- Colliers Way is a flat section in the steeply undulating Mendip Hills area.
- It was originally a railway line but later repurposed as a cycle and footpath.
- The path offers views of hedgerows, hayfields, and wildlife like silver-washed fritillaries.
Discovering the Flat Spot in Steep Terrain
In the Mendip Hills region, where every street seems to have a 'Rise' in its name due to its undulating nature, it can be challenging to find even a short stretch of level ground. The former Guardian journalist Matthew Engel once noted that people retire here precisely because they face steep climbs, only to remark wryly, “The trouble is, people retire here to die … and then they don’t.” This observation holds true for Colliers Way, which stands out as an exception in the otherwise hilly landscape.
Originally a railway line, Colliers Way has been repurposed into a cycle and footpath since the tracks stopped running fifty years ago. A unique feature of this path is that it offers a brief respite from the usual ups and downs, allowing cyclists and walkers to enjoy a relatively flat section. Interestingly, funders were rewarded with just one inscribed brick set into a grid, creating a playful moment of levity as the inscription reads “Yippee it’s flat!”
Wildlife and Scenic Views Along Colliers Way
The path itself is bordered by tall plants and trees that have grown up over decades. Despite being partially hidden by greenery, remnants of the original railway line remain, including sleepers and tracks. The flatness of Colliers Way provides a unique environment for wildlife to thrive. During summer, it is adorned with various wildflowers such as pyramidal orchids in magenta and silver-washed fritillaries engaged in a chase across tangerine hues.
From the path, one can glimpse hedgerows, hayfields, and even some cowpats along an adjacent lane. The railway cut through the landscape allows for diverse views: on one side are fields dropping away, while on the other, they rise up again. Such is the charm of Colliers Way, where history and nature come together to create a serene walking experience.
The path offers more than just scenery; it provides a tangible connection to the past through its preserved railway elements. It’s not merely flat but serves as a reminder of what once was, blending history with present-day enjoyment for those who traverse it.
Source: The Guardian
Green News
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