Rural economy

Rural North Somerset is predominantly an agricultural landscape with large tracts of woodland, coastline and fringed by the Mendip Hills. It is an area of great beauty with many opportunities to explore the countryside and places of historical and cultural interest whilst still being easily accessible from  Bath and Bristol, offering an excellent work/life balance.

Cows being milked

The area boasts such assets as the National Trust properties of Clevedon Court and Tyntesfield and the extensive Forest of Avon which act as key economic drivers for the area. The communities of Yatton, Congresbury, Wrington, Winscombe and Long Ashton continue to act as key service centres for their rural hinterland.

Many job opportunities have arisen in the area from the growing tourism industry and interest in outdoor pursuits, which in turn benefits many rural retail establishments, pubs, cafes, restaurants, shops and leisure facilities. The tourism, food and the service sector are the main employers in the area featuring nationally renowned companies such as Thatchers and Yeo Valley dairy. There is a huge opportunity for rural enterprise in North Somerset, not only vital in serving local needs but also meeting the demands of nearby urban populations. For more information visit our pages:

North Somerset is a dynamic area characterised by many smaller businesses working together, demonstrating the amazing flexibility, adaptability and versatility of those who chose to live and work in the area.  The North Somerset Local Food Directory leaflet showcases over forty local producers and demonstrates how locally produced food can be developed to help strengthen the rural economy. In addition there is a thriving rural crafts industry with over eighty individual businesses working out of the area, some of whom have gained national recognition.

(© Photo source: In the Frame)