Shefro one

Slow Way not verified yet. Verify Shefro here.

This is a fantastic walk, mostly along the well used and well waymarked East Mendip Way, diverting to visit Leigh-Upon-Mendip at the half-way point.

The route is mostly on footpaths through fields and woodlands. It is only suitable for walkers - there are many stiles and gates, and it was very muddy in places. This was especially noticeable in the woods near Whatley Quarry, where the path and the stream became indistinguishable in places. Waterproof boots definitely recommended!

There are a couple of road crossings where care is required - they are fast and busy, but visibility is good.

The route out of Shepton is possibly a little confusing for anyone not acquainted with the town - but it is well mapped, so no problems if you follow the route. It takes you down some small alleyways near to the prison.

The diversion from the East Mendip Way to Leigh upon Mendip is necessary to make this route compliant to the Slow Ways methodology (and the church and pub there are well worth a visit - and it is possible to make yourself a cup of tea in the church for a small donation). However, if you don't need the rest then cutting off that corner and continuing on the East Mendip Way would be more direct. Note, there used to be a really good tea room at Cranmore Tower - but I didn't visit on this occasion, and am not sure if it is still open. The tower itself is well worth a visit if it's open.

I mostly found this very easy to navigate, only occasionally having to check the map. There was, however, one slightly difficult section. At the bottom of Raiford Hill (ST 7260 4739). The problem is not with the .gpx file as uploaded (although a bit of extra accuracy at this point wouldn't hurt) rather with the way the footpaths are mapped. The trick is to NOT join the road - even though the sign there has an old East Mendip Way sticker on it - but rather follow the path round to the left. There is a finger post to show the way, but it was entirely hidden by brambles. I walked this route from Shepton Mallet to Frome - I tried this small section from the opposite direction and it was very clear and would not cause any difficulty that way. Just something to be aware of.

Overall, a recommended route for walkers.

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