This project started in early 2022 with an in depth trawl of the archives at The National Centre for the Folk Arts at Halsway Manor, exploring the cultural and folk heritage of the greater Quantock area.

There are stories we cannot see without being told, songs and poetry created in this landscape, and memories that inhabit it. The project launched with an evening at Halsway Manor, complete with a selection of the music preserved by Quantock shoe maker and fiddle player, William Winter, who lived in West Bagborough and collected Quantock music in the 19th Century. Other events followed over spring and summer 2022.

There were 5 local LPS area schools engaged in music workshops with folk musician Becky Driscoll throughout the summer term, learning the traditions of the area by learning local songs and dances, experimenting with instruments, and living Quantock history in the 21st century.

There was also a full programme of public events throughout the summer including family folk singing, song and outdoor art walks around the hills as well as performances of local music in the Carew Arms.

A beautiful illustrated folklore map of the area has been produced, alongside an online resource with more details of the stories that have been discovered. You can go to Halsway Manor’s online Stories of the Hills portal here.

This project was completed in March 2023 and has now finished, although the resources and the archive of local traditions at Halsway Manor will remain as a lasting legacy.

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