For the first 20 years of my life, I called Clevedon, a picturesque town in Somerset, my home. This quaint seaside town charms visitors with its glorious Victorian pier, a seawater infinity pool, and the Curzon—one of the world’s oldest cinemas still in operation.
Beyond its rich history, Clevedon thrives with a vibrant independent community, has served as a backdrop for numerous film productions, and even welcomed the famous boy band One Direction, creating lasting memories for locals and fans alike.
Clevedon holds a special place in my heart. In my youth, afternoons were spent along the scenic waterfront promenade, renting favourite films from the local video shop, swimming at Strode Leisure Centre, and enjoying the town’s green spaces and nearby cycling trails.
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As a teenager, social life blossomed around the charming pubs and their beer gardens—my favourites were the Little Harp Inn and The Salthouse, both perched on the waterfront. Evenings were often capped by visits to Vibe, the town’s only nightclub, although the journey there on a minibus was memorable for all the wrong reasons. When I craved city life, I could easily travel by bus to Bristol or drive to Yatton railway station, just a short distance away, to reach Bath within half an hour.
Although I moved away years ago, Clevedon remains one of my favourite places. From its stunning pier and long seafront to its independent shops and welcoming eateries, the town offers something for everyone—and it’s wonderfully walkable.
The heart of Clevedon’s allure is its beach—about 850 metres of golden shingle bounded by rugged rocks and sweeping views over the Bristol Channel. Although the water doesn’t gleam turquoise but rather a cloudy gray, it attracts avid swimmers. The beach’s highlight is a seawater ‘infinity’ pool, a contained marine lake popular with locals for open-water dips, kayaking, and sailing during warmer months.
Anchoring the seafront is Clevedon’s Grade I-listed Victorian pier, stretching 1,024 feet and dating back to 1869. It features exquisite ironwork and timber paneling, making it a landmark admired by many. The pier also houses over 16,000 brass plaques engraved with names, dates, and personal messages from visitors, creating an intimate and historic tapestry for those who stroll its length.
Esteemed English poet Sir John Betjeman once called it “the most beautiful pier in England.” Over the years, it has won the prestigious Pier of the Year award in 1999, 2013, and 2021—a testament to its enduring charm.
Celebrity visits have further highlighted Clevedon’s appeal. In 2014, One Direction—Harry Styles, Niall Horan, Louis Tomlinson, Zayn Malik, and the late Liam Payne—filmed their music video “You and I” on a chilly March day, sparking excitement town-wide. A plaque commemorating their visit now adorns the pier, alongside another honoring Payne, who passed away in October 2024.
Beyond One Direction, Clevedon has served as a filming location for notable productions. The acclaimed ITV drama Broadchurch, starring Olivia Colman, David Tennant, and Jodie Whittaker, shot scenes throughout the town. David Tennant returned in 2024 to film for the Disney production Rivals at the Council offices in Castlewood. The 2009 film Never Let Me Go, featuring Keira Knightley, was also partly filmed here—an experience memorable enough that I recall queuing to catch a glimpse of the actress on Hill Road.
Hill Road itself is a bustling hub of independent retailers, including Gems Giftshop, children’s boutique Muddy Boots, women’s fashion store Pale Blue, and the delightful Books on the Hill. After shopping, I recommend stopping by 67Baristabarber—a unique blend of café and barber shop that feels like a cozy community spot.
For drinks, the trendy Vintage & Vine and the Limehouse cocktail and burger bar offer vibrant atmospheres, while The Clevedon Distillery and Fallen Tree Micropub enrich the town’s nightlife.
Clevedon’s town centre complements these offerings with a mix of high street brands and charming coffee houses. Every Thursday, the lively Clevedon Market takes over the town square, adding to the local charm.
No visit to Clevedon is complete without experiencing the Curzon Cinema, a jewel among world cinemas since opening in 1912. Its red velvet seats and timeless ambiance make watching a film here feel magical—complete with the option to enjoy a glass of wine alongside the show.
For those seeking an authentic British seaside experience, Clevedon delivers with charm, history, and a sense of community. Whether revisiting childhood memories or walking in the footsteps of pop legends and actors, there’s no place quite like this Somerset gem.