2 walks to help you discover Somerset

It was good news last week for keen walkers spending their holidays at Sandy Glade Holiday Park.

If you missed it, Natural England has announced approval of an extra 90km stretch of coastal path in Somerset, meaning walkers will gain access rights to previously cut-off beaches as well as other areas of the coast.

The news has already got me reaching for my walking boots – I can't think of a better way to explore the region than on foot?

With that in mind, I give you 2 of my favourite walks to help you discover the county from our holiday parks in Somerset.

Brean Down

A scenic three 3 ½ mile coastal walk across Brean Down allows you to discover one of the most impressive coastline landmarks during your holidays in Somerset.

Brean Down not only provides panoramic views in almost every direction, it also takes you back in time as you pass ancient forts and Roman temple remains.

Now to the walk...

You can either park in the in the National Trust's car park or on the beach – remembering to be aware of the tide. From the car park, take the zig-zagging steps up the southern face all the way to the top. It's a fairly steep climb, but the sights are worthy of the effort.

After reaching the top, turn left and take the track along the southern slope, taking in the remains of an old Roman temple and Celtic field systems.

Continue up towards the fort on the small hill, from here you can enjoy tremendous views over the Bristol Channel. In 1862 four acres were ordered to Brean Down to build up forts for protection against the growing French forces. The fort was re-armed at the start of the Second World War.

The Eastward facing walk back allows for superb views of Western- super-Mare and passes the site of an old Iron Age Fort, before returning you gently to the start of the walk and the car park.

Cheddar Gorge

Cheddar Gorge is almost 400ft deep and 3 miles long. On this day out from our Somerset holiday parks you'll get a chance to experience England's largest gorge and one of our country's most spectacular natural sights.

The 4 mile circular walk starts opposite the National Trust Information Centre in Cheddar High Street, on a track called Cufic Lane. At the National Trust omega sign you'll find a gate to a steep path, go through here and keep to the path leading up through the woods –  this is the toughest section of the walk, but well worth it so stick to it.

From the gate at the top of the hill, make your way towards the stone wall on your right. Continue on the path until you reach a kissing gate, remembering to keep the wall on your right the whole way. Proceed through the gate, turn right at the bottom of the hill and follow to the main road.

Take a left up the road until you reach a footpath on the right hand side, follow this for a while and bear right when the path divides. You'll soon come across a tall gate – this marks the start of land owned by Cheddar Gorge. You'll be led to the highest point of the Gorge and can look out to wonderful views – keep your eyes peeled for Peregrine falcons, jackdaws and buzzards too!

After spending time marvelling over the sights, follow the path down to Pavey's Lookout Tower and Jacobs Ladder. Take the quieter path to the left, which brings you out onto Lippiat Lane.

After walking down the hill turn right at Shannaz Restaurant, back onto the high street.