Minehead: the seaside resort

Tourism began in a modest way in the late 18th century and by the mid 19th century as the port declined Quaytown's houses opened their doors to holidaymakers. The railway, opened in 1874, brought in more visitors. Hotels were built and carriage proprietors, photographers and shopkeepers gained much of their income from the summer influx of tourists. As Minehead began to grow many houses were built with a few to letting rooms in the summer. In the 1920s many people moved to Minehead to set up business to cash in on the tourist trade and builders bought land for houses and hotels but some failed during the Depression. Although the traditional seaside resort went into decline in the late 20th century, Minehead continues to be a popular place for holidays and retirement. Its economy still depends heavily on tourism; Butlin's was the largest employer in the town with over 200 employees in 2001.