Bridgwater Marina occupies the historic inner dock basin of Bridgwater Docks, constructed between 1837 and 1841 as part of the Bridgwater and Taunton Canal extension.

The site sits within the Bridgwater Central Area & Dock Conservation Area and retains notable historic structures, including the Grade II listed Harbour Master's House and original 19th-century warehouses, many of which have since been converted into apartments.

The marina basin connects to both the Bridgwater and Taunton Canal and, via a tidal basin and locks, to the River Parrett.

However, the docks are currently non-operational for boating — boats were removed in 2021 — and entry into the docks by vessel is not presently possible.

The Bridgwater and Taunton Canal itself remains accessible to portable and trailable craft, and the Inland Waterways Association has designated the docks area a Silver Propeller location to encourage visits by boat or canoe as close to the site as conditions allow.

Revitalisation plans are underway to return the docks to active use.