Keynsham High Street Discovery Trail
15-17 Temple Street, Keynsham, Bristol, Gloucestershire, BS31 1HF
We don’t know when people first started to settle in Keynsham, but it was probably in prehistoric times – in 1965, a resident found Stone Age tools buried in her garden. Later, the Romans built houses, at least two villas and a crossing over the river.
Keynsham possibly had its own minster church in early medieval times, before Keynsham Abbey was founded in the 1100s. After the dissolution of the monasteries there was a period of decline, but the town’s fortunes improved in the 1700s with the rise of the brass industry along the Avon and Chew valleys.
In the 1920s, the arrival of a chocolate factory brought big changes to Keynsham. Thousands of jobs were created, bringing lots more people to the town. After the Second World War, house building and general prosperity led to significant growth and redevelopment. Though many historic buildings have been lost, there is still a wealth of architectural interest, archaeological gems and fascinating stories for visitors to discover.
The Discovery Trail is can be picked up from Keynsham Town Council Offices any day between Monday and Friday, from 0830 to 1600.
Timings & Tours
Available anytime
Location & directions
15-17 Temple Street, Keynsham, Bristol, Gloucestershire, BS31 1HF
Booking information
- Pre-booking requirement:
- Pre-booking not required
Accessibility details
The route is paved and there are no steps, but there are some steep sections in the Memorial Park and on Dapps Hill. Public toilets are available in Keynsham Library and the Memorial Park Pavilion during opening hours.
