Cleeve Plantation

Wood, Forest in Somerset Somerset West and Taunton

England

Cleeve Plantation

A396 north of Quarme Bridge Credit: David Smith

Cleeve Plantation is a picturesque woodland located in Somerset, England. It covers an area of approximately 100 acres and is situated in the beautiful Mendip Hills, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The plantation is renowned for its diverse range of tree species, including oak, beech, ash, and birch, which create a captivating and ever-changing landscape throughout the seasons.

The woodland is home to a rich variety of wildlife, making it a popular destination for both nature enthusiasts and casual visitors. Roe deer, badgers, and foxes can often be spotted roaming among the trees, while a plethora of bird species, such as woodpeckers, owls, and buzzards, nest and hunt within the plantation. The tranquil atmosphere and natural beauty of Cleeve Plantation provide a haven for these creatures and a peaceful retreat for visitors.

Trails and footpaths wind their way through the plantation, allowing visitors to explore the woodland's hidden corners and discover its hidden gems. A well-maintained network of paths ensures accessibility for all, making it a suitable destination for families and individuals alike. Additionally, benches and picnic areas are scattered throughout the plantation, providing ample opportunities for relaxation and enjoying the surrounding scenery.

Cleeve Plantation also holds historical significance, with evidence of ancient settlements and charcoal production dating back centuries. The remnants of charcoal platforms can still be found within the woodland, serving as a reminder of the area's past industries and the importance of sustainable resource management.

Overall, Cleeve Plantation offers a unique blend of natural beauty, wildlife, and historical interest, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a tranquil escape within the stunning surroundings of Somerset.

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Cleeve Plantation Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 51.122066/-3.5319789 or Grid Reference SS9236. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

A396 north of Quarme Bridge

David Smith

Winter sunlight: A396 in Quarme Wood

David Smith

How the A396 is cut into the slope of Quarme Wood

David Smith

Modern Milestone by the A396, Wheddon Cross

Metal plate attached to stone post by the A396, in parish of Cutcombe (WEST SOMERSET District), CERDIC new iron plate, erected by the County Council in the 21st century. Inscription reads:- 9 MILES To Minehead CERDIC 2006 Milestone Society National ID: SO_MHEB09.

Nick Savage

Exton: Lower North Quarme and North Quarme

A 12’ diameter waterwheel powered machinery installed in a barn at Lower North Quarme in the 1920s. The decayed wheel was still in situ when this photograph was taken in 1996, although the machinery had been removed. The farm is now a private residence

Martin Bodman

Cutcombe: Summerway Cross

On the left is the ‘Hare Path’ or herepath. S H Burton, writing in 1969, saw this as one of the country’s most significant and ancient trackways. He claimed that it once linked Bristol and Gloucester with Barnstaple and Cornwall by way of the Quantocks, Exford and Simonsbath. Apparently the Saxons adopted the old route so that they could control the high ground to which they had driven the Celts, while they themselves occupied the lowland farmsteads. Here the track forms the boundary between Cutcome and Exton parishes. On the right the present-day road runs to Wheddon Cross. See SS7340 for another view of the track west of Simonsbath

Martin Bodman

Exton: near Stone Lane

Exmoor’s heights in the distance, beyond the Quarme valley; a field of kale in the foreground. Looking south-west

Martin Bodman

Exton: Stone Lane

Looking west-south-west near Stone Lodge

Martin Bodman

Bridleway at White Moor, near Lype Hill

A public Bridleway, now part of the Coleridge Way long distance path, runs across this field from where the photo was taken. Obviously not used by horses, nor by many people!

Barbara Cook

Heath Poult Cross

Looking east along the B3224, which runs along the top of the Brendon Hills

Barbara Cook

Hare Path, a track near Wheddon Cross

Barbara Cook

Looking west from Quarme Lane

In the foreground; Quarme Combe.In the distance; Dunkery Beacon.

Barbara Cook

Modern Mosaic

The side wall of the public conveniences in Wheddon Cross car park have been decorated with this large mosaic of Exmoor. The bottom right hand corner identifies it as a "Community Project 1992-1995."

Barbara Cook

Quarme Bridge, Upcott Lane

The River Quarme is a left bank tributary of the River Exe and it is crossed here by Upcott Lane at the eponymously named bridge. The lane will take you to Winsford.

Alan Bowring

Putham Lane

Leading east from Cutcombe - this is one of many restricted byways in this part of Exmoor.

Alan Bowring

River Quarme near Bushel Bridge

This crystal clear little river trickles over stones in a quiet Somerset valley. See also SS9137 : Bushel Bridge

Rob Farrow

Bushel Bridge

Bushel Bridge straddles the SS38 gridline with this southern side being just inside the SS9137 gridsquare. The river it crosses is the very shallow River Quarme. (See also SS9137 : River Quarme near Bushel Bridge)

Rob Farrow