Monday, 10th July 2016

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

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