Minehead is a coastal town and civil parish in the English county of Somerset. It sits on the south edge of the Bristol Channel, around 21 miles (34 km) north-west of the county town of Taunton, 12 miles (19 km) from the border with the county of Devon and in proximity of the Exmoor National Park. In accordance with the 2011 Census, the town has a permanent population of around 11981, meaning that it is the most populous town in the West Somerset local government area. There is indication of human occupation in the region since the Bronze and Iron Ages. There was a small port at Minehead by 1380, which grew into a significant trading centre during the medieval period. Most trade moved to more substantial ports during the 20th century, but pleasure steamers did call at the port. A noticeable boost in construction during the early years of the 20th century led to the large main shopping avenue and nearby streets with Edwardian-style architecture. There are a variety of schools and religious, cultural and sporting facilities including sailing and wind surfing and golf. A popular ancient regional practice involves the Hobby Horse, which takes to the streets for four days on the eve of the first of May each year, with accompanying musician and performers and rival horses. The town is the starting point of the South West Coast Path National Trail, which is the country's longest long-distance countryside hiking trail. The Minehead Railway was opened in 1874 and closed in 1971, however it has actually now been reopened as the West Somerset Train. For all your home improvements, make certain to find reliable contractors in Minehead to make certain of quality.