Shepton Mallet's streets will light up once again for the annual Shepton Mallet Carnival tonight (Wednesday, 13th November 2024). The much-anticipated event will kick off at 7:30 pm and promises to bring a fantastic display of lights, music, and spectacular floats as part of the traditional Guy Fawkes Carnival circuit.

The procession will follow a familiar route, beginning at the junction of A371 Cannards Grave Road and Compton Road, travelling around Collett Park, and moving through the town centre before finishing at the A37 Whitstone Road.

Road Closures and Travel Notices:

• Preparation Period: Road restrictions on Cannards Grave Road and Whitstone Road will begin at 9:00 pm on 11th November and extend through to midnight on 13th November for float parking and preparations. Tadley Acres access will be redirected during this period.
• Carnival Day: From 6:45 pm, roads along the procession route (including Cannards Grave Road, Townsend, Old Market Road, and Charlton Road) will close. Whitstone Road will close at 7:30 pm.

Best Viewing Spots:

• Compton Road: Ideal for families wanting an earlier finish.
• Tesco Roundabout: Elevated views near the green space.
• Leisure Centre Area: Better facilities and thinner crowds.
• Charlton Road: A quieter spot near the end of the route.

Parking and Accessibility:

• Tesco Retail Park: Tesco is lifting its parking restrictions from 4:00 pm to 11:00 pm.
• Dobbies Car Park: Open for coach and car parking until 11:00 pm.

For those looking for disabled seating, contact Rev. G. Dart on 01749 343972 to reserve a spot outside the Shepton Mallet Baptist Church.

What Else Is On?

If you can't make it to Shepton Mallet, you can catch the carnival at Wells on Friday, 15th November or in Glastonbury on Saturday, 16th November. With each event starting at 7:00 pm, the Somerset Guy Fawkes Carnival Circuit promises a wonderful series of dazzling displays throughout the county.