2009 has brought some unexpected events, swine flu, MJ’s death and a new phenomenon in holidaying – ‘staycationing‘. Seaside towns countrywide are seeing an increase in visitors as more of those suffering the effects of the economic crisis are preferring to enjoy a traditional British holiday than opting for travelling abroad.
We take a look at the classic seaside resort of Weston-super-Mare and delight in its unexpected pleasures.
Weston-super-Mare
Since the Victorians took a fancy to dipping their toes in the muddy English channel, Weston-super-Mare has been a peculiarly popular seaside resort.
Weston (as the locals call it) boasts the second highest tidal range in the world meaning you should feel lucky if the sea makes an appearance during your trip to the beach, otherwise miles of mud will offer the opportunity for a free spa session with some of the west country’s finest brown stuff.
Whilst it’s hey day is undoubtedly behind it there is still fun to be had, even if only under the banner of irony as you stroll down the promenade sporting a kiss me quick hat.
Weston boasts more than it’s fair share of star dust with notable residents including Jill Dando (deceased), Jeffery Archer (perjurer) and John Cleese (national treasure)
Things to see
The Grand Pier
Disaster struck Weston’s greatest tourist attraction last year when the Grand Pier burnt to the ground in spectacular fashion.
The structure is till open to the public and a hastily opened Pier Fire exhibition goes some way to replacing the burnt amusements that sent tonnes of molten pennies falling into the sea.
The Silica
The Silica is a piece of public art that serves a baffling number of uses including advertising sign, retail kiosk, and bus shelter.
Whilst local debate rages over it’s aesthetic merits the Silica will act as useful meeting point during your stay as you tell your friends to “meet your by the carrot” before buying more rude post cards.
Dolphin Square Market
Walking through the doors of Dolphin Square will assault your senses with a most distracting smell, as you wander around the racks of VHS videos and BB guns you will find Weston’s largest retailer of unidentifiable meaty dog chews. The smell is truly unbelievable and worth a visit to the town in itself.
T4 on the Beach
You’ve just missed it this year but Weston’s annual musical knees-up is great if you’re a hormone mad teenager. But with some genuinely big pop acts visiting the town every year it beats riding the donkeys.
Places to camp
West End Farm
A small, family run site just a couple of miles from the town centre. One of the few sites located around the town itself, West End Farm specialises in families and couples.
The facilities are a little basic but the site is well maintained and is attractive if you’re looking for something more relaxed than the big sites in Brean
Dulhorn Farm Holiday Park
Also family focused, Dulhorn Farm is set on a working farm. A good location for walking and mountain biking with the Mendips just on the doorstep.
As a base for visiting Weston it’s a little far out but that could be viewed as a benefit…
Further reading
If Weston doesn’t tickle your fancy there are plenty of genuinely nice seaside resorts in Britain, with a fascinating history attached.
