Watchet Cottages with Hot Tubs

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Watchet Guide

Watchet's cottages with hot tubs offer a brilliant base for exploring this historic Somerset harbour town. The area combines maritime heritage with stunning West Somerset countryside, making it perfect for couples and families alike.

Top attractions include the Watchet Harbour Marina (4.5/5 on TripAdvisor), the ancient fossil-rich beaches and the West Somerset Railway - England's longest heritage railway. The town has strong literary connections too - Samuel Taylor Coleridge's famous poem "The Rime of the Ancient Mariner" was inspired by Watchet's harbour.

Cottage stays here range from cosy fishermen's cottages to larger converted barns with hot tubs. Many properties welcome dogs and some offer spectacular views across the Bristol Channel to Wales. The hot tubs are a massive bonus after long coastal walks!

For groups, several properties can accommodate 6+ guests, while couples might prefer the smaller harbourside options. Most cottages come fully equipped with modern amenities while retaining traditional Somerset character.

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Sightseeing

Watchet packs loads into a small area. The town's maritime history is everywhere - start at the Harbour Marina (TA23 0AQ) which has been transformed from a commercial dock into a lovely modern marina. It's open 24/7 and free to wander around.

The Watchet Market House Museum (4.5/5 on TripAdvisor) tells the town's fascinating story. It's open April-October, 10:30am-4:30pm and has free entry though donations help keep it running.

The West Somerset Railway (TA23 0HP, 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor) is a must. This heritage steam railway runs through 20 miles of stunning countryside between Watchet and Minehead. Trains run most days between April and October, with weekend services in winter.

Cleeve Abbey (TA23 0PS, 4/5 on TripAdvisor) is just 2 miles away. This medieval monastery has some of England's best preserved monastic buildings. Open April-October, 10am-5pm, admission around £8 for adults.

Dunster Castle (TA24 6SL, 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor) is a 15-minute drive and offers 1000 years of history plus amazing gardens. Open daily 10am-5pm, National Trust members get in free.

Pet Friendly

Dogs love Watchet! The beaches have seasonal restrictions but Helwell Bay allows dogs year-round. I've seen loads of happy pooches splashing in the shallows there.

The Pebbles Tavern (TA23 0AE) welcomes dogs inside and out, serving great local ales. The Star Inn (TA23 0AH) is another dog-friendly pub with a decent beer garden.

Watchet's section of the West Somerset Coast Path offers fantastic walks. The route to Blue Anchor Bay takes about an hour each way on mostly flat terrain - perfect for dogs of all fitness levels.

Many local shops keep water bowls outside and the Tourist Information Centre (TA23 0AQ) can provide details of nearby vets. After a day exploring, your dog will appreciate snoozing while you enjoy that hot tub!

Top 3 attractions you have to see in Watchet

The Ancient Mariner Statue (TA23 0AQ) stands proudly on the harbour and commemorates Coleridge's famous poem. The 9ft bronze was created by sculptor Alan Herriot in 2003. What's great about this spot is the view across the harbour - especially at sunset. One visitor noted: "You can almost feel the history as you stand there looking out to sea."

Daws Castle (TA23 0JR) sits on the cliffs just west of town. These Saxon shore fort remains date from around 878 AD when Alfred the Great built defences against Viking raids. It's free to visit and the views across the Bristol Channel to Wales are spectacular. The walk there along the coast path takes about 20 minutes from the harbour.

The Boat Museum (TA23 0AQ) houses the flatner 'Vera' - the last remaining example of a traditional Somerset fishing boat. Open April-October, 10:30am-4:30pm with free entry. The volunteer guides really know their stuff. One TripAdvisor reviewer wrote: "Fascinating insight into local fishing traditions that I knew nothing about before visiting."

Is Watchet good for fossil hunting?

Yes! The beaches around Watchet are part of the Jurassic Coast and famous for fossils. Helwell Bay is best, especially after storms. Look for ammonites and reptile remains in the blue-grey limestone. The Market House Museum has a fossil display showing what to look for.

Where's the best place to eat in Watchet?

The Spice Merchant (TA23 0AE) gets consistently high ratings for its Indian cuisine. For something traditional, try Pebbles Tavern (TA23 0AE) for local ales and simple but tasty food. The Harbour Cafe (TA23 0AQ) does excellent breakfasts with harbour views.

Can you swim at Watchet beach?

Swimming isn't recommended at Watchet's main beach due to strong currents and the busy harbour. Head to Blue Anchor Bay (5 minutes by car) or Dunster Beach (15 minutes) for safer swimming.

Is Watchet suitable for children?

Absolutely! Kids love the steam trains, fossil hunting and boat watching. The Watchet Community Cinema (TA23 0AH) shows family films regularly and there's a good playground near the marina.

How far is Exmoor National Park from Watchet?

The northern edge of Exmoor is just 5 miles south of Watchet. Dunkery Beacon, the highest point, is about 30 minutes by car. The park offers amazing walking, wildlife spotting and stargazing under some of England's darkest skies.

When is the Watchet Music Festival?

The festival happens annually on the August Bank Holiday weekend at the Memorial Ground (TA23 0AN). It's a family-friendly event with three stages and camping options. Book well ahead as local accommodation (including hot tub cottages) fills up quickly!

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