WHEN THE BEACH SPRANG INTO LIFE

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In Victorian times, Severn Beach was just the lonely haunt of fishermen, or of boatmen plying up and down the river, but all that was to change with the coming of the railway. In 1922, after the 'Beach' had got its own station, bungalows and houses started going up and the area adjacent to the river was developed into a 'resort', with amusements and cafes. Come the 1930s and the fashion for 'getting outdoors', Severn Beach became something of an attraction for Bristolians, who could easily catch the train there from Temple Meads.

Hundreds more would cycle there and a few even went by car or motorcycle. This 'Blackpool of the West' attracted hordes of people. They came for the day, the weekend, or even for a whole week's holiday in one of the many chalets that had been built in the fields.

It wasn't long before a hotel went up, catering for functions and more well-heeled visitors. With its own swimming pool (the Blue Lagoon), fairground rides, miniature railway, tennis courts, boating pool, cafes and other amusements, Severn Beach became very popular.

With many people out of work, and money in short supply, it provided a cheap day out. The changing nature of transport and the advent of continental holidays in the 1960s meant that Severn Beach fell out of popularity. It became run-down and eventually something of a joke. Now, with new housing and changes to the sea defences, there is nothing left of the 'old' Severn Beach. Even the huge pub, The Severn Salmon, built in 1936 and run for so many years by the well-known Sellick family, has gone.

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Comments

*Firefox says:

I remember the swimming pool very well. I grew up in Patchway in the 1970s and would often cycle out to Severn Beach to swim in the open air pool. Sadly long gone now.
Posted 6 months ago. ( permalink )

DietRedThunder says:

;-)
www.severnbeach.com/sbnw/trackingdownstoryofb lackpoolofth...
Posted 4 months ago. ( permalink )

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Taken on December 7, 2007

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