Somerset’s rolling hills and wide open plains make it a perfect place for outdoor fun. Music lovers certainly think so, descending on Worthy Farm by the tens of thousands for the world famous Glastonbury festival year after year. While music, performing arts and partying are all very well and good, we’re here to talk to you about a more mindful outdoor pursuit, one with a tradition that dates back further than the heady days of the 1960s and isn’t just for 5 days every June - and that’s archery.

The art of firing a bow and arrow is an ancient British tradition which requires concentration, attention to detail and clear thinking - and actively helps to develop these skills. Judging by the quantity, quality and variety of experiences on offer here, the people of this pretty little county must be the most zen in the country, and we encourage you to come and give it a try yourself. You’ll be surprised by how many alternatives there are to choose from, and for how little you have to spend to have this unforgettable experience.

Where are the best places to do archery in Somerset?

• Williton: Outside this small village is Danesfield, site of a battle between Vikings (Danes) and Saxons over a thousand years ago. You’ll be able to feel the energy of these warriors if you take up a bow in Williton and try a beginner’s session or course.

• Wellington: Wellington is a charming corner famous for one of the country’s most famous military strategists, the Duke of Wellington! Follow in his footsteps with this activity, or if you want to emulate him even more closely, you can choose a shotgun and take aim at flying clay pigeon targets.

• Taunton: Near the county town of Taunton you’ll find Greensand wood, a peaceful spot to practise a stealthy sport. If you get your technique right, you’ll hardly make a sound as you release an arrow, before hearing the satisfying thud when the arrow penetrates the target. If stealth isn’t your thing, go full Viking with axe throwing! Although less elegant than firing a bow, sending an axe spinning through the air is just as exciting.

• Bridgewater: The remains of the oldest bow in the UK have been found in the nearby Avalon Marshes. At over 4,500 years old, this is evidence of this sport's strong tradition, and Bridgewater offers a taster experience for you to enjoy. You’ll have tuition, guidance and play some games to get the feel of bow and arrow shooting.

• Highbridge: Along with neighbour Burnham-on-Sea, Highbridge is a popular destination for visitors. As well as beach days, water sports, or coastal walks, why not treat yourself and your friends or family to this activity? A specially designed shooting range, modern equipment and fun friendly atmosphere await you here.

• Winscombe: The picturesque Mendip Hills make a great backdrop for a morning or afternoon's shooting. You’ll find in Winscombe innovative range setups, as well as seasonal themes (think zombies at Halloween, Rudolf’s red nose at Christmas). A good time is guaranteed here, and you might walk away with top shooter status!

• Keynsham: Are you a fan of the Hunger Games? If so, this battle archery experience in the Avon Valley is for you. If not, we know you’ll have an amazing time anyway! This is game based bow and arrow fun - with challenges, competitions and mission scenarios - which is bound to bring out your best.

• Bath: Beautiful Bath is favourite for visitors to the area for its architecture, culture and, of course, baths. But it’s also a welcoming city full of kind people, and this spirit extends to the archers, who put on taster sessions for newcomers to the sport. Find out whether this is the outdoor activity for you, while having fun, with the bowmen and women of Bath.

• Wherever you want! In this county, the range can come to you. A travelling team with targets, bows, arrows and range markings, are ready to set up your very own personalised shoot. You’ll need a suitable outdoor area, such as a large garden or field, but then just put your feet up until the experience is ready for you.

Requirements to do this activity

In Tudor England, every man under the age of 40 in the country was required by law to own a bow and arrows and know how to use them. The law no longer has such strict control over who can, or indeed must do it, but there are still regulations in place to ensure safety. In Somerset, most of these are decided and enforced by individual clubs and centres.

This sport has a minimum age in most places, sometimes as high as 12, but more often 8 and in some cases even 6 and 7 year olds will be allowed to fire. In other cases, you might be able to bring even younger children, depending on the equipment that is on offer as this might not be suitable for all ages. What’s important in these cases is that you are there to supervise the younger shooters - not to say you can’t get involved yourself!

Legolas, Robin Hood and Katniss Everdeen are famous archers who we associate with solitude, but the reality of this activity is that it’s best to do it as a team. Here, groups of all sizes and types are catered: family, friends, stag or hen do, birthday, business away-day, you’ll find what you’re looking for here. Enjoying some friendly competition and bow and arrow games with your people has our recommendation for an exhilarating experience that you won’t forget soon.

How long does an experience last?

How long do you want it to be? With so much to choose from, you’re in charge. Get a taste of what firing a bow feels like for as little as 1 hour. Or if you want to become a sharpshooter, you can look for a longer activity, up to 2.5 or 3 hours. Whatever length of session you choose, you’ll be under the eye of trained instructors. They’ll give you a safety briefing, teach you the fundamentals of technique, and organise the shooting - and the games. Count on them throughout the session to give you tips and advice on how to improve.

Have a shot at this sport here, we know you’ll enjoy it! Just let us know what you want to do, and we’ll do the rest.