The vibrant carnival season continues to light up Shepton Mallet, with the highly anticipated Guy Fawkes Carnival returning on Tuesday, November 12, 2025. This iconic event showcases the dedication of local carnival clubs and promises an unforgettable evening filled with dazzling entertainment.
As one of the town’s biggest annual events, extensive road closures will be in place to ensure safety and smooth operation throughout the festivities. Here’s all the essential information you need to navigate carnival week—covering road closures, procession timings, and parking options.
Carnival Timings and Procession Route
The carnival procession will commence promptly at 7:30 PM outside the Mendip District Council offices and wind its way to the finish line on Whitstone Road. Roads along the route will be closed beginning at 6:45 PM, with some closures possibly starting as early as 6:00 PM if public safety measures require it.
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Road Closures
The following roads will be closed from 6:45 PM until the procession concludes: Cannards Grave Road (A37), Townsend, Old Market Road, Commercial Road, Paul Street, and Charlton Road. Whitstone Road will close from 7:30 PM until the procession ends.
On Tuesday, November 11, from 9:00 PM until midnight the following day, certain streets, including Field House, Field View, and Cannards Grave Road, will close to accommodate carnival carts parking. Additionally, Tadley Acres will only be accessible via Whitstone Road through Webber and Hobbs Roads, while Little Brooks Lane will be closed to traffic during this period. Whitstone Road itself will have a one-way system in place from 9:00 PM on November 11 through to 6:00 AM on November 12, directing traffic from Charlton Traffic Lights to the Flock Roundabout.
Important Safety Notices
For safety reasons, pedestrians are prohibited from standing or walking through the area of St Paul’s Street between the Nat West Bank traffic lights/Thomas Cook and Phillips Tyres to maintain a sterile zone during the event.
Post-Procession Traffic Management
As the carnival procession concludes, marshals will guide attendees out of Shepton Mallet using the nearest main roads. Some detours may be necessary for a smoother and quicker exit, as the carts continue their journey to Wells along the A371, which will remain closed until all carts have reached the Wells Relief Road around midnight.
Parking
Residents without private drives in Cannards Grave Road have been provided parking at the Council offices, and passes will be issued in advance to affected households.
This comprehensive guidance will help you enjoy the Shepton Mallet Carnival 2025 with ease and safety. Prepare for an exciting night filled with creativity, community spirit, and celebration.