Crook Peak , North Somerset скачать в хорошем качестве

Crook Peak , North Somerset

A wander up Crook Peak in North Somerset Leaves are starting to fall, we are approaching Autumn in the UK All filmed on my phone, a Google Pixel 8a and edited on the Inshot app --------------------------------------------------------- The following information is from ChatGPT Crook Peak: Quick Facts & Highlights Location & Elevation Height: Crook Peak reaches 191 m (627 ft) above sea level, giving it a dramatic presence despite its modest elevation . It forms the westernmost summit of the Mendip Hills and is known for its conical shape and jagged limestone outcrops—among the most mountainous appearances in the range . Geological & Ecological Significance Crook Peak lies within the Crook Peak to Shute Shelve Hill SSSI, a 332.2-hectare site designated for its geological and biological importance since 1952 . The region features ancient woodland, calcareous grassland, and rare heathland habitats. It supports several nationally rare plants like the Cheddar pink, bedstraw, dwarf sedge, dwarf mouse-ear, and purple gromwell . Natural History, Caves & Fossils Beneath the ridge lie significant phreatic caves, notably Picken’s Hole, where archaeologists unearthed Middle Palaeolithic artifacts, including Neanderthal teeth (~55,000 years old) and fossilized remains of creatures like mammoths, woolly rhinos, hyenas, and more . Historical Significance Crook Peak’s name likely derives from the Old English or Old British "Cruc", meaning peak or point—highlighting its role as a longstanding landmark and boundary feature . It served as a beacon site during the Spanish Armada, signalling potential threats across the West Country . A polished flint axe, evidence of early human activity, was found on the Peak . Recreation & Wildlife The Razor, a ridge southeast of Crook Peak, is favored by the West Mendip Soaring Association for flying model aircraft in favorable winds . Wildlife enthusiasts visiting King's Wood and the slopes may encounter diverse butterflies like small pearl-bordered fritillary, dark green fritillary, grizzled skipper, green hairstreak, brown argus, and more, as well as moths such as the Humming-bird Hawk-moth . Birdwatchers can spot skylarks, meadow pipits, stonechats, nuthatches, willow warblers, and green woodpeckers in the woodlands and grasslands . Walks & Scenic Views A popular circular walk (5.6 miles / 9 km) begins in Compton Bishop, traversing Crook Peak, Wavering Down, and nearby hills—with sweeping views to the Welsh coast, Mendips, and Somerset Levels . Some trails pass through the former Cheddar Valley railway tunnel, now open to walkers and cyclists—a geological transition from sandstone to limestone is visible within . At a Glance: Facts Table Feature Details Height 191 m / 627 ft Geological Significance Part of large SSSI with rare habitats & caves Notable Flora Cheddar pink, purple gromwell, more Archaeological Finds Flint axe, Neanderthal teeth, megafauna fossils Historical Use Beacon site for Spanish Armada Recreational Use Walking, model aircraft flying Wildlife Diversity Butterflies, birds, ancient woodland species Viewpoints Views across Somerset Levels & coastal vistas In short: Crook Peak isn’t just a hill—you’ll find layers of natural history, botany, archaeology, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you're a hiker, history buff, or nature lover, it's worth the walk. NORTH SOMERSET Administrative status: North Somerset is a unitary authority in South West England, officially established in 1996. Its council is based in Weston-super-Mare and governs towns such as Clevedon, Nailsea, and Portishead. Size: The area spans approximately 145 square miles (375 km²). Economic size: In 2021, GDP was around £5.3 billion, with GDP per capita at £24,163, and an unemployment rate of 4.7%. Connectivity: Boasts strong transport links—a deep-sea port, international airport, proximity to Bristol (≈20 mins), and excellent broadband infrastructure (including dark fibre). Severn Estuary: North Somerset’s coast lies along the Severn Estuary—a Ramsar site, Special Protection Area (SPA), Special Area of Conservation (SAC), and SSSI, known for its rich intertidal habitats. King’s Wood & Urchin Wood SSSI: At 128 ha, this site hosts diverse flora (e.g., Purple Gromwell, Angular Solomon’s Seal) and fauna—greater horseshoe bats, dormice, and a rare beetle species. Wetland Restoration: The North Somerset Levels and Moors Restoration Project targets ~8,000 ha of wetland, improving habitats for birds like lapwing and redshank, as well as water voles and newts. Bat conservation: The “Great North Somerset Bat Project” encourages volunteers to help track horseshoe bat populations, supporting vital research and development planning. Wildlife successes: Locals reported that "charismatic water voles have returned to local waterways for the first time in 20 years," thanks to wetland rehabilitation.