Burnham-on-Sea often slips under the radar, overshadowed by its flashier neighbor, Weston-super-Mare. While Weston attracts crowds, Burnham quietly offers a cozier, warmer atmosphere that many find appealing—if only it weren’t for a few obstacles.
Getting there isn’t straightforward. The nearest train station is in Highbridge, a 30-minute walk from the town center, which can deter visitors relying on public transportation. And while the beach’s golden sands stretch invitingly, swimming is off-limits due to a permanent Environment Agency warning, and caution is advised near the dunes because of dangerous sinking sands.
When I shared a video of Burnham’s peaceful beach, my editor immediately noticed its emptiness and asked where the crowds were. I joked, “Weston.” But it’s not an unfair comparison—I genuinely prefer Burnham’s tranquil charm over Weston’s hustle.
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Could Burnham compete with its bustling neighbor? Perhaps, but local policies seem to be working against it. Paul Thorne, a local businessman, is pessimistic: “Everything’s going against the High Street.” One recent frustration has been the rise in parking charges starting Thursday, August 28. A half-hour stay on the High Street will now cost 60p (up from 50p), an hour £1 (up from 90p), and a full-day £6.40 (up from £6.10). For a town with limited public transport options, these hikes aren’t encouraging for tourists or shoppers.
Some locals feel the council’s attitude toward beach attractions also hurts Burnham’s appeal. Donna, a lifelong resident and dog groomer, recalls a livelier beach scene: “Weston has a lot more going on. Our council doesn’t like things on the beach. We used to have lots of attractions, but they’re too expensive to set up now.” She cited a donkey-riding business that closed because the costs were too high.
The town center also struggles to offer something for everyone. Nathan, a 25-year-old gaming shop owner by the seafront, isn’t sold on the current mix: “It’s just coffee shops, takeaways, and charity shops.” He believes more variety could attract a broader range of visitors.
Despite its challenges, Burnham shines brightest in winter during its beloved annual carnival. On chilly November evenings, neon-lit floats fill the streets, drawing crowds from near and far. Katie, an 18-year-old student and bartender who lives on the carnival route, cherishes the event. Last year, she even volunteered, joining the procession with a donation bucket in hand.
Nathan agrees, praising the carnival’s community spirit: “It’s surprising how many people come out for it—you really see that even though we’re a small town, we have a big heart.”
Turning to employment and housing, Burnham is feeling the ripple effects of the nearby Hinkley Point C nuclear site. The large-scale construction has created about 15,000 temporary jobs, including 3,000 in Somerset. Local artist Amy notes, “Renting was tough before, but the jobs have been good for the town.”
However, increased demand has driven rents higher, forcing some longtime residents to relocate. One local confided that landlords raised prices to capitalize on the influx of workers, making housing less affordable for families.
Views on Hinkley are mixed but not outright negative. Dog groomer Katie highlights the economic benefits, though she worries about environmental impacts: “It’s brought business, but the water quality isn’t great for my children.”
All in all, Burnham-on-Sea offers an inviting, friendly atmosphere and a stunning beach worth visiting despite the journey. Yet beneath its sunny surface, the town wrestles with hidden concerns—from rising costs to environmental cautions—that temper the idyllic seaside picture.