Top 5 Natural Monuments around Great Elm

The area around Great Elm is rich in geological and ecological wonders. You can explore Vallis Vale, known for its ancient woodlands and the remarkable 'De la Beche Unconformity,' a classic geological formation. The Mells River also offers unique karst hydrology, including the Mells River Sink, and supports diverse plant and wildlife.

Vallis Vale is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) due to its ancient woodland, which is at least 400 years old, and its geological importance. It features the 'De la Beche Unconformity,' showcasing millions of years of Earth's history where younger Jurassic limestones overlay older Carboniferous limestones. It's a haven for diverse flora like lesser celandine, wood anemones, and various ferns.

The Mells River, flowing through the Wadbury Valley, is notable for its unique Mells River Sink, a dynamic cleft that acts as both a sink and a spring depending on water levels. This hydrological curiosity involves water percolating underground and re-emerging. The river's wooded banks are rich in mosses, liverworts, and ferns, and the valley is an important habitat for Greater and Lesser Horseshoe Bats.

Yes, the natural landscape around Tedbury Camp, an Iron Age hill fort, offers scenic views of river valleys and geological exposures. Additionally, you can visit Stoney Littleton Long Barrow, a well-preserved Neolithic chambered tomb dating back to 3500 BCE, which provides insight into ancient history within a natural setting.

Absolutely. Asham Wood, the largest ancient semi-natural woodland in the Mendips, is an excellent choice for family strolls, offering diverse plant and wildlife observation. Cley Hill also offers a great short walk for all the family with expansive views.

The ancient woodlands of Vallis Vale and Asham Wood are rich in diverse flora and fauna. You might spot various plant species like lesser celandine, wood anemones, and primroses, along with an abundance of mosses and ferns. The Wadbury Valley, through which the Mells River flows, is particularly important for bat roosts, including Greater and Lesser Horseshoe Bats.

Spring and summer are ideal for experiencing the vibrant flora and fauna, especially in woodlands like Asham Wood, when plants are in bloom and wildlife is active. However, the geological features and river landscapes can be appreciated year-round, with autumn offering beautiful foliage and winter providing a different, tranquil atmosphere.

There are numerous hiking trails available. For easy walks, consider routes like 'Mells River – Mells River Path loop from Great Elm' or 'Mells River Stone Bridge loop from Great Elm'. For more moderate options, explore routes such as 'Mells River – Mells River Path loop from Buckland Dinham'. You can find more details and routes on the easy hikes around Great Elm guide or the general hiking guide.

Yes, the area offers gravel biking opportunities. Routes like 'Fosseway Ford – Lane Into Shepton Mallet loop from Leigh-on-Mendip' provide a moderate challenge, while others like 'Honeypot Lane Singletrack – Wylye Valley Quiet Road loop from Frome' are more difficult. Explore these and more on the gravel biking around Great Elm guide.

Visitors appreciate the diverse natural beauty, from the ancient woodlands of Vallis Vale and Asham Wood to the unique river features of the Mells River. The expansive views from Cley Hill are also a highlight, offering panoramic vistas of Somerset and Wiltshire. The blend of natural landscapes with historical significance, such as Stoney Littleton Long Barrow, also adds to the appeal.

Many of the natural areas around Great Elm, including woodlands and riverside paths, are generally suitable for dog walking. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs under control, especially in areas with wildlife or livestock, and to check for specific local regulations or signage at each location.

The region is geologically fascinating. Vallis Vale is famous for the 'De la Beche Unconformity,' where younger Jurassic limestones lie on older Carboniferous limestones. The Mells River features the Mells River Sink, demonstrating unique karst hydrology. You can also find similar geological exposures near Tedbury Camp in old quarries.

Beyond the well-known sites, you might discover smaller, equally charming spots like the Wildlife Habitat Branch Pile, which provides shelter and food for forest creatures. The serene stretches along the Mells River, particularly in less frequented sections, also offer tranquil moments and opportunities for quiet nature observation.