Chard

What does Chard offer?

Discover the charming market town of Chard, nestled in the heart of South Somerset, UK. Steeped in history and surrounded by lush rolling countryside, Chard offers visitors a delightful blend of picturesque landscapes, fascinating heritage, and a wealth of attractions. The town is renowned for its vibrant community spirit, with a bustling high street filled with independent shops, delightful cafes, and traditional pubs, ensuring a warm and inviting atmosphere for all who visit. As you explore the historic streets of Chard, you'll be captivated by the array of architectural gems that stand testament to the town's rich past. Marvel at the magnificent Church of St. Mary the Virgin, a Grade I listed building dating back to the 15th century, or visit the fascinating Chard Museum, where you can delve into the intriguing tale of the town's industrial and agricultural heritage. For nature enthusiasts, Chard Reservoir Nature Reserve offers a haven for wildlife and a tranquil setting for leisurely strolls or invigorating hikes. With a variety of events and festivals taking place throughout the year, there's no shortage of entertainment and excitement in this enchanting South Somerset town.

Top attractions in Chard

1. Chard Museum: This fascinating museum offers a journey through Chard's rich history, showcasing a collection of artefacts, photographs, and documents that tell the story of the town's industrial and social past. Visitors can delve into the world of lace-making, learn about the iconic Chard Canal, and explore the life of aviation pioneer John Stringfellow.

2. Forde Abbey and Gardens: A stunning historical treasure, Forde Abbey is a former Cistercian monastery dating back to the 12th century. Visitors can marvel at the exquisite architecture, stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens, and admire the famous Mortlake Tapestries. The estate also hosts various events and activities throughout the year, catering to all ages and interests.

3. Cricket St Thomas Wildlife Park: Set within the picturesque grounds of Cricket St Thomas, this wildlife park offers an opportunity to get up close and personal with a variety of exotic and endangered species. Home to lemurs, meerkats, and many more, the park focuses on conservation, education, and providing a unique experience for all visitors. Additionally, there are play areas and a café, ensuring a fun-filled day for the entire family.

4. Chard Reservoir Nature Reserve: This tranquil nature reserve is home to an array of bird species and other wildlife, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts. The reservoir provides a serene setting for walking, birdwatching, and photography, with several hides available to observe the wildlife in its natural habitat. The site also features a visitor centre, where guests can learn more about the flora and fauna of the reserve.

5. The Chard Guildhall: This historic building serves as a cultural and community hub in Chard, hosting a range of events such as theatre performances, comedy nights, and film screenings. With a 150-seat auditorium and a variety of function rooms, the Guildhall offers a diverse programme of entertainment and activities for residents and visitors alike. Plus, the venue can be hired for private events and celebrations.

Best areas to live in Chard

1. South Street: A charming and historic street lined with period properties, offering a delightful mix of residential and commercial spaces. The perfect blend of town living and community atmosphere.

2. Millfield: A highly sought-after area with a variety of modern and stylish homes. This family-friendly location boasts easy access to local schools, leisure facilities, and the town centre.

3. Old Town: Steeped in history and character, Old Town is home to beautiful listed buildings and quaint cottages. Nestled in a conservation area, it offers a tranquil setting amidst the bustling town.

4. Forton Road: Ideally located near the town centre and local amenities, Forton Road offers a range of attractive properties – from spacious family homes to cosy terraced houses.

5. Furnham: A popular residential area on the outskirts of Chard, Furnham is known for its excellent transport links and picturesque countryside views. The perfect location for those looking for a rural lifestyle, yet close to the town.

6. Oaklands Avenue: A quiet and well-established neighbourhood, Oaklands Avenue is home to an array of desirable detached and semi-detached properties. With close proximity to local schools and parks, it's an ideal choice for families.

7. Avishayes: A prestigious and sought-after location, Avishayes boasts a mix of beautiful detached homes and elegant townhouses. With easy access to the town centre and surrounding countryside, it's a popular choice for those seeking the best of both worlds.

8. Birchfield Crescent: A peaceful, tree-lined crescent with an array of charming bungalows and family homes. Its proximity to local amenities, schools, and leisure facilities make it a popular choice for families and retirees alike.

9. Crewkerne Road: A picturesque road on the edge of Chard, Crewkerne Road offers a mix of period and modern properties. With easy access to the A30 and the town centre, it's a convenient location with a rural feel.

10. Glynswood: A well-regarded residential area, Glynswood is home to a range of stylish and spacious properties. With easy access to local schools, parks, and the town centre, it's a popular choice for families and professionals.

Best things about living in Chard

1. Picturesque Natural Beauty: Chard is nestled within the stunning countryside of South Somerset, offering residents a serene environment with a plethora of walking and cycling routes. The surrounding scenic landscapes, such as the Blackdown Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, provide ample opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors and appreciate the region's flora and fauna.

2. Rich Historical Heritage: The town of Chard boasts a fascinating history, with several historical buildings and sites to explore. Chard Museum, housed in a beautiful 16th-century building, showcases the town's rich past, including its role in the development of powered flight. Furthermore, Forde Abbey, a former Cistercian monastery, is just a short drive away, offering a glimpse into centuries of history and stunning gardens.

3. Thriving Community Spirit: Residents of Chard enjoy a strong sense of community, with numerous clubs, societies, and local events that cater to various interests. The annual Chard Carnival, for example, brings together the entire town in a vibrant celebration of community spirit, while local sports clubs and leisure facilities provide ample opportunities to engage with fellow residents and stay active.

4. Excellent Local Amenities: Chard offers a range of essential services and facilities, including supermarkets, independent shops, healthcare providers, and educational institutions. The town centre is home to a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants, catering to all tastes and budgets. Additionally, Chard's close proximity to the A303 and M5 motorway ensures easy access to neighbouring towns and cities.

5. Idyllic Rural Lifestyle with Easy Access to Urban Centres: Living in Chard provides the best of both worlds – residents can enjoy the tranquillity of rural life while benefitting from excellent transport links to larger urban centres such as Taunton, Yeovil, and Exeter. This makes Chard an ideal base for those who wish to experience a relaxed, countryside lifestyle without sacrificing the convenience of nearby city amenities.

Drawbacks to living in Chard

1. Limited Entertainment Options: In Chard, you may find that the entertainment options are relatively limited compared to larger cities. While there are some local events and a few leisure facilities, residents may need to travel to nearby towns or cities for a wider range of activities and nightlife options.

2. Limited Employment Opportunities: As a small town, Chard may not offer a vast array of job opportunities and career growth potential. Residents may need to commute to larger nearby cities, such as Taunton or Yeovil, for a wider range of employment options across various industries.

3. Public Transport Limitations: Chard's public transport connections are less extensive compared to larger urban areas. This may make it more challenging for residents who rely on public transport for their daily commute or to access essential services and amenities.

4. Limited Shopping and Dining Options: While Chard has some local shops and restaurants, the selection is comparatively limited. Residents who enjoy shopping or dining out may find themselves travelling to nearby towns and cities to satisfy their retail and culinary cravings.

5. Limited Access to Specialist Healthcare: Although Chard has a local medical centre, residents may need to travel to larger towns or cities for access to more specialised healthcare services or facilities. This could potentially be inconvenient for those with specific medical needs.

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