Walk: | Lime Kiln Lane, Lower Milton, Ebbor Gorge National Nature Reserve, Ebbor Gorge, West Mendip Way | ||
Start Point: | Wookey Hole and Glastonbury | Grid Reference: | ST532475 & ST499389 |
Distance: | 5 miles + 2.5 miles | Ascent: | 1,000 feet + |
Time: | 2.5 hours + 1.5 hours | ||
Weather: | Mainly fine and sunny with one short shower | ||
Comments: | Ebbor Gorge was formed 200,000 years ago when a huge cavern collapsed forming the dramatic cliffs and limestone scree slopes seen today. An easy walk on good tracks. Moving on to Wells we spent time exploring the Cathedral and surrounding area. Another short journey took us to Glastonbury where we enjoyed a short walk to the Tor. |
Lime kilns - on Lime Kiln Lane
A lovely green path changes to . . .
a stony path in Ebbor Gorge Nature Reserve
Ebbor Gorge lookout . . .
where the trees hide the depth of the gorge . . .
but it is a good spot for a coffee break
Scooter convention in Wells
The archway leads to . . .
the 12th century Wells Cathedral . . .
The cloisters lead into . . .
the main body of the Cathedral . . .
where the Scissors Arches were a medieval solution
to sinking tower foundations
The vaulted roof is beautifully decorated
The Wells clock, installed around 1390 is one of the oldest medieval clocks in the world
The well-worn steps lead up to . . .
the Chapter House . . .
an octagonal chamber completed in 1306
The Jesse window is one of the most splendid examples of 14th century stained glass in Europe
The Quire is the heart of the Cathedral
The East window
The West Front of the Cathedral contains one of the largest galleries of medieval sculpture
in the world. Starting in the lower niches with biblical scenes, it rises through kings,
bishops and orders of angels to the twelve apostles with Christ over all
Vicar's Close narrows at the far end to give it the appearance of being longer than it is
It was designed as lodgings for the men of the choir
Completed in 1363 it is the only completely medieval street left in England
Heading through the arch . . .
into the grounds of . . .
the ruined Bishop's Palace
Rising from the Somerset Levels, Glastonbury Tor . . .
is topped by the roofless St Michael's Tower,
a Grade I listed building
The topograph provides a great seat
Time to return to the Glastonbury, best known for the festival held here each year