The best walks and hikes around Broomfield

Embark on the Cothelstone Hill & Buncombe Wood loop, an easy hike that guides you through a delightful mix of woodlands and open grasslands. As you ascend, you'll be treated to expansive views across the Quantock Hills and far-reaching vistas over Somerset from the hilltop. Keep an eye out for the iconic "Seven Sisters" beech tree clump, a distinctive landmark on your journey. This pleasant route covers 2.6 miles (4.2 km) with an elevation gain of 414 feet (126 metres), making it an accessible option for most hikers. You can typically complete this loop in about 1 hour and 14 minutes, offering a refreshing outdoor escape.

Planning your visit to Cothelstone Hill & Buncombe Wood loop is straightforward, as the starting point is conveniently located right next to a parking lot. This makes access simple if you are driving to the trailhead. While the paths are generally accessible, it's wise to be prepared for potentially muddy sections, especially after rainfall. Appropriate footwear will ensure a more comfortable experience on the trail. Consider visiting during drier periods for the most pleasant conditions.

This loop is nestled within the Quantock Hills National Landscape, an area known for its natural beauty and diverse wildlife. As you explore the hilltop, you might encounter the resident herd of Exmoor Ponies grazing freely, adding to the charm of the landscape. Buncombe Wood itself offers a great viewpoint, and if your visit aligns with spring, you'll be rewarded with a vibrant carpet of bluebells transforming the woodland floor. It's a wonderful opportunity to connect with nature and enjoy the unique features of this region.

Embark on an easy hike through the Fyne Court & Broomfield Common loop, a picturesque route blending historical grounds with diverse natural scenery in the Quantock Hills. This 3.2-mile (5.1 km) trail, with a gentle elevation gain of 334 feet (102 metres), takes about 1 hour and 26 minutes to complete. You will wander through open common land and peaceful wooded sections, encountering well-surfaced paths, as well as grass, stone, and soil paths. Within the Fyne Court estate, admire historic gardens, woodlands with beech trees, and a serpentine lake featuring a charming boathouse. In spring, look for bluebells carpeting the woodland floors. The route offers a varied landscape, designed for picturesque views and an enjoyable outdoor experience.

Planning your visit to Fyne Court is straightforward, as the trails are generally well-marked and accessible. Parking is available on-site, though a charge applies for non-National Trust members. The estate also provides visitor facilities including a visitor center, a café for refreshments, and toilets. This loop is very dog-friendly, but remember to keep your dog on a lead in certain areas, especially near wildlife reserves. You can also find natural play areas for children, offering opportunities for den building and climbing on fallen trees.

Fyne Court, a National Trust-owned nature reserve, holds significant historical importance as the former home of scientist Andrew Crosse. Known as 'The Thunder and Lightning Man' for his electrical experiments, Crosse's work is said to have inspired Mary Shelley's *Frankenstein*. While the main house burned down in 1894, the estate still features architectural elements like a folly, a boathouse, and a fine courtyard with a coach house. The grounds are managed to encourage wildlife, supporting over 100 species of fungi and rare invertebrates, making it a vibrant spot for nature observation.

Explore the easy 1.3-mile Fyne Court loop in the Quantock Hills AONB, featuring historic gardens, woodlands, and a serpentine lake.