Goathurst Village Heritage Trail-St Edward, King and Martyr Church
St Edward, King and Martyr Church, Goathurst, Bridgwater, Somerset, TA5 2DE
This year's Village Heritage Trail is ideally suited to the Festival's theme of routes, networks and connections as we invite visitors to explore the bonds between the various venues on the route: St Edward's Church, Halswell House and Park, the Halswell follies of Robin Hood Hut (Landmark Trust) and the privately owned Temple of Pan and, for the first time, an exhibition in the Village Hall of 'how people and events in history have shaped the village'. Discover how Goathurst's unique heritage is being restored and preserved for future generations. Enjoy a guided tour of the many tombs and monuments within the church, including the Halswell Tomb surrounded by the nine 'weepers' (their children) which is rated as one of the best 400 church monuments in England and Wales. View the lifelike monument of Goathurst's own 4-year-old 'sleeping beauty' (by Christopher Moore) recently restored and re-sited, facilitating her now to be viewed 'in the round'. These are but two of the many 'treasures' to be viewed and the wealth of history to be explored! However, you might prefer to browse independently using our Visitor Guide. Stewards will be on hand to answer your questions and to ensure your safety. Refreshments will be available at the church, providing the opportunity to take a break and enjoy the tranquil surroundings with tea and cakes and, this year due to the earlier start, sandwiches will also be on offer. A unique heritage trail at the foot of the beautiful Quantock Hills!
Timings & Tours
- Saturday 14 September:
- 1200-1700
- Sunday 15 September:
- 1200-1700
Location & directions
St Edward, King and Martyr Church, Goathurst, Bridgwater, Somerset, TA5 2DE
- Directions:
- From M5 Junction 24, head towards North Petherton, take the turning on the right towards Goathurst (narrow country lanes) until you drop down into the village. Turn right at the cross roads towards Bridgwater for the main car park, or left for Halswell House.
- Contact on day:
- Mrs Brenda Smith
- Telephone number:
- +447790825207
Booking information
- Pre-booking requirement:
- Pre-booking not required
Accessibility details
There is a gravel path through the churchyard and shallow steps down into the porch and within the building. Toilet facilities are available at the Village Hall (400m distant) or at Halswell House. There is no parking outside the church, though drop offs are possible. Car parking in a field 300-400m distant by the village sign on the road to Bridgwater.
Additional information
View the other sites on the Goathurst Village Heritage Trail and choose your own parking and route, noting the parking and toilet facilities. The entire walking trail takes 2-3 hours and walking route maps will be available at the church, Halswell House and Robin Hood Hut.
- Max no of people per tour:
- 15
- Est. tour duration:
- 0 hour(s) 40 minute(s)
