The best dog-friendly hikes and walks in Mendip Hills AONB

There are over 70 dog-friendly hiking trails in the Mendip Hills AONB, offering a wide variety of options for you and your canine companion. These range from easy strolls to more challenging routes across diverse landscapes.

The Mendip Hills AONB features a diverse landscape, from rugged limestone plateaus and dramatic gorges to serene woodlands and flower-rich grasslands. You can expect varied terrain, including some steep ascents and descents, especially around areas like Cheddar Gorge, as well as more gentle paths through valleys and along lakesides.

Yes, the Mendip Hills AONB offers approximately 27 easy dog-friendly routes. A great option for a relaxed outing with your dog is the Chew Valley Lake, Knowle Hill & Chew Magna loop, which is just over 7 km long with minimal elevation gain.

Absolutely! Many of the dog-friendly trails in the Mendip Hills AONB are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Velvet Bottom & Beacon Batch loop from Black Gate is a moderate 12 km circular route that takes you through varied scenery.

The Mendip Hills are rich in natural beauty. You can explore dramatic limestone landscapes like Cheddar Gorge, enjoy views from Beacon Batch summit trig point, or visit Chew Valley Lake. Many routes also pass through ancient woodlands and offer far-reaching views across the region.

Yes, for those seeking a more strenuous adventure, there are 8 difficult dog-friendly routes. The Blagdon, Cheddar Gorge & Beacon Batch loop from Burrington Ham is a challenging 19.5 km hike with over 500 meters of elevation gain, perfect for well-conditioned dogs and their owners.

The dog-friendly trails in the Mendip Hills AONB are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.56 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, the stunning views from the hilltops, and the variety of routes suitable for different energy levels of dogs and their owners.

While many areas in the Mendip Hills AONB are suitable for off-lead walking, it's crucial to always be mindful of livestock, ground-nesting birds, and other wildlife, especially in designated nature reserves or during lambing season. Always keep your dog under close control and follow local signage. Areas like Black Down, which features wild ponies, require extra vigilance.

Hike durations vary significantly depending on the route's length and difficulty. Easy walks, like the Chew Valley Lake loop, can take around 1.5 to 2 hours. Moderate routes, such as the View of Cheddar Gorge – Velvet Bottom Nature Reserve loop, might take 4-5 hours, while difficult trails can extend to 6 hours or more.

The Mendip Hills AONB has several villages and towns nearby, such as Chew Magna, Cheddar, and Blagdon, which often feature dog-friendly pubs and cafes. While specific establishments aren't listed here, it's always a good idea to check online or call ahead to confirm their dog policies before your visit.

The Mendip Hills AONB offers beautiful hiking opportunities year-round. Spring brings vibrant wildflowers to the grasslands, while autumn showcases stunning foliage in the woodlands. Summer is ideal for longer days, but be mindful of heat for your dog. Winter can offer crisp, clear views, but paths may be muddy or icy. Always check weather conditions before heading out.