Best walks in Somerset

The county of Somerset comprises two national parks, towering coastal cliffs, crashing waterfalls and high moorland.

Discover this diverse landscape with or guide to the best hikes in the county.

• Cornwall's best walks
• Take a hike in Devon

Spot wood warblers and a host of other wildlife in Horner Wood ©GettyThe Horner Valley and its surroundings, including the Vale of Porlock and Exmoor’s highest point Dunkery Beacon, lies within the National Trust’s Holnicote Estate, once owned by the Acland family. nestles by Horner Water, ideally situated for excursions on horseback or foot. This wonderful four-mile bridle trail explores Exmoor’s ancient oak woodlands – the perfect walk for wildlife-spotting.

Route details

• 6.4km/3.9miles
• Easy/moderate
• 2.5 hours

Route and map

High on a hill in north-east Exmoor, medieval Dunster Castle glows above lantern-lit houses, music-filled streets and bustling gift shops. It’s a magical scene best enjoyed after a winter walk.

Route details

• 6.4km/3.9miles
• Easy/moderate
• 2.5 hours

Route and map

The towering walls, glorious gables, Tudor artwork and fragrant gardens of Montacute House provide the perfect starting point for a six-mile walk through south Somerset’s ancient countryside.

Route details

• 10.2km/6.3 miles
• 4 hours
• Moderate

Route and map

Tarr Steps is one of Exmoor’s true hidden treasures and a firm favourite with visitors – once you’ve discovered it you’ll find yourself drawn back time and time. This gentle seven-mile ramble meanders alongside the river before looping through Withypool and climbing for gorgeous views over Exmoor.

Route details

• 11.7km/7.3 mile
• 4 hours
• moderate

Map and route

A nine-mile coastal walk along the pebbled storm berms, coastal cliffs and saltmarshes of Porlock Bay in Exmoor National Park.

Route details

• 16.6/10.3miles
• 6 hours
• Moderate/hard

Route and map

Between the Mendip and Quantock Hills, the Somerset countryside is famously flat. But, running parallel with these well-walked ranges is a lesser-known ridge quietly crossing the otherwise-level landscape. Enjoy this 12-mile hike along the hills' main ridge through beautiful woodland and grassland.

Route details

• 14km/11.2 miles (return)
• 3 hours
• Moderate

Rising from the winter wetlands, Burrow Mump not only takes you by surprise – it transports you back in time. This 6km (4-mile) hike leads you to the summit of Burrow Mump and along the River Parrot to Stathe.

The route

• 6km/4 miles
• 2.5 hours
• Moderate

Route and map