Quantock Hills

he Quantock Hills are one of the finest ranges of hills in the country, known to many as gods little acre!

In 1956 its was the first place in Britain to be given the prestigious national status of an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and the section of land called Quantock Common has been designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest.  The Hills cover an area of approximately 12 miles by 4 miles and at the highest point which is Wills Neck is an amazing height of 1260 feet.  At this point you’ll need to pause, as the views that confront you are nothing short of breath taking.  On a clear day you can easily expect to see views of Exmoor, Dartmoor, Mendips, Brecon Beacons and the Blackdown Hills.  The Quantocks are mostly privately owned and are visited by over half a million people per year.  The nature of the hills make them ideal for walking.  Other pastimes can be enjoyed such as mountain biking and horse riding, all of which can be arranged locally.  An ordanance survery land ranger map (number 181) is a must and a great starting point is Lydeard Hill car park which is one of the highest points.  Arrive early and Red Deer can easily be seen heading out of the car park towards Will Neck.  Open heath land and scrub cover much of the hills and steep wooded coombes are numerous and provide natural cover for the wide range of wildlife which inhabits the Quantocks.  For example, Wild Ponies, Buzzards, Kestrels, Snake and of course the Red Deer, all which can be seen quite easily. 

In late spring or early summer is when the hills come alive. Cothelstone Hill is a wash with Bluebells and ponies drift around without a care in the world.  Bright yellow gorse makes every direction a pleasure to see.  Wander deep into the woods and Bluebells again carpet the forest floor when Snowdrops were in full bloom just a couple of months before.  Head towards Cockercombe in late June to see a sea of Pink, Foxgloves will be the culprits and it’s an amazing site not to be missed.  By the beginning of August the hilltops will be a magnificent purple with the heather in full bloom.  A favourite place for families to enjoy is an area of wood near Over Stowey called Ramscombe, a picturesque area of the hills and an ideal one for picnicking during the summer months.  This area is suitable for wheelchair users as the well-surfaced tracks provide an opportunity to explore them further.  Toilets and large parking areas ensure that people are catered for in the area where picnicking and barbecues are welcomed.

So I can recommend a day out or maybe just a walk after tea so you can enjoy the cool evening air and when you get high enough up, watch the sunset over the sea and you’ll never want to leave.

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