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PORLOCK is in Somerset. The Vale of Porlock, fit natural
6,000-year-old shingle ridge which geologists believe was formed
with the rise in sea levels at the end of the last ice age. The
South West Coastal Footpath runs close by. In every direction there
are wonderful walks from Porlock.
Ever since the early days of motoring Porlock has enjoyed a unique
place in the history of motor sport. The Lands End Trial, which
started around dawn in London, passed through Porlock at breakfast
time and for some Porlock Hill— 5.6 kilometres (3˝ miles) long and
as steep as 1 in 4 (25%) in places, was as far as they got. Even
now, the annual Lands End to John O’Groats run comes through Porlock
in December. Once or twice a year the scenic Toll Road is used as a
Rally Special Stage, and in summer there is an invitation Hill Climb
which each year raises a large sum for local and national charities.
The pretty little port of Porlock Weir, two and a half kilometres to
the west, occupies the last sheltered low ground before the county
boundary •with Devon, where the great massive shield of rock that
forms the main part of Exmoor tumbles in wooded cliffs towards the
Bristol Channel
Bus services to Porlock and Porlock Weir link with the West Somerset
Railway at Minehead and nearby villages, and in several farms and
riding establishments visitors can arrange to see Porlock and the
surrounding nearby moorland from horseback. Never mind if you don’t
like riding for many people walking is the very best way of all for
getting to know Porlock. Porlock Bay is surrounded by fine wooded cliff scenery. The pretty
little village of Porlock Weir lies at the western side there is a
small but busy harbour which was once used by coasters carrying timber
to South Wales in exchange for coal. Porlock is enclosed on three
sides by towering hills; on the seaward side it is bounded by the
Marsh, confined by a broad crescent of grey shingle.
Porlock retains its old world charm and character with narrow
winding streets, thatched roofs and tall rounded chimneys on sturdy
square bases. The church of St.Dubricius, is at the centre of the
village, dating from the 13th century.
Porlock Weir beach There is a
large level car park just beside the wide beach with gentle
shelving shingle |
