Bridgwater is one of the more industrial towns of Somerset. Located near the Somerset Levels and the Mendip hills, the town lies on the River Parrett. The name is possibly derived from the old word Brigg for Quay. Bridgwater has a strong history as a river port importing coal from Wales and for transporting Hamstone a golden coloured limestone from Ham Hill. In the 19th Century it became a centre for the manufacture of clay tiles and bricks and this is personified By St Marys Church. The Somerset Brick and Tile Museum is located on a former brick manufacturing site.
The Bridgewater area has seen many historic events including the battle of Sedgemoor that ended the 1685 Duke of Monmouth rebellion. One of the oldest buildings in Bridgwater from the 15-16th Century is the Blake Museum, birthplace of the important military commander Robert Blake whose statue is also in a prominent position in the town centre.
Although like many other towns Bridgwater has lost some of its industrial base, it is still an interesting town to visit and a good base for some of the other Somerset attractions.
