Steam, Scenery, and a Somerset Countryside Adventure

Join us for a delightful day out as we explore the beauty of West Somerset by steam train and foot. OutdoorLads has a rich history of walks along preserved railway lines, but this event takes it to the next level. We’ll start our journey at Bishops Lydeard, where we'll board a steam train for a 45-minute ride to the coastal town of Watchet. This picturesque route offers a taste of the age of steam and sets the stage for a stunning linear walk back toward Stogumber before catching our train back to  Bishops Lydeard.

Once we depart the train in Watchet, our walk begins with a westward trek along the coastline, where we’ll explore beaches and possibly navigate some rocky areas, depending on the tides. As we turn southward, the route takes us inland through fields and farmland, all under the shadow of the magnificent Quantock Hills, an AONB celebrated for its wilderness and tranquility. Every now and again you'll hear the sound of distant train whistles which will accompany us throughout, as we traverse open fields, farmland, and following pretty much the route of the West Somerset Steam Railway line.

Our journey will skirt past both the villages of Williton and Sampford Brett, with their charming thatched cottages. We’ll eventually reach Stogumber, where we'll either catch an afternoon steam/diesel train back to Bishops Lydeard. 

Be also aware at Stogumber, there’s an option to relax at a tea room or garden before heading back to Lydeard. Alternatively, for those with extra energy, there's an opportunity to carry on and extend the walk towards Crowcombe Heathfield which would incur a further three miles and to catch a later train, which would return into Bishops Lydeard before 18:00. The choice will be yours, and I guess will depend on the weather and individuals preferences.

Please note that this walk, while generally level, may require a brisk pace to ensure we catch our return train. If you're a slower walker, this may not be the best fit, as missing the train could mean a longer wait of some two hours for the next one. We won’t be stopping at any pubs or cafes, so bring along your own refreshments.

Important Information

• Tickets: Purchase a return ticket from Bishops Lydeard to Watchet (£23.00) either at the Ticket Office at Bishops Lydeard or from the ticket collector on the train. Card payments are accepted and recommended. If you’re bringing a dog, there’s a £3.00 charge for an All-Day ticket.
• Public Transport: If you’re arriving by train into Taunton, take the No28 First Bus from the south-side exit of Taunton station to Bishops Lydeard, which aligns with the West Somerset Steam Train timetable. On your return, disembark at the northside exit of Taunton Railway Station.
• Timing: The train departs promptly at 10:15 from Bishops Lydeard. Please ensure you arrive on time, considering traffic and parking, and ideally purchase your ticket in advance. We won’t be able to hold the train for late arrivals.

This is a fantastic opportunity to enjoy the beautiful Somerset countryside, the charm of a steam train journey, and the camaraderie of fellow OutdoorLads. We look forward to seeing you on the walk!

DOGS: Well-trained and quiet dogs are more than welcome to join us, provided they remain under control as we traverse farmland, woodland, tracks, and quiet lanes. Please be mindful that we may encounter free-roaming cattle, sheep, horses, emu and alpacas. Authorities have placed signage in certain areas, clearly indicating where dogs must be leashed.

If, unfortunately, your dog becomes uncontrolled and causes distress to other animals or livestock, the walk leader, supported by the Outdoor Lads board of trustees, reserves the right to ask you to leave the event. Such behaviour  is not acceptable.

Kindly adhere to the Countryside Code at all times, ensuring that your dog is under effective control. (Keeping Dogs Under Effective Control)

Don't waste that space: Summer walks mean lots of new and existing members excited to be getting out more. Please only book if you know you can make it. Should your plans change please free up the space immediately for someone else who could attend.

NEW MEMBERS:  Please feel free to join this as your first Outdoor Lads event. If you have any questions, then feel free to message me or go to the "My First Event" section under "About Us". 

IMPORTANT! - Participation Statement
You MUST complete a Participation Statement, in addition to booking your event space before attending an Outdoor Lads event. You only need to complete this Participation Statement once, not for each event you attend. 

My other walks for 2024:
07th September - Estuary Walk along the Exe to Exmouth Click here 

Photo Credits: All photos featured in this walk were captured by iandvuk, and permission is granted for them to be published and to be used by ODL.