Gazetteer of
British Place Names

The Somerset Levels (aka the Somerset Levels and Moors) is a vast coastal plain and wetland area covering approximately 160,000 acres in central Somerset. It is a unique, human-managed landscape consisting of marine clay "levels" along the coast and inland peat-based "moors," often lying below high-tide level and protected by a complex system of drainage ditches (rhynes), banks, and pumping stations. The region runs from the Mendip Hills in the north to the Blackdown Hills in the south. It is bisected by the Polden Hills, which separate the northern Axe and Brue catchments from the southern Parrett and Tone catchments. Triassic rock formations protrude from the flat lowlands to form historic "islands" such as Glastonbury Tor, Burrow Mump, Brent Knoll, and the Isle of Athelney. The term "Levels" began to be used for the area as drainage projects transformed the landscape from the 17th century onwards. The specific term "Somerset Levels" became the standard geographic name in the 19th century. The area lies within the council area of Somerset.

Place Type: Traditional Area
Alternative name(s): Somerset Levels and Moors
Historic County: Somerset
Lat, Long: 51.19122,-2.768378
Grid Reference: ST 4640 4383
Council Area: Somerset CA
Police Area: Avon and Somerset PA

GBPN ID: 334177
Entry Type: Main listing (P)
URL: https://gazetteer.org.uk/place/Somerset_Levels,_Somerset_334177

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