Hellenge Hill lies on the south-facing
scarp of the Mendips and has spectacular views across
the Somerset Levels and the Bristol Channel.
What
to look out for
The calcareous grassland of Hellenge
Hill supports rare plants such as honewort and Somerset
hair-grass which are only found on the hot southern
scarp of the Mendips. Look out also for green-winged
orchid, common broomrape, yellow-wort, carline thistle
and autumn lady's tresses. Gorse and hawthorn provide
good habitat for birds and invertebrates. You may see
adders basking on the slopes.
Further information
Hellenge Hill is a Site of Scientific
Interest (SSSI). The reserve was purchased with funding
from Heritage Lottery Fund, Wyvern Waste and public donation.
Access
The site is grazed by sheep therefore dogs
must be kept on leads.
Take the A370 and travel south from Weston-super-Mare. At the Hospital roundabout continue on the A370. Take the first left on to Bleadon Hill. Follow for roughly 1400m, then turn left onto Roman Road. Follow the road until you reach a layby on the right hand side of the road. Park and explore the reserve, or else sit and enjoy the views over Somerset.
