History
First recorded in the Domesday Book as Givle, it was known during the Middle Ages as a bustling market town. By the 15th century there was an annual market fair that drew visitors from all areas of Somerset and Dorset. That distinction still rings true today. However, other industries have been able to thrive here over the centuries as well.
For several centuries, Yeovil was the centre of glove making. However it was not until the arrival of the Royal Navy and it's interest in aviation did Yeovil develop rapidly into the town that exists today. Due to the fact that many companies affiliated with the defence industry had offices or factories in the town or the nearby area, Yeovil was a target for the Germans during WWII.
Today, Yeovil still continues to have ties with the defence industry and manages to retain its heritage as a market town.
Attractions
Yeovil's history with the aviation and defence industry makes it a popular destination with aviation fans. In Yeovil there is the Fleet Air Arm Aviation Museum, one of the four museums of the Royal Navy. The museum boasts four exhibition halls, over models of aircraft, 2 million records, and 30 thousand artefacts.
Some highlights of the museum include the first British built Concorde, where it is possible to explore the interior including the cockpit. Also on display is the over hundred years of Royal Naval History from the first models of aircraft to the present-day aircraft in use today.
Although located outside of the main town, the Cadbury Castle site is the ruin of a fort that is believed to be the location of Arthur's Camelot Court. There are many exhibits at the site explaining the history of the area, which dates back to the iron ages.
Yeovil itself has a bustling town centre that is dotted with stores, both high street and independent selling a variety of goods such as clothes, pottery, food and crafts. Also, there are regular street markets held twice a week.
In addition, Yeovil has activities popular with both visitors and residents such as two movie theatres, public swimming pools, a ski centre, and ten-pin bowling. For those interested in outdoor activities, Yeovil Country Park, wooded parkland at the edge of the town is an ideal option.
Food and Places to Stay
Due to popular attractions such as the Fleet Air Arm Aviation Museum, there is plenty of accommodation available in Yeovil. Accommodation varies from quaint bed and breakfast guesthouses, hotels run by chains or families and self-catering accommodation in the form of flats or cottages.
Yeovil also has plenty of options for food due to the fact that historically, Yeovil is a market town. A farmer's market is held once a month. In terms of restaurants, there is plenty of different cuisines to choose from including Italian, French, Thai, Chinese, Indian, and modern British cuisine. Some of these establishments are housed in historic hotels or pubs.
Accommodation in Yeovil
Show Bed & Breakfasts in Yeovil
Show Hotels in Yeovil
Show Cottages in Yeovil
| 
