The best road cycling routes around Withycombe

Almost nothing reliable is known about the life of Saint George, to whom this church was dedicated, but veneration of him stretches back to early Christianity. A martyr identified with George is said to have lived in the third century. The legend of Saint George as the dragon slayer, however, is quite well known and widespread; he is often depicted—in paintings or statues—as the conqueror of the monster, often as a knight on horseback. The feast day of the very popular Saint George in the calendar of saints is celebrated on April 23rd in both the Roman Catholic and Anglican churches. Among other things, he is the patron saint of the English kingdom, and some of the orders and decorations awarded there bear his name.

Nice cafe to the side!!

Tackling Porlock Hill westwards from the village on the A39, prepare for an immediate, brutal ascent. The climb bites hard almost instantly, throwing its infamous 25% ramps at you very early, particularly around the tight hairpins. Experience the intense effort required in your lowest gears, feeling the steepness challenge every pedal stroke. As you winch yourself upwards through the woods, glance back (when safe!) at the rapidly unfolding, stunning views over Porlock Bay. Be aware you'll be sharing this famously steep A-road with other vehicles. After battling the steepest sections, the gradient lessens slightly, but the climb persists relentlessly until you emerge onto the exposed Exmoor moorland at the summit and breathtaking views over the Bristol Channel.

Bampton is a great stop for cyclists, offering a peaceful break with picturesque streets and a friendly atmosphere. Take a moment to explore the charming village, grab a coffee, and enjoy the scenic views before continuing your ride.

Almost nothing reliable is known about the life of Saint GEORGE, to whom the church of Dunster was dedicated, but the veneration of him goes back a long way to early Christianity. A martyr who is equated with George is said to have lived in the third century. The legend of Saint George as a dragon slayer is well known and widespread, however, and he is usually depicted - in paintings or as a statue - as the conqueror of the monster, often as a knight on horseback. The memorial day of the very popular George in the calendar of saints is celebrated on April 23rd in both the Roman Catholic and Anglican churches. Among other things, he is the patron saint of the English kingdom, and some of the orders and decorations awarded there also bear his name.

Using the power of moving water to drive a mill wheel is an ancient invention of the human spirit of discovery, the origins of which can be traced back to times long past. Thanks to such a construction, human or animal muscle power could be easily replaced by the power of the natural elements through a watercourse - natural or artificially created - in order to grind grain into corn or press oil from fruit, for example. There are essentially two different ways of driving watermills: * Either the flowing water simply hits the blades of the water wheel from below to set it in motion; or * the water is guided above the wheel - usually through a so-called "mill channel" - and falls onto the blades; this type of construction is more efficient due to natural gravity.

A lovely spot for a cream tea, especially on a warm sunny day.

It’s up in any direction from here.