There is a wonderful variety of events taking place in the coming weeks, we have collated a few which might be of interest. From archaeology and local history, to hedge laying and fungi; we hope you can find something to enjoy.
Tuesday 20th September Heritage Railway Photo Walk from Bishops Lydeard (Quantock Landscape Partnership Scheme (QLPS))
Join Quantock Landscape Partnership Scheme’s second annual Heritage Railway Photo Walk in partnership with the West Somerset Railway Association. The journey will begin by steam railway at Bishop’s Lydeard station travelling the length of the Quantocks before returning to Stogumber for photo walk across the scenic countryside, capturing photographs of the journey (no photography experience required, cameraphone enthusiasts and beginners welcome). The steam railway will then take you back to Bishop’s Lydeard. Information and booking
Wednesday 21st September Farming for the Future- Land Management in the Quantock Hills, Stowey Rocks Farm, Nether Stowey, Bridgwater TA5 1JB (Quantock Hills AONB & QLPS)
How do choices made by land managers impact local communities, and how does sustainable land management deliver public benefit? Joins the QLPS projects team to discuss why we should all be interested in land management with hosts Plowright Organic and Stowey Green Spaces. They will be taking a look at organic vegetable production and woodland management, with about 1mile of walking during the morning. Refreshments will be provided. Information and booking
Sat/Sun 8th/9th October Crowcombe Village Archaeological Test Pitting (Quantock Landscape Partnership Scheme)
Following the archaeological dig at Crowcombe Court in the Summer, QLPS along with archaeologists from Past Participate will be returning to Crowcombe to help local residents dig small test pits in their own gardens in search of evidence for the origins of Crowcombe. If you are Crowcombe resident with a garden and would be happy to have a test pit, or just someone who would like to get involved, the QLPS team would love to hear from you. For more information
October Fungi Walks at Durborough Farm, Aisholt TA5 1AP
Join local naturalist Pete Baker on a walk from Durborough Farm through the farmland and woodland searching for the wonderful array of fungi this part of the Quantocks has to offer. The walk is approximately 2km but please note it does include some steep ground. Walks will take place Tuesday 11th October 2.30-5pm, Tuesday 18th October 2.30-5pm, Saturday 22nd October 2-4.30pm, Tuesday 25th October 2-4.30pm. Cost is £5 per person and bookings are to be made directly with Pete Baker at [email protected] or 01278 671311
Sunday 16th October Introduction to Hedgelaying Course at Timbercombe, Broomfield TA5 1AU (Somerset Hedge Group)
Would you like to learn the skill of how to lay a hedge? Our hedges form such an important part of our landscapes, of course being very functional but also playing such a critical role for our wildlife. Help us keep these skills alive in our communities by joining this one day course which Friends of Quantock have helped to sponsor. There was great feedback from last year’s event run by the Somerset Hedge Group, so don’t miss the opportunity. Information and booking
Tuesday 18th October Guided Visit and Talk at Church House (with optional walk and pub lunch), Crowcombe TA4 4AA
Come and learn about the fascinating history of one of only two remaining Church Houses in Somerset, before an optional short walk (approx 1 mile) to the quarry from where its stone was sourced before retiring (for those who would like to) for a social gathering at The Carew Arms, Crowcombe. Information and booking
If you are not already a member of Friends of Quantock, why not join today and get notifications of events and a quarterly newsletter directly to your inbox. Join us and know you are helping to protect this wonderful area, learn more about it and get to meet other like minded people who are passionate about the Quantocks. Find out more about becoming a Friend of the Quantocks.