THE BRUTON TRUST was established in 1970 for the public benefit of those living within the Parish and to stimulate interest in CONSERVATION of the FABRIC of the Town and its history, and to secure the preservation, protection, development and improvement of features of historic and public interest in Bruton.

The Trust is a registered Charity and a member of The Civic Trust, the national organisation of Conservation Societies and Building Preservation Trusts.

SINCE 1970 the Trust has achieved much - on its own, and through working with the Local Authority to enhance Bruton's Outstanding Conservation Area. This was designated in 1978. An immediate gain was a large grant towards the restoration of 'the old post office' now Claire de Lune, a building which after 40 years of neglect had become dangerous and was threatened with demolition. This project was completed in 1985.

In the same year 1978 Bruton became the first town in Somerset to benefit from a 'Town Scheme' whereby increased grants were made available for essential repairs to Listed Buildings, through South Somerset District Council.

After disastrous floods in 1982 the restoration of Patwell Pump was instigated by the Trust in co-operation with the Conservation sections of South Somerset District Council and the County Council. It also secured the use of local natural stone for rebuilding the parapets of Church Bridge.

The Trust also assists in the review of Historic Buildings, and monitors proposals for new developments and Listed building control, and its views are sought as part of public consultations at all levels.

A good example of this co-operation is the contribution made towards the design brief for the Tolbury Mill, regarded as an outstanding residential development, in 2001.

The Town Trail is written for visitors, newcomers and others who wish to see how Bruton has developed and read its history in its buildings. The trail is available through a number of outlets in the town.

Tours of the town can be arranged through the Hon Sec.

A scholarly study of important buildings, done by S.A.V.A.S., and funded by the Royal Society, is available at the Museum and the Library.

Conservation work has included the planting of trees in Jubilee park, the new Cemetery and other sites in and around the town.

Bruton is grateful to the late Mrs Phyllis Couzens for her gift of land, which made it possible to replace beeches to Bruton's north horizon.

Much attention is given to the Lower Backway, where a through road was once planned.

The sustainability and viability of the whole town are other crucial concerns.


These are given as acknowledgements of contributions to the quality of life in Bruton. In 2001 two awards were made for the excellence of the rehabilitation of Provender Mill at Tolbury and the Apple Store in Grove Alley.


Bruton Trust is registered under the Charities Act 1960, Ref No. 261633

79 High Street, Bruton, BA10 0AL
E Mail: sampak@churchview12.fsnet.co.uk