Ash Priors Common

Downs, Moorland in Somerset Somerset West and Taunton

England

Ash Priors Common

Bishops Lydeard Station, West Somerset Railway From the road bridge. — Bishops Lydeard Station, West Somerset Railway Credit: David Stowell

Ash Priors Common is a picturesque area located in Somerset, England. Covering a vast expanse of downs and moorland, it offers visitors a unique and diverse landscape to explore. The common is situated in the southern part of Somerset, near the village of Ash Priors.

The downs of Ash Priors Common are characterized by rolling hills covered with lush green grass and scattered with wildflowers. The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including rabbits, foxes, and numerous bird species. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the well-maintained paths that wind through the downs, providing stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

In contrast, the moorland of Ash Priors Common offers a distinct atmosphere. Here, visitors can experience a more rugged and untamed landscape. The moorland is characterized by open expanses of heather and bracken, interspersed with rocky outcrops and small streams. This unique habitat supports a diverse range of plant and animal species, including rare birds such as the Dartford warbler.

Ash Priors Common is a haven for nature enthusiasts and avid walkers alike. The area features a network of footpaths and trails, allowing visitors to explore the beauty of the downs and moorland at their own pace. Additionally, there are designated areas for picnicking and camping, providing an opportunity to immerse oneself in the tranquility of the surroundings.

Overall, Ash Priors Common offers a rich and varied landscape, providing visitors with a truly immersive experience in the heart of Somerset's natural beauty.

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Ash Priors Common Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 51.052494/-3.2087575 or Grid Reference ST1528. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Bishops Lydeard Station, West Somerset Railway

From the road bridge.

David Stowell

Bishops Lydeard, West Somerset Railway

The engine prepares to take on water whilst the S&T staff work on re-instating the signalling that will hopefully one day permit a resumption of through services to Taunton.

David Stowell

Halse: the village from the south

Several cottages retain thatched roofs

Martin Bodman

Halse: St Jamesâ Church

According to Robin Bush, writing in ‘Somerset. The Complete Guide’ [Wimborne, 1994], the church may stand on a pagan site. The site is to the south, above the village

Martin Bodman

Ash Priors: Ash Common

Aid from English Nature’s Wildspace Grant assists the local council manage the common, which was made a Local Nature Reserve in 1995. Plants such as Devil’s Bit Scabious, Heath and Common Spotted Orchid, Lousewort, Milkwort and Purple Moor Grass grow here

Martin Bodman

Bishopâs Lydeard: St Maryâs Church

The impressive four-stage Somerset tower with set-back buttresses dates from the 15th century. The churchyard contains the stumps of two medieval crosses; the church is noted for its rood screen and carved 16th century bench ends

Martin Bodman

Mount Street, Bishops Lydeard

Mount Street, looking North North East towards Quantock Hills. Bishop's Lydeard infamous Red Garage in foreground. Bishops Lydeard isn't just about the West Somerset Railway you know!

Tim

Bishops Lydeard: West Somerset Railway

80136 and 53809 backing down onto their train which will later depart for Minehead. Seen from the south side of the road bridge by the station

Martin Bodman

Bishops Lydeard: West Somerset Railway

Steam shrouds 53809 as the locomotive, double headed with 80136, hidden, hauls its train into Lydeard station, destination Minehead

Martin Bodman

Former Inn?

This large house on the edge of Ash Priors could well have been the Inn marked on old maps.

Barbara Cook

Ash Priors

An idyllic village street scene. Perhaps one day the numerous electricity wires can be buried underground.

Barbara Cook

Bishops Lydeard: Cotford St Luke

New housing at Burge Meadow. Looking roughly east

Martin Bodman

Bishop's Lydeard: lane near Stallenge Farm

Looking north on a no-through road with the Quantocks in the background

Martin Bodman

Bishopâs Lydeard: towards Lower Stoford

Looking north west from near the entrance to Hopkins Farm. (Lower Stoford is at ST14452877)

Martin Bodman

Halse: barns at Northway Farm

Looking north-north-west

Martin Bodman

Whiskey Trail Crossing

Sandy Lane is a public footpath that links Sandhill Park and Bishops Lydeard. The alternative name of Whiskey Trail came from the American servicemen billeted in the grounds of the Park during WW2. It crosses the West Somerset Railway as shown in the picture.

Steve Edge