Discovering Neroche

An ancient landscape

The landscape of the Neroche area today reflects the history of human intervention on the natural environment.  During the Prehistoric period the Blackdown Hills would have been covered with dense woodland.  The early settlers created clearings on the plateau, to make way for settlements, livestock and farming. 

Each period in history since has left its mark upon the landscape, shaping it to its current form.  Man has shaped the pattern of settlements and field sizes, the architectural heritage and water management, not to mention the network of roads, lanes and pathways in the area. 

There is still much to learn of the history of the Neroche area, and we hope that you can begin right here!  Find out more by following the links on the right hand side to the key archaeological and historic places in the area, or download our History and Nature Leaflet.  For further information you could contact one of the local history groups. Try out a section of the new book 'Along the Wild Edge'.