Bridgwater

Bridgwater is a market town and civil parish in the Sedgemoor district of Somerset, England. It lies on the River Parrett, about 10 miles north-northeast of Taunton and 30 miles south-southwest of Bristol. Bridgwater has a history stretching back to the Anglo-Saxon period and developed as a port town. Its strategic location on the River Parrett facilitated trade and led to its growth.

The town is known for its annual Guy Fawkes Carnival, one of the largest illuminated carnivals in the country, which attracts thousands of visitors. Bridgwater has played a role in various historical events, including the Monmouth Rebellion. Economically, it has historically relied on its port and associated industries, with a more diversified economy in modern times.

Key landmarks in Bridgwater include the Cornhill Market, the Blake Museum, and the Grade I listed church of St Mary. The town also features a significant industrial heritage, with remnants of its past visible in its architecture and layout. Bridgwater serves as a local administrative centre and a hub for surrounding rural areas. Its transport links include the M5 motorway and a railway station providing connections to major cities. The town continues to evolve, balancing its historical character with contemporary development.