Easy hikes and walks around Great Elm

When exploring the Mells River area, it's advisable to wear sturdy, waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support and deep tread to navigate the varied terrain comfortably [1]. Additionally, carrying a small first aid kit can be beneficial for addressing minor injuries like blisters or scrapes during your walk. [1] https://www.cotswoldoutdoor.com/best-uk-rainy-day-walks.html [2] https://www.responsibletravel.com/holidays/england-walking/travel-guide/england-walking-holidays-travel-advice

Good point to stop for a break

In the valley below Great Elm, a charming bridge crosses the Mells River, with a bench on the riverbank offering a peaceful spot to enjoy the views or take a refreshing dip. A layby on one side of the river provides convenient parking if you'd like to start your journey here.

Beautiful stained-glass and associations with many famous people, including the grave of Siegfried Sassoon

Nice and convenient shop on route

Camping in nature at Valis Veg is an eco campsite set on a vegetable farm to the North-West of Frome. The site is the perfect way to ease your way into wild camping without the worry of lack of facilities and legality. When you book you choose a unique pitch each suitable for different types of camping so read the descriptions and look at the pictures carefully. Some of the pitches are set in the woodland so are perfect for pitching hammocks. All of the pitches have a firepit and campers are invited to purchase bags of pre-chopped wood to make a campfire with so make sure you've brushed up on your fire-making knowledge and packed the matches. The facilities are basic but a brilliant introduction to a more wild way of living. There is running cold drinking water as well as hand washing and washing up stations. The toilets are all compost toilets so you can wee, poo and put the toilet roll in them but any sanitary products or wet wipes will need to be bagged up and taken home with you. The showers at the time of my most recent visit were closed due to COVID but when open feature a bucket of cold water and a cup so brace yourself for a refreshing experience! Each pitch is supplied with a compost bin and any compostable waste can be left here. However, due to the location of the campsite, they do not have any means to collect general waste or recycling so any non-compostable waste needs to be bagged up and taken home. Just like wild camping "leave no trace!". If you choose to travel by car you need to pay the additional carbon offset fee on booking and park in the designated parking space for your pitch. Travelling by bike is free though and most pitches are secluded and have plenty of trees to lock bikes to or bushes to hide them from view. The campsite is reasonable walking distance and easy cycling distance from the town of Frome with plenty of trails and quiet roads to explore. The campsite is well set up for COVID safe camping with very spread out pitches and generally never feels crowded. The wash and toilet facilities have a one-way system in place with hand sanitiser dispensers on all the buildings. Overall Valis Veg is an excellent campsite for those wanting to dip their toes into wild camping.

In the valley below Great Elm there is a little bridge crossing over the Mells River. On the bank of the river is a bench which is a perfect stop either to enjoy the scenery or take a little dip. On one side of the river is a layby for cars to park if you want to start your journey here. There are also public bins here so no excuse to #leavenotrace and keep the countryside litter-free.

Great walking route between Mells & Frome