Jim and Sue have produced a colourful and interesting book of walks 'Around and About Watchet'. Illustrated with Ordnance Survey coloured maps and fine photographs of the area, the book offers something for all the family with disabled routes included and a lighthearted mystery test to conclude.
Incorporating 10 walks around the town and district of varied length and difficulty we have tried to appeal to locals and residents alike and hope that they will enjoy the book for the information it contains as much as the opportunity to go out and see Watchet from the different view points.
“Watchet Around and About” a book of ten walks in and around Watchet by James Nicholas and Sue Upstone.
A brief description of the walks
The Walks Distance in Miles
1. Watchet Historic 2
A ramble through the streets of the old town
This short walk takes you around the town showing some fine views of the Quantock Hills and Exmoor and on a clear day across the Bristol Channel to South Wales. With explanations and descriptions, and some historical information.
2. Watchet Boundary 3.5
A circular walk around the outskirts of the town
Around the perimeter of Watchet on tracks and through farmland with lovely views over the town and beyond.
3. Watchet Without 5
A circular walk from Roadwater via Nettlecombe
A favourite with the authors. It will be necessary to drive to the start point. The walk takes you to Nettlecombe Court above the route of the old mineral railway. The last section will reveal stunning views of the Brendons and Quantocks and Watchet from the south.
4. Watchet Wyndham 7
A circular walk from Watchet via Williton and Washford
This walk includes a stroll along the beach (check tide times) across agricultural land, lanes and along a section of the Macmillan Way West.
5. Watchet Westward 6
A circular walk via Chapel Cleeve and the coast path
Starting from Watchet, this walk takes you via Kentsford Farm, South Common, Chapel Cleeve and the coast path from Blue Anchor. Panoramic views along farmland, woodland tracks and some road walking.
6. Watchet to Minehead 8
A beach coastal walk with return by train or bus
You will walk along the West Somerset Coast Path and some beach walking as you pass through Blue Anchor, Dunster and the golf links at Minehead. Return can be by train, or bus, or for the more hardy walker return on foot (16 miles!)
7. Watchet Mineral Line 9
A testing walk tracing Watchet’s industrial past
You will need to be dropped off for the start of this walk. This walk includes the historical West Somerset Mineral Railway route. There are some steep climbs but it will be well worth it to enjoy the beauty and views. Take walking poles. It can be boggy in places.
8. Watchet Beaches 1
Plenty of interest for all the family and their dog
There are three beaches accessible from the town. Helwell and Doniford Beach, West Beach, and the more rocky Splash Point Beach.
9. Watchet Coleridge 7
A walk on the Quantock Hills in the poet’s footsteps
Follow in Coleridge’s footsteps from East Quantoxhead to Beacon Hill where coastal, hills and moorland paths make this a worthy and scenic perambulation.
10. Watchet Mystery 1
It’s a mystery!
Something for the young at heart or those who like a challenge. With 21 questions to keep you guessing, this walk leads you round the old town.
The book can be purchased at various local outlets for £2.95 or by contacting Sue on 01984 631925 (suewalkingboots@hotmail.com) or Jim on 01984 631660 (jamesnicholas@btinternet.com) whereby postage can be arranged,£4.00 inclusive.