The best walks and hikes around Withycombe

There are over 200 hiking routes to explore around Withycombe, ranging from easy strolls to challenging climbs. The area offers a great mix, with about half the trails rated as easy and the other half as moderate or difficult, catering to all fitness levels.

Yes, Withycombe is a great place to walk with a dog. Many trails pass through open country and woodlands. However, be aware that you'll be sharing paths with wildlife, including Exmoor ponies and red deer, and crossing areas with livestock. It's essential to keep your dog under control, and on a lead where required.

For a shorter, accessible walk, the Hiking loop from Blue Anchor is a great option. It's a relatively flat 2.5-mile (4 km) walk that's perfect for a casual outing. Another fantastic spot for families is the Tall Trees Trail at Nutcombe Bottom, which features a short, accessible path among some of England's tallest trees.

The trails are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars. Hikers often praise the stunning variety of landscapes, from the dramatic coastal cliffs of Exmoor to the peaceful, deeply wooded valleys known as 'combes' in the Quantock Hills.

Absolutely. The majority of popular routes in the area are circular, meaning you can start and end in the same place without retracing your steps. These loops take you through the varied scenery of Exmoor and the Quantocks, often combining coastal views, woodland paths, and open moorland.

Yes, for those seeking a more strenuous day out, the View of Minehead Beach – Gallox Bridge loop from Carhampton offers a significant challenge. This 13-mile (21 km) route involves over 440 meters of climbing and provides rewarding panoramic views.

Withycombe is located just a few miles inland from the coast, making it a convenient base for accessing the Exmoor section of the South West Coast Path. You can easily drive to starting points like Blue Anchor or Minehead to begin a coastal walk, experiencing some of the highest sea cliffs in England.

The hiking here is incredibly diverse. You can explore the unique landscape of Exmoor National Park, with its wild open moorland and famous ponies, or the rolling Quantock Hills, which feature ancient oak woodlands and deep valleys. Many trails also offer breathtaking views along the Somerset coast.

Yes, the region has many traditional pubs that are perfect for a post-hike meal or drink. The nearby historic village of Dunster, a common feature on local walking routes, has several well-regarded inns. You can easily plan a circular walk that starts and ends near a welcoming pub.

Hiking is possible year-round, but late spring and summer offer the best conditions with warmer weather and longer daylight hours. Autumn is also a beautiful time to visit, as the woodlands display stunning fall colors. Be prepared for muddy paths and changeable weather, especially outside of the summer months.

While some trailheads near larger villages like Dunster or Minehead may be accessible by local bus services, many of the more remote routes in Exmoor and the Quantocks are best reached by car. A car provides the most flexibility for exploring the full range of trails the area has to offer.