The Ultimate Walking Guide to The Mendip Hills

Grab your boots and make way for these wondrous walking spots, a stone’s throw from our Mendip Hills Hotel in Somerset…

Are you a lover of the English countryside, in search of the ideal destination for a green getaway? Pack a picnic and seize the summer this year with 4 of our top destinations for walking adventures from your base on the Mendips.

There are a number of National Trust treasures hidden around the Webbington Mendip Hills hotel, and if you’re a National Trust member, then a trip to Somerset would indeed be perfect for you.

Crook Peak

Distance:  1 mile | Difficulty: ModerateThe distinctive rocky pinnacle of Crook Peak bathed in sunshine. (Source)

Crook Peak is the highest of the six hills in the Mendips of Somerset and overlooks the Somerset levels and Bristol Channel. Here, you can enjoy a steep walk to the summit, following paths in the woodland into the open limestone grassland up to the peak. This walk is approximately 2 ½ miles and starts on the Webbington Road, practically on the doorstep of our Mendip Hills hotel. For further information on Crook Peak visit the National Trust website, or simply download their map of Crook Peak here.

Sand Point & Middle Hope

Distance:  11 miles | Difficulty: Moderate
The trail facing the spectacular sun-kissed coastline. (Source)

Sand Point and Middle Hope are hidden gems in Somerset, and just a short drive from our Mendip Hills hotel. Located in the North of Weston-Super-Mare, these are some of the most beautiful areas with stunning coastal views. These walks vary from just 1 mile, where you can enjoy a Somerset stroll along the coast, or you can opt for the longer route around Sand Point which is 3 miles.

Once you reach the end of your windswept coastal walk, you can enjoy the spectacular views of Somerset and take in the beautiful South West countryside.

There is also plenty of wildlife in the area. Sand Point and Middle Hope are both great spots for bird watching, so make sure you pack your binoculars!

Cheddar Gorge

Distance:  6 miles | Difficulty: HardThe breathtaking views from the gorge on a beautiful summer’s day. (Source)

Cheddar Gorge is world-famous for being an area of outstanding natural beauty, home to the highest inland limestone cliff in the country, and located a mere 6 miles from our Mendip Hills hotel. You can climb to the highest point of Cheddar Gorge on a 3-mile walk and you can walk along the skyline to view the stunning pinnacles and horse shoe bend of Cheddar Gorge.

Walking boots are a must when visiting Cheddar Gorge, as it is rocky underfoot and can be muddy. Make sure you wrap up warm too. Although Spring has arrived and summer is right around the corner, the heights can get very cold, especially when you are 900 feet above sea level.

Note: This is private land. People with a Gorge & Caves Explorer ticket are welcome to explore the 360-acre Nature Reserve. Make sure you purchase your tickets online for the best deals.

Last, but certainly not least…

Chew Valley Lake 

Distance:  16 miles | Difficulty: EasyThe idyllic Somerset countryside is met by the tranquil waters of the Chew Valley Lake. (Source)

Chew Valley Lake is a large, man-made reservoir in Chew Valley, Somerset. This is the perfect place to visit if you’re looking for an easy and relaxing walking route. The walk around Chew Valley Lake is approximately 2.5 miles, offering spectacular reservoir views an has a restaurant and picnic area on site. Chew Valley Lake is also a prime location in the Mendip Hills for bird spotting and fishing. So, if you’re at one with nature, this is an ideal Somerset spot for you.

So there you have it! Our walkers guide for our Mendip Hills hotel in Somerset. Those are just a fine selection of our top favourite places to visit in the Mendip Hills for the most wondrous walks in Somerset.

After exploring the Mendip Hills, why not consider ending your travels at the Webbington Hotel & Spa, which is in touching distance of the Mendip Hills.  

For the best hotel rates near the Mendip Hills, book online or call 01934 750100.