Explore Taunton’s revival as an indie shopping destination, challenging Frome’s crown with its unique charm and community spirit.
Soon, I found the Norman castle. It’s now the Museum of Somerset. Lush Castle Green surrounds it. It looked like an Oxbridge college ground. The Somerset flag waved from the gatehouse. Nearby was Bath Place. It’s a pretty row of indie shops. Bunting decorated the street.
I stopped and thought, “Taunton is nice. Nobody told me!”
Nobody said Taunton wasn’t nice. As far as I know, it’s not disliked. But no one told me much about Taunton. I did some research and knew basic facts. People liked Taunton, but couldn’t say why.
Journalists usually know a town’s reputation. Maybe that reputation is fair, or perhaps it’s untrue. Still, there’s usually a reputation.
Bath is bougie, Frome is fancy, Bridgwater is troubled, and Glastonbury has naked hippies. People paint these pictures when talking about towns. My job is to confirm or deny that picture. It felt like Taunton had no strong brand.
Susie, a local artist, agreed. She was born in Taunton, wandered in her youth, and came back to her hometown. I asked about Taunton’s brand and she said it needs to find one. She thinks it needs a brand pushed for the town.
Susie says Taunton is known for cricket, cider, and history. She imagines Taunton known for its indie scene. Frome became an indie place ten years ago. If Frome changed, why can’t Taunton?
Shopkeepers echoed this idea. Elaine runs World of Bears since 2004. She watched customers grow up. Kids who visited in 2004 visit today.
Elaine praised Taunton’s indie scene. She noted the success of the Independent Market, which happens twice a month. It’s expanding, she said.
Lionel runs Brendon Books since 1989. He watched customers grow up and pass away. Running the bookshop made him part of the town.
He runs it as a Community Interest Company, so profits go back to the community. Some profits support the Taunton Literary Festival. Lionel liked Bath Place’s independent shops. People seek those shops out, he noted. Shopping has become quieter in town.
As I left Taunton, I knew its identity. Weekend markets overlooked castles. Bunting hung in Bath Place. The Independent Quarter thrived. Taunton is becoming an indie shopping haven.
Frome, watch out. A new challenger wants your crown.