Known simply as “Weston” to those who love it, the town has grown considerably since its Victorian heyday, but has managed to retain that old-world charm and Victorian elegance that makes it one of Britain’s best seaside towns.
Although at first glance, Weston may seem like a typical beachside resort, complete with a pier, ferris wheel, and donkey rides on the beach, the history of the area far predates the Victorian era that’s responsible for much of the town’s architecture, with the very first inhabitants of what was to become Weston settling there during the iron age. These days, the town is better known for the quality of its fish and chips than for its historical artefacts, but there’s still plenty to see and do, no matter what you’re looking for.
Read on for the best things to do in Weston-super-Mare.
Visit the world-famous pier
Before he became a best-selling author, Jeffrey Archer used to rent out deckchairs on Weston’s Grand Pier, which is generally the first stop for many of the town’s visitors. First opened in 1904, the pier has survived two fires, and multiple changes of ownership, but still stands proud as one of the area’s most iconic landmarks.
With an indoor funfair, pavilion, and multiple places to eat (including seaside staples like fish and chips, candy floss and more), it’s an easy way to while away either a few hours or a whole day: don’t forget to check out the concerts and other shows at the pavilion, too!
See the fastest helicopter in the world
Somerset may not be best-known for aviation, but, nevertheless, Weston-Super-Mare is home to the world’s largest helicopter museum, where you can see over 80 different types of helicopter, including the world’s fastest model. It’s one of Weston’s most popular attractions for a reason, and you don’t have to be a helicopter enthusiast to get something out of a day at this particular museum.
Get lost in the world of scooters
If scooters are more your speed, Weston is also the location of the Lambretta Scooter Museum. It may not be the most conventional museum you’ll ever visit, but this small private collection is an absolute must for anyone with even a passing interest in scooters.
Learn about the history of the local area
Last - but far from least - of Weston’s trio of museums, the Weston Museum will teach you everything you need to know about the area, from its iron age beginnings, through the tourist boom of the Victorian era, and all the way up to the present day. A highlight of the tour is Clara’s 1940s cottage, offering a fascinating insight into life in Weston during the Second World War.
Take a boat trip to Steep Holm Island
Just off the coast of Weston, Steep Holm Island is a nature reserve and Site of Special Scientific Interest , which has been home to Vikings, monks, and various other visitors. It’s currently uninhabited, but there’s a visitors centre and the remains of old gun batteries which you can visit. Boat trips to the island depart from Weston-Super-Mare, but be aware that as there are limited refreshments available on the island itself, it’s a good idea to pack a picnic, and anything else you might need.
Visit an indoor climbing arena
Weston’s Clip n Climb is one of the tallest indoor climbing centres in Europe, and includes the tallest vertical drop slides in the UK, making for an exhilarating way to pass a rainy day. For non-climbers, the Steeple Heights Cafe offers a variety of refreshments, with a view of the arena.
See the sand sculptures
Weston Sand Sculpture Festival runs from April until September, with a new theme every year. Over 30 sculptures can be seen at this popular event, which takes place on Weston Beach.
Visit the remains of Birnbeck Pier
Although most visitors to Weston will probably spend at least a bit of time on the Grand Pier, fewer will take the time to view what remains of the town’s oldest pier, which links the mainland to a small island. Birnbeck Pier closed to the public in 1994, and is a haunting reminder of Weston’s Victorian heyday, which is well worth incorporating into a walk along the coast.
Enjoy the sunshine in the Italian Gardens
The Italian Gardens are situated in Weston’s town centre: a pleasant outdoor space consisting of lawns, water features and plenty of places to enjoy a picnic, or just sit and watch the world go by.
Step back in time at the Museum of Memories
It may not be Weston’s largest or flashiest museum, but the Museum of Memories is one of the town’s most-loved attractions, taking visitors on a journey back through time, with exhibits from the Victorian era through to the present day.
Enjoy some retail therapy
Weston-Super-Mare isn’t quite what you’d call a shopaholic's dream, but there are still plenty of places to get your fix, from the small, independent stores dotted around town, to the larger, high street names you’ll find at the town’s Sovereign Shopping Centre.
See The Silica
It would be hard to miss the 85ft tall spire of The Silica - known locally as “The Carrot” - a Weston landmark which functions as a bus shelter, but which is also a work of art. There’s a coffee kiosk in the base of the structure, which was installed in 2006, and is designed to represent Weston’s maritime history.
Visit the site of Worlebury Hill Fort
Not much remains of Worlebury Hill Fort, which once stood on a hill above Weston - which is unsurprising, given that it was built over 2,000 years ago. The surrounding woodland, however, is a pretty area for a walk, and the site itself provides an important reminder of the history of the area.
Romantic things to do in Weston Super Mare
It’s most often described as a family-friendly destination, but there’s still plenty to do in Weston-Super-Mare for couples. Here are just a few ideas:
Take a drive to Cheddar Gorge
The Mendip Hills, just outside Weston, have been designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, which makes them an excellent choice for a romantic drive. Cheddar Gorge is the best known location in the hills, as well as being the largest gorge in the UK. Take a hike through the gorge itself, and admire the view from the top while dodging the crowds of feral goats that call the place home! It was near here, in Gough’s Cave, that the skeleton of the famous Cheddar Man was found: the skeleton itself is now kept in London’s Natural History Museum, and the caves are no longer open to the public, but you can still walk in Cheddar Man’s footsteps as you explore the area near the caves.
Walk the Weston Street Art Trail
An unusual way to see a bit of the town on foot, the Weston Street Art Trail guides you past 15 pieces of street art, all created by local artist JPS. Pick up a map from the Visitor Information Centre on the promenade, then give your imagination a treat!
Have a picnic at Grove Park
This lovely green space in the centre of town is a haven for those looking for some peace and quiet, close to nature. The park incorporates a memorial garden to TV presenter Jill Dando, who was from Weston, and there’s also a traditional bandstand and pond, which is the perfect spot for a romantic picnic.
Visit Brean Beach
If busy Weston Beach doesn’t appeal to you, you’re sure to find a secluded spot at nearby Brean Beach, which has one of the longest stretches of sand in Europe. Although the beach is quieter and less commercialised than its neighbour at Weston itself, you’ll still find plenty of amenities, including toilets and snack facilities.
Things to do in the evening
After spending the day on the beach, or out exploring the local area, evenings in Weston-Super-Mare can be as lively or as relaxed as you like. Here are a few suggestions for things to do in the evening:
See a show at Weston Playhouse
Weston Playhouse has a varied program of events, ranging from children’s shows to musicals, tribute acts and more. The 664-seat theatre has been entertaining visitors to the town since 1946, and is still going strong, having survived a catastrophic fire in 1969.
Have a drink at traditional British pub
The Criterion is one of Weston’s most popular pubs, and has a cosy, traditional feel, especially in winter, when you can enjoy a pint next to the roaring fire.
Listen to live music
In addition to their fine line in cocktails, Loves Cafe is also a great place to listen to live music, while enjoying some delicious tapas.
Enjoy a glass of wine with a seaside view
Stunning scenery, delicious food, and a wide selection of beverages are all on offer at The New Castle, which used to be an Edwardian Folly.
Family things to do in Weston Super Mare
Stroll along the sandy beach
In common with other seaside towns in the UK, Weston’s beautiful beach is the main reason for its popularity, and you’ll find all of the usual beachside amenities there, from donkey rides on the beach itself, to a promenade packed with amusements and eateries. The beach is popular with kite surfers and water-sports enthusiasts, and, even in winter, is still the perfect place for a long, blustery walk. An ideal spot for a family day out, kids will love building sandcastles on the beach, while the grown-ups can relax and watch the world go by.
Cool down at the splash pad
While hot summer days aren’t always guaranteed in the UK, when they do come along, you’ll be glad of the opportunity to cool down at Weston Water Adventure Park, located right by the beach. This seasonal splash pad offers hours of watery family fun, but if you don’t want to get wet, don’t worry - there’s also a selection of wooden play equipment too.
Play a game of glow in the dark golf
Crazy golf is a British seaside staple, but this one is more than a little bit different, in that you’ll be playing indoors, on a glow-in-the-dark golf course. Located inside REVO Kitchen, next to the pier, there’s even a glow-in-the-dark cocktail bar, for when you’ve built up a thirst!
Spend the day at Puxton Park
No matter what kind of weather you get for your Somerset break, Puxton Park family adventure park, just outside Weston, has an activity that’s suitable for it. Whether you want to tackle the assault course, bounce on a trampoline, or take a boat out on the lake, this 40-acre attraction has it all. The Adventure Area includes a horse and barrel ride, bouncing pillow and mini jeeps; you can get up close with a variety of animals in the Animal Zone, and the Water Zone includes bumper boats and water walkers - to name but two of the many attractions. On a rainy day, there’s also a large indoor play barn where you can let the kids burn off some energy before lunch in the farm shop and restaurant.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Weston Super Mare famous for?
Primarily known for its long, sandy beach and accompanying pier, Weston-Super-Mare is one of the UK’s best loved seaside resorts, which has been attracting holidaymakers since the Victorian era. The town is also known as the birthplace of comedian John Cleese and TV presenter Jill Dando, while Roald Dahl and Jeffrey Archer were both educated in Weston.
How long is Weston-Super-Mare beach?
The most popular stretch of beach, which runs between Royal Sands and Marine Lake, is two miles long, however, nearby Brean Beach has over seven miles of sand, making it one of the longest beaches in Europe.
Can you walk dogs on Weston Super Mare beach?
Certain stretches of Weston Super Mare beach are dog friendly, including the stretch between The Grand Pier and Knightstone Island.
