The quaint town of Shepton Mallet is located in the county of Somerset. This little town was once known for its wool trade during the medieval times and has roots that date all the way back to the prehistoric era. Today many different industries have take over from the wool trade but thanks to its historic roots there are many things for visitors to enjoy.
One of the first places that many people head to is the Anglo-Bavarian Brewery. This brewery has been in business since 1864. Originally known as the Shepton Mallet Pale Ale Brewery, it was closed in 1921 after the production of the ale started to decline. The site remained closed for years until it was purchased in 1927. The brewery wasn't fully up and running for years but by 1934 the building was registered as the Anglo-Bavarian Brewery. Today the site is a historical site that is beginning to be redeveloped. Many head here to see this beautiful old building.
Those interested in historic churches should head over to the Church of St Peter and St Paul. This church site dates back to the 12th Century even though the current building is only from the 15th Century. There have been additions and rebuilding performed on it in the early 1800s as well. But the building is still magnificent to see with its timber roof of 350 panels each of different design and the 36 carved angles. The tower is one of the oldest parts of the church dating back to 1423. Here you can see a triple window arrangement and four pinnacles. The tower was originally supposed to have a spire but alas, it was never built.
Another popular historic site is the Merchant's House. This is located at number 8 market place and was built around 1675. Built by a wealthy land owner to be tenanted (rented) the building has been recently restored to its natural beauty. It is a great place for visitors to get a real slice of the history of the town.
The Shepton Mallet Prison is also a historic building. While visitors might not be able to tour the building, it does draw on lookers. This building, which was built and opened in the early 1600s is the United Kingdom's oldest operating prison. It houses up to 186 male prisoners who are not considered dangerous by any means but are escape risks so they cannot be held in an open prison.
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