Two Dogs and an Awning

Category: Somerset

  • Jamming About to Dunkery Beacon

    Jamming About to Dunkery Beacon

    Whilst staying in Minehead in October last year Crosby and I walked from the site to Dunkery Beacon.  I was hoping for a clear day to appreciate the views from the Beacon but as I was walking the weather closed in and I struggled to see as far as the North Somerset coast.  I am heading towards Dunkery today but don’t plan to go to the summit.

    The start of my walk follows the route I took yesterday, leaving the site I turn left and walk uphill along the pavement besides the A39, Hopcott Road.  I keep with the road until I reach Periton Cross.  Here I turn left and take a bridleway on a track into Periton Combe.

    Soon I reach a metal barrier preventing vehicle access to the Combe, it has an information board about Dunster Woods attached to it.

    The path follows the track and then starts heading uphill.  There are forestry tracks in the woods but I keep with the way-markers for the bridleway as I ascend through the trees.

    It is a long steady haul up Periton Hill to reach Wootton Common, I was a bit chilly at the start of my walk but I soon warm up and start shedding layers.  

    At a fork in the track, as is reaches the edge of open land on Wootton Common, I fork to the left, still going uphill to reach a junction with a track running along the top of the hill where I turn right.

    At a fingerpost for Wootton Courtenay I turn left onto a track initially passing through Pine woods which are dark and featureless but at a junction of paths I turn right into a cracking area of Beech woodland.

    The path I am now on is marked on the map as Roadway Lane, this soon becomes a stunning sunken track descending steeply into Wootton Courtenay.  Such tracks will have been used for centuries and it would have been a challenging journey dragging a cart up this hill to reach Minehead.

    The track enters the village and passes the community hall and then reaches a road.  Here I turn right and then very soon take a lane on the left which is signposted to Brockwell and Ford.  This lane leads to a cattle grid with a gate beside it and then continues on to reach Brockwell.  At a T-junction I leave the road and take a bridleway with a fingerpost to Dunkery Beacon.

    The bridleway ascends gradually and then goes through an attractive area of woodland.

    At a junction of tracks I continue straight on, still going uphill and then emerge from the trees.  It had been my initial intention to turn right here and head towards Horner Wood, but it is such a pleasant day that I decide to head further up Dunkery Hill.  So I continue straight on making a gradual ascent through the heather.

    As I head up I decide that despite my initial plans I will walk to the summit of Dunkery Beacon.  This is often a feature of my solo walking, I have a rough idea of a route but at a junction of paths will go wherever the mood takes me.  So on reaching a minor road I cross and then pass a metal barrier to continue on towards the beacon.

    The ascent is now easier and there is a chance to take in the stunning views.  Reaching four Exmoor ponies I realise I have now seen more ponies than people on my walk.

    Heading towards the summit I see there are folk up there, but by the time I stop to look at the toposcope near the beacon they have moved on.  I do like a toposcope, not as much as a trig point, but they are always an interesting feature on a walk.

    In recent times the beacon has been repointed and it looks a bit stark until it weathers in.  This is the highest point on Exmoor and Somerset and as you might expect it is a bit breezy up here, but the last couple of times I have been here I have struggled to stay upright against the wind.

    Dunkery Hill forms part of the Holnicote Estate which was donated to the National Trust by Colonel W.W Wiggins in 1932.  The views from the summit are outstanding and today I can see all the way across to South Wales.  

    Close to the cairn a chap has what looks like a radio transmitter and aerial.  We have a brief chat and he explains he has been there a couple of hours and has been speaking to people in Europe and now is in a conversation with someone on the Brecon Beacons.  It must be a chilly hobby to participate in.

    I leave the summit following a path downhill heading north towards the coast.

    I ignore paths to the right and continue downhill towards a path marked on the map as Dicky’s Path.

    On reaching the junction with Dicky’s Path I turn right to head towards Aller Coombe. I later try, without success, to find the origins of the naming of this path.

    I follow the path into the combe and cross a ford around the head of the combe and then continue on to reach Hollow Combe.

    From this Combe I stay with Dicky’s Path to reach the large parking area at Webber’s Post.  This is another spot with stunning views.

    From the car park I join the Coleridge Way and follow the way-markers for this long distance path as it leads through Horner Wood.

    The Coleridge Way is a route based on the path said to have been walked by Samuel Coleridge  from Nether Stowey on the west side of the Quantock Hills to Lynmouth.  This section goes through attractive woodland reaching a minor road on the outskirts of Horner after going through a deer proof gate.

    At the road I turn left and walk through the hamlet, continuing along the road to reach a footpath on the left.  Here I take a short diversion to view the pack horse bridge over Horner Water.

    Returning to the road I turn left and head north towards West Luccombe.  Before reaching the village I take a footpath on the right heading east across a field of pasture.

    The way-marked route leads through kissing gates into another field and then follows the fence line to further fields to reach a minor road.

    I turn left along the road and follow it to Piles Mill.  This is a 16th century corn mill with an overshoot watermill.  In the 1930’s and 40’s it was used as a cider mill and is now a National Trust visitor centre.

    After passing the mill I cross the A39 and walk into Higher Allerford and then take a track on the right which leads steadily uphill towards Selworthy.  There are great views from the track looking over the route I was on earlier today.

    I pass fine old barns on the outskirts of Selworthy and then reach a road where I turn left and head uphill to pass the village church.

    After passing the church I continue along the single track lane to reach a crossing of tracks at Dean’s Cross, here I continue straight on along the narrow lane to reach a junction of footpaths on the edge of Little Headon Plantation.  I go through a gate straight in front of me to walk along the northern edge of the plantation.

    Heading along this footpath I get a cracking view of North Hill away to my left.

    The footpath leads into a pasture field where I continue with the hedge line to my left until I reach a way-marker which indicates the path goes through a gate and then downhill on a fenced path towards a minor road.

    At the road I turn right and follow the lane heading back towards Minehead, soon I pass Bratton Court and then continue straight on to stay with the road to reach housing at Woodcombe.  At a road I turn left and then very quickly take a path besides a stream through a park.

    At a road I turn right and then almost immediately left to continue following the stream through another park.  The route is marked as the Parks Walk and leads me to the outskirts of Minehead where I turn left and walk into the town centre and then wend my way back through the streets to reach the caravan park.

    My walk has covered 17 miles which is further than I had intended when I set off, but it has been a cracking day to be out and I have walked through some stunning scenery.

    You can view this 17 mile walk on OS Maps and download the GPX File Here

    To follow my walk, you will need Ordnance Survey Explorer Map OL9 – Exmoor

    11th February 2022

    © Two Dogs and an Awning (2022)

    All information on this site is provided free of charge and in good faith and no liability is accepted in respect of damage, loss or injury which might result from it.  To the best of my knowledge the routes are entirely on public rights of way or within areas that are open for public access.
    Walking can be hazardous and is done entirely at your own risk.  It is your responsibility to check your route and navigate using a map and compass.

  • A Cracking Walk From Minehead

    A Cracking Walk From Minehead

    Back in the Autumn we decided it was time to change our caravan.  We had been travelling in a Coachman VIP 675 for four years and really liked the van.  However, we found a couple of sites were not prepared to take a twin axle and access to others was very tight.  There was also the challenge of setting up and fixing the Alco locks to both wheels.  So last week we collected a Coachman VIP 575 and I am away for a few days to test it out before we start our more serious touring in the Spring.

    One of my favourite winter places to pitch up is the CAMC Minehead site.  It is only a few hours away from home and it is really easy to access.  It is conveniently located for Minehead but more importantly it has great access to Exmoor and the Quantock Hills.  I have done numerous walks from the site and today I am going to do a variation of a walk I often do whilst staying here. 

    On leaving the site I turn left and walk uphill along the pavement besides the A39, Hopcott Road.  On reaching the Hopcott I turn left to follow the narrow tarmac lane as it heads steadily uphill passing Higher Hopcott. The road then enters woodland with a steep final ascent to reach a small car park with an information board.

    I take the path to the right of the information board on the route of the Macmillan Way West heading uphill. I ignore a path on the right soon after leaving the car park and then where the Macmillan Way meets a crossing of tracks I continue straight on, staying on the route of the long distance path.

    The path now goes around the head of Long Combe, this is a cracking spot with stunning Beech trees lining the path.

    Leaving the trees the path continues on to reach a junction of tracks.  Here I turn right still on the route of the Macmillan Way West heading towards Tivington.

    I am heading across the top of Hopcott Common and at a fork in the track I go left to keep with the Macmillan Way West and head west to reach another crossing of paths.  Here the Macmillan Way turns left towards Wootton Courtney, however, I keep going straight ahead soon reaching an Ordnance Survey trig point tucked to the left of the track on a high bank. This trig on Periton Hill is one which I have bagged a number of times.

    At the next crossing of footpaths I continue straight on.

    I soon reach the National Trust plaque and enter Holnicote.  

    Within a short distance the track forks and I go right towards Headon Cross with the path leading through the attractive woodland of Tivington Common.

    It has turned out to be a cracking day there is a definite warmth to the sunshine as I walk through the trees.  Initially it is a gradual descent, but then as I near Headon Cross there is a short steep descent to reach a minor road.  In front of me I can see East Lynch which is on my route.

    Turning right on the minor road I reach Headon Cross and go straight over to take a minor road opposite.  This climbs steadily, as the road sweeps to the right I continue straight on along a track towards East Lynch with great views of Dunkery Hill away to my left.

    Approaching East Lynch farm I take a footpath on the right, this runs behind a fine old barn.  I stay on the wide grassy track as it sweeps by farm cottages, ignoring a footpath on the left and continuing uphill to reach a minor road at Deans Cross.  Here I turn left and follow the road downhill into Selworthy where I stop on one of the many benches in the churchyard and admire the view whilst I have my lunch.

    Resuming my walk I continue through the village forking right on a track heading towards Allerford.  The track passes some cracking old barns and I stop to look back towards the church.

    The track continues downhill and soon reaches an area where a hedge has been laid.  A couple of years ago I read the Natural History of the Hedgerow by John Wright.  It is a cracking book and totally transformed my walking, I am now far more observant about the way hedges are constructed and the different styles of hedging as I walk in different parts of the Country.

    The track leads to the outskirts of Higher Allerford where I go straight on along a narrow lane leading to Allerford via a packhorse bridge besides a ford.  The bridge is thought to be medieval, though work to enlarge the bridge was undertaken in 1886.

    After crossing the bridge I turn right to walk through this attractive village.  Soon after passing the old Post Office I take a footpath on the right which passes Stoates Farm and goes through a gate to reach a footbridge over the river.

    On the far side of the bridge I take a footpath towards West Lynch which, initially goes besides the river before starting to ascend into the woods.

    At a crossing of paths I take the route signposted towards Hurlstone Point, this path continues to steadily ascend through trees.

    The path leads to a wooden gate and a crossing of paths at Lynch Combe.  There is an information board explaining the work that has been done by the National Trust volunteers to restore the stone walls in the Selworthy and Cockerhill section of the Holnicote Estate. The walls are at least 200 years old and there are some fine examples in this Combe. 

    It is a steady ascent up through this Combe. As I near the edge of the trees I turn left on a path signposted to Hurlstone Point.  This continues through trees and then emerges into Church Combe with cracking views over Porlock Beach.

    At a path on the right I turn and continue up through Church Combe.  

    This is open access land and there is a wide choice of routes made by cattle and people.  One route I choose is blocked by cattle.  They seem very docile, but I decide to be cautious because I am always wary of cattle when I have Crosby with me.  I take one of the other multiple options and carry on uphill skirting the cattle to eventually reach the route of the South West Coast path on Bossington Hill.

    Turning right I follow the way-markers for this long distance trail.  Soon Selworthy Beacon comes into view and then at a fork in the path I go to the right to leave the South West Coast path and continue uphill to reach the trig point besides the beacon.

    It is an absolutely cracking day, there is a chilly breeze but it is mitigated by the warmth of the sunshine and the stunning views.  I follow a track heading toward North Hill with views of the Quantock Hills in the distance.

    The track leads towards a parking area and soon after passing through it I take a path on the left.  This heads north and rejoins the South West Coast path where I turn right and soon go through a gate into an area of pasture.

    The path ontinues with a fence and hedge on the left to reach another gate.  Here I leave the pasture and continue on the South West Coast Path as it goes east across North Hill.  This is an exposed spot and there is a stiff breeze, but despite it being late afternoon the sun continues to provide some warmth.  

    There are a network of paths that would take me back towards Minehead, but after passing a parking area I leave the South West Coastal Path and continue heading east towards woodland.

    On reaching the trees I continue straight on until I reach a fork in the path, here I go to the left and descend towards a gate and then continue on the path going steadily downhill.

    There are multiple paths in the trees that zig zag down through the woods.  I take one that brings me down to the sea front by a park.  From here I walk along the road to pass the Lifeboat Station and the Old Ship Aground pub and reach the harbour and beach.

    From the seafront I turn towards the centre of Minehead and then follow the roads leading back to the caravan site.  It has been a cracking day for walking and I have covered fourteen and a half miles.  I am hoping that the weather is as good for another long walk tomorrow.

    You can view this 14.5 mile walk on OS Maps and download the GPX File Here

    To follow my walk, you will need Ordnance Survey Explorer Map OL9 – Exmoor

    10th February 2022

    © Two Dogs and an Awning (2022)

    All information on this site is provided free of charge and in good faith and no liability is accepted in respect of damage, loss or injury which might result from it.  To the best of my knowledge the routes are entirely on public rights of way or within areas that are open for public access.
    Walking can be hazardous and is done entirely at your own risk.  It is your responsibility to check your route and navigate using a map and compass.

  • Visiting Beacons on Exmoor

    Visiting Beacons on Exmoor

    After a couple of days walking Lynnie has decided that Crosby and I should head out on our own today.  I have long planned a walk to the top of Dunkery Beacon from Minehead.  I’ve walked up Dunkery Hill on a number of occasions but never from Minehead.

    Leaving the site I turn left and walk uphill along the pavement besides the A39, Hopcott Road.  On reaching The Hopcott I turn left to follow the narrow tarmac lane as it heads steadily uphill passing Higher Hopcott and then reaching woodland.

    I ignore footpaths leading off from the road until I reach an information board for Dunster Woods.  

    I take the uphill path to the right of the information board on the route of the Macmillan Way West. I ignore a path on the right soon after leaving the car park and then where the Macmillan Way meets a crossing of tracks I continue straight on, staying on the route of the long distance path.  The path now goes around the head of Long Combe, this is a cracking spot with stunning Beech trees lining the path.

    Leaving the trees the path continues through a section of open land with dead bracken and gorse.  On reaching a junction of tracks we turn right still on the route of the Macmillan Way West heading towards Tivington across the top of Hopcott Common.  At a fork in the track I go left to keep with the Macmillan Way West.  There are good views from here back along the coastline towards Blue Anchor.

    I continue to head west to another crossing of paths.  The Macmillan Way turns left towards Wootton Courtney, however, I keep going straight ahead soon reaching an Ordnance Survey trig point tucked to the left of the track on a high bank. This trig on Periton Hill is one which I have bagged a number of times.

    I continue straight on through an attractive area of woodland.

    On reaching another  junction of paths I turn left on a track leading to Roadway Lane.

    Joining Roadway Lane I follow this ancient track as it heads downhill to Wootton Courtenay.

    Arriving in the village I turn right and then after 100 yards at a junction I fork left onto Brockwell Lane towards Brockwell and Ford. 

    I now stay with this lane to reach Brockwell Farm and then as the road sweeps to the left I continue straight on to join a footpath signed to Dunkery Beacon.

    There are a couple of paths here but I follow the one heading south west which soon leads through an attractive area of beech woodland.

    At a crossing of paths I continue straight on through the trees to reach the edge of moorland.   Here I keep heading in a south westerly direction and start the gradual ascent of Dunkery Hill. 

    It is a long steady two mile up hill to Dunkery Beacon but I appear to have the hill to myself so I can enjoy the solitude.

    After crossing a minor road I continue uphill along a broad track with the beacon in view in the distance.

    As I near the beacon I stop to check out the toposcope.  I have been here a number of times, but previously the visibility has been poor.

    On every occasion I have been here there has been a chill wind blowing and today is no exception.  This hill stands at 1,705 feet and is very exposed.

    From the beacon I take a grassy path which heads north as it descends the hill.

    After a couple of hundred yards I take a path on the right which heads north east towards a minor road.

    Nearing the road I turn left on a path which initially runs parallel with the road but then joins it and continues downhill to Webbers Post Car Park.

    From the car park I join the route of the Coleridge Way.  This trail covers the fifty miles from Nether Stowey, on the east side of the Quantocks, to Lynmouth linking locations associated with the poet Samuel Taylor Coleridge. 

    I stay with the way-markers until I reach Jubilee Hut. This is a weather hut thought to have been  built originally by the Acland’s who owned Holnicote Estate.  Built in celebration of Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee it became known as the Jubilee Hut.  During World War II it was used as a look out post, but then fell into disrepair and collapsed in the winter of 1946.  The National Trust have rebuilt it, following the original design, facing four directions it always provides shelter from wind and rain.

    At the hut I leave the Coleridge Way and take a footpath on the left which soon descends steeply  towards Horner Water.

    On reaching the water I cross on a footbridge and turn right along a track heading towards Horner with the water flowing to my right.

    After crossing a bridge I turn left along a minor road and walk through Horner.

    I stay with this road heading towards West Luccombe until I reach a footpath on the right which is opposite a campsite on the left.  The path goes through a gate and across a field heading east to a band of trees.

    After going through a kissing gate I continue along the edge of a field and then pass through two more fields to reach a minor road where I turn left and follow this lane to Piles Mill.  This 16th century mill was originally a corn mill and then between 1930 and 1940 it was used for cider making.  Now it is run by the National Trust.

    With care I cross the A39 and walk into Brandish Street and turn left to follow a lane to Higher Allerford.  Here I turn right to follow a track signposted to Selworthy.  This route heads steadily upwards along the track towards Selworthy.

    At a junction of paths I turn left and go through a gate to head uphill through Holnicote Combe.  Despite walking a lot in this area this is the first time I have walked through this attractive combe.

    At the top of the combe I reach a minor road where I turn right and then very quickly take a track on the left leading to Selworthy Beacon.

    From the Beacon I follow a track heading east across North Hill.  There are a number of paths up here but I know as long as I head east and keep the minor road somewhere to my right I will be fine.

    The track leads towards a parking area and soon after passing through it I take a path on the left.  This heads north and rejoins the South West Coast path where I turn right and soon go through a gate into an area of pasture.

    The path continues close to the road to reach another gate, now I keep going east to reach another parking area.  From here I follow a waymarked path indicating it is two miles to Minehead.

    During World War II North Hill was requisitioned and local farms evacuated so the area could become the Minehead Armoured Fighting Range. It is not long before I start to see signs of the construction that took place to enable the tank movements and the strategically placed Radar Station. This station was built in 1942 and formed part of a network of 244 similar stations across the Country constructed between 1937 and 1944.

    The purpose of these stations was to plot the German Luftwaffe aircraft and guide British pilots. During World War II Lynnie’s mother was stationed in a unit like this in South Devon.

    I now continue along a track which leads into woods above Culver Cliff.

    There are an extensive network of paths that zigzag down through the trees.  I know that as long as I keep descending and follow the way-markers towards Minehead I will eventually end up in the town. The route I take arrives at the sea front by a park where I then walk besides the road to reach Minehead Harbour,

    From here it is a case of following the roads through Minehead to return to the caravan site to find out how Lynnie has spent her day.

    You can view this 19 mile walk on OS Maps and download the GPX File Here

    To follow my walk, you will need Ordnance Survey Explorer Map OL9 – Exmoor

    28th October 2021

    © Two Dogs and an Awning (2021)

  • England’s Tallest Tree

    England’s Tallest Tree

    Four years ago I did an interesting walk from the delightfully named Nutcombe Bottom to Withycombe Common and on my return went close to the site of the tallest tree in England.  However I decided not to visit the tree because I thought I would save it for a day when Lynnie was walking with me.  Today we are going to combine the visit to the tree with a variation on my previous walk in this area.

    Today’s walk starts just south of Dunster in the car park at Nutcombe Bottom, (OS Grid Ref: SU977423).  We start by heading south through Nutcombe Bottom and gradually ascend into Hats Wood.

    There are a network of tracks and paths in the woods but we keep heading south crossing a couple of tracks to reach Broadwood Plantation where the track sweeps in a south-easterly direction to reach a crossing of tracks.  Here we go to the left and head east on a track that follows the contour line around a hill.

    We stay with this track as it sweeps around Longcombe Hill and then heads south towards Long Wood.  I recall from the last time I was walking here that one of the features of walking in these woods is the wood carvings created from old tree stumps.  

    This is another track where paths lead off to either side, but we stick with it going towards the south until we reach a crossroads of tracks where we turn left and go east towards Withycombe Common.

    Emerging from the trees we keep going east to reach a point where six paths meet on the edge of Withycombe Common.  Here we take the broad stony track heading up onto the Common.

    Reaching the brow of the hill we leave the track to walk the few yards to reach the Withycombe Common OS trip pillar.  I have previously bagged this trig but it is the first time Lynnie has been up here so much to Crosby annoyance we stop for the obligatory trig picture.

    There are far reaching views along the Somerset coastline as we start to descend towards Rodhuish Common.

    At a crossing of tracks on the edge of Rodhuish Common we keep heading east to follow a muddy path across the common.  It looks like this path has been churned up by a number of horses,  making it hard going for two legged creatures.

    At the edge of the common we head towards a gate and join a track heading towards Rodhuish Cross.

    On joining a minor road we turn right and continue to Rodhuish Cross where we turn right again and then at a fork go left to follow the lane to reach the delightful, small 15th century church of St Bartholomew.

    This small church is equally attractive inside as it is from the outside.  After a brief internal visit we settle down on a bench besides the church to eat our lunch.

    Refreshed we continue south along the road and follow it as it bends around Style’s Farm.  There is a sign advertising their ice cream, this is not an ice cream Lynnie has knowingly tasted.  So she makes a note to try it the next time we spot somewhere selling it.

    At the next junction we take the lane on the left (Sandrocks Lane) to head north.  As the path descends towards Withycombe there are good views across the Bristol Channel.

    At a junction we turn left and continue downhill into Withycombe.  After crossing a footbridge besides a ford we turn right to reach St Nicholas’ Church.

    We take a look inside the church and are drawn to the effigy of a woman lying in a window. Either side of the effigy are elaborately carved turrets and the effigy is holding a box across her chest. I later read that this is thought to signify that only her heart is buried in the location. 

    From the church we take the left fork to join Withycombe Lane and follow this out of the village and then as we near the outskirts of Carhampton we take a drove on the left (Hill Lane) and follow this towards Withycombe Hill. 

    At a junction of tracks we continue straight on still heading up Withycombe Hill, it is a long steady haul.

    As the path starts to level we reach open access land.  Here we follow a track with open heathland too our left and a plantation to our right.

    On reaching Withycombe Hill Gate we take a path to the left heading towards Bat’s Castle.

    We are now heading west.  It is cracking winter’s afternoon, a chill in the air is compensated by bright skies with a bit of warmth from the sun.  The path leads to the ramparts of the Iron Age hillfort at Bat’s Castle.

    The path passes through the centre of the hillfort and then descends before rising again to reach Gallox Hill where we encounter Exmoor ponies grazing beside the path.

    The path descends to a gate where we turn left and follow a clear path descending through coniferous trees.

    We continue through the trees and then reach a track which leads to a parking area for the Tall Tree Trail.  Here we take the Trail path on the left which follows the stream.

    The trees in this section of woodland are mainly Douglas Firs planted in the 1870s.

    Fortunately we have chosen a very quiet afternoon to visit this spot.  I imagine it would be packed in the tourist season or school holidays, but today we have the place almost to ourselves.  On a day like this it is a special place.

    The tallest of the trees in this woodland is a Douglas Fir which reportedly is 197 feet tall.  It is easy to identify because it is the only tree with a wooden surround.  It also lays claim to being the tallest tree in England.

    The only problem when trying to photograph a tall tree is the angle you need take the picture, consequently making the tree look pretty average in size.

    Returning to the Tall Tree car park we turn left and follow a path leading back to our starting point in Nutcombe Bottom car park.  It has been a cracking walk covering just over eleven miles.

    You can view this 11 mile walk on OS Maps and download the GPX File Here 

    To follow my walk you will need Ordnance Survey Explorer Leisure – OL9 – Exmoor

    27th October 2021

    © Two Dogs and an Awning (2021)

    All information on this site is provided free of charge and in good faith and no liability is accepted in respect of damage, loss or injury which might result from it.  To the best of my knowledge the routes are entirely on public rights of way or within areas that are open for public access.
    Walking can be hazardous and is done entirely at your own risk.  It is your responsibility to check your route and navigate using a map and compass.

  • Tea For Two at Periwinkle Cottage

    Tea For Two at Periwinkle Cottage

    Last year when staying at Minehead I walked over to Selworthy to meet up with a Twitter buddy, Sarah, at Periwinkle Cottage Tea Rooms.  My meeting someone I met on social media didn’t concern Lynnie, however, going to a tea room without her was frowned upon.  So today I am putting things right and we will stop for tea and scones at this excellent tea room.

    Leaving the site we turn left and walk uphill along the pavement besides the A39, Hopcott Road.  On reaching The Hopcott we turn left to follow the narrow tarmac lane as it heads steadily uphill passing Higher Hopcott and then reaching woodland.

    We ignore footpaths leading off from the road until we reach an information board for Dunster Woods.  Now we take the uphill path to the right of the information board on the route of the Macmillan Way West. We ignore a path on the right soon after leaving the car park and then where the Macmillan Way meets a crossing of tracks we continue straight on, staying on the route of the long distance path.  The path now goes around the head of Long Combe, this is a cracking spot with stunning Beech trees lining the path.

    Leaving the trees the path continues through a section of open land with dead bracken and gorse.  On reaching a junction of tracks we turn right still on the route of the Macmillan Way West heading towards Tivington across the top of Hopcott Common.  

    At a fork in the track we go left to keep with the Macmillan Way West.  There are good views from here back along the coastline towards Blue Anchor.

    We continue to head west to another crossing of paths.  The Macmillan Way turns left towards Wootton Courtney, however, we keep going straight ahead soon reaching an Ordnance Survey trig point tucked to the left of the track on a high bank. This trig on Periton Hill is one which I have bagged a number of times.

    At the next crossing of footpaths we continue straight on through an attractive area of trees.

    On reaching another  junction of paths we follow the way-marker towards Headon Cross and soon pass a National Trust plaque and enter Holnicote Estate. 

    Within a short distance the track forks and we go right continuing towards Headon Cross with the path leading through the cracking woodland of Tivington Common.

    Our route descends gradually, but as we near Headon Cross there is a short steep descent to reach a minor road.  Turning right on the road we reach Headon Cross and go straight over to take the minor road opposite.  This climbs steadily, as the road sweeps to the right we continue straight on along a track towards East Lynch.  From here there is a good view of Dunkery Hill.

    Approaching East Lynch Farm we take a footpath on the right, this runs behind a fine old barn.  We stay on the wide grassy track as it sweeps by farm cottages, ignoring a footpath on the left and continuing uphill.  On reaching a minor road at Deans Cross we turn left and follow the road downhill into Selworthy for Lynnie’s long awaited tea and scones.

    Refreshed we head back up through the gardens of the tea room to the War Memorial and then take the footpath on the left, soon heading into the attractive Selworthy Combe.  Where the track forks we go left to go over a bridge and follow the path as it heads uphill through the trees.  Our route continues steadily uphill on an attractive path through the trees.  Nearing the minor road at the top of the hill we turn left along a grassy track.

    We follow the path to reach the Memorial Hut, erected in 1878 by John Barton Arundel Acland the youngest son of Thomas Dyke Acland (1787 -1871).  One of the inscriptions inside reads “In remembrance of the father who during more than fifty years took Sunday walks up this Combe with his Children and Grandchildren training them in the love of nature and of Christian poetry this Wind and Weather hut was built”.

    From the hut we walk uphill to a minor road and cross to follow a track leading uphill to Selworthy Beacon.

    From the trig point we take a path heading east on a track running close to the road.

    After going through a gate near a cattle grid we continue through an area of pasture.

    The path continues close to the road to reach another gate, now we keep going east to reach another parking area and then keep going to another car park close to woodland.  Here we veer to the left and take a path going east through trees and passing concrete bases that housed Nissen huts during World War II.  Apparently the American Forces had a NAAFI in one of the huts on this hill.

    We carry on until we reach a fork in the path, we go to the left and descend towards a gate continuing steadily downhill on the path.  

    There are multiple paths in the trees that descend towards the seafront.  We stay with one that goes straight on to reach a tarmac lane and turn left, soon joining the Zig Zag path, enjoying views of the sea as we descend to the seafront.

    At the bottom of the path we turn left and pass cottages to reach the seafront by the sculpture marking the start, or end, of the south west coast path. From here we turn right and wander through the streets of Minehead to get back to the caravan site.

    You can view this 12 mile walk on OS Maps and download the GPX File Here

    To follow my walk, you will need Ordnance Survey Explorer Map OL9 – Exmoor

    26th October 2021

    © Two Dogs and an Awning (2021)

    All information on this site is provided free of charge and in good faith and no liability is accepted in respect of damage, loss or injury which might result from it.  To the best of my knowledge the routes are entirely on public rights of way or within areas that are open for public access.
    Walking can be hazardous and is done entirely at your own risk.  It is your responsibility to check your route and navigate using a map and compass.

  • The Smallest Church in England

    The Smallest Church in England

    Almost exactly a year ago I took a trip to Minehead CAMC without Lynnie.  She decided to stay at home whilst Crosby and I walked on Exmoor.   During the week I did a number of cracking walks I had not previously done.  This year I have persuaded Lynnie to join us, I am not sure whether it was the thought of some new walks or the promise of visits to a few tea rooms that temped her.  I am pretty sure it was the latter.

    The final walk on my last trip was a stunning, circular walk from Bossington visiting Porlock Weir, Culbone Church, Worthy Wood and Porlock.  At around 12 miles it is an acceptable distance for Lynnie and is a new walk she is keen to do.  Our starting point is the National Trust car park in Bossington (TA24 8HF) (Grid Ref: SS898479).  

    From the car park we join the road and turn right and at a junction continue on a right fork to head along a dead end lane passing Bossington Farm and heading towards the beach.

    On the beach we turn left towards a World War II pillbox.

    Just a bit further along is an impressive disused lime kiln.  This is the last remaining one of four kilns on this beach and is thought to have been built in the early 1800’s.

    Close to the lime kiln is another pillbox, this one is a bit further inland and looks better protected from the ravages of the sea.

    From the pillbox we take a path that goes beside a wall over marshy pasture and then at a junction of paths we turn left and follow a raised walkway across the salt marsh heading inland.  There are cracking views of Bossington Hill from here.

    At a junction of paths we turn right and follow the route of the South West Coast Path towards Porlock Weir.  After crossing a footbridge over a stream we reach a memorial to the crew of an American Liberator bomber that set off on 29th October 1942 from Holmsely airfield in the New Forest as part of an anti-submarine patrol in the Bay of Biscay.  On its return flight it encountered bad weather and  clipped Bossington Hill.  The plane crashed on the marshland and eleven of the twelve man crew lost their lives.

    We continue on the path through the petrified remains of ancient woodland on the marshes which formed part of a submerged forest.

    We stay with the coastal path way markers and soon follow a shingle bank heading towards Porlock Weir.

    As the path reaches a road we turn right and wander into Porlock Weir passing the Ship Inn, or Bottom Ship, as it is known.  This is because there is also a Ship Inn in nearby Porlock.

    A bit further on we reach the harbour.  There was once a thriving industry here catching Oysters and the harbour was also visited by herring fleets.  These days the fishing industry is small, the harbour is mainly occupied by pleasure vessels, though oyster farming was revived in 2013 and they can be purchased at the harbour.

    It is a pleasant, sunny, autumnal day and we decide to stop at a picnic bench beside the harbour and get a pot of tea from a cafe situated in the converted barns.  Lynnie seizes the opportunity to look at the crafts in the gallery. 

    Refreshed we resume our walk and take a footpath on the left just after the barns.  This goes up some steps to reach the edge of a field of pasture.  Now we follow the way-markers to reach a minor road where we turn right and continue down to the gates of the private toll road at Worthy.  This toll road on the Porlock Manor Estate was built in the 1840’s to provide work for local people following the Napoleonic Wars.  Originally the tolls were collected at the Ship Inn in Porlock Weir, but these days they are collected at the gates.

    Our route continues on the coastal path through the arch to the right of the main gate and then goes steadily uphill passing through tunnels.  Apparently early in the 19th century the Earl of Lovelace built a home here for his bride, Lord Byron’s daughter Ada. This was a rambling folly called Ashley Coombe which was demolished in the 1950’s.  It is said that these tunnels were built so that Ada did not have to see tradesman delivering goods to her home.

    The path steadily ascends through the trees, over time landslips have meant the path has been diverted, there is the occasional section where recent erosion makes the going a bit tricky and the walking poles are deployed for extra stability.  After getting the occasional view across  the sea to the south coast of Wales we start to descend into the hamlet of Culbone and  make our way to the churchyard.

    St Beuno’s church still holds regular services and is said to be the smallest church in England seating just 30 people.  It is a cracking little church dating back to pre-Norman times, the porch was added in the 13th century.

    After stopping for lunch on a bench in the churchyard we leave via a gate leading to a footpath beside a stream and turn right following the way-markers to Silcombe Farm.  This path goes by a cottage and then continues up through Withy Combe on a clear way-marked path.

    At a junction of paths we turn left and continue heading uphill on a hedge lined track to reach a gate.

    After going through the gate we continue along a track besides a field to reach another gate where we join a minor road near Silcombe Farm. Now we turn left and follow this lane, Yearnor Mill Lane, passing a series of entrances to farms, Parsonage Farm, Ash Farm and Yarner Farm.  Along the way there are stunning views of the coastline.

    We are now on the Coleridge Way, I have walked a number of sections of this 51 mile route which goes from Samuel Taylor Coleridge’s home in Nether Stowey to Lynmouth. It is said that he walked the route frequently to visit friends.  Coleridge was mates with William and Dorothy Wordsworth, at the time Coleridge was in Nether Stowey the Wordsworth’s were also in the Quantock Hills at Alfreston, he was also a contemporary of Lord Byron.

    We ignore a road to the right to Lynmouth and stay with Yearnor Mill Lane to a junction with Pitt Lane, here turning left we go steadily downhill to reach the entrance to the Worthy Hill Toll Road.   The toll road is not accessible to walkers so we take a footpath on the right signed to Porlock.  This goes through a gate and joins an attractive track through trees in Worthy Wood.

    We are still on the Coleridge Way, but where it veers to the left we stay on the main track at the southern edge of the woods.  Then at a fork in the path we go left and continue downhill to a junction of tracks and turn left.  At the next junction of tracks we turn right and rejoin the Coleridge Way and follow the track to the Community Hall at Porlockford.  Now we turn right up a track besides the hall and then cross a stream at a footbridge on the left.

    We are still on the Coleridge Way and follow this towards Porlock.  It is a wooded path but we get occasional glimpses of the coastline and Porlock Bay.

    The path leads into Porlock where we turn left and wander through the village to pass the Ship Inn, or the Top Ship as it is known.  This pub dates back to the 15th century and as you would expect of such an old inn there are many tales of smuggling and other goings on.  The pub’s website has tales of its interesting history.

    We continue through the village to pass the church of St Dubricius with its unusual spire that appears to have had the top cut off.

    From the church we continue along the High Street and then take a left turn into Sparkhayes Lane and follow this out of the village towards the coast. At a junction of paths we turn right to join the South West Coast Path with a cracking view of Bossington Hill in front of us.

    We now follow the way-markers back into Bossington to reach our starting point in the National Trust car park.  Our walk has covered 12 miles and has gained full approval from Lynnie.

    You can view this 12 mile walk on OS Maps and download the GPX file here

    To follow our walk you will need Ordnance Survey Outdoor Explorer Map OS9 Exmoor

    25th  October 2021

    © Two Dogs and an Awning (2021)

    All information on this site is provided free of charge and in good faith and no liability is accepted in respect of damage, loss or injury which might result from it.  To the best of my knowledge the routes are entirely on public rights of way or within areas that are open for public access.
    Walking can be hazardous and is done entirely at your own risk.  It is your responsibility to check your route and navigate using a map and compass.

  • Porlock Weir and Culbone

    Porlock Weir and Culbone

    Before I left home I mentioned to a friend that I was heading to Minehead to do some walking on Exmoor and she asked if I had ever walked to Culbone church from Porlock Weir.  Despite my many visits to this area I confessed to never having visited Culbone so today I plan to rectify that.

    The starting point for my walk is the National Trust car park in Bossington (TA24 8HF) (Grid Ref: SS898479).  From the car park I rejoin the road and turn right and then at a junction continue on a right fork to head along a dead end lane that passes Bossington Farm.

    I stay with the tarmac lane until it becomes a track and then continue towards the coast, ignoring two footpaths leading off to the left.

    On reaching the pebble beach I take a moment to look to the right at Bossington Hill.  A few days ago I had a cracking walk up there and it has been added to my list of places to walk again on a return visit.

    My route now follows the path along the coastline heading towards Porlock Weir and I soon reach a World War II pillbox.

    Soon after the pillbox I arrive at a cracking old disused lime kiln.  This is the last remaining one of four kilns on this beach and is thought to have been built in the early 1800’s.

    The path now goes through a gate to enter an area of marshy pasture and then at a junction of paths I turn left and follow a raised walkway heading inland.

    As I head across the walkway there are stunning views in both directions.

    At a junction of paths I turn right and follow the route of the South West Coast Path heading to Porlock Weir.  I soon reach a memorial to the crew of an American Liberator bomber that set off on 29th October 1942 from Holmsely airfield in the New Forest as part of an anti-submarine patrol in the Bay of Biscay.  On its return flight it encountered bad weather and  clipped Bossington Hill.  The plane crashed on the marshland and eleven of the twelve man crew lost their lives.

    I continue on the path through an area of ancient woodland on the marshes which form part of a submerged forest.

    I stay with the coastal path way markers and soon follow a shingle bank as I near Porlock Weir.

    As the path reaches a road I turn right and wander into Porlock Weir passing the Ship Inn to reach the harbour.  

    It is the first time I have been here and I am sure by normal standards it is quiet, but after months of avoiding people there are more folk around than I am comfortable with so I decide not to hang around and continue on the route of the coast path.  This passes a converted barn housing shops and food outlets and then at a junction of paths goes right up some steps before heading along the edge of a field.

    The path reaches a minor road where I turn right and continue down to the gates of the private toll road at Worthy.  This toll road on the Porlock Manor Estate was built in the 1840’s to provide work for local people following the Napoleonic Wars.  Originally the tolls were collected at the Ship Inn in Porlock Weir, but these days they are collected at the gates.

    My route continues on the coastal path through the arch to the right of the main gate and then goes steadily uphill passing through tunnels.

    The South West Coast Path now goes up through Yearnor Wood. There are warning signs to follow a diversion as the cliff has eroded and the original path is no longer considered safe.  This is an attractive path through woodland.

    As I near Culbone the path descends to reach a cottage by the church.  I go through a gate into the churchyard to visit the church of St Beuno.  This is said to be the smallest church in England and seats just 30 people.  

    It is a cracking little church dating back to pre-Norman times, the porch was added in the 13th century.  It is surprising that on this pleasant afternoon at the end of October I am the only person here.

    I leave the churchyard by a gate that leads to a footpath besides a stream and turn right following the way-marker to Silcombe Farm.

    This path goes besides a cottage and then continues up through Withy Combe on a clear way-marked path.

    After going through a gate I continue along a track besides a field of pasture to reach another gate and then join a minor road near Silcombe Farm.

    I turn left along this lane, Yearnor Mill Lane, and pass a series of entrances to farms, Parsonage Farm, Ash Farm and Yarner Farm.  Along the way there are stunning views of the coastline.

    I ignore a road to the right to Lynmouth and stay with Yearnor Mill Lane to a junction with Pitt Lane, then turn left going steadily downhill to reach the entrance to the Worthy Hill Toll Road.   The toll road is not accessible to walkers so I take a footpath on the right signed to Porlock.

    Since joining Yearner Mill Lane I have been on the route of the Coleridge Way. This is a 51-mile walk from Nether Stowey on the east side of the Quantock Hills to Lynmouth and is said to follow a route through the countryside that inspired Samuel Taylor Coleridge’s writing.  The section I am on leads through the trees of Worthy Wood.

    Where the Coleridge Way veers off to the left I stay on the main track at the southern edge of the woods.  Then at a fork in the path I go left and continue downhill to a junction of tracks and turn left.  At the next junction of tracks I turn right and rejoin the Coleridge Way and follow the track to the Community Hall at  Porlockford.

    At the Community Hall I turn right up a track and then cross a stream, still following the route of the Coleridge Way I stay with the way-markers through an area of woodland with occasional glimpses of the coastline.

    The path leads into Porlock where I turn left and wander through the village to pass the church of St Dubricius with its interesting spire which appears to have had the top cut off.

    From the church I continue along the High Street and then take a left turn into Sparkhayes Lane and follow this out of the village towards the coast. At a junction of paths I turn right to join the route of the South West Coast Path and follow this back to my starting point in Bossington.  It has been a cracking 12 mile walk and by the time I get back to the car it is dusk.  I am heading home tomorrow so need to get back to the caravan to start packing up for an early start.

    You can view this 12 mile walk on OS Maps and download the GPX File Here

    To follow our walk you will need Ordnance Survey Outdoor Explorer Map OS9 Exmoor

    31st October 2020

    © Two Dogs and an Awning (2020)

    All information on this site is provided free of charge and in good faith and no liability is accepted in respect of damage, loss or injury which might result from it.  To the best of my knowledge the routes are entirely on public rights of way or within areas that are open for public access.
    Walking can be hazardous and is done entirely at your own risk.  It is your responsibility to check your route and navigate using a map and compass.

  • Wootton Courtenay and Dunster from Minehead

    Wootton Courtenay and Dunster from Minehead

    Over many trips to this area I have walked Hopcott Common and Periton Hill and seen footpath signs for Wootton Courtenay but have never ventured into the village.  So today’s walk will take me to the village, but I have no set route in mind, I am just going to jamabout and pick a route as I go along.

    I leave the caravan site and turn left to walk along the pavement besides the A39 and stay with this for just over a mile until I reach a junction with Periton Lane on the right.  I cross the A39 and take a bridleway, opposite, way-marked to Wootton Common.

    This bridleway follows a track uphill through the attractive woodland of Periton Combe.

    The path continues to the top of Periton Hill and I stay with the footpath to a junction with the track that runs along the top of the hill.  I turn right and then left on a track leading to Roadway Lane.

    Joining Roadway Lane I follow this ancient track as it heads downhill to Wootton Courtenay.

    Arriving in the village I turn right and then after 100 yards at a junction I fork left onto Brockwell Lane towards Brockwell and Ford.  At an outbuilding I turn left and follow a lane.

    Reaching a minor road I turn left and walk through the village to reach All Saints Church.  In front of the church is a convenient bench to stop for lunch.

    From the church I follow the lane heading east out of the village.  This is a quiet country lane and it is pleasant walking, I stay with it for 3 miles heading towards the A396.  There are fine views across the valley.

    On reaching the A396 I take a footpath on the left just before reaching the main road.  This leads uphill onto Grabbist Hill.

    I stay with this path as to follows the contour around the hill to reach a junction of paths where I turn right and walk through Dunster cemetery and then past allotments.  At a junction I turn right and follow a lane to reach a school on the corner of St George’s Street, here I turn right and then very quickly take a left into Priory Green.  After going under a stone arch I reach Dunster Dovecote.

    This dovecote was built as part of the Benedictine Priory of Dunster and is thought to date back to the 13th or 14th century.  Repairs were carried out in the 18th and 19th century and then more recently in 1990 a full restoration was undertaken to repair the damage caused by a storm in 1987.

    Opposite the dovecote stands a Tithe Barn, this was also part of the Benedictine Priory and was used to store produce collected as part of the tithe for the priory. It is known that a barn has stood here since the 14th century and the existing barn was given a major restoration in 2002.

    I continue along Priory Green until I reach a junction with a lane called The Ball, here I turn right and follow the lane to reach the A396 where I turn left and head out of Dunster.  As I approach the junction with the A39 I cross the A396 and take a path way-marked to Minehead via a subway.  This leads under the A39 and passes the old Dunster Police Station which has now been converted into homes.

    At a junction I turn right into Marsh Street and follow this to a junction with Station Road where I turn right and follow the lane to reach Dunster Railway Station.  This station was opened in 1874 by the Minehead Railway, later becoming part of Great Western Railway which operated until the line closed in 1971.  Fortunately the West Somerset Railway company was then formed as a heritage line and the station reopened in 1976.

    From the station I continue on the lane to cross the railway line and keep with it to the Old Manor at Lower Marsh Farm.  Here the footpath continues past the manor house and farm and goes along a track heading towards the coast.

    Reaching the coast path I turn left and follow the path along the edge of Minehead and West Somerset Golf course.  So far I have managed to avoid the rain today, but the clouds ahead look rather ominous and I am not sure my luck will hold.

    The path leads to the seafront in Minehead passing the entrance to Butlins.

    Heading into Minehead I follow residential streets back to the caravan site on Hopcott Road.  My walk has covered 12 miles and it has been pleasant walking on an autumnal day.

    You can view this 12 mile walk on OS Maps and download the GPX File Here (Subscription to OS Maps Required)

    To follow our walk you will need Ordnance Survey Outdoor Explorer Map OS9 Exmoor

    30th October 2020

    © Two Dogs and an Awning (2020)

  • Allerford and Bossington from Minehead

    Allerford and Bossington from Minehead

    Later in the week I plan to walk around Porlock Weir and think I will start from Bossington.  I have not walked from there before so decide that today I will check out the parking facilities.  I suppose the logical thing would be to drive there and have a look, but it is easy to include it in a circular walk from the caravan site in Minehead, which has the added benefit of providing an opportunity to walk through Allerford and head up Bossington Hill. 

    On leaving the site I turn left and walk uphill along the pavement besides the A39, Hopcott Road.  On reaching the Hopcott I turn left to follow the narrow tarmac lane as it heads steadily uphill passing Higher Hopcott. The road then enters woodland with a steep final ascent to reach a small car park.

    A network of paths lead from this car park, I take the route of the Macmillan Way West still heading uphill. I ignore a path on the right soon after leaving the car park and then where the Macmillan Way forks to the left I take the right fork to follow a footpath along a track.

    It is still a steep ascent and then the path starts to level slightly on leaving the trees to enter an area covered in gorse.  At a crossing of paths I turn right to follow the route towards Tivington.

    I am now back on the Macmillan Way heading west to reach another crossing of paths.  Here the Macmillan Way turns left towards Wootton Courtney, however, I keep going straight ahead soon reaching an Ordnance Survey trig point tucked to the left of the track on a high bank. This trig on Periton Hill is one I have previously bagged, but Crosby insists on having his picture taken at the trig.

    At the next crossing of footpaths I continue straight on to pass the National Trust plaque and enter Holnicote.  Within a short distance the track forks and I go right towards Headon Cross.

    This path goes through an attractive area of woodland before descending steeply to reach the minor road where I turn right to cross the A39.  I now follow the minor road opposite as it climbs steadily, as the road sweeps to the right I continue straight on along a track towards East Lynch.

    As I approach the farm I take a footpath on the right, which runs behind a fine old barn.  I stay on the wide grassy track as it sweeps by farm cottages, ignoring a footpath on the left and continuing uphill to reach a minor road at Deans Cross.  Here I turn left and follow the road downhill into Selworthy.

    After passing Selworthy Church which has fine views from its car park I continue through the village forking right on a track heading towards Allerford.  The track passes some cracking old barns and then continues steadily downhill.

    At Higher Allerford I go straight on along a narrow lane leading to Allerford, accessing the village by a ford to reach a packhorse bridge which is thought to be medieval, though work to enlarge the bridge was undertaken in 1886.

    After crossing the bridge I turn right to walk through this attractive village.  Passing through Lower Allerford I stay with the lane and follow this all the way to reach West Lynch where I stop to look at the Lynch Medieval Chapel of Ease.  Originally constructed around 1530 this chapel was built for the monks from nearby Athelney Abbey, it was later used as a store for a local farm and then in 1880 was restored as a place of worship.

    I continue along the lane to pass the Exmoor Owl and Hawk Centre.  At a junction on the outskirts of Bossington I take a turning on the left to make a brief detour to visit the interestingly designed Methodist Chapel which was built in the early 20th century.

    From the chapel I retrace my steps to the junction and turn left to walk through Bossington.  Despite many trips to this area this is my first visit to this pretty village.

    After passing Kitnors Tea Room I turn right to walk through the National Trust car park and take a bridge over the River Horner.

    Now I turn left and follow the route of the South West Coastal Path as it follows the river towards the sea.   Soon the path turns to the right and starts ascending towards Hurlstone Point.  I stop and take a look at the view behind me across Porlock Weir.

    Before Hurlstone Point I turn right at a junction of paths and start a ferocious climb up Hurlstone Combe on Bossington Hill.

    This is one of those ascents that really make the leg muscles burn, but the view from the top is worth all the effort.

    I now have a choice of routes to return to Minehead.  I opt to stay with the South West Coast Path.  This route passes just to the north of Selworthy Beacon and is the inland coastal path, as opposed to the rugged coastal path nearer the sea.

    The route initially follows a gorse lined track with occasional views across the Bristol Channel.  The visibility is poor today so it is not possible to see South Wales.

    I stay with the South West Coastal path until I reach a car park at the top of Burgundy Chapel Combe, here I turn right to take a path from the car park running parallel to a road and soon reach another car park near woodland.  I cross the road and take a path on the left which runs alongside the road heading downhill with fine views ahead.

    This track joins the road by a cattle grid and the route is then downhill along the road until I reach a footpath on the right.  This path soon goes through a kissing gate to continue downhill through a paddock to reach a gate onto the driveway of a house and then Moor Road. I turn right and wander through Higher Town in old Minehead.

    This is a very attractive part of the town, where the original fisherman’s cottages and other homes grew around the harbour.  It is far removed from the Holiday Camp image that is so often associated with this town.

    I now follow roads downhill into the centre of Minehead and then wander through the residential streets to return to the caravan.  My walk has covered thirteen and a half miles and has been a cracking jamabout.

    You can view this 13.5 mile walk on OS Maps and download the GPX File Here (Subscription to OS Maps Required)

    To follow our walk you will need Ordnance Survey Outdoor Explorer Map OS9 Exmoor

    29th October 2020

    © Two Dogs and an Awning (2020)

  • Trig Hunting on Exmoor in the Rain

    Trig Hunting on Exmoor in the Rain

    After bagging Withypool Common trig point yesterday at Brightworthy Barrow I plan to add two more to my list today and have the trigs at Shoulsbury Castle and Five Barrows in my sights.  The starting point for my walk is a parking area besides the B3358 just a few hundred yards to the south east of Goat Hill Bridge (Grid Ref: SS724403).

    It is another of those days when I know I will get wet at some point, but leaving the car the sky is clear and there looks to be no imminent threat of rain.  I start along the road to cross Goat Hill Bridge and then continue uphill to reach the Edgerley Stone.

    This is an ancient boundary stone marking the border of Somerset and Devon. According to the Historic England website it is recorded on maps of Exmoor as far back as 1207 but remains in good condition.  On the stone is a clear Ordnance Survey benchmark and the names F Issac and F Bray are carved on the stone.  

    After passing the stone I continue along the road, now in Devon, and after a hundred yards take a bridleway on the left signposted to Mole’s Chamber.

    I have joined the Tarka Trail, a long distance path covering 180 miles in Somerset and Devon, it is a circular route and I have previously walked long sections of it around Bideford and Great Torrington.

    As I start heading uphill the wind that has been battering me for a while is suddenly accompanied by horizontal rain.  So after a quick rummage in the rucksack my full waterproof gear is put on.  The path is easy to follow and continues through a gate and heads down towards Lew Combe.

    It was my intention to take a turning on the right and follow the hedge line up along the edge of the access land to reach Shoulsbury Castle and the OS trig pillar.  However, the ground is very boggy and the route goes west straight into the wind and rain, which is now interspersed with hail. It is not often that I abandon a route to a trig, but I decide there is no enjoyment in walking straight into a hail storm.  The trig has been there for many years and should still be there when I visit again in 2021 so I stay with the track and start to head uphill.

    I reach the Sloley Stone, another boundary stone marking the border between Devon and Somerset and it also once marked the western edge of the Forest of Exmoor.  There are records of this stone dating back to 1678.

    There is a footpath on the left towards Mole’s Chamber, but instead I stay with the Tarka Trail to pass a barn and then reach a minor road where I turn left.

    Following the road, still on the route of the Tarka Trail, I gradually ascend gaining panoramic views across the moor which are impressive even in the poor visibility.  

    I stay with the road to reach a gateway to Five Barrows ancient monument. 

    Going through the gate I follow a boggy path with a fence to my right, as I head up I spot cattle.  Usually if cattle are some way off I am not too bothered, but these take what looks like an unhealthy interest in us.  So I decide not to risk an encounter with a frisky herd whilst I have Crosby with me and instead turn around and retrace my steps back downhill to the road.  In doing so I abandon any hope of bagging Five Barrows Trig Pillar today.  At the road I turn right and head towards Kinsford Gate.

    On reaching Kinsford Gate I turn left at the crossroads and follow the road downhill to cross a stream.  The road then rises and I stay with it to pass the entrances to Kinsford and Emmett’s Grange.  At a Restricted By-Way signed to Cornham Farm on the left I leave the road and head onto the moor.

    This is an easy path and it is also an attractive route as it descends into Burcombe heading towards a river.

    I cross the river via a footbridge.  This is a very tranquil spot and fully makes up for the disappointment of missing out on two trigs today.

    After crossing the footbridge I follow a path to a gate and go through to follow an uphill farm track giving fine views of the river below.

    At a gate I follow the way-markers to the west side of Cornham Farm and then go through a couple of gates to reach the farm driveway where I turn left and walk towards the B3358.

    On reaching the road I have two choices, either to follow my original plan and head straight across to walk a route around the moor and back to Goat Hill Bridge, or turn left and walk along the road.  My preferred option would be to avoid the road, but the walk has taken longer than I anticipated and I am not confident I will get around the moorland route before the light fails.  So reluctantly I turn left and walk besides the road for a mile and a half to get back to my starting point.  Fortunately there is very little traffic so it is not too bad.

    I arrive back at the car just as another band of rain is coming in, so hastily Crosby and I are in the car and heading back to Minehead to plan tomorrow’s trip out.  My walk has covered 8.5 miles and has been enjoyable despite not reaching the planned trig points and walking further on roads than originally planned.

    You can view this 8.5 mile walk on OS Maps and download the GPX File Here

    To follow our walk you will need Ordnance Survey Outdoor Explorer Map OS9 Exmoor

    28th October 2020

    © Two Dogs and an Awning (2020)

    All information on this site is provided free of charge and in good faith and no liability is accepted in respect of damage, loss or injury which might result from it.  To the best of my knowledge the routes are entirely on public rights of way or within areas that are open for public access.
    Walking can be hazardous and is done entirely at your own risk.  It is your responsibility to check your route and navigate using a map and compass.