The 10 Best Dog Walks in Somerset
If you ‘re looking for a holiday destination that offers plenty of opportunities for scenic dog walks, Somerset is the perfect place to visit.
With its rolling hills and picturesque villages, Somerset is a haven for nature lovers and their furry friends. This guide will highlight ten of the best dog walks in Somerset. So, whether you're an experienced hiker looking for adventure or prefer a more leisurely stroll, there's something here for everyone!
Ham Hill Country Park, TA14 6RW
Ham Hill Country Park, right on the doorstep of Bridge House, is a breath-taking display of nature, landscape, and human achievement. The 158-hectare park is centred around an Iron Age Hill fort, and to this day, you can explore the remains of many historical monuments and buildings.
A modern-day ‘stone circle’ was created as a Millennium Project to commemorate the stonemasons who worked for centuries quarrying the famous honey-coloured stone on Ham Hill.
This ancient hillfort is situated just outside Yeovil and offers spectacular views of the Somerset countryside. The walks can be fairly strenuous, with several steep inclines, but the views are certainly worth it! A great place to watch the sunset over the beautiful Somerset Levels, which stretch for miles below. Try the easy Ham Hill Circular route.
2. River Parrett TA10 9PG
Photo thanks to Somerset District Council
The River Parrett is 47 miles long (76km) and begins in Chedington, Dorset, where it is little more than a collection of springs and runs across Somerset to the mouth of the Bristol Channel. The trail meanders through gorgeous old villages and across the Somerset Levels where you will see plenty of birdlife. There is little in the way of elevation, and the entire route could be done in 2 to 5 days depending on your fitness and desire to stop and enjoy the stunning scenery. The rural nature of the trail passes through many villages allowing for refreshments along the way. Often you are passing through fields of grazing livestock with dampness underfoot – hence this trail is best done in the dry months and waterproof walking boots are a definite advantage.
Perhaps try The River Parrett Circular Walk
The first half of this trail is crossed by other well-known walking routes including the Liberty Trail which runs right next to Bridge House Luxury Rental and the longest inland trail in England, The Monarchs Way.
3. Blackdown Hills – Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty EX145 9QU
Photo thanks to Blackdown Hills hedge Association
A stone's throw from Bridge House Somerset, lie the Blackdown Hills. Running along the Somerset/Devon border, this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty epitomises the English countryside with narrow winding lanes, classical patchwork fields with hedgerows filled with wildlife and small farms hidden in deep valleys. It's a true representation of what the South West of England offers.
Dogs are allowed to roam free on public paths, of which there are over 29 gorgeous trails of varying lengths and intensity. Of course, this is as long as they are kept under control and don't disturb the local livestock. Follow these simple guidelines to avoid any issues from meeting livestock along the route!
With six hillforts in the area, dozens of monuments, riverside walks, wildlife conservation areas, and more, it's a wonderland of discovery on your doorstep.
4. Glastonbury Tor BA6 8BJ
Within half an hour’s drive from our luxury holiday home lies Glastonbury Tor, the remains of the 14th-century church of St Michael.
Steeped in history and tales of being the site of the Holy Grail, the Tor is the perfect place to enjoy 360-degree views of the stunning Somerset landscape below. Explore some of the best attributes of what the county offers: lush green, rolling hills, a wealth of culture and history, and plenty to see and do; it's all here.
As a National Trust site, dogs are welcome as long as they behave, and are kept under control. There may be livestock grazing the area during some parts of the year, so please be aware, but is a glorious hike, one rewarding for both yourself and your dog.
5. Horner Wood TA24 8HY
Horner Wood is magnificent
A popular dog walking spot located just outside of Lynton, near Minehead, the area covers over 12,000 acres and is home to some of the most beautiful, picturesque ancient oak woodland areas in the UK.
The landscape offers stunning views of the Somerset countryside, as well as a variety of walking and hiking trails created within conserved forests formed of ancient trees, some of which are over 500 years old.
All dogs are welcome, and there are plenty of off-lead areas to have fun in. We recommend the Horner Wood to Crawter Hill walk as it's the best way to get a taste of everything the site offers, including enchanting woods, invigorating hills, and lovely views.
6. Exmoor National Park TA24 6PS
Exmoor National Park runs along the coast and covers 267.5 square miles (692.8 squared kilometres) It offers some of the most stunning landscapes and opportunities for exploration for you and your dog. Of particular note are Dunster Castle, Dunster Village, Porlock coastline and the beautiful Heddon Valley
There are lots of dog-friendly pubs and restaurants in and around the national park. Particularly the Black Venus Inn on the east side of the park in Challacombe.
Here is a list of other ‘must visit’ areas of wonderful Exmoor Park.
Wimbleball Lake
Doone Valley Circuit
West Somerset Railway
Tarr Steps
Dunster Castle
Porlock Beach
Minehead Beach
Lynmouth Beach
7. River Yeo BA21 5TD
The whole walk is pretty much accessible to dog walkers, and there are plenty of footpaths to explore, and it's undoubtedly one of the most calming walks in Somerset.
Try this route if you want to soak up some gorgeous sun-lit woodland!
8. Bridgwater Bay National Nature Reserve TA23 0TP
If you're craving a trip to the Somerset coast, the Bridgwater Bay National Nature Reserve is a place that guarantees to satisfy and is a must-visit for dogs.
Photo with thanks to Bristol Barkers
Located on the mouth of the gorgeous River Parrett, this beautiful reserve is home to an array of wildlife, including seals, dolphins, and a variety of birds including Shelducks, Redshanks, Oystercatchers and Curlew. As well as endless varieties of flora, wildflowers, wild thyme and so much more. It also gives some of the most wonderful views over Stert Island and Burnham-on-Sea.
This area is basically a natural wonderland, and the perfect place for some exploration.
9. Cheddar Gorge BS27 3QF
Cheddar Gorge
Cheddar Gorge is by far one of Somerset's most popular tourist attractions, and it's easy to see why. This stunning limestone gorge, offers spectacular views of the Mendip Hills, as well as a variety of walking and hiking trails.
The dog walk itself is relatively easy, but there are some steep sections, so it's worth taking your time.
Thankfully, there are plenty of opportunities to relax at some of the dog-welcoming stops along the way, including the Lion Rock Tea Rooms, The Cheddar Paws Bakery (Yes, that's a bakery for dogs!)
And don't feel as though you'll miss the caving experiences Cheddar Gorge offers. There are dog-friendly caves to explore as well!
10. Brean Down TA8 2RS
Brean Down is another stunning coastal area maintained by the National Trust and an absolute haven for dog walkers, explorers, and holidaymakers alike.
The rugged cliffs and soft sand beaches are a pleasure to discover, and there's really the freedom to let go and have a good time.
Photo thanks to Bristol Barkers website
The beach allows for a no-lead policy, and while the nearby cafes don't allow dogs inside, there are plenty of specially set up dog-friendly spots outside so your family can enjoy lunch together.
And when you're tired of the beach, there are some gorgeous inland walks to discover that are nothing more than a leisurely stroll.
There's no doubt that Somerset is one of the most dog-friendly luxury getaways in the country. You'll be spoilt for choice when it comes to finding stunning places you and your entire family will adore exploring.
The area is amazing for all ages, and your dogs are bound to love the open spaces, the vibrant environment, and everything the gorgeous landscapes and vistas of Somerset have to offer.