Top Circular Walks Near Our Cottages (Quantock Hills, Somerset)

Our cottages are perfectly placed for you to explore some of the most scenic walking routes on the Quantocks in Somerset.

The Quantock Hills are one of the UK’s most beautiful and underrated walking destinations. With rolling heathland, ancient woodland, quiet combes, and sweeping coastal views, they offer some of the best hill walking in Somerset. From gentle strolls to longer circular hikes, here are our 5 top nearby walks, including car parking and local pubs/cafes to quench your thirst and satisfy your hunger afterwards.

1.    Quantocks and coast circular

Why it’s great: This walk takes in the King Charles III England Coast Path with stunning views across West Somerset and over the channel to Wales, and the foothills of the Quantocks—the first place in England to be designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, now known as National Landscapes. 

Distance: 9.5 miles (approximately 5 hours)

Start/Car Parking: Home Farm Holiday Centre, TA4 4DP. Pay and display

Route map: https://nationaltrails.s3.eu-west-2.amazonaws.com/uploads/Circular-Walk-Quantocks-Coast-web-1.pdf

• This walk is dependent on tide times (see below link for tide times) https://www.bbc.co.uk/weather/coast-and-sea/tide-tables/12/531

Nearby Eat/Drink: 

• The Windmill Inn, West Quantoxhead – just past the halfway point and an ideal to rest and refuel

2. Lydeard Hill Circular Walk

Why it’s great: A shorter circular route that climbs gently to Lydeard Hill with great views — perfect for guests who want a rewarding but less strenuous walk close to West Bagborough.

Distance: ~1.6 miles (2.5 km)

Start/Car Parking: Lydeard Hill Car Park — easy parking with direct footpaths onto the route

Route map: https://www.alltrails.com/en-gb/trail/england/somerset/lydeard-hill-circular

Nearby eat/drink: 

• The Rising Sun, West Bagborough – just south of the start and ideal at the end of your walk

3. Great Wood & Ramscombe Circular Walks

Why it’s great: Perfect for a relaxed afternoon, this easy circular route takes you through managed woodland with well-maintained paths.

Distance: 2–6 miles

Start/ Car Parking: Ramscombe car park, TA5 1HN

Route map & directions: https://www.quantockhills.com/walks-and-rides/ramscombe-(forestry-england)

Nearby eat/drink:

• The Hood Arms, Kilve

• The Rocking Horse, Stogumber

• The Carew Arms, Crowcombe

4. Weacombe & Bicknoller Combe Circular Walk (Staple Plain)

Why it’s great: A classic Quantock circular walk featuring heathland, woodland and panoramic views over the hills, perfect for a half‑day outing.

Distance: ~5½ miles (8.8 km)

Start/Car Parking: Staple Plain National Trust Car Park (TA4 4EB)

Route map & directions: Weacombe & Bicknoller Combe Walk Guide 

Nearby eat/drink: 

• The Bicknoller Inn, Bicknoller – village pub serving tasty food

• The Carew Arms, Crowcombe – traditional village pub with large garden ~10 mins drive away

5. Plainfield to Wills Neck Circular Walk

Why it’s great: A beautiful route that climbs steadily up to the highest point in the Quantocks (Wills Neck) with stunning views over Somerset.

Distance: ~5 miles (8.1 km)

Start/Car Parking: Plainfield (Forest Office Car Park, TA5 1AW)

Route info: https://www.walkingbritain.co.uk/walk-1925-description

Nearby eat/drink: 

• The Rising Sun, West Bagborough – local thatched pub serving great food

Walking Tips for the Quantock Hills

·       Wear sturdy footwear — paths can be uneven or muddy

·       Check the weather before heading out

·       There may be sheep, cattle and ponies on the hills. Please don’t feed any livestock.

·       We have OS maps and carry covers in the cottages to help you navigate your walks

Useful Links

https://www.walkingbritain.co.uk/Quantock-Hills-walks

https://www.quantockhills.com/walks-and-rides