Living in Castle Cary

The sense of community in Castle Cary is a defining feature, with generations of families and newcomers alike contributing to an active and supportive atmosphere. Residents regularly participate in events such as the weekly Tuesday market, annual Carnival, and the popular Big Christmas event, which strengthens social bonds.

Community halls and the Market House provide spaces for clubs, interest groups, and social gatherings. There is a strong focus on volunteering and mutual support, evident in the friendly interactions at local shops and regular fundraising activities.

Outdoor life thrives in Castle Cary, thanks to its access to the Mendip Hills, riverside walks, and open countryside. Nearby nature reserves, public footpaths, and green spaces such as Castle Cary Playing Fields offer plenty of opportunities for sports, dog walking, or simply enjoying the clean Somerset air.

Castle Cary is perceived as a safe and peaceful town, benefitting from relatively low crime rates compared to larger urban areas in Somerset and the wider South West. Neighbourhood policing teams are a familiar presence, working closely with residents to address any concerns and promote community safety initiatives.

The town’s close-knit, community-orientated atmosphere contributes to the sense of security, with crime generally limited to minor incidents. Local authorities and volunteers regularly engage in activities such as Neighbourhood Watch, helping maintain Castle Cary’s reputation as a secure place to live and raise a family. Regeneration in some parts of Somerset has further improved public confidence in recent years.

As with any area, it is advisable to remain vigilant, particularly regarding vehicle and cycle security, but overall Castle Cary is considered one of the safer locations in the county.

Parking in Castle Cary is generally straightforward, with a mix of free and pay-and-display car parks close to the town centre, as well as on-street parking available in most areas. Permit parking is not a major requirement for residents, although some restrictions apply in busier spots, especially during major events or market days.

Castle Cary enjoys good road access thanks to its proximity to the A371 and connections to the A303, facilitating journeys to Somerset’s key neighbouring centres. The traffic congestion is minimal compared to larger towns and cities, making driving and parking stress-free on most days.

Key routes and drive times:

• Yeovil – approx. 20 minutes via A359 (12 miles)
• Shepton Mallet – approx. 25 minutes via A371 (13 miles)
• Bristol – approx. 1 hour via A37 or A303/M5 (33 miles)
• Salisbury – approx. 1 hour via A303 (38 miles)

The town’s manageable roads and ample parking make Castle Cary attractive for drivers and those commuting to neighbouring regions.

Castle Cary’s food and drink scene is rooted in Somerset’s tradition for quality produce and friendly hospitality. The town centre features a collection of inviting pubs, such as The George Hotel and The Market House Inn, both celebrated for their locally sourced menus and cosy atmospheres.

For casual dining, a selection of cafés and tea shops provide fresh cakes and light meals, while popular restaurants like Bay Tree and Home Farm Café put emphasis on seasonal ingredients. Takeaways, including pizza and fish and chips, cater for a quick bite.

Nightlife options are largely relaxed and sociable, with occasional live music, quiz nights, and community gatherings at the local pubs. While Castle Cary does not have nightclubs, nearby Bruton and Shepton Mallet offer more varied options, and the annual Castle Cary Music Festival brings energy to the nightlife calendar. The theatre at Caryford Hall hosts a diverse range of performances, contributing to an active cultural scene for a town of this size.

School Quality: The town’s main primary and secondary schools are both well-rated and valued by local parents, providing a stable educational foundation. Access to sixth forms and colleges in nearby towns extends opportunities for older children.

Parks and Green Space: Castle Cary is surrounded by open countryside and has several play areas, sports fields, and green spaces ideal for families. Town parks and regular outdoor events encourage active family life.

Childcare: Childcare options in Castle Cary include nurseries and early-years groups, giving working parents flexible support throughout the week.

Safety: The low crime rate and visible community policing help parents feel confident about children’s safety.

Family Activities: The area offers clubs, youth centres, seasonal fairs, and easy access to gentle countryside walks, making Castle Cary particularly well-suited to family living.

Castle Cary’s location on the doorstep of expansive Somerset countryside makes it a strong choice for pet owners. The area features a wealth of local footpaths, fields, and dedicated parks—including the Lovington walking trails—well-suited for dog walking and outdoor play.

There are several veterinary practices and pet boutiques in town and nearby, offering healthcare and supplies for a variety of pets. Many of the local pubs and cafés, such as the George Hotel, welcome dogs, encouraging a social, pet-friendly atmosphere across the community.

Attitudes towards pets in public spaces and rented accommodation are generally positive, making it easy for pet owners to feel included in Castle Cary’s relaxed rural lifestyle.

Castle Cary boasts exceptional transport links for a town of its size, which is a key draw for both commuters and visitors. The Castle Cary railway station, located approximately a mile from the town centre, is an important stop on the London Paddington to Penzance main line and serves as a key connection for the Glastonbury Festival. Fast trains to London Paddington can take as little as 1 hour 40 minutes, while there are direct services to **Bath**, **Bristol**, **Taunton**, and **Exeter**.

The town is also served by several local bus routes linking Castle Cary to nearby towns including **Shepton Mallet**, **Bruton**, and **Yeovil**. Easy road access to the A303 – a major artery through the southwest – makes car journeys straightforward, whether heading to the M3 toward **London** or westwards to **Exeter**.

Commute Times to Key Cities:

• London Paddington – approx. 1 hour 40 minutes by direct train
• Bristol – approx. 1 hour 10 minutes by train, or 1 hour by road via A37
• Bath – approx. 50 minutes by train or car
• Exeter – approx. 1 hour 10 minutes by train
• Yeovil – approx. 20 minutes by road or bus

Bristol Airport is within an hour’s drive, providing convenient access to both domestic and international destinations. Public transport is well integrated, making Castle Cary surprisingly accessible for a rural Somerset town.

Castle Cary and the surrounding area provide a range of educational opportunities, with well-regarded options across the primary, secondary, and further education sectors. The town’s schools are known for their strong sense of community and commitment to high educational standards.

Primary Schools:
Castle Cary Community Primary School is the main primary facility in the town, offering a supportive environment and an inclusive approach. The school was rated 'Good' by Ofsted (2017) and serves as a focal point for families in the town. Ansford Academy also operates a lower school provision for younger years as part of its vertical tutor system.

Secondary Schools:
Ansford Academy sits at the heart of Castle Cary’s secondary education provision. Known for its caring ethos and positive reputation, it caters to students aged 11–16 and received a 'Good' Ofsted rating (2017). Bruton’s Sexey’s School, located just a short distance away, is another popular choice, especially for parents considering boarding options or a Church of England affiliation (Ofsted 'Outstanding', 2014).

Colleges & Sixth Form:
Ansford Academy offers some post-16 provision through its links and guidance for further study. Students often attend Strode College in Street, a well-reviewed sixth form and FE college with a broad curriculum and excellent exam results, or Bridgwater & Taunton College, which is accessible within commuting distance.

Universities:
While Castle Cary does not have its own university, the University of Bath and Bath Spa University are both within reasonable travel distance, making higher education accessible for local students.