Visiting Bridport

Bridport is a West Dorset town, best known as the location for Channel Four's 'Return to River Cottage' series with Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall. It makes a great place to visit as part of a UK holiday.

The historic town’s roots can be traced back to the ninth century. You can see the oldest building in Bridport, The Chantry from the outside. It was the home of a priest back in 1368, and has a pigeon loft to allow the priest to support his diet and income. At that time Bridport was a key rope making centre. It’s position at the point where the rivers Brit and Asker meet also lead to the development of a net making industry. The Parish Church of St Mary dates in part from the 15th century although older remains can be seen.

Bridport is home to the Bridport Arts Centre which has a 200-seat theatre, three exhibition spaces, a café and a bar. It is home to the Bridport Literary Festival which takes place each November. Find out more about what’s on at the Bridport Arts Centre.

If you are visiting Bridport, follow the links to find Self catering accommodation and Bed and Breakfast nearby. Visit Dorset offer a free map of Bridport town centre (PDF, 301 kB) to help you find your way around the town, or you can find out more from Bridport Tourist Information Centre, 47 South Street, Bridport, Dorset DT6 3NY Tel: 01308 424901 Email: bridport.tic@westdorset-dc.gov.uk