Staple Fitzpaine: Trails, Views and History

Staple Fitzpaine can be explored from two different perspectives: along the trails around Staple Hill and Castle Neroche, and through the historic buildings in the village. When planning your trip, one practical question can help: would you like to focus your stay mainly on hiking or on architectural history? The circular walks described here differ considerably in length and character; the buildings offer their own historical points of interest. If you are looking for a hotel for your trip, this focus can be a useful starting point.

Hiking the Staple Fitzpaine Herepath

The Staple Fitzpaine Herepath is a 22 km circular trail that starts at the Castle Neroche car park. As a circular trail, it returns to its starting point; at 22 km, it is the longest of the circular routes described here. Castle Neroche lies in the southeast corner of the parish of Staple Fitzpaine. There are various paths, bridleways and forestry tracks at Castle Neroche. Castle Neroche is open 365 days a year, from dawn until dusk. As opening conditions may change, check the latest information before your visit.

Routes and views at Staple Hill

Staple Hill is the highest point in the Blackdown Hills, with spectacular views across the Vale of Taunton. The Staple Hill Easy Access Trail is an 800 m circular route with two viewpoints. It has no steep gradients and features a wide, firm path surface suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs. Check trail conditions before you set out. Another option is the Staple Hill and Staple Park Wood circular walk: it is of moderate difficulty and 5 miles (8 km) long. Towards the end, it passes very close to the highest point in the Blackdown Hills, which is about 1,000 feet above sea level. The two Staple Hill routes therefore differ in length and trail characteristics: the Easy Access Trail highlights two viewpoints and the path surface, while the other route is rated as moderate. Staple Hill is also one of the points on the Staple Fitzpaine Herepath.

Historic buildings and their details

The Church of St Peter in Staple Fitzpaine is a Grade I listed building. It has Norman origins; a Norman doorway was moved into the south aisle. An aisle is a side area of the church interior; this helps place the described relocation within the building. The Grade I listing adds the church’s listed status to its architectural features. Staple Fitzpaine Almshouses date from 1643 and were originally established to provide accommodation for six people in need. The Manor was built as a rectory in 1840. Chronologically, the buildings’ histories and uses span Norman origins, a 17th-century social institution and a building constructed as a rectory in 1840.

Discover more destinations: Stawley, West Quantoxhead, Buckland Dinham, Crewkerne, Axbridge, Tolland, Chilcompton, Exford

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