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Mesmerizing Museums Around Bridport

The market town of Bridport has its roots in trade and commerce, and was considered the world's foremost exponent of quality rope and net making for over 650 years. The Bridport Museum, opened in May 1932, and originally served as a gallery for the art works of Captain Alfred Codd, who donated the building to Bridport Borough Council in order for it to be converted into a museum and art gallery. The sixteenth-century façade of the building, which gave the building its nickname 'The Old Castle', is all that remains of the original structure, with the present day appearance arising from further refurbishment in 2000. The exhibitions within the museum tell the town's history from its origins (during the Saxon period) to contemporary Bridport, documenting its involvement in the net and rope making industry, and displaying local art, photography and lace. Also visit the nearby Local History Centre, where facilities are available to trace local and family history in greater detail. Whilst in the town, be tempted by a traditional and tasty cream tea in one of the local cafes.

Five miles to the north of Bridport on the A3066 lies the beautiful village of Beaminster. Also famous for its local industry, Beaminster's history documents the development of an impressive reputation for woolcloth and sailcloth. The centre of the village has 200 listed buildings, and maintains its charm and tranquillity despite being ravaged by fire three times over the centuries. Beaminster Museum can be found in the village's old Congregational chapel, which still boasts a nineteenth-century organ from the building's former use. The museum tells of the rise and fall of some of the area's most important families, as well as highlighting local archaeology and agriculture, schools and social events