Explore Chard
Known for
The birthplace of powered flight (John Stringfellow's steam-powered model aircraft flew here in 1848), the highest town in Somerset, Forde Abbey, and a Somerset market town with a remarkable aviation heritage
A little history
Chard is the birthplace of powered flight — John Stringfellow successfully flew his steam-powered model aircraft here in 1848, predating the Wright Brothers by 55 years. At 275 feet above sea level it is Somerset's highest town. Forde Abbey — a former Cistercian monastery with extraordinary gardens — is nearby.
The Chard Museum tells the John Stringfellow story — genuinely remarkable aviation history. Forde Abbey and gardens are outstanding. The town centre for local Somerset shopping. The Wednesday and Saturday markets.
See Roam in action
Browse local businesses, discover events and find hidden gems in Chard.
Explore nearby
Your profile
Local messages
UK plans
Food & drink in Chard
The town has independent cafes and a good market. Local Somerset produce — cider, cheese and beef — is excellent. Forde Abbey has a good cafe.
Restaurants & cafes
Roam surfaces the Chard food spots locals actually love.
Bars & nightlife
Independent bars and evening spots across Chard.
Independent shops
Local butchers, delis and food shops worth exploring in Chard.
For businesses in Chard
Chard serves a large South Somerset catchment. The markets are the commercial heart. Independent businesses serve the local community.
List your Chard business on Roam — reach local customers exploring Somerset in about 90 seconds.
Reach local customers
Roam users are actively looking for what's nearby in Chard.
Push notifications
Send real-time offers and events to Roam users in Chard.
Build community
Build a loyal local following across Somerset.
Get Roam in Chard
Free to download. No subscription. iOS and Android.
Frequently asked questions
Chard is a place in Somerset known for the birthplace of powered flight (John Stringfellow's steam-powered model aircraft flew here in 1848), the highest town in Somerset, Forde Abbey, and a Somerset market town with a remarkable aviation heritage. Chard is the birthplace of powered flight — John Stringfellow successfully flew his steam-powered model aircraft here in 1848, predating the Wright Brothers by 55 years. The population is around 13,000.
The town has independent cafes and a good market. Local Somerset produce — cider, cheese and beef — is excellent. Forde Abbey has a good cafe.
Yes. Roam is a free local discovery app live in Chard and across Somerset. It is available on iOS and Android.
Local Chard businesses can list on Roam for free in around 90 seconds. Add your business name, address, opening hours and a few photos via the Roam website, and your listing goes live in Roam's discovery feed for users browsing Chard and the wider Somerset area. There is no subscription fee.
Roam covers Chard and the surrounding area in Somerset, including Tatworth, Forton, Cricket St Thomas, Winsham, Chardstock, Combe St Nicholas, Knowle St Giles and Chillington.
