Things to do in the Blackdown Hills
This spectacular Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty encompasses an impressive variety of locations spanning South Somerset into East Devon. The Blackdown Hills offers an extensive range of range of activities and things to do on a visit to the area. If you love admiring and exploring the great outdoors, then this part of the world is the perfect place to soak up beautiful countryside and emerald woodland. If you decide to walk or cycle the range of trails, there are plenty of picturesque locations along the way to experience the best of Somerset’s natural beauty.
Take a look at some of the best things to do in the Blackdown Hills, whether you are visiting for the day or looking to enjoy a longer stay in the region.
Adventure in the great outdoors
There are several walks suitable for all abilities, each providing impressive views and a range of locations to visit. A great trail to follow if you’re looking for a gentle walk admiring views across Taunton Vale is the Thurlbear and Orchard Portman route. Or if you fancy something a little more challenging, head to Blagdon Hill and enjoy a five mile trek in woodland, pastureland and over hillsides. The beauty of this route is the opportunity to stop off at The Holman Clavel Inn and enjoy a bite to eat or a pot of tea before heading back to your walk.
There are also lots of other spots across the Blackdown Hills bursting with nature reserves and walking routes including the Staple Hill trail, Otterhead Lakes and Bishopswood Meadows.
Explore beautiful heritage sites
The perfect place to explore if you’re looking to admire the heritage of the Blackdown Hills among Somerset’s countryside is Castle Neroche. This site was home to a majestic Iron Age hillfort that would have dominated the scenery. Now owned by the Forestry Commission, this area is maintained and enjoyed by lots of people every year. To admire some of the best views over the region, head to the viewpoint and soak up the scenery stretching over the vale of Taunton and towards the Quantock Hills and Exmoor National Park.
Charming places to eat
Located between Taunton and Honiton, the pretty rural village of Churchinford is home to a traditional local pub The York Inn described as ‘a little gem’. Here you can indulge in good home cooked style food with a range of delicious menus available with scrummy local produce.
Head to the heart of the hills and have a pint in the quaintly named Candlelight Inn.
The Blackdown Hills offers a unique and memorable experience for people of all ages. The beauty of the surroundings, its charming locations and range of activities offers a breathtaking visit whatever the season.
