The 8 Most Amazing Peaks around Old Cleeve

The region offers several excellent viewpoints. Beacon Hill Trig Point, at 310 meters, provides fabulous views along the coastline and across the Bristol Channel to Wales. Bicknoller Post offers incredible views over moorland, woodland, and towards the coastline. Additionally, Haddon Hill Trig Point, at 355 meters, overlooks the surrounding area and Wimbleball Lake.

Yes, Bat's Castle Iron Age Hillfort is a significant historical site. Located on a hill above Dunster, the old earthworks are clearly visible, and it offers superb views in every direction. Haddon Hill also has historical significance, as it hosted a U.S. Army military camp during the buildup to the Normandy landings in 1944.

From the peaks around Old Cleeve, you can expect diverse landscapes. Views often include the varied terrain of the Quantock Hills and Exmoor National Park, encompassing coastal vistas, expansive moorland, dense woodland, and even across the Bristol Channel to Wales. From Haddon Hill Trig Point, you can also see parts of Wimbleball Lake.

Yes, there are several easy hiking routes available. For example, you can explore routes like the Coleridge Way: Monksilver and Nettlecombe Loop (6.4 km) or the Blue Anchor Bay loop (6.3 km). You can find more options in the Easy hikes around Old Cleeve guide.

For more challenging routes, consider the gravel biking and MTB trails in the area. Options include the Somerton Combe – Bicknoller Post loop (42.4 km) or the Wills Neck Summit – Crowcombe Hill Climb loop (26.5 km), both rated as difficult. Explore these and more in the Gravel biking around Old Cleeve guide and the MTB Trails around Old Cleeve guide.

The best time to hike the mountains around Old Cleeve is generally from late spring to early autumn (May to October) when the weather is milder and days are longer. However, the Quantock Hills and Exmoor National Park offer beautiful scenery year-round, with autumn providing stunning colours. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out, as conditions can change rapidly in elevated areas.

Given the varied terrain and potential for changeable weather in the Quantock Hills and Exmoor, it's advisable to wear layers. Waterproof and windproof outer layers are recommended, even on sunny days. Sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support are essential, and consider bringing a hat, gloves, and sun protection. Always carry enough water and snacks.

Yes, many of the easier trails are suitable for families. The Easy hikes around Old Cleeve guide lists routes like the Driftwood Café loop from Carhampton (3.4 km) and the Gallox Bridge – Dunster Village loop from Carhampton (5.7 km), which are generally manageable for families. Always check the specific route details for suitability with children.

Most trails in the Quantock Hills and Exmoor National Park are dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy the peaks with your canine companion. However, it's crucial to keep dogs under close control, especially near livestock or ground-nesting birds, and to follow the Countryside Code. Some areas may require dogs to be on a lead.

Beyond hiking, the area around Old Cleeve is excellent for cycling. You can find numerous routes for gravel biking and mountain biking. Guides like Gravel biking around Old Cleeve and MTB Trails around Old Cleeve offer a range of options from moderate to difficult.

Visitors frequently praise the incredible views from the peaks, with many highlighting the coastal vistas and panoramas across the Bristol Channel. The diverse landscapes, from moorland to woodland, are also a major draw. The historical significance of sites like Bat's Castle Iron Age Hillfort adds another layer of interest for explorers.

Yes, many of the hiking and biking routes in the area are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. You can find various circular options within the Easy hikes around Old Cleeve guide and the Gravel biking around Old Cleeve guide, catering to different difficulty levels.