Shepton Mallet is a market town in Somerset, sitting on the southern edge of the Mendip Hills where the limestone landscape, quarries and caves give the area a distinctive feel. The town grew up on the banks of the River Sheppey and still shows a medieval street pattern around its market square and parish church, with a long tradition of markets and fairs.
Historically the local economy centred on wool, stone quarrying and cider-making, and today the town combines light industry, independent shops and local events with a strong community identity. It also has a notable modern history - including the now-closed Shepton Mallet Prison - and serves as a convenient base for visitors exploring nearby places such as Glastonbury and Wells.