The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Bridgwater

There are nearly 20 family-friendly hiking trails around Bridgwater, with 11 of them rated as easy, making them perfect for families with younger children or those looking for a relaxed outing. You'll find a diverse range of options, from tranquil canal paths to scenic riverside routes.

The terrain around Bridgwater is quite varied, offering something for everyone. Many family-friendly routes follow the level paths of the Bridgwater and Taunton Canal or the River Parrett, providing easy, flat surfaces ideal for strollers or young walkers. For a bit more adventure, some trails venture into the undulating, wooded valleys of the Quantock Hills, though these tend to be more challenging. The Bridgwater Docks – Riverside Bike Path loop from Bridgwater is a great example of an easy, flat route.

Yes, many of the family-friendly trails around Bridgwater are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. For instance, the Chandos Glass Cone Ruins – Bridgwater Docks loop from Bridgwater offers a moderate circular walk with historical interest, while the Midas Cafe loop from Bridgwater is an easier option that includes a cafe stop.

Bridgwater's trails are rich with points of interest. You can explore historical sites like the Burrow Mump, a ruined church offering commanding views, or the Fenlyn's Clyce. Nature lovers will enjoy the expansive wetland reserves, such as the WWT Steart Marshes, which is a fantastic viewpoint for wildlife. The King's Sedgemoor Drain Riverside Path also offers pleasant views along the river.

For toddlers and very young children, focus on the easier, flatter routes, especially those along the Bridgwater and Taunton Canal. These paths are generally well-maintained and offer gentle gradients. The Bridgwater Docks – Riverside Bike Path loop from Bridgwater is an excellent choice, being relatively short and very flat, making it suitable for little legs or strollers.

The komoot community highly rates the trails around Bridgwater, with an average score of 4.3 stars. Reviewers often praise the accessibility of the paths, the peaceful canal-side walks, and the abundance of wildlife in the wetland areas. Many appreciate the variety of routes, from short, easy strolls to longer, more adventurous loops, catering to different family needs.

Yes, some routes are conveniently located near cafes or pass through areas where refreshments are available. The Midas Cafe loop from Bridgwater is specifically named for a cafe stop, making it a great option for families looking to combine their walk with a treat. Many routes along the Bridgwater and Taunton Canal also have amenities nearby in towns and villages.

Spring and summer are generally ideal for family hiking in Bridgwater, offering pleasant weather and longer daylight hours. The wetland reserves are particularly vibrant in spring with nesting birds, and the canal paths are lovely for a leisurely stroll. Autumn also brings beautiful colours to the wooded areas of the Quantock Hills. While winter can be damp, the flatter paths are still accessible, and sites like Burrow Mump become especially striking when the Somerset Levels flood.

Many of the trails around Bridgwater are dog-friendly, especially the canal towpaths and riverside walks. However, it's always best to keep dogs on a lead, particularly in nature reserves like the WWT Steart Marshes, to protect wildlife. Always check local signage for specific restrictions, especially during nesting seasons or in areas with livestock.

Parking is generally available at various points along the trails, especially near popular starting points in Bridgwater town centre or at access points for the canal and riverside paths. For routes venturing further out, such as those towards the Quantock Hills, designated car parks are usually provided. It's advisable to check specific route details for recommended parking locations.

For families with older children seeking a longer adventure, the Bridgwater Canal & North Petherton loop from Bridgwater offers a more challenging, yet rewarding, experience. This route covers a greater distance and includes some elevation gain, providing a good test of endurance while still offering scenic views of the canal and surrounding countryside.