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Forty minutes by car our two favourite haunts have to be Lyme Regis, and
the Beer to Branscombe cliff walk.
Lyme Regis
We all know the harbour from the film The French Lieutenants Woman, and
today benefits from recent improvements to the beach, harbour and
gardens, making it a great day out for all the family.
Beer to Branscombe.
Parking your car at Beer Head, which in itself has spectacular views
down the coast line to Seaton, is a good start for this 30 to 40 minute
walk. The path is clearly marked, with a choice of beach or cliff walk
towards the end.
Look out for The MASONS ARMS in Branscombe village.
THE BLACK DOWN HILLS
The Black Down Hills are located to the South of Taunton and Wellington, giving
wonderful views across the Vale of Taunton. These views can be enjoyed from the
Wellington Monument, a 175 foot high National Trust landmark. The area is
characterised by long straight roads, often lined with avenues of immense beech
trees. There are a number of hidden valleys. We are only 35 minutes from the
coast.
Please visit
www.blackdown-hills.net
THE BRENDON HILLS
Located to the West of Taunton Deane around the town of Wiveliscombe, these 1200
feet high hills are the perfect place to explore at slow pace, with narrow
country lanes and footpaths offering enticing glimpses of steep woodland and
pasture. The gateway to Exmoor National Park, these hills are a prime example of
unspoilt English countryside, offering extensive views across the sea to Wales.
THE QUANTOCK HILLS
The Quantock Hills rise to the North of Taunton and stretch northwards to the
coast. An Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the Quantocks are renowned for
their varied wildlife and fauna. The few roads provide access by car to the top,
where miles of footpaths and bridleways make it perfect for walking, riding or
mountain biking.
THE SOMERSET LEVELS
The Somerset Levels are a land steeped in history, mystery and legends,
dominated by Burrow Mump - a natural hill topped by a ruined uncompleted
church. Find the Isle of Athelney where King Alfred was alleged to have
burnt the cakes, as well as the timber track ways dating back to c4000
BC. The Levels are one of the most important inland wetland areas in
England, playing host to a number of colonies of wading birds and
wildfowl - particularly in winter.
WALKING
Enjoy a gentle stroll or a longer, more energetic walk throughout the
Taunton Deane area. There are a number of designated walking trails
offering you the chance to explore the delights of the rural countryside
and the areas of history.
CYCLING
Following one of the designated cycle routes in Taunton Deane, perhaps a
bike ride may be more to your liking. There are suitable routes for
everyone - from the keenest cyclist who needs the demands posed by the
Quantock or Black Down Hills, to the leisurely cyclist who can enjoy the
countryside of the Somerset Levels.
FISHING
There is an array of quality fishing here, whether it be coarse fishing
in rivers, ponds and the banks of the canal, or fly fishing from
superbly-conditioned trout lakes, rivers and reservoirs. The River Tone
provides good sport, with most species of coarse fish, whilst the canal
is popular with Tench and Carp.
RIDING
With an extensive network of bridle paths taking you through some of the
most breathtaking countryside, you can hack for miles in the surrounding
countryside. Enjoy a wide expanse of the Somerset Levels and Moors, or
the more demanding terrain of the Quantock Hills. Taunton Deane has a
good reputation for riding stables, offering lessons and livery.
ACTIVITY BREAKS
If you are looking to be inspired, why not join one of the many activity
breaks? Capture your stay in words or paint, or alternatively learn a
traditional craft such as willow weaving or hedge laying.
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