Discover Chard through several distinct themes: the history of its museum, historic buildings, two weekly markets and wildlife watching at Chard Reservoir Local Nature Reserve. The town’s history spans the collection from which the museum grew and the 1842 strike. The markets differ by day of the week and type, while the reserve offers a focus on the landscape.
Museum and architectural history
Chard Museum opened in 1970 and grew out of Arthur Hull’s original collection. It is open Wednesday to Friday from 10:00 to 13:30 and Saturday from 10:00 to 13:00. The day of the week is therefore a practical point to consider when planning; check the opening hours before your visit.
The Church of St Mary the Virgin dates from the late 11th or early 12th century and was rebuilt in the 15th century. Construction began in 1400 and was completed in 1445. The main building of Chard School dates from the late 16th century and was a merchant’s house; it is Grade II* listed and became a grammar school in 1671. At the Guildhall, the architectural details take centre stage: a two-storey Doric portico and a vaulted cupola with clocks on three sides.
Weekly markets and the year 1842
The Chard Saturday Street Market is a weekly outdoor market on Fore Street. Stalls sell, among other things, fruit and vegetables, meat, fish, clothing and carpets. The Chard Thursday Indoor Market takes place every Thursday morning in the Guildhall, offering antiques, collectables and vintage items. The choice between the two markets depends on the day and what you’re looking for: Saturday outdoors or Thursday morning indoors. Check the current market days before your visit.
Two local history topics also lead back to 1842, but for different reasons. The Lace Riots Walk traces the August strike, when workers at all four of Chard’s lace factories went on strike. The Chard Canal opened in 1842 as a short-lived link to the Bridgwater and Taunton Canal and proved a financial disaster. Thus, a labour dispute and a failed canal project stand side by side as distinct aspects of the town’s history.
Nature at Chard Reservoir
At Chard Reservoir Local Nature Reserve, wildflower meadows and a woodland edge surround an open expanse of water. The reserve is suitable for walking and birdwatching; there is also a small woodland play area for children. Those looking to focus on nature will find different themes here than at the historic buildings and markets: landscape, walks and birds take centre stage.
Discover more destinations: Woolverton, Bishops Lydeard, Queen Camel, Horsington, Laverton, Wells, Redlynch, West Coker
For the broader travel overview: Somerset.
