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Best forest hikes in Somerset
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Best forest hikes in Somerset

Need a nature reset? These forest hikes will immerse you in a sea of greenery.

Here are some great hikes to explore in Somerset.

Most popular hikes

1

Easy

Lydeard Hill, Wills Neck and Great Hill Loop

Somerset, England · star 4.5 (8) · 8.2 km · Est. 1 hrs 56 min

2

Easy

Cheddar Gorge and Caves Walk

Somerset, England · star 4.0 (2) · 11.0 km · Est. 2 hrs 48 min

3

Easy

Varle Hill, Tarr Steps Woodland and Caratacus Stone Loop

Somerset, England · star 3.7 (3) · 16.5 km · Est. 3 hrs 59 min

4

Easy

Pen Forest and Cockroad Wood Castle Loop

Somerset, England · star 4.3 (9) · 13.9 km · Est. 3 hrs 19 min

5

Easy

Cheddar Reservoir from Cheddar Car Park

Somerset, England · star 4.6 (8) · 7.5 km · Est. 1 hrs 32 min

6

Medium

Rowberrow Loop

Somerset, England · star 4.5 (6) · 4.8 km · Est. 1 hrs 14 min

7

Easy

Herepath Trail - Blagdon Hill Loop

Somerset, England · star 4.4 (5) · 8.8 km · Est. 2 hrs 10 min

8

Easy

Herepath Trail and Staple Fitzpaine Loop

Somerset, England · star 4.3 (4) · 7.3 km · Est. 1 hrs 37 min

9

Medium

Wookey Hole and Lower Milton Loop Walk

Somerset, England · star 4.8 (4) · 6.1 km · Est. 1 hrs 38 min

10

Easy

Wavering Down, Coral Cave and Crook Peak Loop

Somerset, England · star 4.9 (8) · 9.3 km · Est. 2 hrs 18 min

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Reviews for forest hikes in Somerset

Lisa Mota avatar

Lydeard Hill, Wills Neck and Great Hill Loop

[email protected] · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Lovely place, quiet in the earoy morning, beautiful views.

Clarita Haag avatar

Cheddar Gorge and Caves Walk

CampsiteRockclimber41 · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Stuart Blake avatar

Varle Hill, Tarr Steps Woodland and Caratacus Stone Loop

Stuart Blake · reviewed 2 months ago

star star star star star

The Hon. Chiquita Robel avatar

Pen Forest and Cockroad Wood Castle Loop

NomadTundrarunner57 · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Dave Godwin avatar

Cheddar Reservoir from Cheddar Car Park

Dave G · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Started from Chedder Motorhome club site and joined route before path to reservoir. Lovely easy, flat route.

Frequently asked questions for hikes in Somerset

What is the climate like for hiking in England?

In England, hiking in the spring (March to May) sees milder temperatures and flourishing wildlife, however trails may be muddy due to showers. Summer (June to August) offers the most stable weather with longer daylight hours but trails can be crowded, especially in national parks. Autumn (September to November) can be wetter but displays vibrant fall colours.

Winter hiking (December to February) is more challenging due to short days and colder, often unpredictable weather. Snowfall can make some trails inaccessible. Always check the weather forecast and equip accordingly. Experienced hikers may enjoy the tranquility and stark beauty of the winter landscape. 

Ultimately, the best time to hike in England depends on personal preferences and preparedness. England's official tourist site (https://www.visitengland.com/) provides in-depth information about various hiking trails and their seasonal characteristics. Be sure to research specific areas as climate can vary across the country.

Do I need a permit to hike in England?

In England, the "Right to Roam" allows hikers access to certain public lands without a permit. Some areas like national parks or Sites of Special Scientific Interest may have specific rules. Before hiking, check with the landowner, National Trust, or local council. Information on access rights can be found on the Natural England website (https://www.gov.uk/guidance/open-access-land-management-rights-and-responsibilities).

Is wild camping allowed in England?

Wild camping in England is generally not allowed without landowner permission, except in some parts of Dartmoor National Park. Breaching this can result in fines. It's advised to use official campsites or seek landowner consent for a more immersive experience. For more, visit the Dartmoor National Park's website (https://www.dartmoor.gov.uk/visiting/planning-your-visit/camping).

Are there mountain rescue services in England?

In emergencies while hiking in England, dial 999 and ask for the police, then request Mountain Rescue. The Mountain Rescue England and Wales (MREW) is a volunteer-run organization that provides assistance in upland and lowland areas. More information can be found on their website (https://www.mountain.rescue.org.uk/).

Are there dangerous plants in England?

England's diverse hiking trails present a range of flora. Expect bluebells in ancient woodlands, gorse on coastal paths, and heather on moorlands. In protected areas, refrain from picking or damaging plants. The Woodland Trust provides more details on the UK's native species (https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/trees-woods-and-wildlife/plants/).

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in England?

While hiking in England, you may encounter a variety of wildlife including deer, foxes, badgers, and numerous bird species. Beware of ticks in tall grass and midges in damp, shaded areas. The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (https://www.rspb.org.uk/) offers useful information on encountering wildlife responsibly.

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