コシントンでの周辺の簡単なハイキングとウォーキング

UPDATE & OPEN; The Chedzoy/Bawdrip section which was closed is now reopened to walkers and bike riders ; Information obtained from Sustran 2/7/25

Bridgwater hasn't got its name for no reason. This thriving town has both the River Parrett and the Bridgwater & Taunton Canal winding through its heart. The canal is particularly lovely, with vibrant banks, old brick bridges and peaceful vistas. At only 14.5 miles (23.3 km) long, the canal links Bridgwater to Taunton and you can walk the entirety. This portion in Bridgwater makes for a lovely stroll and is part of the Samaritans Way South West footpath.

One of the many drains in the Somerset Levels, King's Sedgemoor Drain was originally built in the 18th century. The Levels are a major region of seasonal flooding and the channels were constructed to aid the draining of the area, protecting the low-lying villages and farmland. As you pass this drain at Parchey Bridge, it's easy to see the perfectly straight course of the river.

The termination of the Bridgwater and Taunton Canal, Bridgwater Docks is a floating harbour. In its heyday in the 1800s, it saw thousands of vessels a year. The construction had been done under a mortgage and the company, unable to keep up with payments, sold the canal and docks to a railway company instead. The docks were last used for commercial activity in 1971 and are now operated by council. It’s a pretty area to walk around and you’ll see plenty of narrowboats in the marina.

Gravel section of the NCN route 3 alongside the river.

Nice offroad stretch along the drain. Not one for road bikes though

Great place for a picnic

Surface is a little stoney but fine for riding on.