We are the Somer Valley Ramblers. We open the way for everyone in our local community to enjoy the pleasures of walking.
Geoff Y
North of Bruton lies hill country and the lovely Batcombe Vale with extensive views to the hills to its north.
Bruton, immortalised in folk song, is an attractive stone village with a river running through it.
It also has an unexpected association with a giant of American literature.
We will walk out of Bruton past traditional buildings and the river. A steep climb follows before descending into Batcombe Vale, with Batcombe, associated with another cultural great, in sight.
A further climb sets us on our way with lanes, westerly views, a farm, footpaths and the descent into Bruton.
This is a medium grade walk, but including some significant climbs, plus easier going valleys and lanes. The main climbs are one in the morning and one after lunch, with time to rest.
Please bring a light picnic lunch and drink.
Wear suitable footwear, walking poles may be helpful.
Additional info:
The station is signposted at the entrance to Station Approach Road, and is off Dropping Lane, and south of the large, prominent St Mary’s Church, to the south of the High Street.
Free parking is available on Station Approach Road, but is limited. Where possible car-sharing would help us.
Alternative car park: Tolbury Mill, Higher Backway (lane), BA10 ODT, just north of the High Street. Free parking but not a large car park.
Generally street parking in Bruton is time-limited and not long enough for the walk.
Ironically, travelling by train for this walk is not practical. Due to track work, National Rail say that replacement buses are likely and the journeys significantly protracted.
Station Approach Road, next to Bruton Railway Station, Somerset, BA10 OEH. Grid Ref.: 687 347. Map: OS Explorer (1:25,000 scale) no.142, or OS Landranger (1:50,000 scale) no.183.
