Taunton has quietly become one of Somerset’s most attractive places to live. With direct rail links to Exeter, Bristol and London, access to the M5, beautiful surrounding countryside and a growing town centre, it offers a balance of convenience and quality of life that appeals to families, professionals and retirees.
If you’re considering relocating, here’s what to know about schools, healthcare and the local services that make day to day life in Taunton straightforward and well supported.
Schools In Taunton
For families, schooling is often the first priority when moving to a new area. Taunton has a strong mix of state and independent options, with several well regarded primary and secondary schools serving different parts of the town.
State secondary options include schools such as The Castle School and Heathfield Community School, both of which serve large catchment areas and are popular with local families. There are also several established primary schools across the town, making it relatively easy to find a local option within walking distance in many residential areas.
Taunton is also known for its independent education sector. Taunton School offers day and boarding education, attracting families from across the region and beyond. King’s College Taunton is another long standing independent school with a strong reputation.
When researching schools, it is worth checking Ofsted reports, catchment areas and current admissions policies, particularly if you are relocating mid year.
Healthcare In Taunton
Access to reliable healthcare is another major consideration when moving home. Taunton benefits from having Musgrove Park Hospital, a large NHS hospital providing a wide range of services to Somerset residents.
There are also multiple GP surgeries across the town, though like many areas of the UK, demand for NHS appointments can be high. It is advisable to register with a GP as soon as you have proof of address.
Alongside NHS provision, Taunton has a growing number of private healthcare options. For dentistry in particular, many new residents look for a private dentist in Taunton to ensure greater appointment flexibility, continuity of care and access to cosmetic treatments.
For those seeking private dental care, DentaQuest offers a range of treatments including dental implants, hygiene appointments, composite bonding and teeth whitening. Choosing a dentist with 5 star reviews, transparent pricing and modern facilities can make the transition to a new town feel much smoother.
When choosing any healthcare provider in a new area, it is sensible to:
- Read independent reviews
• Check professional registrations
• Understand appointment availability
• Ask about emergency cover
Planning ahead avoids stress later.
Local Amenities And Everyday Services
Taunton’s town centre combines familiar high street names with independent retailers and cafés. Orchard Shopping Centre remains a central hub, while nearby streets offer smaller independent shops and restaurants.
For leisure and culture, Taunton Castle provides a glimpse into the town’s history and houses the Museum of Somerset. The surrounding countryside, including the Quantock Hills and Blackdown Hills, makes weekend walks easily accessible.
Sports facilities, gyms and community clubs are widely available, which is part of what makes Taunton appealing to families and professionals seeking an active lifestyle.
Transport And Commuting
Taunton is well connected. Taunton railway station offers direct routes to Exeter, Bristol and London Paddington, making commuting feasible even if your workplace is outside Somerset.
The M5 motorway runs just outside the town, providing road links north towards Bristol and Birmingham and south towards Exeter.
For those working remotely, Taunton’s reliable broadband infrastructure and quieter pace of life can be a significant draw.
Housing And Neighbourhoods
Different areas of Taunton suit different lifestyles. Family friendly estates on the outskirts offer newer housing developments and green space. Period properties closer to the town centre provide character and proximity to amenities.
When exploring neighbourhoods, consider proximity to:
- Schools
• GP surgeries
• Dental practices
• Supermarkets
• Train station access
A short drive can make a big difference to daily routines.
Finding A Dentist In Taunton
One of the most overlooked parts of relocating is securing dental care early. NHS dental availability can be limited in many parts of the UK, including Somerset, so researching options before you need treatment is advisable.
When choosing a dentist in Taunton, look for:
- Clear explanation of treatment options
• Transparent pricing
• Modern equipment
• Strong patient reviews
• Preventative care focus
Private practices often provide longer appointment times and access to cosmetic dentistry, including dental implants and composite bonding.
Community And Quality Of Life
Beyond practical services, Taunton offers a strong sense of community. Seasonal events, farmers’ markets and local festivals bring residents together. Schools, sports clubs and community groups make it easier for families to settle in.
Compared with larger cities, Taunton offers:
- Shorter travel times
• Access to countryside
• Lower congestion
• A balanced pace of life
For many households relocating from Bristol or further afield, that balance is the main attraction.
Making The Move Smooth
Relocating can feel overwhelming, but breaking it into steps helps:
- Research schools and register interest early
- Register with a GP and dentist
- Explore local amenities in person where possible
- Join local community groups online
- Visit neighbourhoods at different times of day
Securing essential services such as healthcare before you need them gives peace of mind.
Moving to a new town always involves practical decisions, and securing reliable healthcare early is one of the most important. Taunton offers a strong mix of public and private services, so taking the time to research schools, GP surgeries and dental practices before you arrive will make settling in far easier. With the essentials in place, you can focus on enjoying everything Somerset has to offer.
