Castle Cary

The town of Castle Cary in Somerset lies on the River Cary and is, of course, home to what is left of Cary Castle high above the town on Lodge Hill. The motte and bailey castle was built after the Norman Conquest and was later besieged by King Stephen in 1138 and again in 1153. By 1468 the castle was abandoned and left to become the ruins we see today. Earthworks are still evident and in the buildings of the town, some of the castle’s stonework has been used. The best place to explore the fascinating history of the town and its castle is at the Castle Cary Museum in the Grade II listed Market House. The town of Castle Cary occupies a beautiful location nearby the Somerset Levels, the high ridgeline of Penselwood and between the Blackmore Vale and the Mendip Hills; a range of limestone hills running between Weston-super-Mare and Frome with its western part designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Castle Cary provides ample amenities, shops, eateries and pubs in its pretty town centre that is dominated by the 19^th century Market House. Markets still take place every week here on a Tuesday when a vibrant choice of fresh produce, fish and organic vegetables are available. Just behind the Market House stands the historic 18^th century Roundhouse lock-up that is one of the last four of these buildings left in the country. For those with a love of outdoor activities, the area around Castle Cary is ideal for walking and rambling with the Monarch's Way, Macmillan Way and Leland Trail all passing near the town.