Quantock Hills, Somerset | Activities, Sights & What to Expect

Did I just hear you say where? What, you’ve never heard of the Quantocks? Don’t worry, many haven’t as I discovered when confronted with bemused faces at the mention of my weekend getaway. But, this beautiful place is certainly worth a visit. Here’s a guide on why you should visit, and how to make the most of your time here.

Where Are The Quantocks, UK

The Quantock Hills are located just one hour south of Bristol (where you can find luxury glamping) and one hour north of Exeter. They form the western border of the county of Somerset in southwest England. On a clear day, from the top of the hills, you can see across the Bristol Channel as far as the Gower Peninsula in Wales.

The M5 is the main highway leading into Somerset if you’re driving. If you’re opting for public transport, you can travel to the nearby town of Taunton by train.

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What to Expect From The Quantocks, Somerset

The Quantocks romantic and breathtaking landscape offer rolling hills, deep wooded valleys, and magnificent moorlands. You’ll spot rare grazing Exmoor ponies as well as an epic Jurassic coastline. No surprise it was named England’s first recognised Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in 1956. Poets Samuel Taylor Coleridge and Wordsworth penned some of their greatest works about the magic of these hills.

You can escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life to a world of wilderness, serenity, and friendly villages with the most glorious countryside pubs. The best thing of all is they’re less well known than their nearby neighbour Exmoor, so that’s a bonus!

Quantock Hills Things to Do

Now that you know a bit more about these glorious hills, here’s how to make the most of your time in one of England’s true hidden gems:

Enjoy a Walking Trail on The Quantocks Hills

Grab your walking boots and explore the unspoiled ancient and beautiful hills of Quantock on foot. It really is one of the best ways to savour the medley of landscapes. There are some fantastic long and short walking trails, perfect for all kinds of fitness levels.

Take the route along the picturesque heathland of Lydeard Hill and walk to the highest point of the Quantocks, Wills Neck. Take the route along the picturesque heathland of Lydeard Hill and walk to the highest point of the Quantocks, Wills Neck. The winding path through woodland over Beacon Hill starting from Staple Plain will take you past some amazing coastal views.

If forested landscapes are more your thing, follow in the footsteps of Samuel Coleridge and William Wordsworth. Amble through the sessile oak woods at Holford Combe and it’s easy to see where they got their inspiration.

The Great Wood is perfect for families, with plenty of nooks and crannies to explore along the two-mile red walk and some impressively soaring Douglas firs. With lots of bridleways and forest roads, it’s easy to explore on a bike or on horseback. It also has designated picnic and BBQ spots, making it the ideal place to spend the day.

Go Fossil Hunting

This activity is wonderful for children and adults alike. You’re sure to feel like Indiana Jones as you brush the dirt off of a freshly found fossil.

Many fossil hunters head straight down to the Jurassic Coast in Dorset, missing out on a treasure trove of fossils in West Somerset’s smaller bays.

The stretch of coast from Kilve and East Quantoxhead is great for hunting reptile remains, ammonites, belemnites, and unusual shells. Grand limestone cliffs join the slate and shingle beach for some impressive panoramas.

The best time to visit is during falling tide after the vigorous waves stir up the sand uncovering fresh fossil material. There are The best time to visit is during falling tide after the vigorous waves stir up the sand uncovering fresh fossil material. There are plenty of rock pools to explore which will also keep the kids entertained.

Kilve beach is surrounded by beautiful cliffs formed around 200 million years ago from oil-rich shale. The different layers of rock are clearly visible, offering a wonderfully unique backdrop.

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Explore Quantocks, Somerset on Horseback

The Quantocks are a haven for horse riders. Miles of unspoiled countryside can offer an incredible riding experience, ending with an exhilarating gallop along the beach. Sounds idyllic, right?

You can ride through ancient forests and bluebell woods, made extra special if you encounter the wild Quantock ponies. Riding your own horse is also a wonderful confidence-building experience for children, and something they won’t soon forget.

For those less experienced or without a horse, there are plenty of riding schools in the area. We did a short 30 minutes hack with the Quantock School of Riding along country lanes. It’s the perfect length for first-time riders and children and costs £25 per person.

Savour Some Local Produce

In the Quantocks you’re never too far away from a foodie delight. Somerset is known for its amazing local produce available in the farm shops and delicatessens dotted around.

There are also some rather quaint local pubs, like the Blue Ball in Triscombe and the Rising Sun Inn in West Bagborough. Well worth a visit for a hearty, tasty meal.

Relax in a Quantock Shepherd’s Hut

City dwellers often dream of the idyllic life in the country. Surrounded by the most beautiful and peaceful landscapes. There are a number of properties in the Quantocks that can deliver this lifestyle, if only for a few days.

Tilbury Farm is nestled within 45 acres of farmland offering breathtaking views over the Blackdown Hills and the Quantock Hills. You’ll be able to take in the best views of the Quantocks, right from your porch. It’s the perfect place to sip your morning coffee as you get excited for the day ahead.

We stayed in a cosy shepherd’s hut with our own private hillside meadow, a wooden deck, chairs, a firepit, and hot tub to enjoy the evenings. So if your toes get chilly during the winter months, you have a hot soak to look forward to at the end of the day.

The inside was even more delightful. A cosy enclave with a double bed and another bed that disappeared into the wall by day, revealing a dining area. The ensuite bathroom came complete with toiletries.

There’s also a wood burner for cooler evenings and a compact kitchenette, complete with a butler sink and SMEG oven. The attention to detail with no expense spared made it a perfect hideaway in the hills.

Click for reviews and to book Tilbury Farm shepherd hut

Ready to Experience the Best Quantock Hills Attractions?

Quantock Hills is a quaint, beautiful area in the UK, making it the perfect place to explore, whether you’re travelling solo, with a partner, or with the whole family in tow. Since it is an “Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty”, you know you’re in for a treat.

So, what are you waiting for? Use my travel toolkit below to ensure that you’re ready for the adventure, and get packing! And once you’ve experienced this gem, why not discover London’s hidden gems too?

Have you been to the Quantocks? Or have I convinced you to visit? Let me know in the comments box below.

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