Fossil Coast - SSSI Guide
There are two key locations for fossil hunting near Watchet, East of Watchet mariner, beyond splash point you come to Helwell bay or
West of Watchet Mariner near West Street beach. Ammonites, bi valves and "Devils toe nails" are all to be found here along with rock samples of quartz alabaster. Displays of finds can be seen at the Geological Wall on the Platform of Watchet Train Station. The Market House Museum also displays some finds. Beach combing is also popular. The tidal range at Watchet is second only to Bay of Fundy in Nova Scotia. And as a consequence, the beach is continually refreshed.
Fossil maps are available from the visitor centre.   Read more:-

 

Watchet Museums
Watchet has two small but fascinating museums. The Market house museum goes through the fascinating history of this small trading port. It also includes finds from the Fossil beaches. The Boat museum holds a collection of old Flatner boats. These flat bottomed boats had no keel and were used for a wide variety of purposes. Admission to both museums is free but donations are very welcome to help these volunteer run organisations.   Read more:-

 

West Somerset Railway
The West Somerset Railway is 20 miles of preserved steam railway. Miles of beautiful countryside are passed by the line which stretches from Bishops Lydeard to the coastal town of Minehead. The West Somerset Railway designed by Ismbard Kingdom Brunel but he died before he saw the project completed. Watchet is one of 10 stations along the West Somerset Railway which is convientley close to the town centre. The railway which attracts 200,000 visitors a year is highly reccommended part of any trip to the area. You'll be charmed by the relaxed pace of the trains through beautiful surroundings.  Read more:-

 
Exmoor National Park
Exmoor National Park is 267 square miles of rural bliss. Ancient oak woodlands in deep valleys. Sweeping moorland with stunning views. Exmoor has incredible rugged coastline including the highest sea cliffs in England. Exmoor National Park contains a host of activities for all tastes and interests. Exmoor also has a vibrant cultural event packed calendar.Exmoor National park was formed in 1954. The park is run by the Exmoor National Park Authority - To conserve and enhance the natural beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage of the National Park; and - To promote opportunities for the understanding and enjoyment of the special qualities of the Park by the public.  

 
     

Snowdrop Valley
Each spring a valley in Exmoor errupts in a blaze of white snowdrops. A pleasant walk will take you up and down the valley which is accessible directly from Wheddon Cross or via a park and ride scheme that operates. This is just one example of the beauty of the region. Events like this happen throughout the year. Hedgerows splashed with waves of colour from primroses, foxgloves and a host of other wild plants. You could visit the gardens at Dunster, Hestercombe, Marwood, Barlington, Nightshayes, or Arlington.

     

Coleridge Way

Generally level walking to Monksilver, then a strenuous one mile climb up Bird's Hill that can be muddy. Thereafter, downhill to Sticklepath followed by a fairly level walk above the Roadwater Valley to Roadwater village. For more details on the route through Watchet click here or to download and print the file click here or to visit the Coleridge Way website click here