Itinerary: A day out in Clevedon

Clevedon near Bristol is a charming Victorian seaside town with a pebbled shoreline and stunningly restored Grade I listed Victorian pier. If you’re visiting Bristol and fancy an outing to the coast, Clevedon has plenty to offer. And it just got better.

The Marine Lake on Clevedon’s seafront is one of only a handful of infinity tidal lakes in the country and is considered one of the biggest and best.

Clevedon Marine Lake, photo credit North Somerset Council

The lake plays host to a multitude of events and activities year round, including ‘Lake & Pier Day’ which is held early summer every year. Visitors will be able to have a go at kayaking, rowing or paddle boarding, watch swimmers and take part in craty activities.

Smaller children can enjoy a trip around Salthouse Fields on the miniature railway followed by a play in the park, before continuing along the promenade where views stretch all the way to Wales. ‘Ooh and ahh’ at stunts in the skateboard park and marvel at the bravery of the Clevedon Lake and Sea Swimmers.

You can find current events on the town's website, which include wine tastings, workshops, charity events and child friendly activities throughout the year. There is a monthly Sunday Market held on the first Sunday of the month. Spread across four sites in the town, the market is always filled with the best food, drink, crafts, clothing and antiques from the South West.

Wonderful walks start from the Pill, an inlet used by small boats, next to Marshalls Field in sight of the 12th Century St Andrews Church, a designated Grade 1 listed building. Take a rest in their garden to admire the grand herbaceous border, then wander back through the churchyard and pick up Poet’s Walk back along the cliff. After passing the ‘Lookout’ tower slope down gently to the lake pump house and the Marine Lake.

• Walking in and around Bristol

Clevedon Pier, photo credit North Somerset Council

Broadchurch fan?  Unbeknownst to some, much of ITV’s award-winning drama was filmed in Clevedon and you can find a number of filming locations used in the series, including the Marine Lake (the location for the boat burning in series 1) as well as stunning coastal walks overlooking the Bristol Channel.

St Andrew's Church, Clevedon photo credit North Somerset Council

Another Clevedon attraction is the iconic Grade 1 listed, Clevedon Pier. You may recognise it as the backdrop in One Direction’s You and I video or from the film, Never Let Me Go starring Keira Knightley, Carey Mulligan and Andrew Garfield. Open every day for visitors to amble along and enjoy the views across the Bristol Channel. You can watch anglers make a catch and take a break on the seats under the pagoda.

Throughout the year, the pier organise many events which include the child friendly Victorian tours, historical talks from notable local experts and most recently, teaming up with North Somerset Arts Trail to hold exhibitions celebrating the work of local artists.

Clevedon Pier

Nearby, sheltered by the Pier above, swimmers and sunbathers gather on the beach - a perfect place for children to explore rocky pebbles, watch the Gig boats launch, crab from the slipway and skim stones. A short walk from here will take you along to quirky gift shops and independent traders in Alexandra and Hill Road where you’ll find refreshments, light bites and quality restaurants.

Set high above the Severn Estuary is Clevedon Golf Club which poses a challenge to golfers of all abilities. Wonderful, old and tree lined, the view from the cliff-side opening holes over the Bristol Channel is spectacular.

Clevedon Golf Club

Keep a look out for sporting events planned throughout the year, Triathlons, long swims and aquathalons take place during the summer months and there a numerous cycle routes that the novice can enjoy on a Sunday afternoon or a more adventurous cyclist can enjoy for up to 68 miles!