MAXIMUS Employment and Training UK

Taunton, Somerset

Taunton is the county town of Somerset and lies on the river Tone in the Vale of Taunton Deane. The Vale of Taunton runs from the Quantock Hills to the north and the Blackdown Hills to the south.

Taunton played a major part in the ending of the Monmouth Rebellion, as it was here in 1685 that Judge Jeffreys Bloody Assize, in Taunton Castle, handed out severe punishment to many of the Duke of Monmouth's supporters, with hundreds hanged for their failed part in the Battle of Sedgemoor.

A heritage trail was created in 1999 that takes you through many interesting back streets, past busy shops in the high street and into beautiful parks and gardens. Taunton has won many awards in the Britain in Bloom competition and is noted for outstanding floral displays in the summer months, with particularly the Taunton Flower Show in August.

The trail takes you past many of the church spires that help give Taunton its unique skyline.

One of the most recognisable is St Mary of Magdelene Church.

Complementing its charm as the administrative capital of rural Somerset, we feel obliged to point out that Taunton is also at the leading edge of technology ... it marks the birthplace of The National Pages! Launched 28th April 2008 by the Mayor and Mayoress of Taunton Deane, Councillor, K Hayward.

Taunton is the home of Somerset County Cricket Club and home to the 40 Commando, Royal Marines.

Taunton is part of the annual (South) Somerset Carnival circuit with its annual carnival around the 2nd Saturday in October. The UK Hydrographic Office is located in Taunton on Admiralty Way and is one of the largest local employers.