The Brewhouse Theatre & Arts Centre

You won't find a multiplex here - the Brewhouse Theatre & Arts Centre in Taunton is the real deal, a proper cultural venue that actually programmes theatre, comedy, dance, and art exhibitions rather than just screening the latest blockbuster. It's genuinely one of those places that keeps a market town feeling alive. The building itself has character, and the programming ranges from established touring productions to local amateur dramatics and workshops. Most shows run between two and three hours depending on what's on, though you can easily check their website to see what's scheduled during your visit.

Admission varies wildly depending on what you're catching - some comedy nights might be £15, a touring play could be £20-25 - but it's worth budgeting for a proper night out. The venue works brilliantly for families with older kids or adults after something beyond the usual holiday entertainment. If the weather turns damp - which it will, it's Somerset - this beats sitting in a caravan watching rain on the windows.

Staying nearby makes sense if you're based at one of the local parks like Cornish Farm or Ashe Farm, both within spitting distance of town. Taunton itself has decent restaurants and pubs within walking distance of the theatre, so you can turn an evening out into something more substantial. It's the kind of place that reminds you why market towns matter - worth checking what's on before you book your holiday, then planning around it.