The best walks and hikes around Norton St Philip

Yes, the area is excellent for circular hikes. Many trails begin and end in the village, allowing you to explore the Somerset countryside and return without retracing your steps. For a route that combines gentle terrain with a stop at a historic pub, the Watery Lane Stream – Tucker's Grave Inn loop is a great option.

Most trails around Norton St Philip are suitable for dogs, but they should be kept on a lead, especially when crossing fields with livestock. The paths often pass through farmland. Many local pubs, including The George Inn in the village, are dog-friendly, making it easy to find refreshments after your walk.

Yes, there are several easy walks perfect for a family outing. These routes generally have minimal elevation gain and follow clear paths. A particularly good choice is The Weary Traveller Sculpture loop from Norton St. Philip, an easy 7.4 km walk through fields and quiet country lanes.

The landscape features rolling hills, so you can expect a mix of gentle slopes and some moderate inclines. The trails follow a network of public footpaths, bridleways, and quiet country lanes. Paths can become muddy, particularly after rain and in wooded sections, so waterproof hiking shoes are recommended.

Several paths lead to the 14th-century ruins of Farleigh Hungerford Castle. For a shorter walk that focuses on the castle and its immediate surroundings, the Iford Bridge – Farleigh Hungerford Castle loop from Westwood is a lovely 4.2 km trail that takes you through woodland and along the river.

There is on-street parking available throughout the village of Norton St Philip, but it can be limited, especially on weekends. Please park considerately, respecting residents' access. Some walkers choose to park near local pubs like The George Inn, but it's best to patronise the establishment if you do.

Yes, many walks in the area can be planned to include a stop at a traditional pub. The George Inn in Norton St Philip is one of England's oldest and a popular start or end point. Other routes pass by or near pubs in neighbouring villages like Wellow and Faulkland, offering a perfect spot for a mid-hike break.

The area is rich in history. Besides Farleigh Hungerford Castle, a key historical landmark is the Stoney Littleton Long Barrow, a Neolithic chambered tomb dating back to 3500 BCE. You can visit it on the moderate Wellow Brook Lane – Stoney Littleton Long Barrow loop.

The trails cater to a range of fitness levels. Out of the main routes, about half are rated as easy, with gentle slopes and shorter distances. The other half are moderate, involving more significant climbs and longer distances. There are no technically difficult or expert-level mountain trails in the immediate area.

The trails around Norton St Philip are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars. Hikers often praise the beautiful rolling countryside, the well-preserved historical landmarks, and the charming villages you can walk through.

While the immediate trails offer lovely views of the rolling Somerset landscape, for more dramatic scenery you could explore the nearby

Mendip Hills National Landscape, a popular area known for its limestone hills, caves, and ancient sites.

Closer to Bath, the Bath Skyline walk is a well-regarded trail offering fantastic hilltop views over the historic city.