Ebbor Gorge & Priddy loop from Deerleap — Mendip Hills

Embark on a difficult 7.3-mile (11.7 km) jogging loop through Ebbor Gorge and the Mendip Hills, featuring a challenging 1078 feet (329 metres) of elevation gain that will take you around 1 hour and 20 minutes. The path through Ebbor Gorge is rugged, becoming steep, rocky, and muddy in sections, demanding good fitness and sure-footedness. As you ascend onto the Mendip Plateau, you'll be rewarded with far-reaching views across the Somerset Levels from Deer Leap, where you can spot Glastonbury Tor and the Quantocks on a clear day. Expect a mix of woodland tracks, country lanes, and open fields, with the gorge itself requiring frequent walking breaks due to its technical terrain. You will also encounter several stiles and kissing gates along the way. The route offers a diverse landscape, from dramatic limestone formations to ancient woodlands and undulating grasslands. In spring, the woods are vibrant with bluebells, adding to the scenic beauty of the journey. This route is best suited for experienced joggers looking for a demanding and varied trail. The trail is generally classified as moderate for walking, suggesting a higher difficulty for continuous jogging due to varied and often demanding terrain. The woodland tracks can be particularly muddy after wet weather, so be prepared for changing conditions. The starting point from Deerleap car park immediately offers views over the Somerset Levels, including the Severn Estuary to the right and Glastonbury Tor to the left. The full loop from Priddy, which often encompasses Ebbor Gorge and Deer Leap, can be around 7 miles (11.3 km) with a moderate difficulty. One particular route starting from Deer Leap is approximately 7km and takes about 2 hours at an adult walking pace, suggesting a substantial undertaking for jogging. While some paths are shared with the West Mendip Way and Monarch's Way, providing clear routes, the challenging and often uneven terrain within the gorge demands careful navigation and sturdy footwear, making it more suited for a vigorous hike than a continuous jog. The Ebbor Gorge is a National Nature Reserve and a Site of Special Scientific Interest, known for its wild flowers, bird life, and varied woodland encouraging a high diversity of butterflies. The gorge itself is often labeled "mini Cheddar" by the National Trust, a significant geological feature with rocks, caves, and woodland. It holds archaeological interest, with evidence of human occupation from the Neolithic and Bronze Ages found in its caves. Deer Leap is particularly notable for providing one of the best panoramic views in Somerset. It is also a nature reserve with archaeological significance as an ancient medieval farmstead. The Priddy Plateau is known for its rich prehistoric archaeology, including long barrows and henges. The village of Priddy is situated in the heart of this plateau, an area with a strong history of lead mining. The trail passes through areas that are rich in wildlife, including diverse butterflies, various bird species, and ancient woodland flora. The limestone scree slopes within the gorge were formed by a collapsed cavern 200,000 years ago, adding to the unique geological character of the area. This route offers a deep dive into the natural and historical richness of the Mendip Hills, making it a memorable experience for those who appreciate both demanding physical activity and stunning natural beauty.