History of Severn Beach

In its heyday Severn Beach was a popular holiday resort with thousands of visitors arriving throughout the summer season. Before the Great Western Railway arrived in 1900, the area was farmland. In 1922, the village became a seaside resort with a swimming pool called the "Blue Lagoon", a boating lake, dozens of fun-fair stalls, donkey rides (on grass), developed mostly by local entrepreneur Robert Stride.   Many people came from nearby Bristol because Severn Beach had less strict licensing laws. The Beach Comber club appeared in the 1960s. In 2022 Severn Beach celebrated its centenary.

From the walk along the sea defence wall it is possible to get the most marvellous views of the two impressive bridges spanning the River Severn.  The coastline is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest that draws many visitors. Most of the early attractions have long since gone with the land being used for the development of new housing. The village has two main cafes, Shirley’s and Just as you are Tea Cottage together with a convenience store (which includes a Post Office), barbers, ladies hairdressers and an Estate Agents. The village is connected to Bristol by a rail branch line and there are regular bus links to Cribbs shopping centre and it is within easy reach of the M4 and M5 motorways.  The coastline remains rich in wildlife, and apart from extensive views across the water to South Wales, visitors to the area can expect to see a fascinating range of creatures of the wild, including Peregrine Falcons and many other bird species. The are numerous walks in the surrounding area and currently there is extensive development of the sea defences taking place.

Since the demise of the old village, the area has expanded into a "commuter" town, and the ease of its rail and road links have made it a desirable residential area. The community of Severn Beach is welcoming and friendly and Emmaus Church Centre aims to provide a focal point in the community.

Further information about the history of Severn Beach can be found using the links below:

https://thebristolmag.co.uk/the-life-and-times-of-severn-beach/

https://www.aforgottenlandscape.org.uk/projects/severn-beach-history/