Langport and River Parrett Visitor Centre

The Langport and River Parrett Visitor Centre provides information about places to visit in the area as well as a 'discovery room' and a cycle hire.

About the area

The Levels and Moors lie in the heart of Somerset. An uncrowded and remote area, with many hidden places to discover and explore. Essentially a huge, reclaimed marsh, where the pastures are divided not by hedges or fences, but by a network of drainage channels, known locally as 'rhynes'.

It is a unique, flat and open landscape, large areas of almost treeless pasture land, dominated by distant views in any direction of the surrounding hills. The remoteness of the area provides a relaxing atmosphere for quiet leisure pursuits such as fishing, cycling and walking.

Find out about the River Parrett Trail, with a 'hands on experience' in the 'discovery room', or enjoy the displays and exhibits explaining the fascinating story of historic Langport, local industries, the River Parrett and wildlife.

 

River Parrett trail

River Parrett trail guide cover  

Following a river from source to mouth From its source in the hills of the Dorset and Somerset borders, the 50 mile River Parrett trail crosses the wetlands of the Somerset Levels and Moors to the sea.

In the trail booklet there are nine pull out map sections, with further information about the countryside and local attractions to visit.

This fascinating journey takes you through beautiful areas of orchards, woods, withy beds, passing medieval churches and crossing the complex network of rhynes and ditches of the lowland.

To order the River Parrett trail guide please contact us

 

Parrett cycleway

This path provides an ideal start for those who thought they had forgotten how to ride a bicycle, or for families with young children. Following an old railway line for 1.5 miles, it links the Visitor Centre with the historic village of Muchelney and a network of quiet country roads. There are several other cycle routes in the area suitable for cyclists of a wide range of abilities; leaflets are availablein the visitor centre.

Cycles can be hired by the half day, full day or longer. A deposit and identification will be required. Booking is advisable, call Bow Bridge Cycles on 01458 250350.

  • Adult Bicycles - £10 full day / £7 for 3 hours
  • Tandem - £20 full day
  • Junior Bicycles - £7 full day / £5.50 for 3 hours
  • Trailer Bikes - £7 full day / £5.50 for 3 hours
  • Family Rate (2 adults & 2 children under 16 years) - £29 full day
 
 

School visits

We have education packs and teacher's packs available for visiting schools and groups.

Please contact us for more information.

 

How to get there

The Visitor Centre is located beside the River Parrett, near the town centre. Look out for the brown tourist signs in the town. Langport is situated 15 miles east of Taunton, and 15 miles north west of Yeovil.