Burnham-on-Sea is a seaside town on the Somerset coast overlooking the Bristol Channel. The town developed as a resort during the nineteenth century, building on an earlier fishing and agricultural community. Its exceptionally flat coastline and large tidal range give the beach a distinctive character, while the surrounding Somerset Levels provide an important wetland landscape. Today tourism, leisure and local services form a significant part of the town's economy.
Burnham-on-Sea: Historical sights and information
Facts about Burnham-on-Sea
- Latitude:
- 51.239206
- Longitude:
- -2.995044
- GPS Coordinates:
- 51°14' N, 02°60' W
The historical and tourist importance of the town
Burnham's long sandy beach and historic pier are its best-known attractions, with the pier being one of the shortest pleasure piers in Britain. The town is close to the Somerset Levels, an important landscape for wildlife and birdwatching, with nearby reserves such as Apex Park providing green space and walking routes. The Quantock Hills and Mendip Hills are accessible for longer countryside excursions. Nearby Bridgwater, Cheddar Gorge and the historic city of Wells provide further attractions.
Food and when to visit
Burnham-on-Sea has traditional fish and chip shops, cafés, ice cream parlours, pubs and restaurants, with seafood and West Country produce widely available. Summer is the busiest season for the beach and seaside attractions, while spring and early autumn can be more comfortable for walking and exploring the surrounding wetlands. Visitors should pay attention to local tide conditions because the Bristol Channel has one of the largest tidal ranges in the world. Burnham is a useful coastal stop when travelling between Bristol, Bridgwater and the Somerset coast.
Locations & Tours
Discover famous landmarks, historical sites and tourist attractions in Burnham-on-Sea.