A major industrial centre in Victorian times, Bridgwater's central location for the south-west means that it retains its popularity as a location for industry and transport businesses today. It's also a popular residential area, with a population of over 35,000 people. Bridgwater is a fairly old town - a settlement has been established on the site for more than 1000 years and the town was granted the royal charter as a borough back in 1200.

Through its history, Bridgwater has been a major centre of a number of industries - including textiles and brick and tile production. The town was also a major regional port until the growth of Bristol in the 18th century, exporting a wide range of produce to Europe. The wide variety of museums and places to visit in the town reflect this heritage and there also a number of gardens, churches and other historic monuments worthy of note. A stroll along the banks of the River Parrett is also worthwhile - Bridgwater's former industrial docklands have now largely been converted into housing and a marina.

Bridgwater's thriving business and residential market means that van hire in Bridgwater is easy - there are plenty of local van rental companies offering all types of hire van:

• Medium / short wheelbase vans - e.g. Ford Transit, Vauxhall Vivaro, Renault Trafic, Volkswagen Transporter
• Small vans - e.g. Vauxhall Combo, Ford Transit Connect, VW Caddy
• Large / long wheelbase vans - e.g. Mercedes Sprinter XLWB, Ford Transit LWB, Renault Master, LDV Maxus
• Luton vans & box vans (3.5 tonne / 3.5t).