South Petherton

South Petherton is a village and civil parish on the River Parrett in the South Somerset district of Somerset, England. It is 5 miles (8 km) east of Ilminster and 5 miles (8 km) north west of Crewkerne. It had a population of 3,367 in 2011. The parish includes the hamlets of Yeabridge, Compton Durville, South Harp, and Over Stratton, and is approximately 2 miles (3 km) from East Lambrook, Martock and Lopen.

It is distinctive for the traditional hamstone construction of many of its buildings. In 2005 South Petherton was awarded ‘Somerset Village of the Year’ in a national competition. Historically South Petherton was a market town, but these days is regarded to be a village, with many of its ancient functions having ended by around 1870.

The village's name may come from the Old English word Pared meaning boundary and the Saxon word ton meaning settlement, forming ’Paredton’.

South Petherton's fine church has an octagonal central tower with twelve bells.  The David Hall Arts Centre is South Somerset's premier rural performing arts venue, renowned for its folk music, theatre and film programme. 

Nearby in the village of Shepton Beauchamp is Dennis Chinaworks (appointment only) and the magical East Lambrook Manor Gardens is well worth a visit, created by Margery Fish who was known as the 'Leading Lady of Gardening' from the 1950s until her death in 1969. It holds the national collection of geraniums and an incredible collection of snowdrops, hosting a wonderful festival every February. 

Walks & Trails

There are some wonderful circular walks to discover in the local area. Click here to download a free guide. 

Additional local information: 
The Library, St James's Corner, South Petherton, Somerset, TA13 5BS
E: Splic.coordinator@gmail.com