Autumn colours at Long Ponds near Ilminster in South Somerset.

Last month, as the trees began to change colour, I went for a stroll to Long Ponds which is a small lake beside the footpath between the villages of Whitelackington and Kingstone, near Ilminster, in South Somerset.  The lake is in a valley and surrounded by woodland so it makes a very picturesque scene when the sun is at the right angle to highlight the autumnal colours of the trees.

It is best to find somewhere to park in Ilminster and walk east out of the town beside the old London Road until you find the sign saying Whitelackington.  The footpath to Kingstone is through a gate on your right. 

Just inside the gate is a World War Two pill-box which was part of Ilminster's defences.  Ilminster was an anti-tank fortress on the Taunton Stop-Line and many of the town's defences can still be seen - by those who know where to look.

Walk down the track for about a quarter of a mile and you will come to Long Ponds.  Be aware of the signs saying "Strictly Private Fishing" and keep dogs on leads as there is a lot of wildlife around!

Long Ponds between the villages of Whitelackington and Kingstone, near Ilminster, in South Somerset.