Local History

Bridport and rope making became intertwined when King John requested the townsfolk to work night and day to make as many ropes as they could for the growing ship building industry.

Hemp and flax were grown locally. It was then laid out along the town's long straight alleyways behind the houses and formed the basis of a thriving cottage industry.

As Britain ruled the seas Bridport's prosperity grew, reaching its peak in the 18th and 19th century.

Bridport rope became so famous that those who ended their days on the gallows with a noose around their necks were said to have been "stabbed" by a Bridport dagger.

For more than 700 years the town led the world in rope and net making and today a handful of companies are still the main suppliers to fishing fleets, sports clubs, airlines and even the space industry with Bridport nets used on the Space Shuttle.

In sport, goal nets used in many of the major championships have been made in the town, while the tennis nets seen at the All England club for the Wimbledon tennis championships and the US open are made locally.

Today the trade may no longer be a cottage industry but the tradition started by King John continues.