Through a series of illustrated talks, six expert speakers will examine the ways maritime activity shaped the town and its surrounding communities. Topics include maritime lawlessness in the Bristol Channel, the impact of the West Somerset Railway on Watchet’s marine trade, life in the town during the seventeenth century, the story of a troubled Minehead merchant, the marine paintings of Watchet artist Thomas Chidgey, and the history of lime burning along the West Somerset coast.

Tea and coffee will be provided during the day. A buffet lunch will be available to purchase (£4) or attendees may bring their own.

Programme

10:00 Doors open, tea and coffee

10:30 Welcome – Jonathan Turner (Chair, SWMHS)

10:35 Maritime Lawlessness in the Severn Sea – Dr Evan Jones

11:15 The West Somerset Railway and Watchet – Ian Coleby

11:50 Tea and coffee break

12:10 Life in the Maritime Hub of Watchet, 1590–1665 – Philip Ashford

12:45 Lunch break

13:50 The (Mis)adventures of a Minehead Merchant – Mary Miles

14:25 Thomas Chidgey: Marine Artist of Watchet – Paul Upton

15:00 Tea

15:20 Limeburning on the West Somerset Coast – Peter Daniel

15:55 Closing remarks

16:00 Close

Booking and full details

Standard price: £12

BALH members can book for £10 using the discount code available in the Members Area.

www.swmaritime.org.uk/history-day-at-watchet-3rd-october-2026