Site Event/Activity record EEM14164 - 2010: CS; SV - Ashcombe, Simonsbath

A restoration plan was commissioned by ENPA to inform footpath restoration works in the valley and woodland known as Ashcombe in Simonsbath. The study area includes all the land owned by ENPA and incorporates the Ashcombe stream, its valley, the remains of a leat, relict footpaths, a section of the Two Moors Way, a picnic site, car park, public lavatories and a derelict subterratnean game larder. The whole area, excluding the game larder, has been designated as open access land. Ashcombe once formed part of the gardens and grounds of Simonsbath house laid out for John Knight in the 1820s and 1830s. The purpose of this report is to make recommendations for the reinstatement of the circuit walk that ran around the woodland for the enjoyment of today's visitors to Simonsbath. The recommendations are preceded by an outline historic analysis of the valley and its development, and also take into account potential funding opportunities through an HLS agreement.