Start with a full-blown breakfast at At the Chapel. The flat whites and the pastries, also available to take away, are the stuff of local legend. But you’ve got time on your hands, so you should settle in for an At the Chapel muffin, with Cumberland sausage, streaky bacon, fried Somerset egg and Dowding’s cider and onion jam. You can also stay at this glorious, minimalist converted chapel that helped put Bruton on the map.
Now for your meander along the High Street. First, head down to the very intimate Bo Lee Gallery, which is coincidentally also housed in a former Methodist chapel. This light, airy space showcases the work of established and emerging contemporary artists.
Next, check out Smouk, an emporium of Moroccan rugs, blankets and ceramics. Then, dip into New Romantic, a tiny lifestyle store whose charming owner has the best taste. Stylish and pretty things for your home, bath and wardrobe abound.
Don’t miss The Stripy Duck Bookshop,where the perfect holiday reading and warm advice await. Now it’s time to head over to Rose & Lyons, Bruton’s thriving hub of a boutique. Here, independent labels, perky presents, an excellent selection of cards, covetable but well-priced jewellery and colourful homewares will twinkle at you.
Hopefully, that’s enough retail therapy for a bit. Now, you must walk down to St Mary’s Church, which was built in the 14th century and has a famously fine tower. From here, you are going to follow signs for the footpath to Hauser & Wirth
This is a pretty walk across fields and past beautifully kept community allotments – but it is one with an exciting quirk: a sauna. Be sure to have booked your session at the new Wild Shed Sauna, which you will pass on your left as you stroll along. This popular addition to Bruton offers a fabulous sauna, cold shower and two ice tubs. The founders say: ‘In our mind, the sauna is the new pub, with more steam and fewer hangovers!’
With that wellness ritual out of the way, it may well be time for lunch. Continue your stroll the short distance to Hauser & Wirth, whose Italian restaurant Da Costa is truly the stuff of dreams. Italian passion and local ingredients combine in a menu that leaves you spoiled for choice (though the Rigatoni with Durslade Farm beef ragu and parmesan is our top tip). We highly recommend Da Costa’s midweek set lunch menu, which is two courses for £22 or three courses for £28.
After lunch, you must visit the exhibition, currently of Puerto Rican artist Angel Otero’s work, and garden, designed by Piet Oudulf. Entry to both is free. Take your time: there’s a lot to absorb and a good gift shop and even better farm shop.
Dinner will be back on the high street, at The Old Pharmacy, which is a small but perfectly formed café, wine bar and restaurant. Expect a simple, informal, seasonal and delicious vibe. Like all of Bruton’s mutually supportive shops and restaurants, The Old Pharmacy sets great store by local ingredients and makers.
Getting There
Bruton sits in the rolling Somerset countryside, around 30 minutes from Bath, 45 minutes from Bristol and two and half hours from London by car. The town also has its own railway station, with direct services from London Paddington (changing at Castle Cary) which takes around two hours. Once you arrive, everything is easily explored on foot, from the High Street’s independent shops to the scenic walk across the fields to Hauser & Wirth. Parking is available in several public car parks close to the town centre, including Station Road and Higher Backway.
FAQs: Bruton, Somerset
What is Bruton, Somerset, famous for?
Bruton is known for its thriving arts scene, independent boutiques, excellent restaurants and beautiful Somerset countryside. Despite its small size, it is home to world-renowned destinations including Hauser & Wirth Somerset, alongside stylish shops, artisan bakeries and historic buildings.
Is Bruton worth visiting for a day trip?
Yes. Bruton is one of Somerset’s best day-trip destinations, offering galleries, independent shopping, scenic walks, exceptional food and historic architecture. Everything is within walking distance, making it ideal for a relaxed day out.
What are the best things to do in Bruton?
Some of the top things to do in Bruton include visiting Hauser & Wirth Somerset, browsing independent shops along the High Street, enjoying breakfast at At the Chapel, walking through the surrounding countryside, relaxing at the Wild Shed Sauna and dining at one of the town's acclaimed restaurants.
Can you walk from Bruton town centre to Hauser & Wirth?
Yes. A well-signposted public footpath leads from Bruton town centre to Hauser & Wirth Somerset. The walk takes around 20–30 minutes and passes through attractive countryside, community allotments and the Wild Shed Sauna.
Is Hauser & Wirth Somerset free to visit?
Yes. Admission to the galleries and Piet Oudolf-designed gardens at Hauser & Wirth Somerset is free. Visitors can also enjoy the farm shop, gift shop and Italian restaurant, Da Costa.
Where are the best places to eat in Bruton?
Bruton has an outstanding food scene. Popular choices include At the Chapel for breakfast, pastries and artisan bread, Da Costa at Hauser & Wirth for Italian-inspired lunches and The Old Pharmacy for seasonal small plates, wine and relaxed evening dining.
What are the best independent shops in Bruton?
Bruton is packed with independent retailers. Highlights include Rose & Lyons for fashion and homeware, Smouk for Moroccan interiors, New Romantic for beautifully curated lifestyle pieces and The Stripy Duck Bookshop for books, gifts and coffee.
When is the best time to visit Bruton?
Bruton is lovely throughout the year, but spring and summer are especially popular when visitors can enjoy countryside walks, outdoor dining and the gardens at Hauser & Wirth. Autumn also offers beautiful colours and a cosy atmosphere in the town’s cafés and restaurants.
