Bridgwater Docks - Image 1
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Bridgwater Docks

3.8
·34 reviews·, United Kingdom

Bridgwater Docks: A historic waterfront transformed by art installations and scenic canal walks, offering a blend of heritage and modern culture.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Market Days

Vibrant atmosphere & local goods

CrowdMedium
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Bridgwater Docks - Image 1

Bridgwater Docks

Best Time

Market Days

Vibrant atmosphere & local goods

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Bridgwater Docks: A historic waterfront transformed by art installations and scenic canal walks, offering a blend of heritage and modern culture.

3.8
(34 reviews)

"A dock that time forgot, yet a canvas for art and a gateway to tranquil canal walks."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Canal Walk Essentials

Wear comfortable shoes for the Bridgwater & Taunton Canal walk; it's a lovely, long stretch.

📅 Check Market Schedules

Visit on market days for a lively atmosphere and local treats at Bridgwater Docks.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Fallen Moon Installation

The Fallen Moon Installation

Bridgwater Docks

Experience Luke Jerram's stunning 10-meter 'Fallen Moon' art installation, a scaled-down replica of the real moon.

Bridgwater & Taunton Canal Walk

Bridgwater & Taunton Canal Walk

Starts at Bridgwater Docks

Enjoy a scenic walk along the historic canal, offering picturesque views and a peaceful escape.

Bridgwater Market Days

Bridgwater Market Days

Bridgwater Docks

Immerse yourself in local culture at the vibrant markets held at the docks, featuring local produce and crafts.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Art and History

Bridgwater Docks offers a unique blend of industrial heritage and contemporary art installations. While the docks themselves are largely disused, they serve as a captivating backdrop for events and a reminder of the town's maritime past. Check local listings for art exhibits and festivals.

Walks and Relaxation

The area around Bridgwater Docks is ideal for leisurely strolls, particularly along the Bridgwater & Taunton Canal. It's a tranquil spot to unwind, enjoy a picnic, or simply soak in the atmosphere. Consider visiting during a market day for a livelier experience.

Best Times

When
Market Days
Why
Vibrant atmosphere & local goods
Crowd
Medium
When
During Art Installations
Why
Unique visual experiences
Crowd
Medium
When
Sunny Afternoons
Why
Pleasant for canal walks
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

A year has passed since our original visit to Somerset so we thought it was tome to revisit and to see if things were better or worse! #bristol #somerset #yeovil #weston #taunton #bridgwater #uk #travel #crime #houses #turdtowns
@turdtowns
7.6K likes • 124.8K views

🚶‍♀️ Canal Walk Essentials

Wear comfortable shoes for the Bridgwater & Taunton Canal walk; it's a lovely, long stretch. Instagram

📅 Check Market Schedules

Visit on market days for a lively atmosphere and local treats at Bridgwater Docks. Instagram

The Bridgewater Triangle, home of MASSquatch. . #Massachusetts #BridgewaterMA #BridgewaterTriangle #WestBridgewaterMA #TauntonMA #RaynhamMA #DightonMA #BerkleyMA #BrocktonMA #NortonMA #AttleboroMA #SomersetMA #SwanseaMA #FreetownMA #LakevilleMA #MiddleboroMA #AbingtonMA #EastonMA #MassachusettsCheck #MassachusettsTikTok
@wbznewsradio
7.5K likes • 89K views
Yesterday, my brother John and I set off from Bridgwater docks to walk to Taunton along the Bridgwater & Taunton Canal. We started at 9:30 planning to walk 15 miles. It was a stunningly beautiful day, and we stopped to chat with so many people along the way that after nine hours we had only made it to Creech St Michael - still 3 miles from Taunton! We stopped at The Harvest Moon in North Newton fo...
a_hitchhikers_guide_to_life
11 likes • 288 views

🌙 Evening Art Events

Look out for special evening events like the Full Moon market for illuminated art and music. Instagram

📸 Capture the Moon Art

The 'Fallen Moon' installation is a popular photo spot, especially at night. Instagram

Lovely morning down at the Bridgwater docks for the first @bridgwatermarket there. What a lovely location. . . #thewifeandi #local #somerset #fromourstoyours #localfarming #sustainablefarming #ethicaleating #rural #farmlife #specials #pork #lamb #kofta #bridgwaterdocks
thewifeandi_sausageco
7 likes • 178 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Canal Walk Essentials

Wear comfortable shoes for the Bridgwater & Taunton Canal walk; it's a lovely, long stretch. Instagram

📅 Check Market Schedules

Visit on market days for a lively atmosphere and local treats at Bridgwater Docks. Instagram

🌙 Evening Art Events

Look out for special evening events like the Full Moon market for illuminated art and music. Instagram

📸 Capture the Moon Art

The 'Fallen Moon' installation is a popular photo spot, especially at night. Instagram

⚠️ Be Aware of Hazards

While a historic site, some areas of the disused docks can be hazardous; heed warning signs. Reddit

What Travellers Say

3.8
(34 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find Bridgwater Docks to be a place of historical interest and artistic potential, particularly enjoying the scenic canal walks and captivating art installations like the 'Fallen Moon'. While the disused nature of the docks is seen as a shame by some, others appreciate its tranquil atmosphere and the opportunities for photography and relaxation. The lack of amenities directly at the docks is a common point of feedback.

"Nice walk along the old canal to the marina basin which is now disused with a broken lock gate. It's a nice area overlooked by flats not far from the cinema, play park and bowling alley. Could be very nice on a sunny day if they did it up with a cafe or pub!"

Graddy 61

"If you like walking around a dock that time forgot then you're in luck. It's been left to rot which is a real shame as it could be a really charming and historic piece of town. If the council spent more money on presevation and less on warning signs (the whole dock is a hazard by all accounts) then it would be a huge benefit to the town. Preservation should be the motto here, not leaving it to rot. Shame on you Sedgemoor Council."

Jennifer Begley

"Luke Jerram’s ‘Fallen Moon’ at Bridgwater docks 15/10/24. At 10m it's 350,000 times smaller than the real thing. It will be on display at the docks until 03/11/24."

Chris Kinnersley

What People Like

Scenic canal walks
Unique art installations
Tranquil atmosphere

What People Dislike

Disused dock state
Lack of amenities

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Bridgwater Docks is accessible by car, with parking available nearby. It's also a pleasant starting point for walks along the Bridgwater & Taunton Canal, with Taunton being a reachable destination. Instagram

Bridgwater town center, which is close to the docks, has bus and train services. Check local transport schedules for the most up-to-date information.

Yes, cycling is a great way to reach Bridgwater Docks, especially if you're coming from surrounding areas or along the canal paths. Instagram

The 'Bridgwater Triangle' is a local legend referring to an area in Massachusetts, USA, known for alleged paranormal and cryptid sightings, not related to Bridgwater Docks in the UK. TikTok

While specific tours of the docks might be limited, the area itself is rich in industrial history. Walking along the canal offers a glimpse into its past. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Generally, no tickets are required to visit the public areas of Bridgwater Docks. Entry to specific events or art installations may have associated costs. Instagram

The docks are an open area, so you can visit at any time. However, specific market days or event times will have their own operating hours. Instagram

While the docks are free to access, there might be specific event ticketing for installations like the 'Fallen Moon'. It's best to check local event listings. Instagram

As a disused industrial site, there are warning signs about hazards. It's important to be mindful of your surroundings and respect any restricted areas. Reddit

The entrance to the old Bridgwater Docks is visible and can be accessed, offering a glimpse into the site's history. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can enjoy walks along the canal, visit markets, and experience art installations like the 'Fallen Moon'. It's a great spot for relaxation and photography. Instagram+1

Absolutely! The docks offer a unique industrial aesthetic, and art installations like the 'Fallen Moon' provide fantastic photographic opportunities. Instagram

While the docks themselves are largely disused, the surrounding area has amenities like cinemas, play parks, and bowling alleys. Cafes or pubs would enhance the dockside experience. Reddit

It's a large-scale art piece by Luke Jerram, a 10-meter replica of the moon, displayed at Bridgwater Docks, offering a unique visual spectacle. Instagram+1

Yes, you can walk along the Bridgwater & Taunton Canal from Bridgwater Docks to Taunton, a journey of approximately 15 miles. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Currently, there are no dedicated cafes or pubs directly at the disused docks. However, the town center of Bridgwater offers various dining options nearby. Reddit

Yes, the area around the docks and along the canal is suitable for picnics, especially on a sunny day. Reddit

Bridgwater Market often features local produce, artisanal foods, and street food vendors, offering a variety of delicious options. Instagram

There are pubs in Bridgwater town center, a short walk from the docks, where you can enjoy a drink. Reddit

During special events like the Full Moon market, food trucks and vendors are often present, offering diverse culinary choices. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The 'Fallen Moon' installation, the historic dock structures, and the scenic Bridgwater & Taunton Canal are prime photography locations. Instagram

Yes, especially during events like the Full Moon market or when art installations are illuminated, Bridgwater Docks can be very photogenic at night. Instagram

A versatile lens for landscapes and details, and a tripod for low-light or long-exposure shots, would be beneficial. Instagram

Generally, photography for personal use is allowed. For commercial purposes, it's advisable to check with local authorities. Instagram

Golden hour (sunrise/sunset) offers beautiful light for the canal and dock structures. Midday can be good for capturing the scale of installations. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Bridgwater Docks offers a mix of activities that can appeal to families. The 'Fallen Moon' installation provides a visually engaging experience for children, sparking imagination about space. Instagram The nearby play park and cinema offer further entertainment options for younger visitors.

Walking along the Bridgwater & Taunton Canal is also a great family activity. It’s a safe and relatively flat path, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a bike ride. Pack a picnic to enjoy by the water, making it a fun and affordable outing. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Walkers and Nature Enthusiasts

For those who love to walk, Bridgwater Docks is the gateway to the beautiful Bridgwater & Taunton Canal. The 15-mile path offers a rewarding challenge and stunning scenery. Instagram You can choose to walk the entire length or just a section, enjoying the tranquility of the waterway and the surrounding Somerset landscape.

Keep an eye out for local wildlife along the canal. The peaceful environment makes it ideal for birdwatching and enjoying a breath of fresh air. Remember to wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water, especially for longer treks. Instagram

🎨 Art and Culture Aficionados

Bridgwater Docks has become a canvas for contemporary art, most notably with Luke Jerram's 'Fallen Moon' installation. Instagram+1 This offers a unique opportunity to experience large-scale art in an unconventional setting. Check local listings for other temporary exhibitions or events that might be taking place.

Visiting during a market day, like the 'Full Moon market,' provides a chance to engage with local culture, browse artisanal goods, and enjoy live music, adding another layer to the cultural experience at the docks. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History and Decline of Bridgwater Docks

Bridgwater Docks were once a bustling hub of maritime activity, playing a crucial role in the town's economy and history. The docks facilitated trade and transport, connecting Bridgwater to wider networks. However, with the decline of traditional shipping and the rise of road transport, the docks gradually fell into disuse.

The current state of the docks is a mix of disrepair and potential. While some see it as a 'dock that time forgot',Reddit others lament the lack of preservation and investment, suggesting it could be a 'charming and historic piece of town' if revitalized with amenities like cafes or pubs. Reddit The broken lock gate is a stark symbol of its disused status.

Despite its disuse, the docks retain a certain allure, serving as a backdrop for art installations and a starting point for scenic walks. The contrast between its industrial past and its present state offers a unique perspective for visitors interested in local history and urban exploration. Instagram

Art and Events at Bridgwater Docks

Bridgwater Docks has found a new life as a venue for captivating art installations and community events. The expansive, open space provides a unique canvas for artists to showcase their work, drawing visitors and locals alike.

A notable example is Luke Jerram's 'Fallen Moon,' a 10-meter replica of the moon that has transformed the docks into an ethereal landscape. Instagram+2 These installations often create a magical atmosphere, especially during evening events, turning the docks into a destination for cultural experiences. Instagram

Beyond art, the docks host vibrant markets, such as the 'Full Moon market,' which brings together local traders, music, and happy crowds, highlighting the community's engagement with the space. Instagram These events demonstrate how Bridgwater Docks is evolving from a purely industrial site to a dynamic cultural hub.

Exploring the Bridgwater & Taunton Canal

The Bridgwater & Taunton Canal offers a delightful extension to any visit to Bridgwater Docks, providing a peaceful and scenic route for walkers and cyclists. This historic waterway connects the two towns, offering a tranquil escape from urban life.

Walkers can embark on a substantial journey, with the 15-mile stretch from Bridgwater Docks to Taunton being a popular option. Instagram The path is generally well-maintained, though it's advisable to wear comfortable footwear. Along the way, you might encounter fellow walkers and locals, adding a friendly dimension to the experience. Instagram

This canal path is not just about the walk; it's an opportunity to appreciate the surrounding Somerset countryside and reflect on the historical significance of these waterways. It’s a chance to connect with nature and enjoy a slower pace of travel, a stark contrast to the bustling industrial past of the docks themselves.

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