Nestled close to Somerset’s border, Bridport is a charming seaside town that offers the perfect destination for a day trip or a relaxing getaway. Known as ‘Dorset’s eventful town,’ Bridport is alive with culture, stunning scenery, and a warm community atmosphere.
One of the town’s highlights is The Watch House Cafe, a beach bar recently recognized by Conde Nast Traveller as one of the UK’s best beach bars. Visitors rave about its wonderful beachside setting and delicious offerings, especially the excellent fish tacos. Whether you’re sipping a £9.50 cocktail or enjoying a £5.95 ‘Mermaid’s Kiss’ mocktail, it’s an ideal place to unwind on a summer evening.
Bridport also boasts vibrant shopping streets filled with unique boutiques, alongside thriving entertainment venues such as the Art Deco Electric Palace cinema, the Bridport Arts Centre, and The Lyric theatre. The annual Bridport Literary Festival adds an enriching cultural dimension to the town’s lively scene.
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Nature lovers can enjoy breathtaking coastal walks in nearby West Bay and Burton Bradstock, known for their dramatic sandstone cliffs and peaceful pebbly beaches.
When hunger strikes, Bridport offers an impressive range of dining choices. Dorshi, a Michelin-listed East Asian diner, and the Red Brick Cafe, famous for its vegetarian dishes, are definite favorites. For a quirky dining experience, The Station Kitchen serves meals inside refurbished railway carriages.
A hidden gem in Bridport is Palmers Brewery, the UK’s only thatched brewery, offering a unique taste of local tradition.
When it’s time to rest, Haddon House Hotel provides excellent accommodation just 300 yards from the harbour. With a 4.5-star TripAdvisor rating, guests praise it as ‘beautiful’, ‘faultless’, and perfect for a comfortable stay—some suites even feature spa baths.
Bridport has earned the nickname ‘Notting Hill-on-sea’ for its artistic flair and vibrant culture. However, the comparison highlights an important difference: where Notting Hill’s average home price soars to £1.6 million, Bridport’s more affordable average stands at just £371,000—making this coastal gem an accessible destination for both visitors and those seeking a charming place to call home.