Quantock Hills

Quantock Hills, small range of hills in south-western England; located in north-west Somerset, giving on to the Bristol Channel in the north and in part an extension of the Brendon Hills and Exmoor to their west. The range extends about 20 km (12 mi) north-west to south-east, providing splendid views of the surrounding area. The Quantocks rise to just above 300 m (894 ft), and consist mostly of red sandstone, with some grits and slate.

The Quantock Hills were the first area in England to be designated an area of outstanding natural beauty (AONB). The valleys are generally wooded, while the upper slopes are typified by wild heathland. The area is largely given over to sheep-rearing, with some pig farming; the occasional wild deer can be seen. There is a reservoir, North Petherton, in the centre of the range. The nearest sizeable town is Taunton, 5 km (3 mi) to the south.