The history of Bridport’s harbour is closely tied to the town’s development as a coastal trading and fishing center. The harbour has a sheltered location on the coast and was ideally situated for trade with Europe. It is likely that the harbour has been in use for many centuries, although the first recorded mention of it dates back to the 12th century.
In the Middle Ages, Bridport’s harbour was an important center for the local fishing industry, and it also played a role in the wool trade. In the 16th and 17th centuries, the harbour was used for the export of wool and other goods to the Continent, and it was also a major port for the import of wine and other luxury items.
In the 19th and 20th centuries, Bridport’s harbour continued to be an important part of the town’s economy, with a thriving fishing industry and a growing number of pleasure boats and yachts using the harbour. Today, the harbour is a popular destination for tourists and a hub of activity in the town, with a busy marina, a range of boat-related businesses, and a variety of shops, restaurants, and other amenities.