About Bridgwater
Once a sleepy Somerset town, Bridgwater has become a successful business centre in recent years, and now offers the lively atmosphere of a shopping and commercial hub with the charm of a historic town. Set in the beautiful Somerset countryside, many of Bridgwater’s buildings display historic architecture that gives the town an elegant feel. Those on Bridgwater holidays are met with plenty of opportunity to indulge in some retail therapy, explore its past and appreciate the nearby Somerset landscape – all in one stay!

History of Bridgwater
Bridgwater has seen dramatic times and changes since its first inhabitants arrived around 1000 years ago – yet the centuries have left many fascinating sites and buildings throughout the town which give it a character reflective of its lively past. Bridgwater has been recognised as a river port since 1250, and was known for its regular markets and fairs throughout the Middle Ages. In fact, St. Matthew's Fair still continues and first started during the 14th century!

The 15th century saw Bridgwater excel into a flourishing port, largely thanks to its successful cloth trade. The town backed the Royalists during the Civil War and endured a disastrous siege in July 1645 which sadly saw the destruction of most of its timber framed buildings. The town paid again for its resistance when Roundheads later destroyed its castle, although the remains of its Watergate entrance can still be seen today and are located at the Watergate Restaurant.

The 18th century bought mixed fortune to Bridgwater, as it enjoyed an initial boom in its cloth trade which ended abruptly with the onset of the industrial revolution. The town declined further with the increased commercial success of neighbouring Bristol. Bridgwater took another knock with the decline of the brick and tile industry during the 20th century, but saw the success of new industries including Cellophane.

The Port of Bridgwater was once connected to Bristol and Exeter Railway across what is now the A38, and the town was once active in ship building and shipping. Dunball Wharf is still used for landing stone, although ships no longer dock at Bridgwater Port.

Bridgwater Family Attractions
Located in the West Country’s Somerset, Bridgwater’s family attractions are largely centred around its great outdoors and rural sights. The nearby Mendip Hills, Somerset Levels and Avon Valley each have plenty to offer in the form of activities, breathtaking views and sights.

The Mendip Hills – known as the Mendips – are perfect for activities such as caving, cave diving, walking and climbing. They also offer some of Somerset’s finest views, as they are flanked by the Somerset Levels to their south and the Avon Valley to their north. The Somerset Levels and Moors are the perfect place to get away from it all, the peaceful landscape and its wildlife make the Levels feel a world away from town life. There is plenty to do on the Levels, including the River Parrett Walking Trail, The Willows and Wetlands Visitor Centre, Muchelney Abbey and many more. The River Parrett Walking Trail is 50 miles in length and takes walkers through the centre of the Levels.

One of Bridgwater’s claims to fame is that it was the birthplace of Cromwell’s Admiral Robert Blake in 1598. The house is now The Blake Museum and celebrates his life and town.

The Bridgwater Brick and Tile Museum reflects the success of the brick and tile industry throughout Somerset and Bridgwater, one of many booming coal-based trades. A visit to the museum includes the opportunity to watch demonstrations, including the creation of bricks, plaques and tiles with that distinctive Somerset appearance. Entry to the museum is free, and there is access for disabled visitors and a limited car park.

Westonzoyland Pumping Station, just a short distance from Bridgwater, houses Somerset’s first steam-powered pumping station – which was built in 1830. Once a vital flatland defence, this modest museum includes displays of steam engines and other land drainage exhibits.

Bridgwater Events and Entertainment
When it comes to Bridgwater events and entertainment – the Bridgwater Guy Fawkes Carnival is top of the list! This annual charity carnival includes a stunning illuminated procession which uses over 22,000 light bulbs to dazzle its thousands of spectators! The residents of Bridgwater take the event very seriously and the floats take most of the year to prepare and create – their efforts are well worth the crowd’s delight on the big night. The carnival takes place on 5th November as it began as a reaction to the Gunpowder Plot of 1605.

Visitors to the town during this period will also be treated to the sight of Bridgwater’s Bridgwater Squibs fireworks. Originally made by residents in their homes, these oversized fireworks are now manufactured by a firework company especially for Bridgwater – and the secret formula is still closely guarded!

Dog-Friendly Bridgwater Accommodation
Blue Chip Vacations can offer a wide range of dog-friendly accommodation throughout Bridgwater, and the area has plenty to amuse those on dog-friendly holidays. Dogs are welcomed in many of the area’s pubs and inns, so walks can be rounded off or broken up with refreshment stops where no members of your party need be left outside! Dog-friendly Bridgwater pubs include the Duke of Monmouth, River Parrett Inn, The Ancient Mariner, The Friendly Spirit and the Globe Inn.

With Exmoor National Park just a short drive away, dog owners staying in Bridgwater will no doubt wish to take advantage of the spectacular acres of moors, woodlands, valleys and rolling countryside so close to their accommodation. It is recommended that dogs are walked on their leads, as the Park is used by horse riders and is home to many forms of wildlife which is easily startled – even by the friendliest of pets!

Bridgwater Pubs and Restaurants
Bridgwater’s history and Somerset setting mean that those looking for Bridgwater pubs and restaurants have plenty of traditional and unique choices – many with fascinating tales and beautiful surroundings. The Watergate Restaurant at the Watergate Hotel is an opportunity to have a look at the remains of Bridgwater Castle, largely destroyed during the Civil War. The Ancient Mariner pub in Nether Stowey is located opposite the former home of Samuel Taylor Coleridge and is so unchanged that visitors might almost imagine him walking in for a drink!

Clavelshay Barn Restaurant is located within a valley close to the Quantock Hills. Based in a working dairy farm, and an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, this restaurant offers a real country meal and experience for visitors to the area. If you fancy a change ,The English Raj Tandoori has been voted as one of the West Country’s leading restaurants and has been a favourite in Bridgwater for over 30 years. In Bridgwater’s Catcott, The Crown Inn pub and restaurant rear their own prize-winning, free range beef – so diners can expect true West Country produce.

The Lowland Games take place every August in Thorney, and will be held from August 21-25 in 2010. Events include races, mud wrestling, Tug O’ War, live entertainment, dog shows and much more. Entry is reasonable, with under-fives admitted free, so the Lowland Games are a great day out on the Levels for the whole family.

Bridgwater Travel
Just 32 miles from Bristol, Bridgwater lies to the North of Taunton on the M5, and is on the A39 from Glastonbury. For those travelling to the town by train, Bridgwater railway station is on the Bristol to Taunton line and First Great Western operates along it. London Paddington, Taunton and Cardiff trains pass through hourly in each direction. Bridgwater is also served by the National Express from its bus station. The closest airport to Bridgwater is Bristol.