A mixture of broad-leaved trees and conifers, and part of the larger forest stretching right up to the coast, Kennisham Hill is a wildlife-spotter’s paradise.

Bring your binoculars and see if you can spot the Cheddar Pink flower (which can only be found in Somerset) horseshoe bat, or the wood white butterfly.

Located in Exmoor National Park just a short drive from Taunton, Chargot Wood is a beautiful coniferous woodland that provides a tranquil environment and an exciting range of wildlife.

Chargot is also a hub for the West Somerset Mineral Line with a variety of fascinating industrial heritage to explore.

Wych Lodge boasts some of Somerset’s most stunning ancient oak trees, soothing lakeside views, and an extensive network of woodland tracks for you to explore. Cyclists and horse riders are welcome to roam the forest roads and public rights of way.

Found in the Brendon Hills of Exmoor National Park, just north of the small village of Luxborough, Croydon Hill provides the perfect backdrop for you to enjoy the tranquility of Somerset. 

Known locally as a great spot for bird watching, make sure you bring your binoculars and camera to capture the local wildlife! 

Visit East Harptree to see the historical Smitham Chimney, a relic of Mendip's industrial past. The Cornish-style chimney survived when the site closed in 1875 and was saved from complete destruction in 1973 by The Mendip Society and Somerset County Council.

In front of the Chimney there is a pond where you can see dragonflies in the summer months. There are also fine views of the Chew Valley from the grassland area nearby.

Walking is the perfect way to get some fresh air and explore some of the area's most beautiful landscapes.

Wander the range of paths in the woodland for a peaceful stroll or if you fancy exploring further afield, why not venture down to the nearby bay. Here you will be treated to the panoramic landscape of the Somerset Jurassic Coast and a plunging natural waterfall. 

Wych Lodge boasts some of Somerset’s most stunning ancient oak trees. The forest road leads you to the iconic Herepath and a lakeside view with an extensive network of woodland tracks for you to explore. There is also a hidden Iron Age hillfort within the boundary of the forest. Please note: the lake is managed and operated by Taunton Angling Association. 

Explore this local hidden gem that lies within the Quantock Hills National Landscape, south west of Bridgwater. 

The old oaks and sweet chestnuts create a mosaic of woodland, providing a stunning backdrop for a casual stroll, horse ride or cycle. With paths, streams, hills and views, it can often feel like you have the whole area to yourself.

Don't forget to bring your wellies, as it can get very muddy after rain. 

Spend some time exploring the nooks and crannies of the forest and spot a variety of wildlife such as red deer, ravens, buzzards, pied flycatchers, crossbills, and much more. 

Nestling in the Blackdown Hills National Landscape, Staple Hill is perfectly situated for far-reaching views to Exmoor National Park, the Quantock Hills, and even the south coast of Wales.

Nutcombe Bottom is a popular walking and picnic site near Dunster.

Nutcombe Bottom is home to some of England’s tallest trees, wihch you can admire along the Tall Trees Trail.

Take a step back in history to discover the intriguing remains of a prehistoric Iron Age hill fort, later a motte and bailey.

Meander along woodland tracks for a family adventure and explore the forest to find stunning views and landscapes. This is the perfect place to stop for a picnic among the veteran trees.

Renowned for its nightjar and long-eared owl populations, there is no shortage of wildlife to see if you enjoy bird watching.

There is a medium sized car park, a small number of picnic benches, and a range of tracks to explore.

About

The plan area consists of 12 discrete blocks of woodland in North Somerset, with a combined area of 265 hectares. Leigh Woods is the largest block and is located on the edge of the Avon Gorge, while the Failand Woods comprise 11 blocks with a total area of 140 hectares, lying close to the village of Failand, to the southwest of Leigh Woods.

About

The Quantock Forest Plan area is made up of 5 separate woodlands totalling 943 hectares in Somerset. The majority of the woodlands lie within the Quantock Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). As individual woodlands set within the locally distinctive heath commons and farmland they have very high natural and landscape diversity and value.

Enjoy a tasty treat in the forest at our beautiful picnic site. Just bring along good food and company!

Our wide grass meadow is close to the car park. There are tables to choose from or spread your picnic blanket in your favourite spot.

Great Wood has an extensive network of roads and rides to explore. Or follow the waymarked Red Walk for a family-friendly meander through some of Great Wood's most scenic spots.

Look out for majestic Douglas firs, which are some of the tallest trees in England. The tallest is just over 50 metres - higher than 11 double decker buses. You will also pass through some ancient oak woodlands, which look particularly spectacular in the Autumn.

When did the fire start?

About

The Exmoor Forest Plan area is made up of the plantations of Croydon Hill, with a number of surrounding forests such as Wootton Courtenay, Chargot, Hazery, Willett Hill, Birds Hill and Elworthy and is a prominent and distinct feature within an upland landscape and is made up of a number of large conifer dominated forests on high plateaus and reasonably steep sided valleys.

About

Support the forest you love

Become a member of Great Wood in the Quantock Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty for only £25. Explore the winding paths through majestic Douglas fir, a haven for wildlife, and enjoy relaxing picnics in the meadow.