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The Quantock Hills and Mendip Hills are two of the most distinctive upland landscapes in Somerset. Although in the same county, they have different landscapes, histories and geology.
If out walking, follow the Countryside Code to keep all creatures safe (learn how to upright an overturned sheep). Keep dogs away from steep banks, mushrooms, cliffs and toxic plants/trees.
These hills form a long ridge in western Somerset, extending from an area north of Taunton towards the Bristol Channel and coast near Watchet.
Formed from old rocks, the unique geology has rounded ridges, steep-sided valleys, woodland and areas of open heath.
The highest point is Will’s Neck, which rises 384 metres above sea level. Although the Quantocks are not exceptionally high compared with Britain’s major mountain ranges, they are high for around here!
On a clear day, you can see the Bristol Channel, the Welsh coast, the Mendip Hills and the Somerset Levels, from the top of the hills.
The open heathland supports lots of heather and gorse, providing habitats sfor insects, reptiles, birds and small mammals. The woodlands and hills also support other creatures from birds of prey to wild deer.
Located south of Bristol and extending across Somerset towards the Bristol Channel, these limestone hills have been shaped dramatically by water. To form caves, gorges, sinkholes, underground rivers, cliffs and dry valleys.
The highest point of the Mendips is Black Down, which reaches approximately 325 metres. Again although modest in height, they have a rugged appearance due to steep slopes, exposed limestone and dramatic valleys. The best-known natural feature is Cheddar Gorge.
Wookey Hole is another well-known feature, an underground river system that flows through the local limestone.
