Clevedon

Clevedon is a picturesque coastal town in North Somerset, situated along the Severn Estuary just a short distance southwest of Bristol. Renowned for its elegant Victorian heritage, the town is most famous for its Grade I listed pier and its scenic rocky shoreline along Ladye Bay and Marine Lake. With a relaxed seaside charm, Clevedon blends historical landmarks like the 14th-century Clevedon Court estate with vibrant independent shops, waterfront cafés, coastal walking trails, and peaceful open spaces.

• Clevedon Pier. Opened in 1869, this elegant pier is Grade I listed and widely considered one of the finest in Britain. A small charge to walk to the end supports its upkeep. Look out for the pagoda at the pier head and the visitor centre at the toll house.
• Marine Lake. A large tidal pool, refilled by the sea at high tide. It is used for open-water swimming, paddleboarding and kayaking, and for paddling in summer. It is run by volunteers.
• Poet's Walk. A short circular path over the headland south of Marine Lake, with views across the estuary to Wales. It is said to have inspired Tennyson and Coleridge, both of whom had connections with the town.
• Ladye Bay. North of the pier, a coastal path leads to this small, rocky cove. Check tide times before you go down to the beach.
• Clevedon Court. A manor house dating from the 14th century, now owned by the National Trust. It has a terraced garden and a collection of Nailsea glass.
• The Curzon. One of the oldest working cinemas in the country, opened in 1912. It shows new releases and classic films in a traditional setting.

Clevedon is great for families (Marine Lake, the pier and Salthouse Fields), walkers (Poet's Walk, Ladye Bay and the coastal path towards Portishead) and even on a rainy day with the Curzon and the cafés along Hill Road.

Clevedon suits people who want the coast and a smaller town, but still need to get to Bristol for work. Junction 20 of the M5 is on the edge of town, so the north fringe and Avonmouth are within easy reach by car. The city centre can be slower at peak times. Bus commuters can reach the centre directly, and some people drive to Yatton for the train. The town has primary and secondary schools, independent shops and a strong community feel.