Shepton Mallet

Shepton Mallet is a town and civil parish in the Mendip district of Somerset, in South West England. It is situated approximately 18 miles (29 km) south of Bristol and 5 miles (8.0 km) east of Wells. The town is noted for its historic architecture, including its Market Cross, parish church, and Shepton Mallet Prison.

History

Shepton Mallet's name is derived from the Old English sceaptun, meaning "sheep fold", and mael, meaning "hill". The town was an important centre for the wool and cloth industry from the Middle Ages until the 19th century.

In the 17th and 18th centuries, Shepton Mallet was a centre for the production of cider. The town is the closest to the site of the Glastonbury Festival, the largest greenfield festival in the world.

Landmarks

Among the town's historic buildings is the Market Cross, which dates from the 15th century. The parish church of St Peter and St Paul is a Grade I listed building, with a tower dating from the 14th century. Shepton Mallet Prison was built in 1610 and is the oldest working prison in the UK.

Economy

Today, Shepton Mallet's economy is diverse, with sectors including retail, food production, and light industry. The town is home to the Kilver Court designer village and the Royal Bath and West of England Society, which organises the Royal Bath and West Show, a major agricultural event.

Transport

Shepton Mallet is served by the A37 road, which provides connections to Bristol and Yeovil. The town was formerly served by the Somerset and Dorset Joint Railway, but the station closed in 1966 as part of the Beeching cuts.

Education

Education in Shepton Mallet is provided by a range of schools, including Shepton Mallet Community Infants' School & Nursery, St Paul's Junior School, and Whitstone School, a secondary school with a sixth form.

Notable people

Notable people from Shepton Mallet include John Sheppard, a 16th-century composer, and James Allen, who was hanged at Shepton Mallet Prison in 1837.