Wells, Avalon Marshes and Fenny Castle
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This is a moderate 8.5 mile walk adapted from the Avalon Marshes website. By ascending a couple of short but steep hills, we will get some wonderful views of the surrounding moors. The route takes in a number of interesting historical features including a motte-and-bailey at the site of Fenny Castle ruined since 1480 but where in the 19th century, quarrying revealed remains of around 20 skeletons that may have predated the Castle. We will pass the route of the Somerset Central Railway which was opened in 1854 for the transportation of locally manufactured goods. After passing by Upper Coxley, we will complete our walk by coming into Wells the back way, passing the magnificent catherdral, famous for it's big clock.
What to bring
Water: bring at least two litres
Medicines: if you have hay fever, diabetes, minor ailments etc.
Day rucksack: typically 20-30 litres, they are comfortable to wear and allow you to use your arms freely
Boots: waterproof and breathable and designed for hiking, trainers are OK if the ground is dry and there’s little chance of rain
Gaiters: recommended for wet weather or boggy conditions
Socks: proper walking socks will keep your feet dry and help prevent blisters
Layered clothing: lets you quickly adapt to changes in the weather and body temperature. Go for a base layer (vest or t-shirt) and a mid layer (a micro fleece or shirt) and in cooler weather add an outer layer (a windproof jacket or thick fleece)
Trousers: ideally no jeans as they become heavy and cold in the rain, breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry and on warm days shorts are OK
Waterproof jacket: essential when hiking in all but the calmest of weather, breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry
Gloves: Windproof, or better still, waterproof gloves are the best choice, bring a spare pair if expecting rain
Hat or cap: stay warm in winter and shaded in summer
Sunglasses: for any sunny day, even in winter
Sun cream: can be useful even on cloudy and winter days
Snacks: bring biscuits, energy bars, gels, bananas, chocolate or dried fruit for example and put them somewhere easy to get hold of
Lunch: bring a packed lunch unless otherwise stated
Food & drink
Please bring a packed lunch for this walk.
Afterwards for those that wish, there will be the option to look around the historic town of Wells and get further refreshments