Exploring Nature's Marvels On Walking Holidays in the Quantock Hills

Tucked between Taunton Dene and the Devon border in West Somerset, the Quantock Hills was England's first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Now redesignated as a National Landscape, it offers a captivating tapestry of biodiversity.

For families yearning for an outdoor adventure, this picturesque landscape unfolds a world teeming with plants, wildflowers, and wildlife. Let's embark on a journey through the natural wonders that make the Quantocks truly exceptional.

Remember, the Quantock Hills offer a unique experience with each passing season.

Spring heralds a burst of woodland flowers.

Summer sees the heathland ablaze with colour.

Autumn paints the landscape in spectacular hues and offers foraging opportunities.

Winter reveals the land's underlying structure and welcomes migratory birds. As dusk descends on a clear and frosty evening, stand and stare while a rich red and gold sunset fades into a canopy of a million twinkling stars after dark.

Where to Stay: View delightful holiday cottages in the Quantocks available to book.

You’ll need much more than a day to explore this little green and wild corner of Somerset - so why not make a weekend of it - or even a week-long holiday?

Staying in Quantock Hills holiday cottages gives you the flexibility to eat, sleep, and play at times of your choosing rather than set meal and room vacation times that hotels and B&Bs impose. Even if it rains - you have a choice of rooms to hunker down - and maybe a private pool, a hot tub or a games room.

Find a self-catering property that appeals to you when you view our portfolio of holiday cottages in The Quantock Hills. From cottages to couples to large and luxurious country houses for large groups celebrating an anniversary or special occasion – you’ll find some lovely choices.

If you are planning a family holiday in the Quantocks, this link should make life a little easier: - View our family-friendly Quantock Cottages

Natural Worlds To Explore

1. The Rich Tapestry of Quantocks' Biodiversity

The Quantock Hills boast an impressive array of habitats, from ancient oak woodlands to sweeping heathlands, as well as manicured parklands to rugged coastal areas. This diversity nurtures a remarkable variety of plant and animal life, transforming the hills into a living, breathing outdoor classroom for curious minds of all ages.

The hills' distinctive geology and climate have fostered ideal conditions for a broad spectrum of species to flourish. As you traverse the landscape, you'll discover that each habitat - be it a dense woodland, open heath, or lush meadow - harbours its unique community of flora and fauna.

2. A Botanical Wonderland: Woodland Treasures

Woody Wonders

In the ancient oak woodlands, keep your eyes peeled for:

Bluebells: Their vibrant azure hue carpets the forest floor come spring
Wood anemones: Delicate white blooms that emerge before the tree canopy fills out
Wild garlic: Recognisable by its pungent aroma and star-shaped white flowers
Ferns: Various species, including the distinctive hart's-tongue and robust male fern

Heathland Gems

The heathlands burst into a riot of colour, particularly in late summer:

Heather: Both bell heather and ling create a mesmerising purple haze across the landscape
Gorse: Its bright yellow flowers add a splash of sunshine almost year-round
Bilberry: Low-growing shrubs bearing edible berries (always consult an expert before sampling)
Tormentil: Small, cheery yellow flowers with four distinctive petals

Meadow Marvels

In grassland areas, you might stumble upon:

Orchids: Including the striking early purple and common spotted varieties
Ox-eye daisies: Large, daisy-like flowers with sunny yellow centres
Red clover: Pink flower heads that prove irresistible to bees
Yellow rattle: A semi-parasitic plant that plays a crucial role in creating diverse meadows

3. Wildlife Wonders to Discover

Magnificent Mammals

The Quantocks play host to a variety of fascinating mammals:

Red deer: The UK's largest land mammal, often spotted at dawn or dusk
Badgers: Nocturnal creatures leaving behind distinctive tracks
Bats: Several species, including the elusive barbastelle bat
Dormice: Shy nocturnal rodents inhabiting woodland areas

Feathered Friends

The diverse avian population will enthral birdwatchers:

Skylarks: Renowned for their melodious song as they hover high above the heathland
Nightjars: Nocturnal birds with a distinctive churring call
Peregrine falcons: Occasionally seen soaring majestically over the hills
Woodpeckers: Listen for their rhythmic drumming echoing through wooded areas

Intriguing Insects and Invertebrates

The hills buzz with a plethora of insect life:

Butterflies: Including the rare and beautiful high brown fritillary
Dragonflies: Often spotted darting near water sources
Glow-worms: A magical sight illuminating summer evenings

Wood ants: Look out for their impressive nest mounds in woodland areas.

4. Insider Tips for Wildlife Spotting

To make the most of your nature-spotting adventure in the Quantocks:

Time it right: Early morning or dusk often yields the best wildlife sightings
Practice patience: Many creatures reveal themselves if you wait quietly
Pack binoculars: They'll help you observe details of both wildlife and distant flora
Arm yourself with knowledge: Guidebooks or nature apps can aid identification
Look for telltale signs: Tracks, droppings, and nibbled plants can indicate animal presence
Tread lightly: Stick to marked paths and resist the urge to pick wildflowers
Engage all senses: Listen for bird calls, inhale the scent of wild garlic, feel the texture of tree bark

The Quantock Country Code

Visitors need to practice responsible tourism to preserve the natural beauty of these Somerset hills for future generations. The Quantock Hills AONB Service recommends following the Countryside Code, which includes principles such as:

Respecting other people and wildlife
Leaving no trace of your visit
Keeping dogs under control
Plan ahead and follow local signs

By adhering to these guidelines, families can help protect the delicate ecosystems of the Quantock Hills while enjoying their natural splendour.

So, pack your curiosity, bring your sense of wonder, and prepare for an unforgettable holiday walking and exploring one of England's most captivating natural landscapes. The plants, wildflowers, and wildlife of the Quantock Hills await, ready to share their secrets with you!

Where to Park

Car parks in The Quantock Hills

Crowcombe Park Gate - popular starting point for walks
Dead Woman's Ditch - small car park with access to hilltop walks
Holford Bowling Green - centrally located in the village
Kilve Beach Car Park - provides access to the coast
Ramscombe - spacious car park in Great Wood
Staple Plain - offers panoramic views of the Bristol Channel
Triscombe Stone - located on the Quantock ridgeway
Wilmot's Pool - small car park near walking trails
Lydeard Hill - car park with access to heathland walks
Cothelstone Hill - car park with views over Taunton Vale

Quantock Societies for further information on The Quantocks

Quantock Hills Nat.Landscape https://www.quantockhills.com

Friends of The Quantocks: https://friendsofthequantocks.org/about/land

Quantock Hills Education: https://www.quantockhillseducation.org/

More Quantock Holiday Suggestions

Discover more about what you can encounter and experience on holiday in The Quantock Hills when you read these blog articles: