Hikes & Walks in Somerset

Walking is the greatest way to get a close look at Bath's ancient history and attractive cityscape. Begin your journey with Pulteney Bridge, a Neoclassical structure with pediments, pilasters, leaded domes, and shops on both sides of the bridge. Head to the Jane Austen Centre where the author resided in Bath for a while, finding inspiration for her work from this beautiful old city. Then, for a little distance, rise to the lovely Royal Crescent, which offers spectacular views of Royal Victoria Park.

The Brean Down Peninsula, south of Weston-super-Mare, is looped on this three-mile walk with superb views of the Bristol Channel. Its major attraction is the historic sites that dot the landscape. Before descending the stairs, fuel up at Brean Cafe. Follow, the way down the peninsula's southerly slopes to explore the site of a Romano-Celtic temple, which is beside a Bronze Age burial mound. Continue to the end of the peninsula to see the spectacular Victorian fortress. Before going around the north side of the headland. Take a look at the magnificent defence buildings.

The 400-foot-deep Cheddar Gorge, which cuts through the Mendip Hills, provides for an exciting four-mile hike. Cheddar was formed when meltwaters dug through the rocks and seeped through the porous limestone to build caverns during the end of the Ice Age. Follow the Cheddar Canyon walk sign from the National Trust Centre up Cufic Lane and through the woods to the trail that runs over the top of the gorge. Before descending the steep steps, take in the panoramic views of Cheddar, Glastonbury Tor, and Bridgwater Bay.

The upland heath, deep forested combes, and fossil-rich Jurassic shoreline of the Quantock Hills have all been designated as Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This walk follows the shore on its northern reaches before turning inland to the ancient settlement of East Quantoxhead. An early 20th-century oil retort, mediaeval mansion, and ruined chantry may all be seen throughout the circular hiking route.

Walk along Porlock Bay's shore, across Exmoor National Park, and back via the saltmarshes. Head east from Porlock Weir down a rocky beach covered with storm-washed driftwood. Continue along the South West Coast Path until you reach Hurlstone Point, which offers a 360-degree view. Returning to the main coastal route, cross it this time and continue around Bossington Hill on the footpath. Cross Lynch Combe to Allerford, then go west across the salt marshes.

This leisurely seven-mile round takes the rambler along a woodland river valley to Withypool, with its wonderful arched bridge, before returning to Tarr Steps through a farm lane and meadows. Cross over the antique clapper bridge that fords the River Barle: Tarr Steps. Then continue on to go to Withypool. Before walking up and across the lane, marked for Hawkbridge, you can stop for refreshments at the Royal Oak Inn or Withypool Tea Room. Turn left at Westwater Farm to follow a streamside route upward through fields and stiles to Parsonage Farm.

The renowned hill rises from the Somerset Levels under the market town of Glastonbury, with the roofless mediaeval St Michael's Tower on its peak dominating the skyline. Although there is a short, steep ascent to the summit, the vistas over Wiltshire, Dorset, and the coastal plains of Somerset from this two-and-a-half-mile journey are breathtaking.