When staying at the Apple Tree Hotel, you will be able to explore the area and find a whole host of activities.
The Quantock Hills are a popular walking destination, containing a range of activities for visitors to enjoy throughout the year. Offering a relaxing retreat in the midst of nature.
The nearby Quantock Hills nature trails are forested and feature open meadows with views of the surrounding countryside. Horse riding in the Quantocks is also a popular activity.
The Hills also feature several walking trails that take you around the hills and offer sweeping views of the landscape. Most of the Quantock Hills offer great views and trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding.
Additionally, ghost sightings have been reported at nearby haunted sites, making these hills a popular local attraction. The nearby nature trails are a great place for a relaxing walk.
Here are 10 things to do when staying at the Apple Tree Hotel.
1. A Quiet and Relaxing Walk in the Quantock Hills
With so many great trails for walkers and hikers to choose from, Quantock is a paradise for outdoor lovers.
Some fantastic trails used by walkers and hikers of all levels include a leisurely stroll through thick brush, a challenging hike through some hilly terrain, and a scenic walk through a magnificent forest. The beautiful Quantock Hills are an excellent destination for all manner of walks.
You can explore the unspoiled ancient landscape or take your time and appreciate the spectacular scenery of Mother Nature at every corner. It’s wonderful if you’re looking to be adventurous with nature and relish what life has to offer at every step, all while getting some fresh air. There just isn’t anything like it anywhere else in England (or maybe even Europe).
2. Nearby Nature Trails
Greatwood is over two miles long, and the red walks offer visitors an opportunity for both nature and activity.
The bridleways, or forest roads, make it easy to explore this natural area by bike! Designated picnic sites provide spots where you can sit down with friends and family while surrounded by stunning views that will take your breath away.
Wriggle along the 2-mile Red Walk trail and enjoy some of the most majestic trees in England. At 50 metres tall, the tallest tree is taller than 11 double-decker buses.
These majestic Douglas fir trees make a perfect spot to pause, relax, and enjoy nature. Travellers will also pass through some ancient oak woodlands that look beautiful during the autumn season.
You might also see red and roe deer in the woodland, and you might hear raucous ravens overhead, as well as the haunting call of crossbills moving through the canopy above you. The majestic forest offers a unique experience, and tourists will enjoy stunning vistas as they pass through.
The mild terrain is ideal for a leisurely stroll and is interspersed with a few rest stops. You can take a stroll through the forest and enjoy the breathtaking sights of beautiful flora and fauna along the way.
The scenic landscape makes it perfect for individuals who enjoy a relaxing stroll.
3. Horse Riding in the Quantocks
In the Quantocks, there are miles and miles of open land for horse riders.
Glengyle Forest Park is a hidden gem for those who love the outdoors. You’ll find that every ride has its own unique experience as you gallop through fields or along beaches with breathtaking views in all directions.
It’s time to go on an adventure. You’ll experience the beautiful British countryside, with its lush forests and bluebell woods.
The Quantock ponies are always somewhere nearby, waiting for you to come riding by them on this fantastic journey of self-discovery.
4. Hiking
Whether you’re looking to take your first hiking steps outside with the family, or just need some fresh air while getting work done, it’s time to head outdoors for some hiking!
There are eight easy trails in the Quantock Hills Area that will accommodate all levels. If steep terrain isn’t daunting enough though (and who could blame us), there is also 900 metres’ worth of elevation gain on offer here, so even experienced hikers can find their match among these beautiful green hillsides dotted with quaint villages galore. Hiking is a great way to get out and enjoy nature.
In the Quantock Hills, there’s an outstanding natural beauty with varying levels of difficulty, so no matter what your skill level, maybe you’ll find one that suits you perfectly!
5. Quantock Hills Mountain Biking Trails
With so many trails to choose from in the Quantock Hills, mountain biking is sure to be a blast.
Using the hand-curated trail maps and driving directions, you will be guided along the path system. You can navigate the biking trails using the trail maps and driving directions hand-curated by the staff.
It is possible to cover all the finest trails in a single day thanks to the many trails that are available. The town of Triscombe, which lies at the southern end of the Quantocks, has several challenging downhill runs that can be reached by a fire-road climb.
The trails in the Quantock Hills are excellent and cover almost all of the classics. The vast, flowing singletrack is complemented by some great descents that will challenge your skills.
The descent from Great Wood can be accessed via Ram’s Combe, which is located on the other side of the ridge. Continue heading north along the ridge, keeping an eye out for Hodder’s Combe.
Following Lady’s Edge, you descend Weacombe Combe, back onto the same ridge. Upon reaching the summit and submitting the Bicknoller Post after ascending the steep climb, your legs will likely feel the strain.
This arduous journey will prepare you for the tricky but rewarding trek to Dead Woman’s Ditch, where you can finally catch your breath after a long and tiring journey. From here, you’ll follow the bridleway that runs between the Great Bear and Triscombe Stone, ascending through the lush forest.
The trail then extends out across the forested valley and climbs again to the Triscombe Stone. Finally, the trail descends past the exhilarating chimney back to the starting point of the trail.
6. Pale Moon and Ghost Sightings in the Sedgemoor Area
People frequently speculate about whether the dark forces that seem to emanate from the Quantock Hills are natural or supernatural.
The most popular theory is linked back in time when this area was used for ancient rituals, where humans sacrificed animals and performed other acts that are considered criminal by modern standards. Reports say angry ghosts have been popping up all over the county.
A group of tourists were on a hiking trip when they encountered this ghost in the Quantock Hills. Their reports state that the ghost was shouting and cursing at tourists, who were forced to flee the scene in fear.
7. Beaches
The beach at Kilve is a haven for fossil hunting.
There are plenty of rockpools to explore on your way down the shore, and you can find some incredible finds just behind that big grassy area at high tides-like those pesky sea urchins! Sites such as this one make up part of our beautiful Quantock Coastline.
Watchet cliff top is a fantastic place to go fossil hunting. The cliffs are home to the famous Watchet Fossil Beds, where many interesting creatures have been found and displayed in museums around town!
8. History in the Local Area
On a hill overlooking the busy town of Dunster, stands an impressively mediaeval castle.
The vast majority of which date from around the 12th century, and it’s one that has seen many battles between Englishmen and French throughout its long history. Also, the mill at Dunster Castle is one of the most intriguing sites in mediaeval England.
It’s not just an important historical site, but it’s also a source of employment and food for the surrounding community.
9. Markets in Somerset
The markets in Somerset are a special place to visit.
Whether you are looking for vintage stalls or modern high-tech stores that catch your eye, there will never be a lack of variety when visiting this area. The markets are held on different days of the week in different towns, so be sure to check the schedule to find the one nearest you.
The markets are held on different days of the week in different towns, so be sure to check the schedule to find the one nearest you.
10. Music Festivals and Entertainment in the Local Area:
With so many festivals in Somerset, it’s not hard to find one that will suit any taste.
From the autumn tradition of carnival displays, which commemorate Bonfire Night all across this part of England, come shoulder-tapping apples or join in on some sheep herding with hurdles thrown into each other as you go along!
There are also plenty of more unusual activities available if those fewer sports-related don’t tickle your fancy-the ancient city of Glastonbury has an annual festival where people can enjoy bands playing music while they walk among installation pieces made out of the soil.
Conclusion
Somerset is a tremendously diverse area to explore.
From smaller towns with vibrant local festivals, such as Glastonbury, to larger cities like Bath, with their incredible architecture, there is a place for everyone in this part of England. So, while staying at The Apple Tree Hotel, there is plenty to do and to see.
If you have any questions, queries or would like any advice, then please do not hesitate to contact us.