Combwich and Bridgwater Buoys

A pair of restored 19th century buoys are on display at Combwich Wharf and Bridgwater Docks. 

The plaque on the buoy at Combwich Wharf says this:

"This buoy, one of only a few remaining examples, was constructed in Carvers Boatyard, Bridgwater in about 1860 for use in the Bristol Channel.  The original oak timbers were nearly 4 inches thick and some of these are still intact in this buoy.  

When in use the buoy would have been the other way up and anchored to the sea bed with a light and bell attached to the flat topside.

This buoy was previously sited at Harbour Garage with its pair, now at Bridgwater Docks and was given to the village by Mr Colin Wilkins, who bought the site.

This restoration and resiting was carried out with the help of Nuclear Electric PLC at Hinkley Point and the base was provided by Combwich Cruising Club.

This project was organised by Otterhampton Parish Council August 1991.                      

Further refurbishment sponsored by Otterhampton Parish Council completed in 2016 by Burnham Marine and Combwich Motor Boat and Sailing Club."

The plaque on the Bridgwater Buoy says this:

"The Bridgwater Buoy was refurbished in 2017 with the support of local people, organisations and companies led by Patricia Robinson.  The bricks on which it sits originated from the old Workhouse."

Combwich Buoy

Plaque on Combwich Buoy

Bridgwater Buoy

Plaque on Bridgwater Buoy