Attractions and Places To See around Old Cleeve - Top 20

Old Cleeve is rich in history. You can explore the remarkably preserved medieval Cistercian monastery of Cleeve Abbey, cared for by English Heritage. Don't miss St Andrew's Church in Old Cleeve, a Grade I listed parish church dating back to the 12th century, known for its unique alabaster cobbled porch floor and medieval font. Additionally, the historic Dunster Village offers over 200 listed buildings, including the impressive Priory Church of St George.

Absolutely. A significant portion of Old Cleeve parish lies within Exmoor National Park, offering stunning landscapes. For panoramic views, head to Beacon Hill Trig Point, the highest northerly point on the Quantock Hills, which provides extensive vistas along the coastline and across the Bristol Channel to Wales. You can also explore Cleeve Hill (SSSI), a biological Site of Special Scientific Interest known for its calcareous grassland and rare plant species, or the Blue Anchor to Lilstock Coast SSSI for its geological interest and fossils.

The area around Old Cleeve is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find numerous routes for cycling, mountain biking, and hiking. For example, there are challenging cycling routes like the 'Northern Quantocks & Exmoor Coast loop' or more moderate options such as the 'Minehead Seafront – Dunster Village loop'. Mountain bikers can enjoy trails like the 'Dunster Village – Selworthy Beacon loop'. Hikers have access to easy trails, including the 'Coleridge Way: Monksilver and Nettlecombe Loop' or a pleasant walk from Gallox Bridge to Dunster Village. You can find more details on these activities and routes in the dedicated guides for cycling, MTB, and easy hikes around Old Cleeve.

Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. Dunster Village, with its historic charm and castle, is a popular choice. The Priory Church of St George in Dunster also welcomes families. For a natural adventure, Holford Combe offers a memorable experience with its ancient woodland and streams, perfect for exploring. The West Somerset Railway, a heritage steam railway, also provides an exciting experience for all ages in the wider area.

Holford Combe is a picturesque gorge characterized by wooded valleys, rocks, and streams. It's known for its beautiful ancient woodland and offers a fantastic experience for those who enjoy exploring natural, rugged terrain. Visitors particularly enjoy the many stream crossings, making it a memorable spot for walks and a great way to gain elevation quickly amidst gorgeous surroundings.

You can visit Gallox Bridge, a fine example of a medieval packhorse bridge. First mentioned in 1475, this bridge was historically used to transport wool across the River Avill to the market town of Dunster. It's a fascinating historical site that offers a glimpse into the region's past as a center for the wool trade.

Visitors frequently praise the blend of history and natural beauty. They love the 'indecently pretty' and historic qualities of Dunster Village, often recommending exploring it on foot. The ancient woodland and streams of Holford Combe are also highly appreciated for their memorable and immersive experience. The extensive views from Beacon Hill Trig Point are a consistent highlight, offering stunning coastal and distant vistas.

Yes, there are several easy hiking trails around Old Cleeve. You can find routes like the 'Coleridge Way: Monksilver and Nettlecombe Loop' which is just over 6 km, or a shorter 3.4 km loop from Driftwood Café. Another easy option is the walk from Gallox Bridge to Dunster Village. These trails are generally suitable for all to enjoy. More details can be found in the Easy Hikes around Old Cleeve guide.

Indeed. Old Cleeve is home to significant natural features, including two Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs). Cleeve Hill (SSSI), located between Old Cleeve and Watchet, is recognized for its calcareous grassland and rare plant species. Additionally, the parish extends to the Blue Anchor to Lilstock Coast SSSI along Bridgwater Bay, which is noted for its outstanding geological sections and fossil discoveries.

While Beacon Hill Trig Point is the highest northerly point on the Quantock Hills at 310 meters, offering extensive views, the highest point on Exmoor and in Somerset is Dunkery Beacon. Rising to 519 meters, Dunkery Beacon provides even more expansive views over the moorland, the Bristol Channel, and distant hills up to 86 miles away.

Yes, the West Somerset Railway is a significant heritage steam railway in the wider area. You can even see part of its infrastructure, such as the Black Monkey Bridge, constructed around 1860, which carries the railway over a stream and footpath near Old Cleeve.

The Old Mineral Line Railway Station was built in 1861 as part of the West Somerset Mineral Railway. This railway was crucial for transporting ironstone from the Brendon Hills to Watchet. While the railway is no longer operational for mineral transport, the old station building remains as a historical landmark, now serving as a store.