The best walks and hikes around Somerset

Komoot features a selection of hiking trails across Somerset, offering a variety of experiences. You'll find a mix of easy and moderate routes to explore the region's diverse landscapes.

Somerset offers several easy hikes perfect for a relaxed outing. For instance, you can enjoy a gentle stroll like the Somerset Levels Loop, which covers just over 3 km with minimal elevation gain. Another accessible option is the Glastonbury Tor Base Trail, a 3.5 km path that offers views without a steep climb. These routes are ideal for those seeking a leisurely walk.

Yes, for those looking for a bit more challenge, Somerset has moderate trails. The Quantock Hills Ridge Walk, for example, is a 11 km route with some elevation changes, offering rewarding views across the heathland. Another great option is the Mendip Way Section, which stretches over 11 km and takes you through varied terrain in the Mendip Hills.

Somerset is fantastic for family walks. Exmoor National Park offers accessible routes through woodlands and along rivers, such as the Tarr Steps and River Barle Trail. The quieter Ebbor Gorge in the Mendip Hills also provides a peaceful circular path through a remarkable limestone valley, perfect for families with observation points and historic forested areas.

Many areas in Somerset welcome dogs, especially in the Quantock Hills and parts of Exmoor National Park. Always check local signage for specific restrictions, particularly around livestock or nature reserves. The rolling hills and ancient woodlands of the Quantocks provide ample space for dogs to explore off-leash where permitted.

Yes, circular walks are abundant in Somerset. For instance, the Somerset Levels Loop is a short, easy circular route. Near Glastonbury, you can find several circular paths around the iconic Glastonbury Tor, offering panoramic views of the Somerset Levels. The Bath Skyline Walk also provides a popular 2.5-hour circular route exploring meadows and Georgian streets.

Somerset is rich in stunning viewpoints. From Dunkery Beacon, Exmoor's highest point, you can enjoy expansive views across the national park and coastline. Crook Peak in the Mendip Hills offers breathtaking vistas, while Glastonbury Tor provides panoramic views of the Somerset Levels, especially beautiful at sunrise or sunset. The Cliff Top Walk at Cheddar Gorge also boasts dramatic scenery.

Somerset's landscapes are incredibly diverse. You'll encounter dramatic coastal cliffs and expansive moorlands in Exmoor, limestone plateaus and deep gorges like Cheddar Gorge in the Mendip Hills, and rolling hills, heathland, and ancient woodlands in the Quantock Hills. The Polden Hills offer a unique ridge walk contrasting with the famously flat Somerset Levels.

The komoot community highly rates the hiking experiences in Somerset, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the region's diverse and dramatic landscapes, from coastal paths to ancient woodlands, and the sense of tranquility found on its well-maintained trails. The variety of terrain ensures there's something for every fitness level.

Absolutely! Somerset is steeped in history and natural beauty. You can explore ancient sites and forests in the Mendip Hills, including the dramatic Cheddar Gorge with its caves. Exmoor National Park features the ancient Tarr Steps. Glastonbury Tor, with its iconic tower, is a significant historical and spiritual landmark. Many trails also pass through charming towns and villages, offering a glimpse into the region's heritage.

While some trailheads are accessible by public transport, especially near larger towns like Bath or Taunton, many of Somerset's more remote hiking areas, particularly within the National Parks and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, may require a car. It's always best to check local bus routes and schedules in advance for specific trail access points.

For a quieter experience, consider exploring the Polden Hills, a less-known ridge offering beautiful woodland and grassland hikes away from the more popular tourist spots. Ebbor Gorge, near Cheddar Gorge, also provides a peaceful alternative with its remarkable limestone valley and forested areas, often less frequented than its famous neighbor.