St Margaret's Almshouses
Taunton's oldest buildings, these charming thatched cottages began as a 12th-century leper hospital and are now beautifully restored private homes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Buildings look spectacular
St Margaret's Almshouses
Best Time
Buildings look spectacular
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Taunton's oldest buildings, these charming thatched cottages began as a 12th-century leper hospital and are now beautifully restored private homes.
"On a sunny day these houses look spectacular."
☀️ Best Viewing Light
Visit on a sunny day to truly appreciate the beauty of these historic homes.
🤫 Respect Private Homes
Remember these are private residences. Admire from the outside and be quiet.
Quick Facts
Rating
5 · 2 reviews
Type
Historical Landmark
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Thatched Cottages
Admire the picturesque, centuries-old thatched cottages, a rare architectural gem in Taunton.
12th Century Origins
Imagine the history of these buildings, which began as a leper hospital in the 12th century.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
A Glimpse into History
Respecting Private Residences
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
☀️ Best Viewing Light
Visit on a sunny day to truly appreciate the beauty of these historic homes.
🤫 Respect Private Homes
Remember these are private residences. Admire from the outside and be quiet.
📜 Historical Significance
These are some of Taunton's oldest buildings, originally a leper hospital.
Tips
from all over the internet
☀️ Best Viewing Light
Visit on a sunny day to truly appreciate the beauty of these historic homes.
🤫 Respect Private Homes
Remember these are private residences. Admire from the outside and be quiet.
📜 Historical Significance
These are some of Taunton's oldest buildings, originally a leper hospital.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise St Margaret's Almshouses for their historical significance and picturesque charm, noting they are among Taunton's oldest buildings with a fascinating past as a leper hospital. The recently renovated thatched cottages are particularly admired on sunny days. However, it's crucial to remember they are private residences and should be viewed respectfully from the exterior.
"The buildings had stood empty since the late 1980s, and in the early 1990s the thatched roof was destroyed by fire. The four houses were renovated in 2017. The thatched roof was replaced in 2024. These are supposedly some of the oldest houses in Taunton. On a sunny day these houses look spectacular."
Nigel Freeney
"Believed to be some of the oldest buildings in Taunton, St Margaret's Almshouses are now homes.
But these beautiful buildings started out their life as a leper hospital - or Leprosaria - in the 12th century.
These days, we understand Leprosy a lot better than we used to.
The infection is caused by bacteria called Mycobacterium leprae , which grow very slowly and it may take up to 20 years to develop signs of the infection."
Roger Shattock
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
St Margaret's Almshouses are located in Taunton. While specific public transport details are scarce, they are accessible by car. Parking may be limited in the immediate vicinity due to their residential nature.
Parking directly at St Margaret's Almshouses is likely restricted as they are private residences. It's advisable to look for nearby street parking or public car parks in Taunton and walk to the location.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No tickets are required as St Margaret's Almshouses are historic buildings that are now private homes. You can view them from the exterior at any time.
St Margaret's Almshouses are not open for public tours as they are private residences. Visitors can admire their exterior architecture and historical significance from the street.
As these are private homes, there are no official visiting hours. You can view the exteriors during daylight hours, but it's important to be respectful of the residents.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, you can take photos of the exterior of St Margaret's Almshouses. They are particularly photogenic on a sunny day. Please be mindful not to intrude on the privacy of the residents.
On a sunny day, the buildings look spectacular. Golden hour light can enhance the charm of the thatched roofs and historic architecture.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit