The best walks and hikes around Cranmore

Hiking in the Cranmore area explores the Somerset countryside, which is part of the Mendip Hills. The landscape is defined by a patchwork of fields, quiet woodlands, and gentle, rolling hills. Many trails follow the River Alham or lead to local landmarks, offering a variety of rural scenery.

There are just under 200 routes to explore around Cranmore. The trails are almost evenly split between easy and moderate difficulty, with a few challenging options for those seeking a longer day out.

Yes, the area is well-suited for families. About half of the trails are rated as easy, typically involving gentle hills and well-defined paths through fields and woods. These routes are perfect for a relaxed day out with children.

The trails are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars. Hikers often praise the peaceful atmosphere, the beautiful rural scenery, and the mix of woodland and open field paths.

Yes, many of the most popular routes in the area are circular, or 'loop', trails. These allow you to start and finish in the same place without retracing your steps. For a longer loop, consider the Charlton Viaduct loop from Shepton Mallet, which is a moderate 16 km hike.

Absolutely. Cranmore Tower is a prominent local landmark and a key feature of several hikes. For a longer walk that includes this sight, you could try the Cranmore Tower – Cranmore Tower and Café loop from Cranmore, which is a moderate 10.6 km route.

Trails around Cranmore are a mix of woodland tracks, public footpaths across fields, and quiet country lanes. After rain, paths, particularly those across fields, can become muddy, so waterproof hiking shoes are recommended.

Yes, the rural paths are great for walking with dogs. However, many routes cross fields that may contain livestock. It is essential to keep your dog on a lead and under control in these areas.

You can hike in Cranmore year-round. Spring and summer offer lush green landscapes and pleasant weather. Autumn provides beautiful colours in the woodlands. Winter hiking can be rewarding on crisp, clear days, but be prepared for colder temperatures and muddier trails.

While most trails are easy or moderate, there are a few difficult routes available. These are typically longer in distance with more significant elevation gain, offering a good challenge for experienced hikers looking to spend most of the day on the trail.

Accessing trailheads directly via public transport can be challenging in this rural part of Somerset. Some larger nearby towns like Shepton Mallet may have bus services, but reaching specific trail starting points often requires a car.