Attractions and Places To See around Bawdrip - Top 20

The area around Bawdrip is rich in natural beauty. You can visit the Somerset Levels Wetlands, known for low car traffic routes and opportunities to spot wetland wildlife like egrets and swans. Another excellent choice is the Shapwick Heath National Nature Reserve Trail, a gravel path across the Avalon marshes perfect for walking and cycling, and famous for birdwatching and starling murmurations. Don't miss Shapwick Heath National Nature Reserve itself, a significant wetland with diverse wildlife, including the great white egret. Additionally, the Burrow Mump offers panoramic views from its summit.

Yes, Bawdrip and its surroundings have a rich history. The Burrow Mump is a prominent scheduled monument with a ruined Grade I listed church on its summit, offering a glimpse into the area's past. The village itself is home to the historic Church of St Michael and All Angels, dating largely from the late 13th and early 14th centuries. Archaeological sites around Bawdrip reveal Roman and medieval settlements, and several other listed properties like The Dwarf's House and Chilton Priory add to the historical charm.

The region is ideal for various outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking on trails like the 'Church of St Mary – King's Sedgemoor Drain loop from Bawdrip' or explore the 'King's Sedgemoor Drain loop from Chedzoy'. For more options, check out the hiking routes around Bawdrip. Cyclists will find routes through the Somerset Levels Wetlands, and there are dedicated cycling guides and MTB trails available for the area.

Absolutely. Many of the natural areas are suitable for families. The Shapwick Heath National Nature Reserve Trail and the Somerset Levels Wetlands are both marked as family-friendly, offering easy walks and opportunities for wildlife spotting. For a break, Sweets Tea Rooms is a popular, family-friendly spot. The broader Somerset area also provides numerous options like adventure attractions, children's farms, and indoor play areas.

The Somerset Levels, including areas around Bawdrip, are beautiful year-round. Autumn and winter offer spectacular starling murmurations at places like Shapwick Heath National Nature Reserve Trail. During winter floods, Burrow Mump becomes an 'island,' creating a unique landscape. Spring and summer are ideal for enjoying wildflowers at places like Skylark Meadows Nature Reserve and for general walking and cycling in pleasant weather.

Many routes through the Somerset Levels Wetlands feature pubs and eating places along the way. A highly recommended spot is Sweets Tea Rooms, known for being very accommodating to cyclists and a popular stop for many visitors. It's advisable to check their opening days as they are typically closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

The Shapwick Heath National Nature Reserve Trail is noted for its good surface of fine, hard-packed gravel, making it suitable for cycling and walking. However, be aware that the Shapwick Heath National Nature Reserve has A-frame barriers at both ends of the trail which, while wider than some, may restrict larger bikes or trailers.

Beyond the main highlights, consider visiting Skylark Meadows Nature Reserve, a County Wildlife Site and Plantlife's first nature reserve in Somerset. It's known for its diverse wildflowers, old hedgerows, and traditional pollarded willow trees, providing a haven for birds and butterflies. The King's Sedgemoor Drain also offers unique views of the area's water management landscape.

Visitors particularly appreciate the tranquility and natural beauty of the area. The opportunities for birdwatching, especially the starling murmurations at Shapwick Heath National Nature Reserve Trail, are highly praised. The flat, well-maintained gravel paths are popular for both walking and cycling, and the scenic views from landmarks like Burrow Mump are often highlighted. The community also enjoys the welcoming atmosphere of local eateries like Sweets Tea Rooms.

Yes, Bawdrip has a significant archaeological history. Evidence of settlement dates back to at least the 11th century, with excavations revealing medieval features. Roman remains, including a 'Roman pavement' and foundations of buildings, have been discovered at sites like Churchie Bushes and Crandon Bridge, indicating occupation from the 1st to 4th centuries.

The Shapwick Heath National Nature Reserve Trail and the broader Shapwick Heath National Nature Reserve are prime locations for birdwatching, especially for spotting the great white egret and witnessing starling murmurations. The Somerset Levels Wetlands also provide excellent opportunities to see wetland wildlife, including egrets and swans, along its low-traffic routes.

Bawdrip is situated on the south side of the Polden Hills. While not a specific attraction, these hills offer potential for scenic walks and provide elevated viewpoints of the surrounding Somerset Levels. Exploring the local footpaths and quiet lanes can lead to picturesque vistas across the landscape.