Quantock Heritage Symposium

Quantock Heritage Symposium 2026

Save the date for the first Quantock Heritage Symposium: A Celebration of the History, Archaeology and Culture of the Quantock Hills.

Saturday 3^rd October 2026 (10am – 4pm)

Crowcombe Village Hall

The Quantock Hills National Landscape presents a day long programme exploring the rich historic and cultural heritage of the Quantock Hills. From prehistoric landscapes and archaeology to folk song, literature and local history, the Quantock Heritage Symposium will bring together leading researchers, heritage professionals, and local experts to share fresh perspectives on this unique and remarkable landscape.

Our keynote speaker will be recently retired Somerset County Archaeologist, Bob Croft, who will offer a personal view of the extraordinary heritage of the Quantock Hills, drawing on his distinguished career researching, conserving, and championing the Historic Environment of the county.

Other Speakers include Dr Sabine Stevenson of University of Winchester, whose work is helping to map and understand the prehistoric landscapes of the Quantock Hills. Yvette Staelens will explore the rich tradition of folk song associated with the area, while Terence Sackett will explore the value of historic collections, concentrating on David Worthy’s extensive collection of historic photographs of the Quantock Hills, and how to increase accessibility to these to a wider audience.

will examine the enduring significance of the Quantock Hills in the story of English literature and the writers inspired by this landscape.

Archaeological illustrator Jane Brayne will showcase her work reconstructing the historic landscapes of the Quantock Hills and their combes, bringing past communities and environments vividly to life. Dan Broadbent, former QLPS Historic Heritage Officer, will reflect on the achievements of the Quantock Landscape Partnership Scheme and the discoveries made by local volunteers, while members of the recently formed Quantock Heritage Group will share how they are continuing this important work and building on the partnership's success.

In addition, the day will include a celebration of the life and work of local historian Audrey Mead, whose dedication to recording and sharing the history of the Quantock Hills has greatly enriched our understanding of the area.

Tickets include admission and a light lunch.

The symposium promises to be a day of discovery, learning and discussion for those who share a passion for the heritage of the Quantock Hills!