Nestled in the heart of Somerset, Somerton is a medieval market town rich in history and significance. Long before England emerged as a unified nation, Somerton held prominence as a royal possession and, some speculate, the capital of the Kingdom of Wessex — a dominant kingdom in southern Britain during the early Middle Ages.
Dating back to at least the 14th century, Somerton lent its name to Somerset and flourished as a vital trading center, renowned especially for its wool and agriculture markets. Its weekly medieval market attracted merchants and locals alike, establishing the town’s economic importance in the region.
Today, Somerton charms visitors with historic landmarks such as the Lytes Cary Manor, a National Trust property featuring an exquisite medieval manor house and beautifully landscaped gardens. The town’s historic churches showcase stunning architecture and hold stories that echo its extraordinary past.
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While some historians have posited Somerton as the early capital of Wessex, official records recognize Winchester as the kingdom’s principal royal center during the reign of King Alfred the Great. Winchester maintained this status for centuries before London rose to prominence as England’s capital city.
The Kingdom of Wessex, derived from the Old English term ‘Westseaxna rice’ (Kingdom of the West Saxons), was established sometime in the 6th century by Saxon leaders Cerdic and Cynric. It grew into the most powerful Anglo-Saxon kingdom, expanding under rulers like Cenwalh and Cædwalla, who extended Wessex’s influence across Sussex, Kent, and the Isle of Wight.
Despite threats from rival kingdoms and Viking invasions, notably the Danish incursions in 871 AD, Wessex resisted domination and eventually led to the unification of England. Following the defeat of the Viking army in 878 AD, Wessex became the leading Anglo-Saxon kingdom. By 927 AD, under King Æthelstan, the seven Anglo-Saxon kingdoms consolidated into what we now recognize as England.
These kingdoms, collectively known as the Heptarchy, included Wessex, Mercia, Northumbria, East Anglia, Essex, Sussex, and Kent. Over the centuries, the smaller kingdoms merged or were absorbed, leaving Wessex at the forefront of England’s formation.
Somerton stands as a testament to this rich historical legacy, a peaceful market town with roots reaching back to the time before England existed as a nation.