The best dog-friendly hikes and walks around Burrington

There are 17 dog-friendly hiking trails around Burrington, catering to various fitness levels. You'll find 4 easy routes, 12 moderate options, and 1 more challenging hike.

Burrington offers a diverse range of terrain, from woodlands and rocky outcrops to open hills. The area is known for its distinctive fluvial karst gorge, limestone formations, and features like Black Down and Beacon Batch, providing varied landscapes for you and your dog to explore.

Yes, there are several easy dog-friendly walks. For a shorter, gentle option, consider the High Vinnalls Summit – Mortimer Forest loop from Pipe Aston, which is just over 4 km. Another easy choice is the Mortimer Forest – High Vinnalls Summit loop from Pipe Aston, which is around 6.25 km.

While hiking with your dog, you can encounter several interesting natural features and historical sites. The area is rich in geological interest with limestone formations and caves. You might also pass by the Croft Ambrey Hillfort or the impressive Downton Gorge. The Mortimer Forest itself is a significant natural highlight.

For a more challenging adventure, consider the Mortimer Forest – High Vinnalls Summit loop from Burrington. This moderate route spans over 11 km and involves significant elevation gain, offering a rewarding experience for well-exercised dogs and their owners.

The dog-friendly trails in Burrington are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.54 out of 5 stars. Hikers often praise the diverse scenery, the tranquility of the Mendip Hills, and the well-maintained paths that make for enjoyable walks with their canine companions.

Yes, Burrington Combe is often described as a quieter alternative to more commercialized areas like Cheddar Gorge. This makes it an ideal destination for those seeking a more tranquil hiking experience with their dog, allowing for peaceful exploration of its dramatic geological formations and diverse landscapes.

The Mendip Hills AONB, where Burrington is located, is home to diverse flora and fauna. You might spot various bird species, and the caves in the area support bat populations. While enjoying the calcareous grasslands and scrub plants, keep your dog close and on a lead in areas where wildlife might be present to ensure their safety and minimize disturbance.

Many trails in Burrington offer sweeping views of Somerset and the surrounding Mendip Hills. From open hills like Black Down and Beacon Batch, you can enjoy panoramic vistas. Some routes also provide views of the Teme Valley, such as from Dionscourt Hill, adding to the scenic beauty of your walk.

Yes, the area has historical significance. You can find evidence of human occupation in its caves for over 10,000 years, and an Iron Age hillfort (Burrington Camp) is located above the combe. Other nearby historical sites include Caynham Camp Iron Age Hillfort and Ludlow Castle, offering glimpses into the region's past.