Walk: Somerset Coast - Day 6: Steart to Bridgwater
This is a fantastic opportunity to join walkers on the 80 Miles in Eight Days Challenge for part of their walk.
On the sixth day we leave Steart Marshes on the King Charles III England Coast Path, which joins the River Parrett Trail here, and continue our walk on the banks of the river. The route takes us through Combwich, once an important port for the local brick and tile industry, which now has a new jetty to support the delivery of materials for the construction of Hinkley Point C nuclear power station. As we continue you can look across the river to tomorrow’s section on the Pawlett Hams – the barrage balloon hanger is clearly visible from here, while inland the tower of Cannington Church is also visible.
Drawing closer to Bridgwater we follow the diversion through the site of the Bridgwater Tidal Barrier. Scheduled for completion by 2031, the tidal barrier will reduce the tidal flood risk to 11,300 homes and 1,500 businesses. Working on the river is the jack-up barge Haven SeaSeven, which will enable construction of the cofferdam – an enclosure pumped dry to allow work below the water level to begin. Measuring 30.5m long, 18.3m wide, with a hull depth of over 2m, it will be a dominant feature on the Bridgwater landscape as construction progresses.
In Bridgwater we cross the River Parrett and turn back along its banks to reach Dunball where the day’s walk ends.
Along the entire Challenge route there are stamping stations for the Somerset & Exmoor Coast Trail Passport with maps, diary pages and spaces to collect stamps on your walk.
Look out for events, offers and promotions at the location of the walk each day, some of our supporters are timing activities to make your trip as enjoyable as possible with special treats such as packed lunches or cream teas available at the start or end of your day’s walking.
Due to the challenge nature for some participants of this walk, we have made the decision not to accept dogs on the walk.
