The best walks and hikes around Badminton

There are over 140 hiking trails around Badminton, offering a wide variety of options for different skill levels and preferences. The komoot community has explored these routes over 6,000 times.

Hikes around Badminton typically feature the gentle, rolling hills and picturesque landscapes characteristic of the English countryside, particularly the southern edge of the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. You'll encounter a mix of open fields, ancient woodlands, and traditional rural paths, including public footpaths and bridleways.

Yes, Badminton offers plenty of easy hiking options. Over 60 of the trails are rated as easy, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a family outing. An example of an easy route is Coed Fedw-ddu loop from Brynmawr, which is just over 6 km long.

Many of the hiking routes around Badminton are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the Cairn on Garn Fawr – Chartist Cave loop from Trefil is a moderate 7.3 km circular trail that takes about 2 hours to complete.

Yes, the area around Badminton offers several interesting natural features and landmarks. You can explore sites like the Chartist Cave or enjoy views from peaks such as Blorenge summit and Cefn yr Ystrad Trig Point. The Trefil Quarry Cliffs – Cefn yr Ystrad Trig Point loop from Trefil is a great route to experience some of these geological features.

The best time for hiking in Badminton, like much of the English countryside, is typically from spring through autumn (April to October). During these months, the weather is generally milder, and the landscapes are vibrant. Spring brings wildflowers, while autumn offers beautiful foliage. Winter hikes are possible but can be muddy and require appropriate gear.

Most public footpaths and bridleways around Badminton are dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept under control, especially near livestock. It's always advisable to keep dogs on a lead in agricultural areas and to clean up after them. Specific routes may have local restrictions, so always look for signage.

Yes, for those seeking a greater challenge, there are 19 difficult-rated trails around Badminton. A moderate option that offers expansive views and explores the local landscape is the Chartist Cave – Collapsed Cave Entrance loop from Tafarnaubach, which is nearly 16 km long.

The hiking trails around Badminton are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.5 stars from over 800 reviews. Hikers often praise the peaceful charm of the Cotswolds, the varied terrain, and the well-maintained network of paths that allow for exploration of the traditional English landscapes.

Parking for hiking trails in rural areas like Badminton is often available in village car parks, designated lay-bys, or at the start points of popular trails. Always check for local signage regarding parking restrictions and fees, and be considerate of local residents when parking.

Many routes in the Badminton area traverse rolling hills, providing excellent opportunities for scenic viewpoints across the countryside. The Cefn yr Ystrad Trig Point, for instance, is a notable viewpoint that can be incorporated into longer hikes like the Trefil Quarry Cliffs – Cefn yr Ystrad Trig Point loop from Trefil.

While the Badminton area is known for its rolling hills and traditional English countryside, it is not particularly renowned for large waterfalls. The focus here is more on gentle landscapes, historical estates, and peaceful rural charm rather than dramatic water features.