Castle Hill

Hill, Mountain in Somerset Somerset West and Taunton

England

Castle Hill

Former quarry face, Woolston See also <a href="https://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/4094973">ST0940 : The former Woolston Quarry [Bunter sandstone]</a>; as Christine remarks this appears to be sandstone, yet old maps show lime kilns nearby. An online source <span class="nowrap"><a title="https://geologistsassociation.org.uk/gashopnewlayout/ga-guide-66_the-geology-of-watchet-and-its-neighbourhood-somerset/" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://geologistsassociation.org.uk/gashopnewlayout/ga-guide-66_the-geology-of-watchet-and-its-neighbourhood-somerset/">Link</a><img style="margin-left:2px;" alt="External link" title="External link - shift click to open in new window" src="https://s1.geograph.org.uk/img/external.png" width="10" height="10"/></span> explains that red Triassic sandstone pebble beds can be seen in Woolston Quarry but carboniferous limestone is found within the same quarry. — Former quarry face, Woolston Credit: Stephen Craven

Castle Hill is a prominent hill located in the county of Somerset, England. Situated near the town of Axbridge, it is part of the Mendip Hills range, which forms a picturesque backdrop to the surrounding countryside. Standing at an elevation of approximately 210 meters (690 feet), Castle Hill offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

The hill takes its name from the ancient hillfort that once stood at its summit. Believed to date back to the Iron Age, this hillfort is now a Scheduled Ancient Monument, attracting visitors and history enthusiasts alike. The remains of the fortifications, including the earthworks and ramparts, provide a glimpse into its strategic importance in ancient times.

Castle Hill is also home to a diverse range of wildlife and plant species, making it a popular destination for nature lovers. The hill's limestone grassland supports a rich variety of flora, including rare orchids and wildflowers. Visitors may also be fortunate enough to spot various species of birds, butterflies, and small mammals that call this area their home.

In addition to its natural and historical significance, Castle Hill offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities. The surrounding countryside provides numerous walking and hiking trails, allowing visitors to explore the area at their own pace. The hill's summit is accessible by foot, offering a rewarding challenge for those seeking stunning views and a sense of accomplishment.

Overall, Castle Hill in Somerset is a place of natural beauty, historical importance, and recreational opportunities. Whether one is interested in archaeology, nature, or simply enjoying the great outdoors, this hill provides a captivating experience for all who visit.

Show me another place!

If you have any feedback on the listing, please let us know in the comments section below.

Castle Hill Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 51.157526/-3.2993313 or Grid Reference ST0940. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Former quarry face, Woolston

See also ST0940 : The former Woolston Quarry [Bunter sandstone]; as Christine remarks this appears to be sandstone, yet old maps show lime kilns nearby. An online source Link

explains that red Triassic sandstone pebble beds can be seen in Woolston Quarry but carboniferous limestone is found within the same quarry.

Stephen Craven

New dutch barn near Woolston

This isn't shown on even recent maps but the latest aerial imagery on Google Maps shows it in construction.

Stephen Craven

The A358 at Sampford Brett

Looking west from the railway bridge. Compare ST0940 : The A358.

Stephen Craven

Signal south of Williton station

The signal is part way along a single track section between stations, which is unusual.

Stephen Craven

Station Road level crossing and Williton signal box

The signal box dates from the opening of the line in 1862 and is grade II listed (list entry 1174890). Unlike most such boxes on the national network, it is still in use by the preserved WSR, who claim it as "the only working example of a Bristol and Exeter Railway still in use".

Stephen Craven

Williton station, up platform

The station is a passing point on the mainly single track West Somerset Railway, so it has two platforms.

Stephen Craven

Williton diesel depot

Not many preserved railways have a dedicated diesel depot, but this one has a larger collection of diesel (rather than steam) trains than most. On shed here is 'Hymek' class no. D7017.

Stephen Craven

Williton diesel depot - wagons with crane

The West Somerset Railway (WSR) is a railway line that originally linked Taunton and Watchet. It opened in 1862 and was extended from Watchet to Minehead by the Minehead Railway in 1874. It was closed in 1971 but was then reopened in 1976 as a heritage railway. At 22.75 miles, it is the longest privately owned passenger rail line in the country, however services normally only operate on the 19.5 miles between Bishops Lydeard and Minehead. Wikipedia: Link

Website: Link

Stephen Craven

Former GWR shed at Williton

This corrugated metal shed with steel framing, now housing railway stock under restoration, was re-erected here in 1992 from its original home in the Great Western Railway's Swindon works where it was first erected in 1899. It's unusual for a relocated building, or one of this type, to be listed, but it is indeed given grade II status (list entry 1241069) as "a remarkably well preserved and very early example of a steel-framed all-metal building".

Stephen Craven