Blake Museum is inviting visitors to step back to the dawn of the motor age with its latest temporary exhibition, The ‘Bridgwater’ Motor Car.
Running until Saturday 3 October 2026, the exhibition tells the story of a pioneering motor vehicle that was designed and partly constructed in Bridgwater during the early years of motoring. Based on the research of local historian Rod Fitzhugh, the exhibition has been reproduced from his book of the same title with his kind permission.
At the turn of the twentieth century, Bridgwater was home to the Bridgwater Motor Company, whose ambitious founders sought to create a motor car that would proudly bear the town’s name. Established by local businessman and motoring pioneer Harry Carver, the company operated from impressive premises in Bridgwater and became one of the region’s leading automotive businesses. Historical records show that by 1905 the first “Bridgwater” motor cars were on the road, offering a range of vehicle specifications to an emerging generation of motorists.
Although no confirmed surviving example of a ‘Bridgwater’ motor car is known to exist today, the exhibition reveals a fascinating story of local innovation, engineering and enterprise that deserves to be better known.
The exhibition is expected to appeal to local history enthusiasts, classic vehicle fans, engineering historians and anyone interested in Bridgwater’s rich industrial heritage.
In addition to this exhibition, visitors are warmly invited to enjoy the museum’s wider displays, which celebrate Bridgwater’s rich history and heritage. Visitors can also enjoy the museum shop, and refreshments are available.
While entry to the museum is free, donations are always welcome.
The Blake Museum is open Wednesday to Saturday from 10.00am to 4.00pm, with last admission at 3.00pm.
Blake Museum is a 16th-century house located in the heart of Bridgwater, a historic market town and port, first mentioned as Brugie in the Domesday Book of 1086.
The Museum was first opened to the public in 1926, and it is said that Robert Blake, the town’s most famous citizen, was born in the house in 1598.
Blake Museum is the local museum for archaeology and history of Bridgwater. With collections covering Bridgwater and the surrounding areas, fascinating displays are waiting for you to discover.
For more information about Bridgwater Blake Museum, visit https.//www.bridgwatermuseum.org.uk