Watchet

The harbour town of Watchet in Somerset lies within the Exmoor National Park, on the Bristol Channel coast, at the mouth of the Washford River. It is believed that St. Decuman died here around 706; he was one of the Celtic saints who came to Somerset from South Wales during the 7^th century, by raft and with a cow for a companion. Prosperity and development was aided by the harbour that brought with it the prospect of trade and a primitive jetty that was damaged in 1659 was replaced in the early 18^th century by local wool merchants. With the coming of the railways in the 19^th century, Watchet was the termination station for two independent railways that relied on the harbour to ship iron ore across the Bristol Channel in South Wales.

Watchet’s pretty marina and wonderful location, along with ample amenities, shops, eateries and pubs, attracts visitors throughout the year. For those who love the outdoors, there are many lovely walks in beautiful countryside or along the interesting coastline to enjoy and for those looking to explore, there are fossils and museums. The coast at Watchet is the Fossil Coast, a Site of Special Scientific Interest with two key locations for fossil hunting; east of Watchet at Helwell Bay and west of Watchet near West Street Beach. The Market House Museum tells the story of the town, the area and the people with fascinating exhibits and finds from the Fossil beaches whilst the Boat Museum holds a collection of old Flatner boats that were used for a wide variety of purposes.