20k Run Staple Fitzpaine: Scenic Staple Hill Big Loop

Route Overview & Local Insights

The Staple Hill Big Loop offers a robust 19.9km journey through the heart of the Somerset countryside, perfect for runners looking to test their endurance. Starting from the Staple Hill Car Park, this mixed-terrain course blends roughly 15km of paved lanes with rugged woodland trails and undulating farm fields. With 340m of elevation gain, you’ll encounter significant climbs that reward you with sweeping views of the Vale of Taunton, followed by technical descents where mud can become a factor after local rainfall. It is a true "hybrid" run that demands good foot placement and a steady aerobic engine to conquer the rolling hills.

Nestled within the Blackdown Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Staple Fitzpaine is steeped in rural history and cider-making heritage. As you navigate the loop, you are running through a landscape shaped by medieval agriculture and the ancient Neroche Forest. Local runners often cite the quiet, winding lanes and the sense of isolation as the area's greatest charms. After finishing your big loop, keep an eye out for the nearby grey lias stone buildings—a signature architectural feature of this corner of England—or head into the village to soak in the peaceful atmosphere of this historic parish.