The best walks and hikes around Spaxton

Hike the moderate Lydeard Hill, The Drove & Wills Neck loop for 4.6 miles (7.4 km) through varied terrain and panoramic views in the Quantoc

Embark on the Cothelstone Hill & Buncombe Wood loop, an easy hike that guides you through a delightful mix of woodlands and open grasslands. As you ascend, you'll be treated to expansive views across the Quantock Hills and far-reaching vistas over Somerset from the hilltop. Keep an eye out for the iconic "Seven Sisters" beech tree clump, a distinctive landmark on your journey. This pleasant route covers 2.6 miles (4.2 km) with an elevation gain of 414 feet (126 metres), making it an accessible option for most hikers. You can typically complete this loop in about 1 hour and 14 minutes, offering a refreshing outdoor escape.

Planning your visit to Cothelstone Hill & Buncombe Wood loop is straightforward, as the starting point is conveniently located right next to a parking lot. This makes access simple if you are driving to the trailhead. While the paths are generally accessible, it's wise to be prepared for potentially muddy sections, especially after rainfall. Appropriate footwear will ensure a more comfortable experience on the trail. Consider visiting during drier periods for the most pleasant conditions.

This loop is nestled within the Quantock Hills National Landscape, an area known for its natural beauty and diverse wildlife. As you explore the hilltop, you might encounter the resident herd of Exmoor Ponies grazing freely, adding to the charm of the landscape. Buncombe Wood itself offers a great viewpoint, and if your visit aligns with spring, you'll be rewarded with a vibrant carpet of bluebells transforming the woodland floor. It's a wonderful opportunity to connect with nature and enjoy the unique features of this region.

Embark on the Parson's Lane, The Drove & Wills Neck loop for a moderate hike through the scenic Quantock Hills. This 4.9-mile (7.9 km) route, which takes about 2 hours and 19 minutes to complete, features a diverse landscape with packed earth and rocky sections, including the medieval track known as "The Drove." You will climb 726 feet (221 metres) in elevation, passing through ancient woodlands, open heathland, and deep wooded valleys. From Wills Neck, the highest point, you can enjoy panoramic 360-degree views across the Somerset landscape and beyond on a clear day. Keep an eye out for wild ponies, red deer, and buzzards as you explore.

To begin your adventure, consider starting from the quaint village of West Bagborough, a common access point for this loop. After your hike, the Rising Sun Inn in West Bagborough offers a welcoming spot for refreshments. The trail is best enjoyed with good fitness and appropriate footwear, as some sections are quite steep and rocky. Plan your visit during spring to witness vibrant wildflowers like primroses and daffodils, adding extra beauty to the already stunning scenery.

This loop takes you to Wills Neck, standing at 386 meters (1,266 feet), a significant landmark and one of England's "Marilyns" due to its prominence. You will also encounter Triscombe Stone, a Bronze Age stone believed to have been a meeting place for drovers, with a legend that sitting on it grants a wish. The Quantock Hills themselves are rich in history, having inspired Romantic poets such as Samuel Taylor Coleridge and William Wordsworth. The route also incorporates parts of the Quantock Greenway, Cockercombe Road, and Rock Lane, offering a varied and engaging experience.

Embark on an easy hiking adventure on the Wills Neck loop from Triscombe Stone, a route that covers 2.0 miles (3.3 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 194 feet (59 metres). You can expect to complete this loop in about 54 minutes, making it perfect for a quick escape. The trail offers varied terrain, moving from packed earth to rocky sections as you wind through open heathland and attractive woodlands. As you hike, you'll reach Wills Neck Summit, the highest point in the Quantock Hills, where panoramic views await, stretching out towards Dartmoor and Exmoor. Keep an eye out for grazing Highland cattle and sheep along the way.

This easy hike is suitable for most fitness levels, offering generally accessible paths for a pleasant outing. While the route is considered easy, some sections can be uneven, so good footwear is always a good idea to ensure comfort and stability. Parking is conveniently available near Triscombe Stone, which serves as an excellent starting point for your journey. Consider visiting during daylight hours to fully appreciate the expansive views and natural surroundings.

This loop is nestled within the beautiful Quantock Hills National Landscape, an area known for its diverse natural beauty. Beyond the summit views, you might find yourself walking along 'The Drove,' a majestic medieval track that adds a touch of history to your outdoor experience. The presence of grazing Highland cattle and sheep contributes to the wild and natural feel of the landscape. This trail offers a wonderful opportunity to connect with nature and history in a relatively short timeframe.