Did you know there's a hidden gem waiting to be explored just off the M5 motorway at junction 24? Located a mere half-hour drive from Exeter, this magical spot offers an escape into the heart of the Somerset Levels and the Quantock Hills, Britain's first-ever Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. In this guide, we'll walk you through a picturesque hike that boasts the best views in Somerset, all within a stone's throw from the motorway.

The Journey to Quantock Hills

As you leave the old A38 Bridgwater to Taunton road and head up into the foothills of the Quantock Hills, you'll quickly find yourself on a small lane signposted Goathurst and Broomfield. This lane leads you along the most southerly ridge of the Quantock Hills, where you'll be transported from the motorway to a rural paradise in just a few turns of your steering wheel.

A Hike with Unbeatable Views

At 332 meters, Cothelstone Hill is the highest peak at the southern end of the escarpment, offering unparalleled views of Somerset's landscapes. From here, you can see the Mendips, the Poldens, the Levels, the West Dorset Downs, the Blackdowns, Tone Vale, the lowlands of East Devon, Dartmoor, the Brendons, and Exmoor, among other stunning sights.

Discovering the Route

To find this incredible hike, locate the car park a mile from the crossroads where you'll find The Pines café. You can either follow the Quantock Ranger Service waymarked route that circles Cothelstone Hill or take the anti-clockwise route for slightly better views. The Ranger's route is marked by wooden posts topped by green discs with white arrows, so you won't even need a map.

Wildlife and Local History

As you explore the Quantock Hills, you'll encounter pure-bred Exmoor Ponies, which the Quantock Rangers have introduced to keep the hill clear of scrub. These ponies provide a serene and natural experience, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the area.

The summit of Cothelstone Hill is marked by a ring of beech trees which used to be called the Seven Sisters. Although several trees were toppled in gales, the remaining few hold historical significance, likely named after the seven daughters of Sir Matthew de Stawell, a 14th-century local ruler.

Wrapping Up Your Hike

To complete your hike, make your way southwest down from the trees towards the corner of the common, where you can catch a glimpse of Cothelstone Manor far below. Then, head east along the side of the woods until you reach the wooden pens above Paradise Combe. Through a gate, you'll find a path leading across the contours through Buncombe Wood, eventually bringing you back to the car park.

With its breathtaking views and enchanting history, the Quantock Hills hike offers a magical experience just minutes from the M5 motorway. It's the perfect destination for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike, all within easy reach of Exeter and surrounding areas.

Fact File

• Basic hike: circular around the Cothelstone Hill access land.

• Recommended map: Ordnance Survey Explorer 140.

• Distance and going: two-and-a-half miles of easy going.