Axbridge Hill and Fry's Hill

Axbridge Hill and Fry's Hill are two peaks in the Mendip Hills with thin soils that support rare plant species and numerous butterfly populations. The site spans roughly 65 hectares and provides habitat for plants adapted to chalky, nutrient-poor ground.

The site received protected status in 1990 when recognized as nationally important for plant conservation. This designation secured the long-term protection of the hillside habitats.

Natural England manages this protected area as part of their mission to preserve essential habitats and maintain scientific research opportunities for future generations.

The hills sit just above Axbridge town and are easily reached on foot from the center, with walking trails crossing the slopes. The terrain is open grassland, so wear suitable shoes and bring water in warmer months.

The site shelters greater and lesser horseshoe bats that roost in rocky outcrops and caves scattered across the hills. The rare Cheddar bedstraw plant grows here and exists nowhere else in the surrounding area.