17+ Things To Do In Watchet – Your Ultimate Must-See Guide!
Introducing Watchet England
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Welcome to Watchet, a small village in the heart of Somerset, England. Our guide on the best things to do in Watchet will help you learn the many wonderful sites and places you can discover in Watchet.
Watchet is a picturesque town with an illustrious maritime history and plenty of opportunities for exploration and relaxation. From its stunning coastlines to charming streets, Watchet is an excellent destination for anyone who enjoys traditional English villages.
Watchet boasts some of the county’s most beautiful views, and its charming harbor has been a safe haven to countless seafarers throughout the centuries. Watchet is also home to some of England’s most fabulous folklore and myths, making it an exciting place to explore. If you’re looking for a peaceful getaway in England near the Bristol Channel, Watchet is a wonderful place to visit.
Arriving in Watchet
If you arrive in Watchet by train or bus, you’ll likely get off in the small harbor town near its seaport. This seaport town boasts over 1,000 years of history and has a tiny population of just under 4,000.
You’ll come face-to-face with its maritime culture as you approach the water. Statues along the way on the Esplanade pay tribute to this history. The Yankee Jack statue pays homage to a mariner named John Short. John Short wrote beloved sea songs among the shantymen and is credited with writing “Shenandoah.”
Watchet is a lovely small village where you can wander for an afternoon and soak up its maritime legacy. Sitting on the England Coast Path, there is access to relaxing walks along the cliffs.
Let’s learn what you can explore, see, and do in Watchet, England.
The Best Things To Do in Watchet
Upon our arrival in Watchet, we came upon this sign which described the Watchet Heritage Trail. This is a great place to start understanding what to see and do in Watchet. You can easily visit the sites on the Watchet Heritage Trail in a single day.
1. Watchet Lighthouse
This red hexagonal Watchet Lighthouse sits at the entrance to the village harbor. It was built in 1862 on the end of the west breakwater. The oil lamp sits in a white lantern with a green lens that emits green light every three seconds, visible for up to nine miles out into the Bristol Channel. The fixed green luminaire marks the starboard approach to the marina. Sitting on top of the 6.7-meter tower is an ornate weather vane.
For many years, the Watchet harbor accommodated ships up to 500 tons. Shipping trade continued here through the mid-1960s, and ultimately, the harbor was decommissioned in 1999 for commercial use.
2. Watchet Community Library
The Watchet Community Library is housed in an old lifeboard building. It was initially gifted to the town’s people by Leonard Laity Stoate in 1951.
Address: 11 The Esplanade, Watchet TA23 0AJ, United Kingdom
3. Methodist Church
The Watchet Methodist Church is a Grade II listed building. It was built in 1871 in the style of Somerset Methodist churches of the 19th-century era. The construction is in red sandstone and ham stone ashlar dressings to windows, porches, and buttresses.
Address: Harbour Road, Watchet, Somerset, TA23 0AQ
4. Watchet Boat Museum
Fans of maritime history will enjoy touring the small but informative Watchet Boat Museum. Established in 1997, the museum aims to conserve the history of the local maritime heritage.
The museum building is an 1862 Victorian structure, formerly a railway goods shed for the Watchet Railway Station. Today, the building holds a fine collection of maritime artifacts, charts, and photographs. You can view knot exhibits and maps used by boaters. A mudhorse is displayed to show how the wooden piece is used over mudflats to collect fish from nets in the water.
The specialty items in the museum are its collection of flat-bottomed boats. Its collection includes a shallow draft Flatner (a double-ended boat without a keel).
Volunteers run the museum, and the entrance is free.
We recommend 30 minutes for a visit to the Watchet Boat Museum.
5. Watchet Railway Station
The single-platform Watchet Station of the West Somerset Railway offers a picturesque stop in Watchet for people arriving at the small marina town. This was the original terminus of the West Somerset Railway upon its opening in 1862.
The Friends of Watchet Station volunteer group tends to the building and gardens. Visitors can find snacks, drinks, gifts, and model railway items at the station. A small ‘Lamp Room’ depicts how the Station Master’s office likely looked in the 1930s.
The West Somerset Railway line provides transport on historic steam locomotives, coaches, and wagons on a 20-mile scenic journey through the Somerset countryside. We rode this heritage railway line from Dunster to Bishops Lydeard and found the ride pleasant and enjoyable.
A car park is located adjacent to the station. Be sure to thank the volunteers who maintain the station and railway, as it likely wouldn’t exist without their efforts and commitment.
Read more about the West Somerset Railway
6. Council Office and Coronation Clock
The Grade II listed Council Office has a special place in Watchet history as it was here that town representatives, in the early 20th century, saved the town from near ruin.
The town harbor was destroyed just after Christmas by the Great Storm of 1900, bringing destruction to the livelihood of the town mariners. A sum of nearly 25,000 pounds was needed to rebuild the harbor. To the rescue, a newly formed urban district council provided the means to borrow the necessary funds. Ultimately, the harbor was rebuilt with the efforts of representatives who worked out solutions in the council chambers.
The Coronation Clock above the Court House was paid for by public subscription. Instead of numerals, the clock bears the inscription Elizabeth II.
7. Packhorse Bridge and Thatched Cottages
Walking along Anchor Street, you’ll come upon the Packhorse Bridge. It stands alongside a row of 17th-century thatched cottages (Numbers 7,8 and 9 on Mill Street). The cottages likely date back to the late 17th century.
8. Manor Mill and Pond
Crossing the small stone bridge and making a right at the Washford River, you’ll come upon the Manor Mill and Mill Pond.
9. Yankee Jack’s Cottage
Turning right on Market Street, one of the tiny homes was once the cottage of John Short, aka Yankee Jack.
John Short was born in Watchet in 1839 and left a legacy as the most famous of sailors and shantymen from Watchet. He ran the blockade during the American Civil War and is credited with writing the song “Shenandoah.” A memorial plaque hangs on the front of his former cottage on Market Street.
A statue commemorating Yankee Jack was unveiled on the Watchet Esplanade in 2008. The iconic Yankee Jack statue is one of the must-stops for a photo in Watchet.
10. Market House Museum
At the Esplanade and Market Street meeting point sits the Watchet Market House Museum. The museum occupies the ground floor of Watchet’s former Market House, which was constructed in 1820 and is a Grade II listed building.
Inside, the museum features a wonderful collection of maritime and historical artifacts. The engaging small museum wonderfully explores Watchet’s history. A focal point of its collection is the nautical and maritime history of the port.
Additional artifacts explore archaeology, coins, natural science, social history, and transportation history.
We particularly enjoyed viewing a fossil from the local area dating back 145 million years!
The entrance is free.
Recommended time to visit: 1 to 2 hours.
Address: 32 Swain St, Watchet TA23 0AD, United Kingdom
11. Watchet Foundry
The old foundry is located on Swain Street in Watchet. Harkening back to the 19th century, there is no longer any foundry work in this location.
12. Derek The Goose Statue
A much-loved Somerset goose has been memorialized with a statue in Watchet harbor. Funded by donations, the female goose was regularly fed by local boaters at the marina and would make a ruckus when not fed on time.
The local goose celebrity ultimately disappeared. Her fame increased when the Goose Island Beer Company named an IPA after her.
Local artist Chris Phillingham designed the sculpture for the goose that became part of Watchet’s history.
The sculpture was unveiled on October 2, 2022.
13. West Pier
The pier is a wonderful place from which to view the harbor. On clear days, you can see the Welsh mountains on the other side of the Bristol Channel.
14. East Quay
The East Quay is a contemporary arts center in Watchet. Visitors can explore artists’ studios and galleries and participate in events and workshops. This recent addition in Watchet is an inspiring area that will delight art lovers.
There is a restaurant where visitors can enjoy cake and coffee.
Entrance into the galleries is free.
15. Ancient Mariner Statue
On the Esplanade, you’ll see the iconic Ancient Mariner Statue. Providing tribute to
Samuel Taylor Coleridge, the poet gained, found inspiration here to write his famous poem The Rime of the Ancient Mariner.
It’s a nice place to stop and take a photo. Adjacent to the statue is a nice walking area with seats and a place to buy ice cream.
And before your trip, you might want to read this famous book – The Rime of the Ancient Mariner.
16. St. Decuman Church
The walk to St. Decuman Church will take you toward the modest city hilltop. We enjoyed the greenery, and berry bushes lined the narrow walking path toward the church.
The church grounds include a cemetery complete with ancient gravestones, many of which are not legible today following the effects of weather over the centuries.
The church interior has splendid stained glass windows, the oldest of which dates back to 1273. The tile floor is believed to date back to the 13th century. The roof is lined with carved wooden angels.
Travel tip: If you want to see the interior of St. Decuman church, we recommend contacting the church before your visit to be sure the doors will be open.
The Legend of Saint Decuman
In the late 7th century, this Welsh saint came across the channel in a skin boat to bring the faith to the Saxons in Watchet. All went well, but then disharmony broke out, and Decuman was beheaded. But being a saint, he bathed his wounds, replaced his head, and then returned to Wales to do good work. August 27th is the annual feast day celebrating this saint.
17. Watchet Radio Museum
The Radio Museum in Watchet showcases the story of radio and broadcasting in Britain since the 1920s. Housed in the old Anchor Inn, the museum houses a vast collection of radio and broadcasting artifacts. Early broadcasting equipment, microphones, radios, record players, and televisions can be seen.
A unique archive of literature and photographs is available for visitors interested in researching the world of radio and broadcasting.
Curated by Neil Wilson over 40 years, this museum is a gem and a special stop in Watchet.
Address: 5 Anchor Street
Call for an appointment to visit: Telephone:- 01984 639 154
Things To Do Near Watchet
Tropiquaria Zoo
Just two miles south of Watchet is the Tropiquaria Zoo in Washford. It houses a Tropical Hall, Nocturnal House, and Aquarium. The grounds have 4 acres of animal enclosures. There are 40 tanks in the aquarium housing various fish and amphibians, including the 2nd largest breeding program in the world of Mexican Goodeids.
This small zoo is a beautiful place for children. There are ample places to play, including a big pirate ship, adventure castle, and dedicated play area beside the café.
Recommended time to visit: 2.5 hours
Cleeve Abbey
Three miles southwest of Watchet is Cleeve Abbey. This medieval monastery is a Grade I listed building from the late 12th century. Its 350-year monastic history includes a legacy of housing for monks of the Cistercian order.
Henry VIII ordered the closure of Cleeve Abbey in 1536, upon which it was converted into a country house. Today, the abbey grounds are cared for by English Heritage and open for public viewing.
Cleeve Abbey is among the best-preserved monastic cloister sites in England. There is no church on the grounds, though there are related buildings with roofs, including a gatehouse and 15th-century refectory.
Visitors can learn about ancient abbey life through an exhibition with touch screens that provide a virtual tour.
Recommended time to visit: 2 hours
Doniford Farm Park
1.5 miles east of Watchet is Doniford Farm Park. This family-run business is open seven days a week and is an excellent place for families to enjoy rural Somerset. The entrance is free to explore the farm park and look at the animals.
Where to eat in Watchet
Here are the top-rated restaurants in Watchet:
Pebbles Tavern – A little quirky, a whole lot friendly. You’l find a good selection of drinkgs and often live music available too.
The Spice Merchant – Serving Indian, Asian, Balti, and Bangladeshi cuisine.
The London Inn – This was our choice when we had lunch in Watchet. . The ambiance was quiet as we were the only diners. We enjoyed the vegetarian entrees, including veggie sausages and veggie lasagna. Afterward, nourished by our meal, we had energy for our next walking adventure. Stepping out of the restaurant, we admired the view of the Bristol Channel and stepped momentarily onto Watchet’s shores.
Where To Stay in Watchet
We recommend these top-rated lodging options near Watchet if you’re heading to Somerset.
Steps Farmhouse: Steps Farmhouse is located in Minehead. Cleeve Abbey and Dunster Castle are local landmarks. Fishing offers a great chance to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with horse riding, hiking/biking trails, and mountain biking nearby.
Check rates and availability at Steps Farmhouse
The Notley Arms Inn: Located in Taunton, The Notley Arms Inn is near the local landmarks of Combe Sydenham Hall and Nettlecombe Court. Sailing offers a great chance to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with rock climbing and mountain biking nearby.
Check rates and availability at The Notley Arms Inn
Exmoor House: We can vouch first hand for this wonderful location. Located in Dunster, it is within walking distance of Dunster Castle. Exploring Exmoor National Park provides opportunities to visit the beauty of the natural landscape.
Check rates and availability at Exmoor House
Watchet Facts and Figures
County: Somerset
Population: 3,785
Average age: 44
Median age: 47
Percent of Watchet population born in England: 93.5%
Percent of Watchet population who speak English: 99.4%
Married: 48.2%
Religion: 63.9% Christian
A Brief History of Watchet
Watchet has been inhabited since at least the Iron Age, with evidence of a fort built on the town’s hilltop. The history of Watchet is intimately linked with its maritime history, as seafarers have used the nearby port for centuries.
In Saxon times, Watchet was an important trading hub for goods from Europe and Ireland. In medieval times, Watchet became known as a fishing port and market town, and its population grew steadily over the following centuries. By 1831, Watchet had become an important harbor for cargo ships and passenger vessels traveling to Wales and America.
Throughout history, Watchet’s maritime location has been both a blessing and a curse; when storms hit the coast, ships were sometimes wrecked on rocks near Watchet. However, the village also benefitted from an influx of new residents looking for employment in the many shipping-related industries.
Today, Watchet remains a charming coastal town with plenty of history and character. The harbor is still home to fishing vessels and pleasure craft, while nearby beaches are popular places to relax and enjoy the scenery. With its quaint streets, charming harbor, and maritime history, Watchet is a delightful destination in England’s West Country.
Watchet Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Does Watchet Have a Beach?
Watchet has two beaches. East of the harbor is Helwell Bay. This beach area is an excellent place to look for fossils. The second beach, West Street Beach, is nice to explore rock formations, rock pools, and an old boating lake. Bird watchers can sometimes spot Peregrine Falcons, Egrets, and Oyster Catchers here.
Is Watchet Nice To Visit?
Watchet is a wonderful place to visit, especially for tourists who enjoy small quaint towns with a splash of history. This friendly harbor town on Somerset’s West coast provides views to the north across the Bristol Channel to Wales.
The town boasts several independent shops where visitors can shop for antiques, crafts, and gifts. The East Quay offers shopping and browsing for art lovers among several galleries and artist studios.
When is the best time to visit Watchet?
Based on tourism scoring, the best time of year to visit Watchet for warmer weather activities is from late June to early September.
Where is Watchet England?
Watchet is located in the county of Somerset, South West England. It is about seven miles east of the town of Minehead, 22 miles south of Cardiff, and 140 miles west of London.
How to get to Watchet?
Visitors can get to Watchet, England, by various transportation options, including car, bus, and train. Watchet is located in southwest England on the northern coast of Somerset.
Car: Driving is the cheapest way to get from London to Watchet. The journey takes about 3 hours, and Watchet is best reached from the main A39 west of Bridgwater.
Train: The fastest way to get to Watchet from London is by train. This journey takes about 2 hours.
Bus: Another option is to travel by bus – the journey from London’s Hammersmith Station to Watchet takes roughly 5 hours
Sometimes a combination of transportation options is another way to arrive in Watchet. For our travel, we were coming to Watchet from Cardiff, Wales. So, our transportation included a train from Cardiff to Taunton. From Taunton, we boarded a bus that took us to Watchet.
Books about Watchet
We like to learn about the places we visit by reading books. If you’re heading to Somerset, here are a few we recommend about Watchet.
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Visit the Watchet Visitor Center
Start your visit to Watchet with a stop at the Watchet Visitor Centre. You can get information on walking tours and get the latest information during your time in the town.
Address:
Watchet Visitor Centre, Harbour Road, Watchet, Somerset, TA23 0NA
Watchet – Know Before You Go
- ✈️ Airport: Cardiff Airport (code: CWL)
- ⏰ Time Zone: Greenwich Mean Time (GMT)
- 💰 Currency: Pound Sterling (£GBP)
- 🗣 Language: English
- 🔌 Electricity Socket: For the United Kingdom, the associated plug type is G, which is the plug that has three rectangular pins in a triangular pattern. The United Kingdom operates on a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz. Use this universal travel adaptor.
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