7k Run Taunton Deane: Scenic Loop Around Black Down Common

Route Overview & Local Insights

This 6.5km lollipop loop offers a refreshing escape into the rugged beauty of the Blackdown Hills AONB. Starting from Wellington Hill via Blackdown Hill Road, this fully off-road trail tackles a modest 72m of ascent, making it an accessible yet rewarding run for those looking to swap pavement for nature. The terrain is predominantly unpaved common land, providing a soft-surface experience that is gentle on the joints while offering the quintessential wild feel of Somerset trail running. Runners can expect wide-open skies and sweeping views across the Taunton Deane landscape as they navigate the perimeter of Black Down Common.

Black Down Common is more than just a scenic backdrop; it is a site of significant archaeological and ecological importance. As you traverse the high plateau, you are running across a landscape shaped by centuries of grazing and traditional land management. The area is famous for the nearby Wellington Monument, which stands as a tribute to the Iron Duke, and the common itself is home to diverse wildlife and rare heathland plants. This route captures the quiet, stoic charm of the Devon-Somerset border, offering a peaceful atmosphere that makes the 6.5km distance fly by amidst the historic bracken and gorse-covered slopes.