|
Fossil
Coast
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 allong 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 Wachet 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 conviently close to the town centre. The railway which attracts
200,000 visitors a year is highly reccomended 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 Naitonal 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. Read
more...
|
|
| |
|
|
|
Snowdrop
Valley
Each spring a valley in Exmoor erupts 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 |
|
