The time has come to indulge in an Afternoon Tea in Bridgwater. This historic market town is located in Somerset, South West England, surrounded by well-wooded countryside and nestled beside the River Parrett. It lies close to the county town of Taunton. However, one needn’t travel too far for the finest Loose Leaf Tea, finger sandwiches, scones and cake via our comprehensive directory.
Exploring the Fascinating History of Bridgwater
One of the earliest records of Bridgwater is in the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle. Legend has it that King Alfred the Great burnt some cakes while hiding in the local marshes after the Danish invasion of 875 CE. The community appeared in the Domesday Book of 1086. During the 13th century, amid the Second Barons’ War, the area was held by the barons fighting against King Henry III.
Bridgewater’s involvement in conflict continued with the Peasants’ Revolt of 1381, whereby its residents murdered tax collectors and destroyed records. It became the birthplace of Admiral Blake in 1598, an important naval commander of the 1600s. The English Civil War saw the town and castle controlled by Royalist forces; they eventually surrendered to Parliamentarians in 1645.
In 1685, the Duke of Monmouth was proclaimed King in Bridgwater during the Monmouth Rebellion, only for his cause to be defeated at the Battle of Sedgemoor. Its next moment in history occurred precisely one hundred years later when Bridgwater became the first British town to petition the government to ban slavery. By the Second World War, Italian prisoners and American soldiers were based here.
Things To Do Before or After an Afternoon Tea in Bridgwater
Those keen to learn more about the town’s significance in British history could venture into the local museum. Avid walkers, meanwhile, could wander about the woods or discover beautiful footpaths.
Once you’ve worked up an appetite, though, you’ll almost certainly desire an Afternoon Tea in Bridgwater. Simply browse our remarkable listings to find the cafe, restaurant or another such venue for you.