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Quantock Hills

4.6
·491k reviews·, United Kingdom

A serene Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in Somerset, offering wild landscapes, ancient woodlands, and free-roaming ponies.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Wildflowers bloom, ponies active

CrowdLow
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Quantock Hills - Image 1

Quantock Hills

Best Time

Spring mornings

Wildflowers bloom, ponies active

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in Somerset, offering wild landscapes, ancient woodlands, and free-roaming ponies.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Escape to the wild beauty of the Quantock Hills for breathtaking views and peaceful countryside adventures."

Vertical photo
TIP

🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key

Terrain can be uneven. Waterproof boots are recommended for all 'quantock hill walks' .

🐴 Respect the Wildlife

Admire wild ponies from afar. Never feed them, as it can harm their health .

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Wild Pony Encounters

Wild Pony Encounters

Across the hills

Spot herds of native Quantock and Exmoor ponies grazing freely. A truly wild and iconic sight.

Woodland Trails

Woodland Trails

Various locations

Explore ancient woodlands with dappled sunlight and serene paths. Perfect for peaceful strolls.

Panoramic Vistas

Panoramic Vistas

Summit viewpoints

Ascend to higher points for breathtaking views across Somerset and beyond. Unforgettable scenery.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Wild

The Quantock Hills offer rugged beauty, so pack sturdy footwear for varied terrain. Be prepared for changeable weather, even in summer. Wild ponies roam freely; admire them from a distance and never feed them.

Plan Your Route

With numerous trails, having a map or GPS is wise. Popular activities include hiking, horse riding, and mountain biking. Check local guides for the best 'quantock hill walks' and 'quantock walks' to suit your fitness level.

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Wildflowers bloom, ponies active
Crowd
Low
When
Autumn afternoons
Why
Vibrant colours, crisp air
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer evenings
Why
Golden light, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

we came here as regular customers but the people were so nice and the food looked so crazy good i was like wait i need to make a video for you guys like this is insane you guys deserve all the business 😭 huge portions and NOT SO EXPENSIVE LIKE ALL THE OTHER FOOD TRUCKS NEAR HERE!! they have a $5 burger !!!! this family is so so sweet God bless them we’ll be back for sure 🤍🤍 tell them angel sent yo...
@chandrafranca
13K likes • 187.4K views

🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key

Terrain can be uneven. Waterproof boots are recommended for all 'quantock hill walks'.Instagram

🐴 Respect the Wildlife

Admire wild ponies from afar. Never feed them, as it can harm their health.Instagram

The Quantock Hills may have beautiful views and peaceful woodland walks. 🌳🌺 …but it also has some dark stories to tell. 💀 #quantockhills #somerset #visitsomerset #history #paranormal #ghoststories #ghost #haunted #hauntedwoods #crime #murdermystery #countryside #countrywalk #taunton #darkstories
the_knight_t4les
28 likes • 678 views
Come to Quantock hills with me 🐮🌱 Meet part of the team💻 #travelagent #quantockhills #streetbeancoffeeco #somerset #england #countryside #hike #highlandcows #meettheteam #fyp #traveladvisor #devon #jackwills #dfyne
thaliahl_
0 likes • 2K views

🗺️ Download Offline Maps

Signal can be patchy. Ensure you have offline maps for navigation on your 'quantock walks'.Reddit

🚴‍♀️ Mountain Biking Routes

The Quantocks offer challenging trails for 'mountain bike quantocks' enthusiasts.Instagram

new trails, nettles and sunburn w the lads #trailrunner #adventureathlete #quantockhills
willbrackwell
62 likes • 1.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key

Terrain can be uneven. Waterproof boots are recommended for all 'quantock hill walks'.Instagram

🐴 Respect the Wildlife

Admire wild ponies from afar. Never feed them, as it can harm their health.Instagram

🗺️ Download Offline Maps

Signal can be patchy. Ensure you have offline maps for navigation on your 'quantock walks'.Reddit

🚴‍♀️ Mountain Biking Routes

The Quantocks offer challenging trails for 'mountain bike quantocks' enthusiasts.Instagram

📸 Capture the Views

Bring your camera for stunning landscapes and wildlife photo opportunities.Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the stunning natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere of the Quantock Hills, highlighting the opportunity to see wild ponies and enjoy diverse walking trails. Some note the limited facilities and the need for good navigation skills, but overall, it's praised as a serene escape into the countryside.

What People Like

Beautiful scenery
Wild pony sightings
Peaceful walks

What People Dislike

Limited facilities
Variable weather

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Quantock Hills are accessible by car, with several parking areas dotted around the range. The nearest major towns are Taunton and Bridgwater. Public transport options are limited, so driving is often the most convenient way to explore 'the quantock hills'.Reddit

While direct public transport into the heart of the hills is scarce, local bus services can get you to villages on the periphery, such as Holford or Crowcombe. From there, you may need to walk or arrange local transport.Reddit

Several car parks are available, including those at Holford, Triscombe, and Crowcombe. These serve as excellent starting points for various 'quantock walks' and 'quantock hill walks'.Instagram

The hills have a network of footpaths and bridleways. While many are well-trodden, it's advisable to use a map or GPS, especially for longer 'quantock walks' or if exploring off the main routes.Reddit

Yes, cycling routes are available, and the area is popular for 'mountain bike quantocks' adventures. Be aware of shared paths with walkers and horse riders.Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the Quantock Hills are a public area of outstanding natural beauty, and there are no entry fees. Parking at designated car parks is generally free.Reddit

The Quantock Hills are open year-round, 24 hours a day. Access is unrestricted, though daylight hours are best for enjoying the scenery and activities.Reddit

While not as common as in larger attractions, local walking groups or wildlife organizations may occasionally offer guided walks. It's worth checking local event listings for 'quantock walks'.Reddit

There are no entrance fees for any viewpoints within the Quantock Hills. All natural viewpoints are freely accessible.Reddit

Yes, there are various 'places to stay quantock hills' including B&Bs, self-catering cottages, and hotels nearby. 'The quantocks hotel' is a notable option for those seeking a more traditional stay.Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Popular 'quantock hill walks' include trails around Holford, Quantock Common, and the Quantock Ridge. The Great Wood offers beautiful woodland paths, ideal for 'great wood quantocks walks'.Instagram

Facilities are limited. Some villages on the edge of the hills may have pubs or cafes, such as 'the rising sun quantocks'. Toilets are scarce, so plan accordingly.Reddit

Yes, dogs are welcome in the Quantock Hills. However, they must be kept under close control, especially around livestock like wild ponies. Look for 'quantock hills dog walks' or 'dog walks in the quantocks' for specific routes.Instagram

The hills are home to wild ponies, red deer, and a variety of birdlife. Keep an eye out for the native Quantock and Exmoor ponies grazing freely.Instagram

Much of the terrain is uneven and hilly, making it challenging for pushchairs and wheelchairs. Some of the more accessible paths in lower-lying areas or around villages might be suitable, but generally, it's best for those with good mobility.Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Villages surrounding the Quantocks, like Holford and Crowcombe, offer traditional pubs such as 'the rising sun quantocks'. For more options, head to Taunton or Bridgwater.Reddit

Cafes are not common directly within the hills. Some villages might have small tea rooms or coffee shops, like Street Bean Coffee Co. mentioned in relation to the area.Instagram

Absolutely! The Quantock Hills are perfect for picnics. Find a scenic spot and enjoy the views. Remember to take all your litter with you.Reddit

While direct restaurant views are rare, many pubs in surrounding villages offer pleasant countryside settings. The elevated positions of some pubs can provide lovely vistas.Reddit

Somerset is known for its cider, cheese, and cream. Look for local produce in pubs and farm shops in the surrounding areas.Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Any elevated point offers stunning panoramic views. The woodlands, especially in autumn, are incredibly photogenic. Look for the wild ponies for unique shots.Instagram

Golden hour, just after sunrise and before sunset, provides beautiful light. Misty mornings can also create atmospheric shots, particularly in the woodlands.Instagram

While the Quantocks are more about natural landscapes, historic sites like Cothelstone Manor offer charming architectural photography opportunities.Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A sturdy tripod is helpful for low-light conditions or capturing distant views.Reddit

Yes, but always maintain a safe distance. The ponies are wild animals, and getting too close can be dangerous for both you and them.Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Quantock Hills offer a wonderful natural playground for families. Shorter, well-marked 'quantock walks' around villages like Holford can be manageable for younger children. The chance to spot wild ponies is a huge draw, but always supervise children closely and maintain a safe distance.Instagram+1

Picnics are a great way to keep kids fueled and happy. Look for flatter, open areas for them to run around. While facilities are limited, the sense of adventure exploring the hills can be very engaging for children. Consider bringing binoculars for wildlife spotting and a simple map to make them feel like explorers on their 'quantock walks'.Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers

The Quantock Hills are a fantastic destination for solo hikers seeking peace and natural beauty. The network of trails allows for varied routes, from gentle ambles to more strenuous climbs. It's advisable to inform someone of your planned route and expected return time, especially if venturing onto less-trafficked paths.Reddit

Carrying a fully charged phone and a physical map is crucial for navigation. While the hills are generally safe, being prepared for changing weather conditions and carrying essentials like water and snacks will enhance your experience. The solitude and stunning scenery offer a perfect opportunity for reflection and rejuvenation.Instagram

🐶 Dog Owners

The Quantock Hills are very dog-friendly, with plenty of space for your canine companions to explore. Many 'quantock hills dog walks' are available, often incorporating woodland and open heathland. Remember that dogs must be kept under close control, especially in areas with livestock like the wild ponies.Instagram

Always carry waste bags and ensure you clean up after your dog. Some pubs in the surrounding villages are also dog-friendly, making it a great destination for a day out with your pet. Be mindful of other walkers and ensure your dog doesn't disturb wildlife.Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Walking and Hiking in the Quantocks

The Quantock Hills are a walker's paradise, offering a diverse range of trails for all abilities. From gentle strolls through ancient woodlands to more challenging ascents offering panoramic views, there's a 'quantock walk' for everyone. Popular routes include the Quantock Ridge Walk, which provides stunning vistas, and trails through the Great Wood, known for its serene atmosphere and dappled sunlight.Instagram+1 Many visitors recommend downloading offline maps as mobile signal can be unreliable.Reddit

When planning your 'quantock hill walks', consider the terrain. While some paths are well-maintained, others can be steep, muddy, or uneven, especially after rain. Sturdy, waterproof footwear is essential, and layers are advisable due to changeable weather. For those seeking specific experiences, 'quantock hills dog walks' are plentiful, but always ensure your dog is under control, particularly near livestock.Instagram

Many 'quantock walks' start from convenient car parks located at points like Holford, Triscombe, and Crowcombe. These serve as excellent bases for exploring the network of footpaths and bridleways that crisscross the landscape. Whether you're looking for a short afternoon ramble or a full-day trek, the Quantocks offer an immersive countryside experience.Reddit

Wildlife Encounters: Ponies and More

One of the most iconic aspects of the Quantock Hills is its population of wild ponies. Both native Quantock and Exmoor ponies roam freely across the open heathland and hillsides, adding a unique charm to the landscape.Instagram+1 These animals are a vital part of the ecosystem, helping to manage the vegetation. Visitors are encouraged to observe them from a safe distance, never feed them, and be aware of their presence on the trails.Instagram

Beyond the ponies, the Quantock Hills are a haven for other wildlife. Birdwatchers can spot a variety of species, and if you're lucky, you might catch a glimpse of red deer. The varied habitats, from open heath to dense woodland, support a rich biodiversity. The presence of these animals contributes to the wild and untamed feel of the area, making wildlife spotting a rewarding part of any visit.Reddit

Remember that these are wild animals in their natural habitat. Respect their space and their environment. The best times to spot wildlife are often early morning or late evening when they are most active and less disturbed by human activity. The changing seasons also bring different opportunities, with spring offering newborn foals and autumn providing dramatic backdrops for observing herds.Instagram

Mountain Biking and Adventure

For adrenaline seekers, the Quantock Hills offer a fantastic playground for 'mountain bike quantocks' enthusiasts. The varied terrain, including steep descents, technical singletrack, and challenging climbs, provides an exciting experience for riders of all levels.Instagram Many trails are shared with walkers and horse riders, so awareness and courtesy are key.

Popular routes often involve navigating through woodlands and across open heathland, offering both physical challenge and scenic rewards. Some riders tackle the 'Exmoor/Quantock hills loop', a demanding route that can be attempted in sections or as a multi-day bikepacking adventure.Instagram It's advisable for mountain bikers to research specific trails beforehand and be prepared for the rugged nature of the landscape.

While the Quantocks are known for their natural beauty, they also cater to those looking for an active outdoor pursuit. The combination of challenging gradients and picturesque surroundings makes it a sought-after destination for those who enjoy exploring on two wheels.Instagram+1

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