

www.midsomersetshow.org.uk

Go Holiday news : www.govillasandcottages.co.uk

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Picture Credit: Ian Sumner www.midsomersetshow.org.uk