Somerset (important wetlands and sandy beaches)
Somerset is a large county in southwest England, not far from the cities of Bristol and Bath. It has a stunning coastline and inland lots of pretty villages. And of course this is the countyr of ‘scrumpy cider!
Somerset stretches from the Bristol Channel in the north to the Quantock Hills, Mendip Hills and Somerset Levels (wetlands important for wading birds).
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.
At the coast, keep dogs away from nesting birds and sand dunes. Read how to keep dogs safe by the seaside. Check beach bans before travel.
The Somerset Levels
These are one of England’s most important wetlands, home to wading birds and other endangered wildlife. As well as helping to prevent floods. How to help? Use your vote for councillors who care, and don’t buy peat compost.
Wells (England’s smallest city)
Surrounded by gardens and historic walls is Bishop’s Place, and Vicar’s Close, one of Europe’s oldest residential streets. All in a tiny city that is quite the charm.
In Norfolk, Wells had to add ‘next-the-sea’ so nobody would get confused!
The Mendip Hills
Located in north Somerset, these hills are full of limestone landscapes, caves, gorges and wooded valleys.
Cheddar Gorge
This is an ancient landscape with towering cliffs. Recently archaeologists discovered England’s oldest skeleton, at least 10,000 years old. ‘Cheddar man’ was founded to have blue eyes – and black skin!
Someone joked that some newspapers will now be searching for ‘Wensleydale man’ to try to rewrite history!
The Quantock Hills
These were England’s first ever National Landscape (the new name for ‘area of outstanding natural beauty’). Great for walking, with views across the Bristol channel.
Weston-super-Mare (beware quicksand)
Home to the world’s second longest tidal range, the tide here goes out for miles. But follow the signs, as it’s home to quicksand (like sinking mud).
Home to Glastonbury music festival
The festival is actually held in a nearby village. But it’s all good-natured. And litter-picker volunteers get free food and flushing toilets. Unusual items found include a person sleeping under a pile of clothes!
