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Autumn Tour 2026
The Mendips and Mid-Somerset
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32 crews met at Leigh Park Hotel from the 6 – 9 September 2026. The hotel was first-rate, service without fault and everybody praised the evening meals.
There were two pre-organised 85 mile runs. The first, west, through the City of Wells and down the Cheddar gorge, the second, east, to the Crofton Beam engine on the Kennet and Avon canal.
We were privileged to park on the Cathedral green at Wells. One group visited the cathedral. Those energetic enough to climb the 140 steps to the top of St Cuthbert’s tower were allowed to chime a bell and enjoy the magnificent views. On the return trip a number of crews visited Shepton Mallet prison, the oldest prison in the UK where, in the past, a number of notorious prisoners were held.
Refreshments awaited us at the Crofton Beam site where a very interesting tour was given by enthusiastic and knowledgeable volunteers. Returning to the hotel some crews stopped to visit Avesbury henge, the largest prehistoric stone circle in the world, some visited the Atwell Wilson Motor Museum.
The Seekers navigation app was praised by those who used it to help with the road book navigation. The main problems with the routes were some particularly bumpy roads, road closures, some of which were signed but did not exist, and one fallen tree which had totally blocked the route.