Deep Time & Human History: A Geo‑Archaeology Adventure in the Mendip Hills

Schedule

Mon Oct 12 2026 at 10:00 am to 03:00 pm

UTC+01:00
Location

Blackmoor Reserve car park | Bristol, EN

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Discover Mendip fossils, caves and archaeology on a guided walk with geologist John Kirby and archaeologist Andrew Buchanan.
About this Event

Join geologist John Kirby and archaeologist Andrew Buchanan for a unique exploration of the Mendip Hills, where ancient landscapes and human stories come together. This guided 5 mile walk begins at Ubley Warren, crosses Beacon Batch the open summit of Black Down, and finishes in the dramatic limestone gorge of Burrington Combe, where you will also have the option to look inside the entrances of Aveline’s Hole and Goatchurch Cavern.

Together, John and Andrew will reveal how the Mendips were shaped by tropical coral seas, tectonic uplift, and thousands of years of human activity. Expect fossil‑rich limestone, traces of early mining and sweeping views across one of Britain’s most fascinating upland landscapes.


What to Expect
  • Expert interpretation from a geologist and an archaeologist
  • Insights into ancient environments, early human activity
  • Optional cave entrance visits
  • Fossil spotting opportunities
  • Lift back to car by minibus

Route & Terrain
  • Approx. 5 miles including a 70m ascent and 300m descent
  • Uneven muddy ground and rocky surfaces
  • Not suitable for those with mobility issues

What to Bring
  • Picnic lunch, snacks and drinks
  • Sturdy footwear and weather appropriate clothing
  • Torch and magnifying glass (hard hats provided for those wanting to experience cave entrances)

Where to Meet
  • Blackmoor Reserve car park, Charterhouse, BS40 7XR. Grid ref ST 505 556. What3words///takes.grumble.broadens.

Booking Required

£10 per person.

Maximum purchase per order is 1. You will need to make multiple bookings for groups of 2 or more people.
Places are limited.

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Where is it happening?

Blackmoor Reserve car park, Charterhouse, Bristol, United Kingdom

Event Location & Nearby Stays:

Tickets

GBP 0.00

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Somerset Earth Science Centre
Host or PublisherSomerset Earth Science Centre

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