HARDINGTON VALE TRAIL

A walk of approx 15 miles through the beautiful countryside of NE Somerset, and its border with Wiltshire. The trail takes in the valley containing the geological "Hardington Fault" from which the ancient churches take their collective name.
A section follows the Macmillan Way and the river Frome.

Wherever possible the route follows tracks and field paths. Elsewhere the quiet country lanes are used. Where the route crosses the busy A36 and A361 the distances covered are very short.
The walking is generally easy with no steep gradients. In wet weather there may be sections that are heavy underfoot. These are noted in the detailed route guides.
 

Walkers will be disappointed if there are not shod with waterproof boots. This is particularly true of the aptly named Watery Lane at Norton St Philip.

To walk the full trail a full day should be allowed. The walk is also possible in sections. The walk can be started at any point, although some walkers may wish to note the location of the local pubs for refreshment on the trail.
The trail is designed to walk to all six churches within the benefice of Hardington Vale in NE Somerset. The redundant church of Hardington is also included. There are several other places of interest on the trail as well as the beautiful villages and hamlets.

Useful Maps

OS Explorer Sheets (2 ½" to the mile)
142, 156 or the older Mendip Hills East

Sections
1 Norton St Philip to Hemington 3.7m

2 Hemington to Laverton via Hardington 3.8m

3 Laverton to Rode 2.3m

4 Rode to Tellisford 2.1m

5 Tellisford to Farleigh Hungerford 1.3m

6 Farleigh Hungerford to Norton St Philip 2.1m

My thanks to Michael, Alec and Jackie who accompanied me on the first walk of this trail.

Tony Day May 2003