Burnham-on-Sea is often overshadowed by its larger neighbour, Weston-super-Mare. Less accessible by public transport, with the nearest train station located in Highbridge—a thirty-minute walk away—this quaint Somerset town remains a quieter retreat. While the beach boasts serene, golden sands, swimmers face a permanent Environment Agency warning, and visitors must beware of quicksand lurking beneath the dunes.
Despite fewer tourists, Burnham has a unique warmth and charm that many, including myself, find preferable over Weston’s busier atmosphere. The quiet beach during peak season offers a special solitude that’s increasingly rare along the coast.
Yet, beneath this sunny exterior, tensions are mounting. Local businessman Paul Thorne voices concerns about new parking charges set to take effect on August 28, with costs rising for stays in the High Street car park—from 50p to 60p for 30 minutes, 90p to £1 for an hour, and £6.10 to £6.40 for a full day. Given the limited public transport options, such hikes may discourage visitors, a blow to the struggling town centre.
READ MORE: M5 Traffic Halted Due to Major Incident
READ MORE: Somerset Bank Holiday Recycling Collection Changes
Longtime resident Donna, a dog groomer in her sixties, reflects on how Burnham’s beach used to be livelier. Unlike Weston, where entertainment and attractions abound, Burnham’s council is reportedly reluctant to allow businesses on the beach, making it difficult and expensive for vendors to operate. A man who once ran a donkey riding business, for example, found it financially unfeasible to stay.
The town’s High Street also faces challenges attracting footfall. Nathan, a 25-year-old gaming shop owner, criticizes the limited variety: “It’s just coffee shops, takeaways, and charity shops.” This lack of diversity may hinder Burnham’s potential as a tourist destination.
However, Burnham shines brightest during its annual winter carnival. Each November, the quiet town bursts to life as neon-lit carts parade through the streets, drawing crowds from near and far. Katie, an 18-year-old bartender who lives on the carnival route, describes the event as a beloved tradition that unites the community. Even local shopkeepers like Nathan admire the carnival’s ability to gather large crowds and foster town pride.
On the economic front, the nearby Hinkley Point C nuclear plant has created approximately 15,000 temporary jobs, with 3,000 localized in Somerset. This influx has brought opportunities but also challenges, especially in the housing market. Local artist Amy sees the positives: “It was really hard for people to rent houses. But it’s good for the town because it’s given people jobs.”
Nevertheless, rising rents have forced some residents to relocate—a reality overheard from locals off the record. Increased demand from plant workers appears to drive landlords to raise prices. While few openly criticize the plant, concerns linger about environmental impacts, especially water quality, as dog groomer Katie points out: “It’s brought business to the town, but it doesn’t make the water a very appealing place for my children.”
Burnham-on-Sea promises a peaceful retreat with neighborly charm and natural beauty, rewarding those who brave the journey. Yet beneath its inviting surface, this seaside gem faces parking woes, economic pressures, and the challenge of defining its future amid change.