Quantock Hills National Landscape – Heathy Ridges, Wooded Combes, and Open Moor

A Sandstone Ridge Landscape Shaped by Uplift, Grazing, and Woodland

The Quantock Hills National Landscape lies in Somerset, in South West England, rising between the coast near Bridgwater and the western edge of the Somerset Levels. Designated as England’s first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in 1956, the Quantocks protect a compact but richly varied landscape of open moorland, wooded valleys, ridges, and traditional farmland.

Walking journeys in the Quantock Hills are shaped by a strong sense of space and elevation. High ridge paths across heath and moor deliver long, uninterrupted views, while steep-sided combes drop into sheltered woodland rich with moss, streams, and wildlife. The contrast between exposed hilltops and enclosed valleys creates varied walking days within a relatively small area.

The Quantocks are best known for their open hill walking. Broad grassy ridges and heathland plateaus provide expansive walking with relatively gentle gradients compared to neighbouring upland areas. From the highest points, views extend across the Bristol Channel towards Wales, inland over the Somerset Levels, and west towards the hills of Exmoor National Park.

Woodland plays a defining role in the landscape. Ancient oak woods line the combes and lower slopes, offering shaded walking and a strong seasonal character. In spring, bluebells carpet the valleys; in autumn, the woods glow with colour, making inland routes particularly rewarding.

Historic paths and quiet lanes connect hilltops with villages, farms, and estates. The landscape is deeply associated with Romantic-era writers, most notably Samuel Taylor Coleridge, whose poetry was inspired by walks across these hills. This cultural legacy adds another layer of depth to walking in the Quantocks.

Village-based walking is easy to plan, with settlements such as Nether Stowey, Crowcombe, and Kilve sitting close to established routes. Many walks naturally link ridge tops, woodland combes, and villages in satisfying circular routes.

Beyond walking, the Quantock Hills support a range of low-impact outdoor adventures. Trail running and cycling follow ridges and quiet lanes, while wildlife watching is excellent across moorland and woodland. The nearby coast adds further variety, with fossil hunting, sea views, and coastal paths just beyond the hills.

Accommodation across the National Landscape includes rural inns, country pubs with rooms, farm stays, guesthouses, and small hotels. Many bases sit directly on walking routes, allowing visitors to explore the Quantocks largely on foot and enjoy the slower pace of hill and valley walking.

For walkers seeking open landscapes, historic paths, and big views within a compact and accessible area, the Quantock Hills National Landscape offers one of South West England’s most rewarding and characterful walking destinations.

Where to Walk and Explore

Open Moorland & Ridge Walking

Expansive hilltop routes across heath and grassland with wide coastal and inland views.

Woodland Combes & Valleys

Sheltered walking through ancient oak woods, streams, and steep-sided valleys.

Historic Tracks & Quiet Lanes

Traditional paths and rural lanes linking hills, farms, and villages.

Coastal Edge Routes

Walks near the Bristol Channel combining low cliffs, beaches, and coastal viewpoints.

Village-Based Circular Walks

Well-connected routes starting and finishing in traditional Somerset villages.

Adventure Highlights

• Open heathland and ridge-top walking
• Long views across the Bristol Channel and Somerset Levels
• Ancient woodland combes and seasonal colour
• England’s first designated National Landscape
• Literary landscapes linked to Samuel Taylor Coleridge
• Quiet, uncrowded walking close to the coast