Wookey Hole and Lower Milton Loop Walk

Starting near the picturesque village of Wookey Hole in Somerset, England, this loop walk spans approximately 6 km (3.7 miles) with an elevation gain of around 200 meters (656 feet). The trailhead is conveniently located near the famous Wookey Hole Caves, a well-known landmark that serves as a great starting point for your adventure.

### Getting There To reach the trailhead, you can either drive or use public transport. If driving, set your GPS to Wookey Hole Caves, Wookey Hole, Wells BA5 1BB, UK. There is ample parking available near the caves. For those using public transport, the nearest major town is Wells, which is well-connected by bus services. From Wells, you can take a local bus or taxi to Wookey Hole.

### Trail Overview The trail begins with a gentle ascent from Wookey Hole, offering stunning views of the Mendip Hills. As you start your hike, you'll pass through lush woodlands and open fields, providing a diverse range of scenery. The initial part of the trail is relatively easy, making it a good warm-up for the more challenging sections ahead.

### Key Landmarks and Points of Interest - Wookey Hole Caves: Just a short distance from the trailhead, these limestone caves are a must-see. They have been inhabited for over 45,000 years and are steeped in history and legend. - Ebbor Gorge: About 2 km (1.2 miles) into the hike, you'll come across Ebbor Gorge, a National Nature Reserve. The gorge is a haven for wildlife, including rare plants and birds. The steep cliffs and rocky outcrops make it a dramatic and beautiful spot to explore. - Lower Milton: As you continue, you'll reach the quaint hamlet of Lower Milton. This area is rich in history, with several old stone cottages and a charming rural atmosphere. It's a great place to take a short break and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

### Wildlife and Nature The trail is abundant with wildlife. Keep an eye out for deer, badgers, and a variety of bird species. The woodlands are home to ancient oak and beech trees, and in the spring, the forest floor is carpeted with bluebells. The open fields offer a different kind of beauty, with wildflowers and butterflies adding color to the landscape.

### Trail Navigation Navigating the Wookey Hole and Lower Milton Loop Walk is straightforward, but it's always a good idea to have a reliable navigation tool. HiiKER is an excellent app for this purpose, providing detailed maps and real-time GPS tracking to ensure you stay on course.

### Elevation and Terrain The trail features a mix of terrains, from woodland paths to open fields and rocky sections. The elevation gain is moderate, with a few steep climbs, particularly around Ebbor Gorge. These sections can be challenging but are manageable for most hikers with a reasonable level of fitness. The highest point of the trail offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, making the effort well worth it.

### Historical Significance The area around Wookey Hole and Lower Milton is rich in history. The Wookey Hole Caves have been used by humans since the Stone Age, and the nearby village of Wookey Hole has a long history of paper milling. Lower Milton itself is a testament to rural English life, with its historic cottages and agricultural heritage.

### Final Stretch As you loop back towards Wookey Hole, the trail descends gently, offering a relaxing end to your hike. The final stretch takes you through more open fields and woodlands, eventually bringing you back to the trailhead near the caves.

This loop walk offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and moderate physical challenge, making it an ideal choice for a day hike in Somerset.