Castle Cary to Babcary Walk

Starting near the charming town of Castle Cary in Somerset, England, this 22 km (approximately 13.7 miles) out-and-back trail offers a delightful mix of scenic countryside, historical landmarks, and gentle elevation changes. With an elevation gain of around 200 meters (656 feet), this medium-difficulty hike is perfect for those looking to explore the English countryside without too much strenuous effort.

Getting There

To reach the trailhead, you can either drive or use public transport. If driving, Castle Cary is accessible via the A371 and A359 roads. For those using public transport, Castle Cary railway station is well-connected with regular services from London Paddington, Bristol, and Exeter. From the station, it's a short walk to the start of the trail.

Trail Overview

The trail begins near Castle Cary, a picturesque market town known for its historic architecture and quaint streets. As you set off, you'll pass through rolling fields and lush meadows, typical of the Somerset landscape. The initial part of the trail is relatively flat, making for a gentle start.

Significant Landmarks and Nature

Around the 5 km (3.1 miles) mark, you'll come across Hadspen House, a historic estate with beautifully manicured gardens. Although the house itself is private, the surrounding area offers lovely views and a sense of the region's rich history.

Continuing on, the trail meanders through small woodlands and open fields, providing ample opportunities to spot local wildlife such as deer, foxes, and a variety of bird species. Keep an eye out for the distinctive red kite, a bird of prey that has been successfully reintroduced to the area.

Midpoint: Babcary

At approximately 11 km (6.8 miles), you'll reach the village of Babcary, a quintessential English village with thatched cottages and a charming parish church, St. Mary's, dating back to the 14th century. This is a great spot to take a break, perhaps at the local pub, The Red Lion, which offers traditional English fare and a cozy atmosphere.

Return Journey

The return journey retraces your steps back to Castle Cary, allowing you to enjoy the scenery from a different perspective. The gentle elevation gain of 200 meters (656 feet) is spread out over the entire trail, making the hike manageable for most fitness levels.

Navigation and Safety

For navigation, it's highly recommended to use the HiiKER app, which provides detailed maps and real-time GPS tracking to ensure you stay on course. The trail is well-marked, but having a reliable navigation tool can enhance your hiking experience and provide peace of mind.

Historical Significance

The region around Castle Cary and Babcary is steeped in history. Castle Cary itself is named after a castle built in the 11th century, remnants of which can still be seen today. The area was also significant during the English Civil War, with various skirmishes taking place in the surrounding countryside.

This trail offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and rural charm, making it a must-visit for any hiking enthusiast exploring Somerset.