Hurley Beacon, Beacon Hill & Somerton Combe loop from Crowcombe Park Gate — Quantock Hills

Embark on a moderate hiking adventure through the Quantock Hills with the Hurley Beacon, Beacon Hill & Somerton Combe loop. This route, starting from Crowcombe Park Gate, spans 6.3 miles (10.2 km) and features an elevation gain of 644 feet (196 metres), typically taking around 2 hours and 50 minutes to complete. You will experience diverse terrain, from rocky paths and steep climbs to open moorland and ancient wooded combes, all while enjoying far-reaching views from points like Hurley Beacon and Beacon Hill across the Somerset countryside and towards Exmoor.

To plan your visit, begin your hike from Crowcombe Park Gate, which serves as the primary access point for this loop. The trail is considered moderate, so ensure you have good fitness and are prepared for varied terrain, including some steep sections. While the paths are generally well-defined, sure-footedness is required in places, especially on rocky stretches.

This trail offers a representative cross-section of the Quantock Hills, England's very first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, designated in 1956. As you hike, you will traverse open heathland, lush combes, and oak woodlands, encountering ancient beech trees and areas of biological significance. The route also touches upon historical elements, such as the ancient tumulus on Hurley Beacon, and connects you to a landscape that inspired Romantic poets like Coleridge and Wordsworth.