The best walks and hikes in Great Wood

Embark on the Great Wood loop via The Drove, a moderate hike through the Quantock Hills National Landscape. This 6.2-mile (9.9 km) route, with 641 feet (195 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 2 hours and 46 minutes to complete. You will traverse varied terrain, from dense ancient oak woodlands and towering Douglas firs to open grasslands, enjoying expansive views across the Somerset landscape from higher points. The historic Drove itself offers a majestic avenue with trees and often features grazing Highland cattle and sheep.

To prepare for this hike, ensure you have a good level of fitness, as the trail involves ascents to hills. While the paths are generally accessible, be aware that some sections of The Drove can be uneven, with packed earth and rocky areas. This loop is well-rated by the hiking community, making it a popular choice for those seeking a rewarding outdoor experience in the region.

This trail showcases the diverse natural beauty of the Quantock Hills, which was England's first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The mix of woodlands, heathland, and river valleys provides a rich habitat for wildlife, including red deer, ravens, and buzzards. From elevated viewpoints, you can enjoy extensive panoramic scenery, potentially spotting landmarks like Glastonbury Tor, the Mendips, or even the Gower Peninsula in Wales on clear days.

Embark on a moderate hike through the Quantock Hills with the Bicknoller Combe & Somerton Combe loop. This route spans 9.6 miles (15.4 km) and involves a significant climb of 1494 feet (455 metres), taking about 4 hours and 34 minutes to complete. You'll traverse varied terrain, from open moorland to ancient parklands and deep, leafy combes. As you ascend, look forward to expansive views, particularly from Black Hill Summit, where the Quantock Hills stretch out towards the coastline. The path winds through singletrack sections and wooded areas, where you might spot ancient trees and wild ponies.

Before you set out, be aware that this moderate trail includes some very steep slopes. These sections can have loose and uneven surfaces, especially in wooded areas, so wear appropriate footwear. The starting point for your adventure is the Dead Woman's Ditch car park, where parking is generally available. Keep an eye out for free-roaming horses that may be present in the areas surrounding the trail.

This loop offers a rich blend of natural beauty and historical context within the Quantock Hills. The starting point itself, Dead Woman's Ditch, is a scheduled ancient monument, adding a layer of intrigue to your hike. The diverse landscape, from open moorland to dense combes, showcases the unique ecology of this protected area. It's a great way to experience the varied terrain and expansive vistas that make the Quantocks so special.

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.