Horrington, West

Settlement in Somerset Mendip

England

Horrington, West

Path by the rugby pitch See <a href="https://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/540254">ST5645 : Rugby ground</a>. This is footpath WS 17/12. On the right is the steep Strawberry Wood. — Path by the rugby pitch Credit: Derek Harper

Horrington is a small village located in the West Somerset district of South West England. Situated approximately 6 miles east of Wells, it is nestled within the picturesque Mendip Hills. With a population of around 500 residents, Horrington exudes a tranquil charm that attracts visitors seeking a peaceful countryside retreat.

The village is known for its rich history, dating back to the Roman times. Evidence of a Roman villa was discovered in the area, providing a fascinating glimpse into the village's past. Horrington's name is derived from the Old English words "horh" meaning "filthy" and "tun" meaning "enclosure," suggesting a connection to the nearby ancient springs that were known for their mineral-rich, muddy waters.

The village boasts a mix of architectural styles, showcasing its evolution over the centuries. Traditional thatched-roof cottages, timber-framed houses, and Victorian-era buildings can all be found within its boundaries. The local church, St. John the Baptist, is a notable landmark, featuring a striking medieval tower that adds to the village's character.

Nature enthusiasts are drawn to Horrington for its scenic landscapes and proximity to nature reserves. The nearby Mendip Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty offers ample opportunities for hiking, cycling, and wildlife spotting. Additionally, the village is within easy reach of popular tourist attractions such as Wookey Hole Caves and Cheddar Gorge.

While Horrington may be small in size, its idyllic setting, historical significance, and access to natural beauty make it a charming destination for those seeking a peaceful escape in the heart of Somerset's countryside.

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Horrington, West Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 51.223302/-2.6098392 or Grid Reference ST5747. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Path by the rugby pitch

See ST5645 : Rugby ground. This is footpath WS 17/12. On the right is the steep Strawberry Wood.

Derek Harper

Wells Golf Club

Crossed by footpath WS 10/45C, and, according to the map I was carrying (2004 vintage) by footpath WS 10/44, though not according to the club members I encountered en route. Above is King's Castle Wood.

Derek Harper

Wells Golf Club

The northwestern corner of the course, with the clubhouse visible in the distance.

Derek Harper

South Lodge to Mendip Hospital

Another view of ST5646 : Porter's Lodge, Wells. Built about 1845 and described at Link

. In the foreground is the Old Frome Road; to the left it meets the B3139 Bath Road.

Derek Harper

Old Frome Road near South Horrington

Some of the new housing close to the road east of Wells. The road to the left is called Gilbert Scott Road, acknowledging the famous Victorian architect who jointly designed the former Mendip Hospital to which the road leads.

Derek Harper

Dry valley near South Horrington

Crossed by footpath WS 10/46, which climbs the hill behind the large oak right of centre.

Derek Harper

Fields near Great War Plantation

A view from footpath WS 10/46, looking towards Combe Cottage between a meadow and a maize field.

Derek Harper

Approaching The Warren

Bridleway WS 4/15 converges with bridleway WS 4/16 to pass through the gate on the north side of The Warren, the wood to the right. Beyond the gate, the public road (Lyatt Lane) begins.

Derek Harper

The woods of Stoberry Warren, with stone wall on the south side

David Smith

2011 : Washingpool Farm on Chilcote Drove

Looking south west to the Somerset Levels and Glastonbury Tor ST5138 seen through a mid October heat haze.

Maurice Pullin

2011 : Chilcote Drove heading north

Meets the Old Frome Road this side of the wood on the hill. Washingpool Farm is behind the camera. Two weeks ago there was hardly a sign of autumn now it is nearly over.

Maurice Pullin

2011 : Cow pasture near Washingpool Farm

North west from Chilcote Drove. "Right girls, heads down for a full belly and ignore that fool photographer looking over the gate, pretend you haven't seen him."

Maurice Pullin

2011 : North west from Chilcote Drove

Sheep dot the next pasture over. East Horrington appears near the left hand edge. West Horrington is larger but is lost among trees in the valley further over. That long thing standing on the horizon right of centre is the Mendip UHF transmitter on Pen Hill ST5648

Maurice Pullin

2011 : Junction on Chilcote Lane

Chilcote Lane enters right from East Horrington and goes straight ahead to Chilcote Manor passing a small row of cottages. The road to the left is Chilcote Drove.

Maurice Pullin

2011 : Three sheep in a field near Chilcote Manor

A tractor on the other side of the wall, a mysterious device a little to the right of it, and a small barn well on its way to dilapidation.

Maurice Pullin

2011 : Old Frome Road, East Horrington

A mile in this direction brings you to the edge of Wells. The thing with a hat on the wall is a parish notice board. The mirror on top of the wall is there for the benefit of traffic emerging from Veal Lane opposite. And one man on shanks's pony.

Maurice Pullin

2011 : Veal Lane, East Horrington

Heading West of North to West Horrington. (South Horrington is due west of here but don't moan at me, I didn't name them.) A bunch of pink hydrangeas hang over the wall to compensate for the directionally challenged villages.

Maurice Pullin