Beat the Street has been transforming communities across Somerset since 2020, inspiring thousands of people to get active, explore their local areas and enjoy time outdoors together. Somerset is proud to have hosted 4 games over the years, with the initial programme starting in Bridgwater, and then in Taunton in 2021, Yeovil in 2022 and more recently Shepton Mallet & Wells in 2023, engaging more than 18,500 residents and generating over 243,000 miles of active travel collectively.
Delivered in partnership with Intelligent Health, Somerset Council, Sport England and district councils, Beat the Street uses game-style challenges and interactive ‘Beat Boxes’ to encourage walking, cycling and exploring local neighbourhoods. Its evidence-based approach supports long-term behaviour change and strengthens community wellbeing.
Across all four Somerset games, the impact has been overwhelmingly positive. Players consistently reported increased physical activity, stronger connections with family and friends, and a deeper sense of belonging in their local community. Importantly, the programme reached residents in areas of high deprivation and those who were least active, helping reduce health inequalities.
Key Highlights from Across Somerset
- Over 18,500 total players engaged across four towns.
- More than 243,000 miles travelled collectively.
- Up to 70% of less active children became more active.
- Between 56–66% of inactive adults became active post-game.
- Families reported spending more time together outdoors.
- High engagement in areas of deprivation and among adults with long-term conditions.
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Local Impact Snapshots
Shepton Mallet & Wells (2023)
2,744 players took part, travelling over 40,447 miles. More than half of inactive adults (56%) became active, while 55% of less active children increased their activity levels. Families described rediscovering their local area and enjoying more quality time together.
Yeovil (2022)
With 7,039 participants, Yeovil recorded 94,333 miles travelled. Adult inactivity fell from 26% to 19%, and many children reported feeling more connected to friends and local spaces. Parents highlighted how the challenge motivated the whole family to get moving.
Taunton (2021)
Taunton saw over 5,000 players and more than 62,000 miles travelled. Seventy percent of less active children became more active, one of the highest increases across the Somerset games. Adults reported improved wellbeing and daily walking habits.
Bridgwater (2020)
Despite launching during the pandemic, Bridgwater achieved 3,654 players and 45,737 miles travelled. Children and adults said the game helped them explore new areas, boost their mood and spend more time outdoors at a challenging time.
What Participants Told Us
- “Got the family out of the house and gave us the excuse to walk around our home town.” – Adult, Shepton Mallet & Wells
- “Beat the Street made me go outside more frequently and helped me socialise.” – Child, Yeovil
- “It brought the whole family together. It didn't feel like exercise as it was so much fun!” – Adult, Bridgwater
- “I found I was walking for roughly 50% longer per walk and walked every day.” – Adult, Taunton
Take a look at our evaluation reports here:
For more information, visit: Beat the Street - Intelligent Health