Quantock Hills | Thorncombe Hill and Holford Combe Circular

This is an 8 mile walk around the Quantock Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).

Walk description:

Our walk begins at Crowcombe Park Gate car park (NB there are no toilets here). Following some brief introductions and safety talks we can then begin our walk - there will be plenty of time for everyone to get to know each other as we progress through the day. Our route begins by climbing gradually up to the top of Black Hill (358m), following good paths along the Macmillan Way West to Halfway Post and on to Bicknoller Post (287m). If the weather is clear we will be able to enjoy stunning views over the surrounding combes and Somerset countryside. Uplifting spring birdsong will leave you feeling transported into a timeless landscape.

From Backnoller Post we descend down Sheppard's Combe - there are often red deer grazing these hills so we will be sure to keep our eyes about us. You might like to bring some binoculars for such an occasion. The stream bubbles alongside and a gentle breeze whispers through the ancient woodland that surrounds us as we join Hodder's Combe. Soon we will reach the bottom of the Combe and drop into the petite village of Holford. There are no toilet facilities in Holford or anywhere on this walk. 

Passing Holford Green we will make a decision as a team whether to stop here for lunch or press on a bit further. Our group walks are designed to offer a zero-stress day and have the atmosphere of friends talking a walk together, so please feel able to communicate whenever you want to stop for a drink or snack, although the walk leader will ensure everyone is well looked after!

We will steadily work our way through the village along Combe Lane, passing sweet smelling rose bushes alive with butterflies and bees until we reach Combe House Hotel. Then we will continue to the end of the lane and pick up a tranquil and gentle path that will take us alongside the river Holford through Holford Combe. 

As we enter into the Combe there is a sun-spot right by the river and this is the other option for our food stop of the day - this walk presents spoils us with places to stop and take in the landscape and will be flexible on the day given the thoughts and feelings of the group. 

Walking through Holford Combe is a magical experience any time of the year but moving into spring we can the ancient woodland to be stirring with life all around us and the canopy to be alive with birdsong. Eventually we will begin the steepest climb of the day out of the Combe towards Five Lords Lane, then follow the road for a brief period until we reach 'Dead Woman's Ditch' car park. From here we will branch off across the heath to our final point of interest, Wilmots Pool and a large 22m diameter Bronze Age barrow, just half a mile away from the car park.

Whether you attend alone or with friends/family, you'll soon get to know everyone in the group and enjoy a stress-free day.

Walk length: 

Approx. 3/4hrs for 8ish miles

Date and time:

Saturday 14th March 2020 | Start at 11:00am - meet around 10:45am 

Start/finish location: 

OS Explorer 140 GR ST150 377

Getting to Crowcombe Park Gate car park:

Crowcombe Gate car park is first car park above Crowcombe Village. There is no charge for parking alough cars are left at owners own risk. Please note that the car park is very rutted and often covered in lovely puddles, so don't clean your car the day before!

Media: 

By signing up to a walk with us you are giving us permission to take photos for promotional use across our website and social media pages. If you specifically do not want media taken with you in it, please do feel able to get in touch. We encourage you to take photos during your walk but ask you to be sensitive to other members. Also, we'd love to have a copy of any you are particularly proud of so we share them too!

Accidents and Incidents:

All of our team are qualified first aiders and will carry an appropriate first aid kit. Should you be involved in an accident or 

become injured during the walk it is important that you notify our staff as soon as possible so that appropriate action can be taken. Should you feel unwell or require first aid please let a member of staff know. Please use the booking form and the paper discplaimer you will be given on the day as an opportunity to raise anything you feel the walk leader should know about.

Due to the nature of walking in an outdoor area there is often a level of risk. You will need to take responsibility for your own actions, health and involvement during the walk and will be expected to exercise judgement based on your fitness levels as to whether you can complete the walk. Any queries please get in touch. You will also be expected to abide by any safety instructions and decisions made by our staff and have a duty to exercise judgement regarding your own personal safety and that of other members of the group. If you choose to ignore safety instructions we cannot be held responsible for the consequences.

Cars are left at owners own risk.

Weather:

The weather can play a major role in our enjoyment of a day's walking, and in some cases can present a real danger. We always review the weather forecast in detail the day before and will send you an email if we have to change any plans. This is however only likely if we feel heading out will put us at real risk. Please do check the forecast for yourself and come prepared for whatever the weather! If you need a kit list or gear advice, please get in touch.

Please note that the walks are weather dependant. Should the forecast present any danger, we will endeavour to review our plans and offer alternative routes.

Food and Drink:

We will not be providing any food or drink on this walk other than a few spare snacks and water if needed in an emergency. Please ensure you have adequate food and drink for the day. You are welcome to buy food and top up on water in the villages we pass through (if any) so long as everyone is happy to stop. If you have any questions or need any help/advice with what food to bring, please feel able to get in touch.

No Drug and Alcohol Policy:

Spend More Time In The WILD has been set up in order to inspire and motivate followers to head outside for the benefit of mental and physical health. We are committed to providing a safe, healthy and secure space for anyone walking out a journey of freedom from addiction and substance abuse and as such have a strict no drug or alcohol policy on our walks and camping events.

Cancellations:

By Us: In the rare case that we have to cancel and event, you will be notified by email and offered a full refund.

By You: We require 14 days cancellation notice prior to your scheduled arrival, otherwise we will charge you cancellation fee as below.

- 50% of your total amount will be charged if you notify us about your cancellation or any changes by 14 days to 48 hrs before your scheduled arrival.

-100% of of your total amount will be charged if you do not notify us about your cancellation or any changes within 48 hrs.

If you have any questions regarding the walk or booking, please get in touch via the 'contact' page.