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West Somerset

West Somerset is a historic district located in Somerset County, England. It has a rich history that dates back to the prehistoric era, with evidence of Bronze Age settlements and burial mounds found in the area. During the Roman occupation, West Somerset was an important center for lead mining and agriculture. The district played a significant role in the English Civil War, with the Battle of Langport fought nearby in 1645. West Somerset is also known for its maritime heritage, with the town of Watchet serving as a port for the transportation of goods and people throughout the region. Today, West Somerset is home to a number of historic landmarks and attractions, including the medieval Dunster Castle, the West Somerset Railway, and the Iron Age hill fort at Cleeve Abbey.

Compiled by Sally Bainbridge on behalf of Minehead Conservation Society.

Minehead West Somerset Races

Minehead & West Somerset Races

When I told the person in Morton’s Sandwich Bar in Oxford who used to make up my working lunch time sandwich, that I was returning to the West Country to

Memories of Holnicote and its history

Memories of Holnicote and its history

Trinity Mirror / Mirrorpix / Alamy Stock Photo   Photographer: Mirrorpix British born children of US African American servicemen stationed in thr U K during WW2 seen here playing in the grounds of Holnicote House

Allerford Chalking up 200 years

Allerford: Chalking up 200 years

200 years ago a new school was opened on July 9th 1821 in the village of Allerford thanks to the patronage of Sir Thomas Dyke Acland 10th Baronet. It was

Silver Jubilee Celebrations Minehead

Silver Jubilee Celebrations – Minehead

Minehead enjoyed a day to remember when it celebrated the Silver Jubilee of King George V and Queen Mary on May 6th 1935. These celebrations were organised by The Entertainments

Periton Mead Minehead

Periton Mead – Minehead

Sadly, many people were unaware of this Minehead Country House tucked away from sight in 3.6 acres of grounds, until they read about the recent fire that took place there.

Smuggling in Minehead

Smuggling in Minehead

The first reports of smuggling in England related to illegal exports rather than imports. Smuggling is by nature a secretive activity and it is only when a smuggler is caught

Evacuee Memories

Evacuee Memories

During the War Minehead became home to a large number of evacuees from war torn areas. Some 468 children accompanied by 46 teachers and helpers arrived 2 days before War

Spirit of Christmas

Spirit of Christmas

An annual Christmas Stock Show and Sale was established in Dunster in 1835. It joined with the Roots Fair on Waglands, a field between Conygar and The Ball. The Meat

From Bricks to Butlins

From Bricks to Butlins

The other day someone said to me ‘Fancy Butlins being built on what must have been beautiful unspoilt countryside.’  Well, that is not entirely true, as seven acres of the

A right royal sport

A right royal sport

Most people are probably aware that the game of Polo was played on Dunster Lawns below Dunster Castle but may not realise how widespread and popular the game was until

A modern building for Minehead

A modern building for Minehead

The Directors of the newly built amusement centre promoted it with these words: ’It will immediately recommend itself to the amusement patrons of Minehead and District. It is the first

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