The best walks and hikes around Kelston

Yes, the area around Kelston is generally dog-friendly. The open fields and public footpaths are great for walking with a dog. However, you will be walking through farmland with livestock, so it's essential to keep your dog on a lead, especially around sheep. Always follow the countryside code.

For a shorter, rewarding walk that's great for families, the Kelston Roundhill – Kelston Roundhill loop from Kelston is an excellent choice. It's under 3 miles (4.6 km) and focuses on the main highlight of the area, offering fantastic views from the top without being too strenuous.

Yes, most of the popular routes around Kelston are circular. This allows you to enjoy a variety of scenery without retracing your steps. A great example of a varied circular route is the Kelston Roundhill – Trig Point loop from Kelston, which provides a classic hill and viewpoint experience in a convenient loop.

The undisputed best viewpoint is from the summit of Kelston Roundhill. From its 715-foot (218-meter) peak, you get breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views. On a clear day, you can see across to Bristol and Bath, the Severn Bridges, and even the Black Mountains in Wales.

There is no official large car park for the walks. Most hikers find on-street parking in the village of Kelston or nearby Saltford. Please park considerately and be mindful of residents. The Old Crown Inn in Kelston is a popular starting point, and patrons can often use their parking.

Absolutely. A popular option is the Kelston Lock – The Bird in Hand Pub, Saltford loop from Kelston. This route combines a pleasant riverside walk with a convenient stop at The Bird in Hand pub in Saltford, making it perfect for a rewarding pint or meal.

Kelston is well-served by bus routes connecting it to both Bath and Bristol. This makes it easy to start a hike without a car. You can take a bus to Kelston village and begin your walk from there, with many trails starting directly from the village centre.

The terrain is varied. You'll encounter gentle rolling hills, some steep but short climbs like the ascent to Kelston Roundhill, and flat, easy-going paths along the River Avon. Trails are mostly on public footpaths through fields and well-trodden tracks. After rain, some paths can become muddy, so appropriate footwear is recommended.

The section of the Cotswold Way National Trail that passes through this area connects the city of Bath to the village of Cold Ashton. Hikes around Kelston often incorporate a portion of this well-marked trail, particularly on the routes that climb towards the Roundhill from the south.

Yes, if you prefer to avoid the hills, you can enjoy a lovely flat walk along the River Avon. The River Avon Riverside View – Old Canal and Railway Pathway loop from Kelston is a great option that follows the river and old railway path, offering pleasant scenery without any significant climbing.

The area is highly regarded by the komoot community, with over 15,000 hikers exploring the trails. The routes have an average rating of 4.6 stars, with reviewers often praising the stunning panoramic views from Kelston Roundhill and the pleasant mix of riverside and hill walking.