Rolling in Somerset’s idyllic countryside, the Quantock Hills reveal nature’s poetry while teaching you the art of slow living. Venture into its heathland realms where gorse and heather paint the hills with their vibrant colors. Lose yourself in ancient woodlands, where gnarled oaks and beech trees form a verdant canopy above moss-covered paths. Meander through undulating farmlands—patchwork quilts stitched from emerald fields and adorned with hedgerows. And after a day of exploration, experience harmonious coexistence with nature in a 14th-century farmhouse. Join a local guide on a transformative 5-day journey in the heart of Somerset, where walks through pristine landscapes, companionship of women, and country life combine into a holiday you’ll never forget.
Walk through ancient woodlands, colorful heathland, and undulating farmland that inspired Wordsworth and Coleridge
Embrace empowering hikes, camaraderie, and new friendships made in pristine surroundings
Enjoy unforgettable lodging in a 14th-century English country house that comes complete with meals prepared with fresh produce
Arrive at the Huntstile Organic Farm (5 miles from the town of Bridgwater) by 5pm. You’ll be greeted by your Somerset hiking guide Chrissie. Settle into your room and get to know fellow hikers and your guide a bit better over dinner. Go over the plans for the week before doing some fun evening activities and retreating to your bed.
Meals: Dinner
Take it slow in the morning with a hearty breakfast. The first day will lead your group to Fyne Court in Broomfield. While the house may have been lost to a fire in the 19th century, the estate’s grounds and stable block endure, now under the care of the National Trust and boasting a charming café. This scenic walk serves as a delightful introduction to the rural expanse of the Quantock area. Return in the afternoon and enjoy dinner in the evening.
Meals: Breakfast, snacks, and dinner
Hiking: 13 km / 8 miles
Elevation: 70 m / 230 ft
On the second day, your journey commences atop the majestic Quantock ridge, adorned with expansive heathland adorned with vibrant heather and gorse. Meandering through ancient woods, you’ll be captivated by the timeless beauty that surrounds you. As you ascend to the highest point of the Quantocks, reaching an elevation of 384 m (1,260 ft), you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking vistas that stretch far and wide, offering panoramic views towards the enchanting Exmoor and the distant allure of Wales across the channel.
Meals: Breakfast, snacks, and dinner
Hiking: 13.7 km / 8.5 miles
Elevation: 400 m / 1,300 ft
On the final full day of your Somerset guided adventure, explore the westernmost reaches of the Quantocks, commencing above the picturesque village of Nether Stowey, a place that served as a creative haven for both Coleridge and Wordsworth during the writing of their seminal work—the Lyrical Ballads. As you traverse the ancient sessile oak woods, you’ll ascend towards the ancient iron-age Dowsborough fort. Following the trail through the beloved combes, cherished by Dorothy Wordsworth, you’ll be guided to the shores of Kilve Beach, nestled along the Bristol Channel. This remarkable stretch of Jurassic coastline teeming with fossils, will leave your group in awe. To conclude this remarkable day, a charming tea shop awaits, ready to warmly welcome you after the fulfilling walks.
Meals: Breakfast, snacks, and dinner
Hiking: 13.7 km / 8.5 miles
Elevation: 300 m / 985 ft
After enjoying the last breakfast of the tour, you’ll go on the final walk. The holiday ends on a high note with a delightful half-day walk around the captivating Cothelstone Hill—where Exmoor ponies graze freely. Depending on your schedule, you will depart some time in the afternoon. Say goodbye to your guide Chrissie, fellow hikers, and to Somerset and the Quantock Hills—or continue touring on your own.
Meals: Breakfast and snacks
Hiking: 4.8 km / 3 miles
What you get on this adventure:
What’s not included:
This guided hiking trip in Somerset and the Quantock Hills is suitable for anyone who can walk for up to 5 hours with numerous breaks. Daily ascents will always be steady and no greater than 1,300 ft (400 m). Your guide will always be by your side to assist you with anything and change the route if hiking gets too strenuous. With light preparation and enough willpower, you should be able to handle this tour no matter your age or skill level!
Check out other beginner-friendly tours in the United Kingdom, like this women’s hiking tour in the Cairngorms NP or this women’s hiking tour in the Lake District.
If, on the other hand, you’re an advanced hiker looking for a challenge, check out this mountaineering adventure on the Cullin Ridge.
You can also check other women-only tours that we have on offer if you want to explore further.
Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring:
September temperatures in Somerset are usually quite warm, with averages between 11 and 21 °C (40-70 °F). Keep in mind that it may rain on some days, so bringing a light rain jacket is highly advisable. It is important to bring enough clothes for layering, since weather can get from cool to warm (from jacket- to t-shirt-appropriate) in a span of a few hours.
Huntstile Organic Farm offers charming and idyllic accommodation nestled in the heart of the Somerset countryside and at the food of the Quantocks. Each lodging unit exudes its own individual style and character—from cozy rooms in the 14th-century farmhouse to quaint cottages and converted barns, all based on single or double occupancy (depending on whether you travel solo or with someone else). One of the units will be allocated to you upon arrival.
During your stay, you’ll be able to immerse yourself in the rustic beauty of the surroundings that comes complete with organic meals produced with fresh produce, the result of the farm’s commitment to organic principles and a focus on sustainable practices in sync with nature. Special dietary requirements and preferences (gluten-free, vegan, vegetarian, pescatarian…) can be easily accommodated—just let your guide know in advance! With comfortable and thoughtfully furnished spaces, your group can expect a peaceful retreat, great opportunities for hanging out together, and a restful night’s sleep after a day of exploration.
Group sizes and prices:
Hiking in Somerset and the Quantock Hills can be arranged for larger/private groups. Contact us to make arrangements.
Min. age requirements:
If your group has hikers under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.
A $250 deposit to secure your place is due upon booking. The remaining amount is paid 3 months (90 days) prior to departure. Once the trip is confirmed by the guide, the cancellation policy stated below applies.
The base for your Somerset guided adventure is the Huntstile Organic Farm in the village of Goathurst—5 miles from the town of Bridgwater. To get to Bridgwater, most people fly into London Heathrow Airport. Once there, you can take a bus ride from the Heathrow Central Bus Station to Bridgwater.
There is a train and a bus line connecting Bridgwater and Goathurst, but you can easily reach the farm on foot or take a taxi. You should arrive at the farm before 5pm, where you will meet your guide and fellow hikers.
You’ll be able to discuss the best way to arrive at your base with your guide prior to the trip—it may differ depending on where you’re coming from.
57hours is committed to providing safe outdoor adventure experiences. We require all guides using our platform to have a COVID-19 safety plan and to make the details of that plan accessible to travelers. In most cases, group sizes will be reduced, guides will avoid overcrowded locations, and other safety measures will be met depending on the location and activity.
We also expect clients to respect local regulations and take measures to protect themselves, their guides, and the communities they’re traveling to. For more information on COVID-19 measures in Kendal and the Lake District, United Kingdom, please refer to the UK Government’s official guidelines on travel during COVID-19.
Please contact us if you have any questions or require further information. We are happy to provide you with the most up-to-date information!
