4.3
(419)
2,182
hikers
285
hikes
Hiking around Hardington Mandeville explores a landscape of rolling hills and shallow valleys on the Somerset-Dorset border. The terrain is characterized by a patchwork of fields bordered by traditional hedgerows and a network of footpaths. Many routes pass through or near the Hardington Moor National Nature Reserve, an area of species-rich grassland. The geography features long, east-to-west ridges with gentle valleys, providing views from higher ground.
Last updated: July 2, 2026
4.5
(2)
3
hikers
8.01km
02:09
90m
90m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
8
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Sign up for free
4.0
(1)
4
hikers
19.5km
05:18
280m
280m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.60km
01:12
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
There is a footpath from the church, through the fields towards Sutton Bingham Reservoir
0
0
Commemorates the parishioners of East Coker who lost their lives during the plague of June to September 1645
0
0
“Overview Heritage Category: Listed Building Grade: II List Entry Number: 1345804 Date first listed: 19-Apr-1961 List Entry Name: HELYAR ALMSHOUSES Statutory Address: HELYAR ALMSHOUSES, 1-12”
0
0
“The church is noted as the resting place of the poet T. S. Eliot whose ashes were interred in 1965.”
1
0
Winyard's Gap Inn... incredible views and great beer after a tough climb. Descend with care!
1
0
c12th century but much of the surviving fabric is C15th. And the Helyar Almshouses. Also the resting place of the poet T. S. Eliot
0
0
Yes, the area is well-suited for circular hikes. The landscape of rolling hills and an extensive network of footpaths makes for excellent loop walks. A great example is the Helyar Almshouses – Plague Memorial, East Coker loop from Hardington Mandeville, which is a moderate walk of about 9 km.
The Hardington Moor National Nature Reserve features traditional hay meadows that are especially vibrant with wildflowers in spring and summer. The trails here are generally easy and offer a peaceful experience. For a short and pleasant walk that starts from the reserve, consider the Gulielmus Ruddock Almshouses loop.
Yes, many of the footpaths and bridleways in the countryside around Hardington Mandeville are great for walking with a dog. However, you will be crossing fields that may contain livestock, so it's essential to keep your dog on a lead in these areas. Also, be mindful of stiles which might be tricky for larger dogs.
Certainly. The region offers several shorter, less strenuous walks perfect for a family outing. A popular choice is the Plague Memorial, East Coker – Helyar Almshouses loop from East Coker. At around 5 km, it's a manageable distance and includes interesting historical sights.
Yes, for those seeking a longer challenge, the area offers some demanding routes. The The Winyard's Gap Inn loop from Haselbury Plucknett is a difficult hike of over 19 km that will take you through varied terrain. Additionally, the long-distance Monarch's Way footpath passes directly through Hardington Mandeville.
The scenery is classic English countryside. Expect to see a patchwork of small to medium-sized fields bordered by traditional hedgerows, which accentuate the undulating terrain. The high ground on the ridges offers magnificent and extensive views over the shallow valleys.
Many walks in the area are rich with history. Routes between Hardington Mandeville and the neighbouring village of East Coker often pass by the Plague Memorial and the historic Helyar Almshouses. The village itself and the surrounding hamlets feature charming, traditional architecture.
There is a wide variety of trails to choose from. On komoot, you can explore over 300 routes in the region, ranging from easy strolls to more demanding hikes, ensuring there's a walk for every fitness level.
The hiking routes around Hardington Mandeville are highly regarded by the komoot community. Reviewers often praise the beautiful rolling landscapes, the quiet country lanes, and the well-maintained network of paths that connect the villages and nature reserves.
Yes, the public footpath network provides excellent links to surrounding villages and hamlets. There are popular routes connecting Hardington Mandeville to East Coker and West Coker, allowing you to explore the wider South Somerset area on foot.
While there are no specific routes on this guide that are designated 'pub walks', some longer trails pass near villages with pubs. For example, the challenging 19.5km loop from Haselbury Plucknett is named for The Winyard's Gap Inn, suggesting a potential stop.


Browse the best Hikes in other regions.