Bridgwater, Somerset
If you’re staying near Bridgwater on your large group holidays in the West Country, you might want to pootle into town for a wander round. There are several supermarkets so if you need to pick up essential supplies you’ll be fine; the main street has some well known stores, but venture off and explore the indoor market and the Victorian arcade and you’ll find the more quirky independent traders. For entertainment there’s a 7 screen cinema and an 8 lane bowling alley right in the town centre.
Back in the day Bridgwater was a major centre for industry and a lot of manufacturing still goes on in and around the town today. It was also a key port on the River Parrett and has a rich shipbuilding and maritime heritage; find out more at the Blake Museum and go for a stroll round the historic docks to see historic lock gates, vintage cranes and winding equipment.
One of the nicest parts of Bridgwater is Kings Square where elegant Georgian buildings stand around an attractive square; just down the road you’ll find Bridgwater Arts Centre – the first of its’ kind in the country and host to plays, comedy and music events throughout the year. Other events in the town include a summer Quayside Festival with live music, theatre and dance, circus displays, games and activities for all ages.
Every year in November the town comes alive with its illuminated carnival procession, the biggest in Europe; people flock to watch the colourful floats parade through the streets, culminating in 'squibbing' outside the town hall where over 100 fireworks held aloft on wooden blocks are let off simultaneously, a long trail of bright lights and an air of magical excitement.
Bridgwater has its own equivalent of the Bath Bun – the Bridgwater Manchip, a jam filled pastry similar to a lardy cake. If you don’t fancy that book a table at one of the many eateries in town – Artichoke is great for tapas and steaks, Green Olive Mezze Restaurant, Bar & Grill for Mediterranean food and Admirals Landing for home cooked pub fare.
Within just a few miles of Bridgwater you can discover the Steart Marshes Wildfowl and Wetlands Reserve, and spend a day exploring the unique landscape of the Somerset Levels. Take a gentle amble along the Bridgwater & Taunton canal, spot the planets on the Somerset Space Walk, and stop for a cream tea at Maunsel Lock Tearooms. Also good to visit, with a wonderful sense of tranquilty are The Walled Gardens of Cannington.
All information correct at the time of writing