The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Crowcombe

There are around 8 family-friendly hiking trails detailed in this guide for the Crowcombe area, offering a variety of experiences suitable for different ages and abilities. These include 3 easy routes, 4 moderate routes, and 1 more challenging option.

The terrain around Crowcombe is wonderfully varied, nestled within the Quantock Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. You'll find everything from open moorland and ancient trackways like 'The Drove' to lush combe valleys and wooded slopes. Some routes, such as those near Holford Combe, feature ancient woodlands and streams, which can be more challenging with stream crossings.

Yes, for families seeking an easier, circular option, consider the Bagborough Hill Woods – Wills Neck Summit loop from Quantock Hills National Landscape. This route is rated as easy and offers a manageable distance for younger hikers.

Many trails offer stunning views and interesting landmarks. You can reach Wills Neck Summit, the highest point in the Quantocks, for expansive views across Somerset and even to Wales on a clear day. Other prominent viewpoints include Beacon Hill Trig Point and Bicknoller Post. For a unique natural feature, St Audries Bay Waterfall and Kilve Beach Fossil Beds are also nearby attractions.

Generally, the Quantock Hills are very dog-friendly, offering plenty of open spaces and varied terrain for walks. However, it's always important to keep dogs under control, especially around livestock, and to check for any specific local restrictions or signage on individual trails. Always carry water for your dog and be mindful of ground conditions.

Crowcombe is beautiful year-round, but spring and autumn often offer the most pleasant hiking conditions for families. Spring brings wildflowers and milder temperatures, while autumn showcases stunning foliage. Summer can be lovely, but trails may be busier. Winter walks can be invigorating, but be prepared for potentially muddy conditions and shorter daylight hours.

For families with older children or those seeking a longer adventure, the Bicknoller Post – Beacon Hill Trig Point loop from Crowcombe is a challenging route covering over 17 km with significant elevation changes, offering a rewarding experience for experienced young hikers.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 480 ratings. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, the panoramic views from prominent hills, and the sense of tranquility found within the Quantock Hills AONB, making it a fantastic destination for family outdoor adventures.

Absolutely. The Holford Village – Holford Combe loop from Crowcombe is an excellent choice for experiencing ancient woodlands and the unique gorge of Holford Combe, known for its streams and natural beauty.

The duration of family walks varies depending on the route's length and difficulty, as well as your family's pace. Easy routes like the Bagborough Hill Woods – Wills Neck Summit loop can take around 1.5 to 2 hours. Moderate routes, such as the Wills Neck Summit – Bagborough Hill Woods loop, might take 2.5 to 3 hours, while longer, more challenging trails can extend to 5 hours or more.

Yes, from higher viewpoints like Beacon Hill Trig Point, you can enjoy far-reaching vistas across the Somerset countryside and the Bristol Channel, with the distant shores of Wales visible on a clear day. Some routes, particularly those on the northern edge of the Quantocks, will offer glimpses of the coastline.