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Loxton & the Mendips

The dramatic Cheddar Gorge and Somerset's finest landscapes over the Christmas period

  • South West England

  • 4 nights
  • Full Board
  • Landscape

  • Dec

  • Average group size: 10-12

Moderate

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Walking grade

Grade 5

Trips comprise of day walks with plenty of ups and downs, some steep and rough ground will be encountered at times and walks averaging 7 miles with 650m of ascent / descent. Some holidays will cover longer distances on easier paths, others will be shorter walks but have more demanding ascents and terrain.  

Usual daily walks - Distance: 7 miles; Ascent/Descent 650m; Terrain: generally decent paths and tracks with some steeper sections; Walking Time: Day walks. 

The above statistics are generalisations of a day’s keys walk, it does not include distance covered during general sightseeing or daily activity. Detailed information of the daily walking requirements are specified in the specific holidays ‘Daily Itinerary".

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Classic Collection

Thoughtfully designed, meticulously planned, carefully graded, and expertly guided walking tours and hiking holidays along well-loved and off-the-beaten-track footpaths.

Overview

Holiday Highlights

  • Explore an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
  • Walk above Cheddar Gorge
  • The view from Bleadon Hill across The Levels
  • Share Christmas with like-minded people

Nestling between the Mendips and the Bristol Channel, Loxton is well located to explore the varied hill-country, coast and limestone wonders of northern Somerset. The undulating limestone and sandstone ridge of the Mendip Hills rises to just over 325m and the rocky outcrops, hilltops, valleys and gorges of this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty provide an ideal setting for an exhilarating short walking break.

The West Mendip Way runs alongside our hotel and leads east to Crook Peak or westwards to Bleadon Hill – both with spectacular views over the Somerset Levels to Exmoor. Perhaps a highlight of this holiday is a walk through the limestone cliff country of the impressive Cheddar Gorge. A visit to the stalactite show caves is optional, however well worthwhile if you haven't visited before. 

There are lots of places of interest nearby (Wells, Wookey Hole and Glastonbury) to visit on your arrival or departure day. 

We offer one holiday over the festive period;

Loxton & the Mendips at Christmas - operates on 23 December 2024 for 4 nights


*Please note due to the popularity of this Christmas tour, the group may be larger than our average group size. If the group is large, we will provide two tour leaders for health and safety purposes*

  • Accommodation is full board with breakfasts and dinners taken at the hotel
  • Full Christmas Day dinner with all the trimmings
  • Packed lunches on all walk days
  • Private coach transport to and from the trailheads when necessary
  • Services of a dedicated tour leader(s)
  • Entrance fees (unless otherwise specified)
  • Personal expenses (such as your bar bill)
  • Discretionary tips
  • Optional excursions
  • Travel Insurance

Holiday Information

Click the button below for a detailed Holiday Information Sheet containing all the particulars about this trip.

NOTE: Itineraries and Holiday Information Sheets can vary by a specific date chosen

View Holiday Information Sheet

Tour Codes

70304

Itinerary & Travel

Itinerary Details

Whilst every effort will be made to adhere to the outlined itinerary and advertised programme, local conditions can change due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. This may mean that routes and timings need to be amended or the order of days may change, sometimes at short notice.

Your Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival day

Meals

Dinner

Accommodation

Independent arrival at The Webbington Hotel in Loxton. Check in is from 2.30pm. 

Meet your tour leader and travel companions in the hotel bar at around 6.30pm before dinner.

Day 2

Loxton - Cheddar Gorge

Meals

Breakfast, Packed Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation

Today's walk starts and finishes at Cheddar Gorge. We follow the path past the Lookout Tower and there will be some good views over the Gorge. The walk continues around farmland, a Nature Reserve and Velvet Bottom - a site of special scientific interest for ecology and archaeology. The Romans mined here for silver and lead. There will be an opportunity end of the walk to either visit the caves or spend some time in Cheddar where you may like to try some cheese and/or cider tasting. 


  • Time

    4.5 hours

  • Distance

    7.2 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    490m

Day 3 (Christmas Day)

Loxton - local walk

Meals

Breakfast, Christmas lunch & Evening buffet

Accommodation

Merry Christmas!

A short morning local walk will be provided today before we arrive back at the hotel in time for Christmas lunch. The afternoon and evening on Christmas Day will be free time.

Day 4

Loxton - Crook Peak

Meals

Breakfast, Packed Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation

Today's walk will involve walking directly from and to the hotel. There will be an ascent of Crook Peak, the most conspicuous in the Mendip Hills, continuing to Wavering Down with great views from the summits. 


  • Time

    5 hours

  • Distance

    8 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    500m

Day 5

Departure day

Meals

Breakfast

Independent departure from the hotel after breakfast. Check out is by 11am. 

We hope you enjoyed your Christmas break and wish you a very happy New Year. 

Departure dates for your selected tour

23rd Dec 2024 - 27th Dec 2024 (4 Nights)

Travel Details

Private coach transport to and from the trailheads, if necessary, is included.

Nearest railway stations: Weston super mare station (7 miles) or Weston Milton station (4.5 miles). 

Accommodation

Accommodation information

Below is the accommodation featured on this holiday across all departure dates. Please refer to the Itinerary for more detail about each night's accommodation for each departure date.

The Webbington Hotel & Spa

The three-star Webbington Hotel & Spa sits in extensive grounds on the southern slopes of the Mendip Hills above the picturesque hamlet of Loxton. Formerly an Edwardian manor house and hunting lodge, the hotel has been extended and refurbished to include its own leisure club with an indoor pool. Please note that the hotel occupies an old building and we ask you to be sympathetic to it's age and style. 

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout and there is also a bar and lounge alongside a restaurant. Facilities also include an indoor swimming pool, sauna and gym, however due to restricted hours over the festive period, opening times may vary. We ask you to contact the hotel for the leisure club opening times should you be reliant on using the hotel facilities during your stay. 

Please note that the hotel has no drying room to store any wet clothes or boots. Due to the time of year, it may be wet during your stay so please consider this and bring enough clothing with you to be comfortable each day. 

Trip Information

All the details you need

Holiday Grade

Trips comprise of day walks with plenty of ups and downs, some steep and rough ground will be encountered at times and walks averaging 7 miles with 650m of ascent / descent. Some holidays will cover longer distances on easier paths, others will be shorter walks but have more demanding ascents and terrain.  

Usual daily walks - Distance: 7 miles; Ascent/Descent 650m; Terrain: generally decent paths and tracks with some steeper sections; Walking Time: Day walks. 

The above statistics are generalisations of a day’s keys walk, it does not include distance covered during general sightseeing or daily activity. Detailed information of the daily walking requirements are specified in the specific holidays ‘Daily Itinerary".

Walks & Excursions

The undulating limestone and sandstone ridge of the Mendip Hills rises to just over 325m and the rocky outcrops, hilltops, valleys and gorges of this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty provide an ideal setting for an exhilarating short walking break. 

Local Transport Costs

In the holiday cost, we have included all local transport expenses related to the advertised activity programme for your convenience. If there are additional visits or excursions to enrich your experience, you can choose to participate and cover the costs locally. Depending on the itinerary, local transport may involve a mix of private hire coaches, taxis, local buses, and ferries.

Optional Excursions

At your destination, you may have the option to book various local excursions and activities through a local operator. It's important to note that we are not involved in these activities or excursions, and we do not operate, supervise, or control them in any way. Your contract will be directly with the local activity supplier, and we bear no responsibility for their actions or omissions.

Spending Money

Holiday Budgeting

As you plan your holiday budget, it's essential to account for expenses such as drinks, meals not covered in the holiday price, entrance fees not included, optional local excursions, and any souvenirs or additional services like laundry. For a rough estimate, budgeting around £10-£20 per person per day for lunches and drinks is a helpful guideline.

Tipping

In your holiday price, we've included tipping for our local suppliers, covering hotel and restaurant staff, local guides, and drivers. Should you wish to make an extra contribution for a specific service, this should be given directly to the recipient at your discretion.

Tour Leaders & Local Guides

Tour Leaders

Your tour leader plays a crucial role in enhancing your holiday experience, and they share your passion for exploring the world on foot. In addition to being resourceful and organised they are also well-travelled and deeply enthusiastic about showing you new destinations.  Your tour leader takes care of all the local administration, ensuring you can fully enjoy your holiday without worrying about the logistics. While leading group holidays, they always keep in mind that each group is composed of individuals. Each tour leader brings their unique style, talents, and professional background to the table. Rest assured, they are all trained, qualified, experienced, and dedicated to making your holiday as enjoyable, interesting, and inspiring as possible. Remember, your leader, while on holiday, is your first port of call for any issues, ensuring a smooth and worry-free experience for you.

Leader's Evening Briefing

Each evening, your tour leader will meet with you to review the programme for the next day. This is your chance to discuss details and ensure that the planned activities align with your walking ability. If you have any concerns about clothing or equipment, feel free to bring them up during this discussion. If, for any reason, you prefer not to participate in the organised group programme, please inform your leader. Your preferences are important, and your leader is there to make sure your experience aligns with your expectations.

Your Travel Details

To reach the hotel…

by car: from J22 of the M5, follow the A38 towards Bristol. After 5 miles at Lower Weare village turn left just after ‘The Lamb’ public house and follow signs to the hotel.

by rail: from Weston-Super-Mare railway station you will need to take a taxi for the 7 miles to the hotel.

by coach: the nearest bus station is also at Weston-Super-Mare.

Taxis from Weston-Super-Mare: a taxi from Weston-Super-Mare to Loxton. You may wish to contact Apple Central for a quote (Tel: 01934 666666).

You may also wish to look at the following website for advice on the best way to travel to the accommodation;

www.rome2rio.com

The AA and RAC both offer free and detailed on-line route planning facilities on their websites which may help you find our hotels. Details can be found at:

www.theaa.co.uk

www.rac.co.uk

Meeting your tour leader and fellow walkers:

Please check the time of dinner (usually 7pm) on arrival at the hotel, and aim to be in the hotel bar half an hour before dinner for an introduction to your tour leader, an outline of the planned programme for your holiday and the chance to meet your walking companions.

Personal Details Check

To ensure the accurate administration of your holiday arrangements, kindly verify that the personal details we have for you are current and correct. Confirm that you've given us all the necessary information for securing your travel and accommodation. Please review your passport details, date of birth, and any other pertinent information crucial for the management of your holiday.

Additionally, please make us aware of any dietary allergies or intolerances you may have. Your well-being is important to us, and this information will help us make appropriate arrangements for your meals during the trip.

You can access and update the provided information or add missing details through the "Manage My Booking" feature on our website at www.rambleworldwide.co.uk. Alternatively, reach out to our Sales and Reservations team at +44 (0)1707 331133. Upon receiving your booking confirmation, promptly check the details. Your cooperation ensures a seamless and enjoyable holiday experience.

Footwear & Kit List

Footwear

Lightweight waterproof walking boots with a good, moulded sole (such as Vibram or similar) and a deep tread and which provide ankle support are strongly recommended and may be essential for some walks.

General Kit List

Outdoor activities are always safer and more enjoyable if you are prepared.

If you have not travelled with us before the following list might be of use:

  • Waterproof jacket (Goretex or similar) and trousers
  • Lightweight quick-drying trousers
  • Walking T-shirt/shirts
  • Walking socks
  • Fleece or jumper
  • Sun hat, sunglasses, lip salve and sun block
  • Warm hat and gloves (if appropriate)
  • Swimwear & towel (if appropriate)
  • Day sack (this should be able to carry all you would need for the day's activity)
  • Day sack liner
  • Water bottle - at least 1 litre capacity (more than 1 bottle may be required)
  • Basic first aid kit
  • Lunchbox
  • Walking poles (should you find them useful)
  • Sit mat

This list is not exhaustive, and every walker is different and may have their own preference.

Travel Documents Checklist

Documents and Information to take with you:

  • Holiday money
  • Credit or debit cards (and separate details of who to call if lost)
  • Car parking ticket and car park directions (if prebooked)
  • Coach or rail travel tickets (if prebooked)
  • Holiday booking confirmation document
  • Travel insurance details (if applicable)
  • Details of any medical condition or allergy your holiday leader should know about

Water To Go

Opting for filtered water from a reusable bottle with its built-in water filter, like the Water-to-go bottle available at www.watertogo.eu, is a sustainable alternative to single-use sealed water bottles. Simply refill it from any water source and contribute to saving the environment from disposable plastic bottles.

Exciting news: Water-to-go has introduced two new bottles to their collection. The Active bottle is designed to fit bike water bottle holders, and the Sugarcane bottle is an even more planet-friendly option. Crafted from fibrous cane, a by-product of liquid extraction, it undergoes a process to create plant-based plastic. Explore the details on the Water-to-Go website for this innovative new range.

As a token of appreciation for your commitment to the environment, we've secured an exclusive 15% discount with Water-to-Go for you. Visit www.watertogo.eu and use the code RWH17 during your order.                        

Note: If you're booked on a long-haul holiday, you'll receive a complimentary Water to Go bottle, sent to your home address 2 or 3 weeks before your holiday. Thank you for being a part of our sustainable journey!

Maps, Guidebooks & Other Information

Maps, Guidebooks & More

Our intended route is covered by the following maps:

Ordnance Survey Explorer series (1:25,000):
153 Weston-super-Mare & Bleadon Hill
141 Cheddar Gorge & Mendip Hills West

The Map Shop

If you cannot find the maps or books locally, we recommend:

The Map Shop
5 High Street
Upton upon Severn, Worcs
WR8 0HJ
England

Tel: 01684 593 146
Website: www.themapshop.co.uk
E-mail: themapshop@btinternet.com

If you key many of the local places mentioned in this holiday fact sheet into YouTube, you will find a vast array of spectacular footage of the area.

Weather

Visit the following websites for an idea of the climate in your destination:

Staying Healthy On Holiday

Health requirements in destination can change, and it's crucial for you to take responsibility in staying informed. Ensure that you consult a professionally qualified source and comply with any health requirements at least 6 to 8 weeks before your departure. Your GP can provide advice on vaccinations. Stay proactive about your health preparations to ensure a safe and enjoyable travel experience.

Health Advice for United Kingdom

No compulsory immunisations are required for holidays in the UK although you should be up to date with the usual immunisations recommended for life in Britain. Tetanus immunisation is recommended.

Further Travel Advice

For further advice please visit:

You might wish to take a small bottle of antibacterial hand gel with you for times when you're unable to wash your hands.

Travel Insurance

It’s a condition of booking that you obtain adequate travel insurance, from a reputable provider, to undertake the holiday, including UK trips chiefly due to the cancellation element of cover.

The policy must cover the period from the date of booking to the last day of your trip and should include, as a minimum, cover for: medical expenses (including the consequences of a Covid positive test result), mountain rescue including helicopter rescue, death, repatriation, cancellation and curtailment and shall not have exclusion clauses limiting cover for the activities you will partake in on your trip, including altitudes reached in the holiday arrangement. It is your responsibility to check that your policy is adequate for the nature and destination of the holiday booked.

Once you have obtained your travel insurance, please provide us with the name of your travel insurer, the policy number and the insurer’s 24 hour emergency assistance number.

In the event that you fail to obtain suitable Travel Insurance we shall not be liable for any costs incurred or claims made against us due to your failure to comply with this term.

If travelling outside the UK you must carry proof of insurance with you and produce it if reasonably requested to do so by RWH Travel staff, tour leaders or suppliers. No refunds will be made should you be excluded from the walking programme through being uninsured or you being unable to demonstrate that you are insured.

Our house broker MPI should be considered for whom we are an affiliate and contact information is on our website and will be referred to in your booking confirmation.

If you are travelling to an EU country or Switzerland please also ensure that you have either an existing valid EU EHIC card (European Health Insurance Card) or a valid UK GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card). You can apply for a UK GHIC free of charge on the NHS website at https://services.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/cra/start.


Personal Safety

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office is your go-to for the latest info on security, local laws, and the nitty-gritty of passports and visas at www.gov.uk/travelaware. Make sure to take a quick peek at the current advice for your upcoming destination—it'll only take a few minutes.

When you're out and about, stay aware of your surroundings. Take smart precautions with your credit cards and passport, and maybe tone down the flashy accessories. Less is more, especially when it comes to carrying cash—just enough for the day will do. Consider using a money belt for that extra layer of security. Stay alert, stay safe, and make the most of your travels!

Cultural Awareness

Responsible Travel

We are dedicated to promoting responsible travel practices that prioritise the well-being of both the environment and local communities. We believe in the transformative power of travel and aim to minimize our ecological footprint by selecting eco-friendly accommodations, encouraging waste reduction, and supporting sustainable transportation options where possible. Our walking tours are designed to immerse participants in the local culture, fostering meaningful connections with the communities we visit. We strive to leave a positive impact by engaging in responsible tourism activities, respecting local customs, and contributing to the preservation of natural landscapes. Through our commitment to responsible travel, we aim to create enriching experiences for our guests while actively contributing to the conservation of the destinations we explore.

The Ramble Worldwide Outdoor Trust

Unlike many other tour operators, we take pride in our unique approach. Ramble Worldwide channels its surplus profits back into various outdoor, walking-related, or environmental conservation projects in the UK through our own trust. When you choose us, you contribute to this impactful initiative.

The Ramble Worldwide Outdoor Trust is passionate about making the outdoors more accessible for more people from all communities. We grant funds to many organisations and have recently partnered with Mind Over Mountains, Adaptive Grand Slam, and other groups to create an enduring impact on people’s lives and to support them to enjoy the outdoors. In addition, the Trust makes many small grants to local organisations such as Ramblers Groups, Walkers are Welcome, My kind of Books and recently provided a small grant, via his scouting group, to enable a young man whose family had fallen on hard times to complete his DofE Gold award.

Patron of the Trust is the renowned explorer, Mark Wood. Over 20 years Mark has undertaken expeditions to some of the most remote parts of our planet. Our shared values make for an exciting partnership, and we believe that by standing shoulder to shoulder we can encourage people from all communities to enjoy being active outdoors in whatever way suits them best.

For more comprehensive details, please visit the 'About' section on our website and click on the Charitable Trust link. Your choice to travel with us goes beyond a memorable vacation; it contributes to meaningful projects that have a positive impact on our community and environment.

Heart and Sole

We appreciate that we are in a fortunate position to be able to use our profits to help make a difference to people's lives. Heart & Sole is a venture managed by our office staff, whose aim is to reach the heart of the communities in the countries we visit. Through Heart & Sole, we hope to make more of a long term, direct impact to these communities, particularly in less developed countries where even a small amount goes a long way. See our website for more information and details of some of the projects we support.

Staying In Touch

Mobile Phones

Kindly share a mobile phone contact number with us. We'll utilize this solely for crucial communication pertaining to your holiday arrangements.

Ensure your mobile phone remains switched on and easily accessible when en route to the airport or during transit delays. This way, we can promptly reach you with any last-minute updates concerning your travel plans.

In consideration of others, we request that you switch off your mobile phone during walks or try to limit its usage. Additionally, during group meals, please minimize the use of mobile devices. Your cooperation ensures a seamless and enjoyable experience for everyone on the journey.

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