Downhead

Settlement in Somerset Mendip

England

Downhead

Car parked at the start of Fental Lane, Ukrainian flag on fence Credit: Rob Purvis

Downhead is a small village located in the county of Somerset, England. Situated approximately 13 miles southwest of the city of Bath, it falls within the Mendip district. Nestled in the picturesque Mendip Hills, the village is surrounded by lush green fields, rolling hills, and beautiful countryside.

The village of Downhead is known for its quaint and peaceful atmosphere. It is primarily a residential area with a small population of around 200 residents. The village consists of a scattering of charming cottages and houses, giving it a traditional English village feel.

Downhead is rich in history, with evidence of human habitation in the area dating back to the Roman times. The village is also home to the Grade II listed St. Peter's Church, a historical and architectural gem that dates back to the 12th century. The church features stunning stained glass windows and intricate stonework.

The surrounding countryside offers numerous opportunities for outdoor activities and exploration. The Mendip Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is a popular destination for hikers, nature enthusiasts, and those seeking tranquility. Cheddar Gorge, a renowned natural landmark, is just a short drive away from Downhead.

Despite its small size, Downhead benefits from its proximity to larger towns and cities. The nearby city of Bath provides access to a wide range of amenities, including shopping centers, restaurants, and cultural attractions.

Overall, Downhead offers a peaceful and idyllic setting for those seeking a tranquil retreat amidst the beauty of the Somerset countryside.

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Downhead Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 51.211694/-2.4441483 or Grid Reference ST6945. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Car parked at the start of Fental Lane, Ukrainian flag on fence

Rob Purvis

Tadhill House Farm buildings

Rob Purvis

Old Milestone by Old Wells Road, near Tadhill House Farm

The Milestone is located on grass verge on the South of the road. Parish of Downhead (Mendip District). Stone post (plate lost), Frome square iron plate design, erected by the Frome turnpike trust in the 18th Century, plate repainted by MSS summer 2009. An earlier photograph can be found here: Link Inscription reads:- Frome / 6 / Wells / 9 Grade II listed. List Entry Number: 1345266 Link

Milestone Society National ID: SO_FRWL06

Janet Dowding

2011 : Track through Asham Wood

Wikipedia has this to say: "Asham Wood is the largest and most diverse of the ancient semi-natural woods in the Mendips. It has been the subject of controversy and attempts to protect the environment from increased quarrying activity in the area. The wood occupies 2 deep valleys and the intervening plateau. Most of the underlying rocks are calcareous Carboniferous Limestone and Shales, but Devonian Portishead Beds outcrop along the northern valley. There [is] a range of unusual flora and fauna. At Asham Wood near Frome coppicing and 50 dormouse boxes have been introduced in order to encourage nesting. The boxes are monitored and dormice numbers are recorded." Link

The only access to Asham Wood from the road is on the north east edge near Dead Womans Bottom, otherwise it is by footpath.

Maurice Pullin

2011 : Track through Asham Wood

The only access to Asham Wood from the road is on the north east edge near Dead Womans Bottom, otherwise it is by footpath.

Maurice Pullin

2011 : Into Asham Wood on the East Mendip Way

The East Mendip Way runs between Wells and Frome Link

Mendip Way Asham Wood is about two thirds of the way along starting from Wells.

Maurice Pullin

Gate on Limekiln Lane onto guarded property

Rob Purvis

2011 : Quarry buildings at Merehead Quarry

More accurately Torr Works Quarry. A limestone quarry run by Foster Yeoman, Merehead is the name of the railhead at the quarry. Culled from; Link

And from: Link

"The site covers an area of some 200 hectares, including 60 hectares which have been landscaped to blend with the surrounding countryside. It is operated by the Aggregate Industries Company employing over 200 people and produces 6 million tonnes of limestone annually which is carried directly from the quarry by Mendip Rail. A Geodiversity audit of the site recorded pale to dark grey well bedded Carboniferous Limestone dipping consistently southwards with a small area of overlying horizontally bedded buff-coloured Jurassic oolitic limestone forming an angular unconformity."

Maurice Pullin

2011 : A gathering of toposcopes

At a viewpoint south west of Merehead Quarry. On a day not suitable for long distance viewing. Since writing the above have wondered what the collective noun for "toposcope" would be - a panorama perhaps?

Maurice Pullin

2011 : Warning sign, Merehead Quarry

On a public footpath near the top of a cliff.

Maurice Pullin

2011 : Footpath and bridleway near Merehead Quarry

Follows the edge of the quarry which is well protected. Cranmore Tower appears on the hill in front ST6745

Maurice Pullin

Downhead, postbox and noticeboard

Rob Purvis

Lane junction at Downhead

Rob Purvis

Bridleway near Merehead Quarry

It is mapped as running along the quarry edge, but it is not worth picking your way through the mud, as there is nothing to be seen. There is a high bank and hedge blocking all views.

Robin Webster