20 October 2012

A first visit to this north Somerset coastal town for me.

The marina. The digger on the barge was removing mud deposits. I imagine this is a regular activity to keep the marina usable.

On the Esplanade a statue of the Ancient Mariner.  The statue was unveiled in September 2003, as a tribute to Samuel Taylor Coleridge. The sculptor was Alan B Herriot of Penicuik, Scotland. Coleridge lived in the nearby village of Nether Stowey, about 10 miles from this statue. In 1797, while on a walking tour, Coleridge visited Watchet. On seeing the harbour, it is believed he was inspired to compose The Rime of the Ancient Mariner. 
Ah! well a-day! what evil looks had I from old and young!
Instead of the cross, the Albatross about my neck was hung.

The town museum.

The Esplanade.

Low tide and the view up the Bristol Channel with Steep Holm and Weston visible in the distance.

From the beach looking west towards Minehead.

The harbour entrance.

Looking across the channel towards Barry Island in South Wales.

I think in this shot you an see exposed rock strata with the tide out.

The small lighthouse on the harbour wall. The lighthouse is about 150 years old and it is constructed from cast iron.

Bold colours in contrast.

Back on the Esplanade and an interesting sky.

Just as we were about to leave this steam train arrived in the station.

Departing for Bishops Lydeard. The West Somerset railway runs 20 miles from Bishops Lydeard through Watchet and on to Minehead.

October 2015

A short stop in Watchet on a trip on the West Somerset Railway.

Arriving on the train.

Watchet Harbour.

The Ancient Mariner. See above for more information.

Erlestoke Manor about to head of to Bishops Lydeard.

A closer view.

I could not resist a picture of the fore box.

The old ticket office.

Our train for the next leg to Minehead.