The best walks and hikes around Monksilver

Yes, the area is well-suited for circular hikes. Many trails start and end in or near the village, allowing you to explore the surrounding Brendon Hills and return to your starting point. A good example is the Monksilver and Nettlecombe loop from Woodford, which offers a gentle 4-mile (6.4 km) circuit through woodlands and meadows.

The Coleridge Way is a 51-mile long-distance footpath that traces the journeys of the Romantic poet Samuel Taylor Coleridge. The trail passes directly through Monksilver, making it an excellent place to walk a section of this historic route. You can follow the waymarked path through the Quantock Hills, Brendon Hills, and Exmoor National Park.

The region offers a variety of trails suitable for different abilities, including families. There are over 100 easy-rated hikes featuring gentle gradients through farmland and quiet woodlands. Look for shorter routes with minimal elevation gain for a comfortable day out with children.

Most trails in the countryside around Monksilver are great for walking with dogs. However, you will be crossing farmland with livestock and walking through areas with protected wildlife, so it's essential to keep your dog on a lead and under control at all times.

The terrain in the Brendon Hills is characterized by rolling hills, deep wooded valleys known as 'combes', and open fertile farmland. The paths are a mix of woodland tracks, field-edge paths, and quiet country lanes. While many routes are gentle, some climbs can be steep but are rewarded with expansive views.

Yes, combining a good walk with a pub visit is a popular activity here. Several routes pass through or near villages with traditional pubs. For instance, the St Mary's Church, Nettlecombe – All Saints Church, Monksilver loop from Roadwater connects several points of interest and passes through villages where you can find refreshments.

There are over 230 hiking routes to discover around Monksilver. These range from short, easy strolls to more challenging full-day hikes, covering the varied landscapes of the Brendon Hills, the Quantock Hills, and the edge of Exmoor National Park.

The trails are highly regarded by the komoot community. Reviewers often praise the beautiful scenery, the mix of woodland and open country, and the tranquility of the area. The well-marked paths, including sections of the Coleridge Way, are also frequently mentioned as a highlight.

The Quantock Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty offers fantastic viewpoints. A rewarding climb is to Wills Neck, the highest point in the Quantocks, which on a clear day provides panoramic views across Somerset to Exmoor, Dartmoor, and even the coast of Wales. The Bicknoller Post loop is a great moderate hike that takes you into the heart of the hills.

The difficulty varies, with a good balance of options. The area has over 100 easy routes, perfect for leisurely walks, and over 110 moderate routes that involve more elevation and distance. There are also a small number of difficult trails for those seeking a serious challenge.

Absolutely. Monksilver is located right on the edge of Exmoor National Park, a vast and popular expanse of moorland, woods, and coastline. Several trails start from the village and lead directly into the park, such as the Roadwater and the Brendon Hills loop.

Yes, the area is rich in history. Many walks connect picturesque villages with historic buildings. A notable route is the St Mary's Church, Nettlecombe loop from Roadwater, which takes you past historic churches and through the traditional Somerset landscape.