Easy hikes and walks around East Harptree
4.5
(1779)
11,461
hikers
504
hikes
Easy hiking trails around East Harptree are situated within the Mendip Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, characterized by varied terrain including open farmland, woodlands, and historical mining landscapes. The region features significant natural landmarks such as Chew Valley Lake and the narrow gorge of Harptree Combe. East Harptree Woods provide diverse habitats with undulating "gruffy ground" from historical lead and zinc mining. The landscape offers a mix of broadleaf and conifer woodlands, ancient hedgerows, and varied flora.
Best easy…
Last updated: May 19, 2026
4.3
(4)
16
hikers
6.31km
01:49
160m
160m
Discover the East Harptree Woods & Harptree Combe loop, an easy hike that guides you through a varied landscape in the Mendip Hills. This route spans 3.9 miles (6.3 km)…
4.2
(9)
22
hikers
2.81km
00:45
30m
30m
Embark on an easy hike through the varied landscapes of East Harptree Woods, where managed conifer forests meet open fields and ancient oak and ash trees. This pleasant route covers…
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5
hikers
5.79km
01:31
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(5)
49
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(5)
37
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Beautiful Lake. It's very large(!) And is really easily accessible, there is parking right by the edge of the lake, if you can not walk there. It's a fantastic spot for bird watching, too! There is a board that displays the birds you may be likely to see and when you'll see them. Please do not feed bread to the ducks & birds! (I know it was normal, I used to do it as a small child in the late 80s & 90s, but we know it's bad for them now)
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The lower and upper Litton reservoirs were built in the 1850 s by the Bristol Waterworks Company. Today it's a peaceful place for a walk. Watch out for the wide variety of insects and birds who live here.
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Chew Valley Lake was created in the early 1950 s to provide drinking water to Bristol and the surrounding area. It also controls the flow rate of the River Chew. The A368 crosses the southern edge of the lake. There is car parking along the causeway, and it's always a popular bird watching area.
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Lovely but muddy after rain. You are basically walking in the stream, in places.
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A relic of the Mendip Hills industrial past. The Cornish-style chimney survived when the site closed in 1875 and was saved from complete destruction in 1973 by The Mendip Society and Somerset County Council. In front of the Chimney there is a pond where you can see dragonflies in the summer months. There are also fine views of the Chew Valley from the grassland area nearby. The project to improve the area around the chimney is a partnership between Forestry England, the Mendip Society, the Mendip Hill AONB Unit, Countryside Agency and Aggregate Industries.
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A very unusual aqueduct, completed in 1851. It is formed from wrought iron tubes on top of limestone piers. It is still in use, part of a network of aqueducts and tunnels feeding the Valley’s spring water to Bristol. It is thought to be the oldest surviving example of this type of engineering in existence and, in order to preserve it, was listed by English Heritage in 1989.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are available around East Harptree?
There are over 260 easy hiking trails around East Harptree, offering a wide variety of options for all skill levels within the Mendip Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
What kind of terrain can I expect on easy hikes in East Harptree?
Easy hikes in East Harptree feature diverse terrain, including open farmland, ancient woodlands like East Harptree Woods, and paths alongside natural features such as Harptree Combe. You'll also encounter unique 'gruffy ground' from historical mining, and some routes offer views of Chew Valley Lake.
Are there any family-friendly easy walks in the area?
Yes, many easy walks are suitable for families. For instance, the East Harptree Woods & Smitham Chimney loop is a shorter 1.7-mile (2.8 km) path that explores the woods and passes a historic mining chimney, making it an engaging option for children.
Can I bring my dog on the easy hiking trails?
Many trails in the East Harptree area are dog-friendly, especially those through woodlands and open farmland. Always keep dogs under control, particularly near livestock, and check for any specific local restrictions or signage. The East Harptree Woods & Harptree Combe loop is a popular choice for dog walkers.
Are there easy circular walks available?
Yes, East Harptree offers several easy circular walks. A popular option is the East Harptree Woods & Harptree Combe loop, which is 3.9 miles (6.3 km) long and takes you through varied landscapes. Another is the shorter East Harptree Woods & Smitham Chimney loop.
What natural features can I see on easy hikes around East Harptree?
You can explore diverse natural features, including the ancient woodlands of East Harptree Woods, the narrow gorge of Harptree Combe with its stream and diverse flora, and the expansive Chew Valley Lake. The area is also rich in mature trees, ancient hedgerows, and wildflowers.
Are there any historical landmarks or points of interest along the easy trails?
Yes, the area has a rich history. You can see the restored Smitham Chimney, a relic of the Mendip's lead and zinc mining past, particularly on the East Harptree Woods & Smitham Chimney loop. The 'gruffy ground' in East Harptree Woods is also a direct result of historical mining.
What is the best time of year for easy hiking in East Harptree?
East Harptree is enjoyable year-round. Spring brings wildflowers and lush greenery, while autumn offers vibrant foliage in the woodlands. Summer is ideal for longer days, and even winter can be beautiful, especially on hard-surfaced trails, though some paths may be muddy.
Where can I find parking for easy walks in East Harptree?
Parking is generally available near popular trailheads and within East Harptree village. Specific parking details often accompany individual route descriptions on komoot, so it's best to check the tour details for your chosen hike.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the easy trails in East Harptree?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 700 reviews. Hikers often praise the quiet woodlands, the scenic views over Chew Valley Lake, and the well-maintained paths that make for enjoyable, accessible walks.
Are there any easy walks that offer scenic views?
Absolutely. The Chew Valley Lake loop from West Harptree offers beautiful views of the lake, the fifth largest in the UK. Many trails within the Mendip Hills AONB also provide expansive vistas over the surrounding countryside.
What kind of wildlife might I encounter on an easy hike?
The East Harptree area is rich in wildlife. You might spot badgers, foxes, deer, and various bird species like buzzards and owls in the woodlands. The diverse habitats also support smaller creatures such as slowworms and newts, especially near waterways.
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