A long walk through deeply wooded combes, past bubbling streams and waterfalls.
A great walk for a cool day. Lots of steep climbs in this walk, but very rewarding. Park up in County Gate Car Park and walk over Cosgate Hill crossing the A39 heading towards Old Burrow. This is a great opportunity to see the site of an old Roman fort before descending. Head to Seven Thorns on to where the Sister’s Fountain is located.
The Sister’s Fountain was named after two little girls who use to play there. It was built in the 19th century over a bubbling spring. The spring was supposed to have erupted from the very spot where Joseph of Arimathea struck the ground with his staff.
After the spring there are a couple of options, continue on the main trail which is quite wide and easy-going towards Yenworthy Comb. Alternatively, take ‘Bens Path‘ to Glenthorne Beach – this a narrow bumpy trail, but fascinating woodland. It runs alongside the Glenthorne Estates land. It should be noted that Glenthorne Beach is all pebbles – there is no sand. The ascent from Glenthorne Beach up to Sugarloaf Hill is punishing, trust us!
Assuming you’ve avoided Ben’s Path, start the ascent of Sugarloaf Hill following the signs back to County Gate or on to Culbone Church (a much longer detour). This woodland is beautiful, very lush and the ferns are huge! Once you reach the top of Yenworthy Combe / Sugarloaf Hill the land opens up to grazing land, and the views from here are stunning.
Follow the trail all the way back to County Gate Car Park.
Things to know …
- Approx. 3-4 hours / 7km
- The overall descent/ascent is over 330 metres
- This walk is very steep in places
- Part of the South West Coast Path
- Toilets near County Gate
- Can walk to Culbone Church & Porlock Weir
Things we love …
- Walking down to Glenthorne Beach (medium/large pebbles, no sand)
- The size and lushness of the ferns as you walk through the woods
- Walking through Yenworthy Comb – it’s just beautiful
- Extending the walk to Culbone Church
