Bridgwater Carnival returns this weekend, drawing over 100,000 spectators from across the West Country, the UK, and beyond. The world-famous Guy Fawkes Carnival will light up the town as illuminated carts traverse a 1.7-mile route, creating a spectacular two-hour procession.
The parade begins at 6pm on Bath Road and progresses through key locations including the Cross Rifles Roundabout, Monmouth Street, Broadway, Taunton Road junction, St Mary’s Street, Cornhill, High Street, Penel Orlieu, Mount Street, and finally Northgate.
The carnival route remains unchanged, giving attendees plenty of opportunity to pick their ideal viewing spot alongside family and friends.
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For newcomers or those seeking fresh perspectives, here are some of the best locations to watch the vibrant carts and lively performers.
To ensure a prime viewing experience, it’s essential to arrive early to beat the crowds and claim front-row positions.
Around 6:25pm, the procession will pass near the Cross Rifles Roundabout onto Monmouth Street. Standing opposite the roundabout near Cannon Close and Polden Street offers an excellent vantage point to spot the carts as they approach from a distance. Please be respectful of the residents in this quiet neighborhood.
From Monmouth Street stretching down to Broadway offers a long, open view of multiple carts moving together. Being just a five-minute walk from the town center, this spot allows viewers to comfortably move onward to High Street in time to catch the famous squibbing displays.
Carnival organizers advise that the stretch between the Lime Kiln pub and Taunton Road junction is a rest area, and visitors should avoid standing there because of high fences obscuring the view.
Carts will emerge onto St Mary’s Street shortly after 7:15pm and curve around Cornhill. Spectators standing roadside here can enjoy close-up views of the illuminated carts accompanied by dancing, singing performers, all within the bustling town center—the perfect spot to catch the squibbing without a long walk.
By approximately 7:25pm, the procession will move down High Street toward Penel Orlieu. High Street’s straight, 0.3-mile path offers a stunning line of sight, allowing views of the brightly lit carts from afar and close-up encounters with performers as they pass. This location is arguably the best for enjoying the mesmerizing squibbing display, which typically starts 15 to 20 minutes after the main parade concludes. Due to its popularity, it’s advisable to arrive several hours early to reserve your ideal spot.
One of the prime vantage points lies near the Penel Orlieu junction, where carts turn right onto Market Street around 7:30pm. Here, spectators enjoy nearly 180 degrees of panoramic views as the procession winds through High Street, around the Penel Orlieu roundabout, and down Mount Street. Expect to arrive early, as the first carts appear around this time, giving ample wait to enjoy the spectacle.
Standing near the Market Street car park provides excellent side views of the carts and performers. However, parking will be limited, with the lot likely full throughout Saturday, so plan accordingly.
Opposite Market Street car park near Scott Cinemas is a less crowded option, where visitors can watch the procession around 7:35pm. This area offers more room to move and a relaxed atmosphere but lacks the squibbing display. Following the procession as it heads toward Northgate Street is another alternative, though to witness the fireworks and squibbing, returning to High Street is recommended.
With a variety of viewing spots and vibrant performances lighting up Bridgwater, the carnival promises an unforgettable night—just remember, early arrival is key to enjoying the best views of this luminous tradition.