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Bridgwater, a historic market town in Somerset, holds a prominent place in the county’s narrative, known particularly for its annual Guy Fawkes Carnival, a spectacle of illuminated floats and elaborate processions that draws crowds each November. The town’s maritime heritage is evident along the River Parrett, where the bustling docks once thrived, facilitating trade and connecting the region to wider seafaring routes.
Visitors might explore the Blake Museum, housed in the birthplace of Admiral Robert Blake, offering insight into local history and the town’s significant figures. The remains of Bridgwater Castle and the imposing Church of St Mary further contribute to the town’s historical fabric, hinting at its past strategic importance and religious significance within the area.
For visitors to Bridgwater, the town centre often proves the most practical area for booking a hotel, offering immediate access to local amenities and transport links.
The town centre itself provides a mix of accommodation, from established hotels to smaller guesthouses. Here, you'll find yourself close to landmarks like the Blake Museum, which commemorates Admiral Robert Blake, and the Bridgwater Arts Centre, a focal point for local culture. Dining options are plentiful, with various pubs and independent eateries scattered along Fore Street and High Street. It's a convenient base for exploring on foot.
Moving slightly outwards, the areas around North Petherton and Cannington, though technically villages just beyond the town's immediate perimeter, offer more rural-style accommodation, such as bed and breakfasts or larger country inns. These spots provide a quieter alternative, often with their own local pubs and a more relaxed atmosphere. Cannington College is a notable feature in this area.
For those prioritising ease of access to the M5 motorway, hotels situated closer to the junction 23 or 24 exits on the outskirts of Bridgwater are readily available. These are typically larger chain hotels, offering modern facilities and ample parking. While further from the immediate town centre, they are ideal for travellers arriving by car and looking for straightforward onward journeys.
Bridgwater benefits from its Bridgwater railway station, providing direct train services, making it easy to reach hotels in the town centre. For air travel, Bristol Airport is the closest major hub, approximately an hour's drive away, while Exeter Airport is also accessible, typically a 45-minute journey. Many hotels cater to guests arriving by car, offering parking, which is beneficial given the road connections to both airports and the M5.
When planning a trip to Bridgwater, a bit of forward thinking can help with accommodation costs. Generally, hotel prices tend to be higher during the summer months, particularly July and August, and especially so around November when the Bridgwater Guy Fawkes Carnival takes place. This major event draws significant crowds, making rooms both scarce and more expensive. For better value, consider visiting outside these busy periods.
Booking your stay for the cooler months, such as January, February, or March, usually offers more competitive rates as demand is lower. Weekday stays are often more economical than weekends. Also, look into hotels slightly outside the immediate town centre; they can sometimes provide a small saving without being too far from the main attractions.