A NEW Tourism Guide for Bridgwater was launched just in time for Carnival weekend.

Bridgwater Town Council leader Brian Smedley launched the new guide with the mayor of Bridgwater Cllr Diogo Rodrigues at a special event held on Friday, November 2, just before the Bridgwater Carnival Grand Fireworks Display.

The new Tourism Guide is free and features a colourful new map designed by artist Alison Jacobs, a welcome from the mayor, a journey through historic Bridgwater, a variety of walks and information about shopping in the area and food and drink.

The guide was put together with the help of Emma Rathbone at the Bridgwater Mercure Hotel.

Launching the guide, Cllr Smedley said: “We have aspiring toward bringing in more tourism to Bridgwater and this is another step toward that goal.

“The message is Bridgwater is a fun town with a proud rebel history and a unique cultural offer, located close to amazing landscapes and it needs a town centre that welcomes visitors, provides for locals and is clearly vibrant and different.”

For the second year running Bridgwater Town Council will also be producing Bridgwater calendars and postcards, this time featuring a selection of works from local artists.

“We have so much offer in terms of fantastic events such as Bridgwater Carnival and the Quayside Festival, and our amazing heritage,” Cllr Smedley said.

“You can tell the history of England through the history of Bridgwater.

“Bridgwater is growing and has six hotels coming to the area, so now is the time to talk the town up and make the most of what we have to offer here.

“Our location in the centre of Somerset makes us an excellent jumping off point to visit Somerset with its hills, moors, beaches, historic towns and quaint villages.”

The Tourism Guide will be distributed widely and Cllr Smedley said with more than 100,000 visitors in town for carnival, now was the perfect time to launch the new brochure.

For more information contact Bridgwater Town Council.