The best walks and hikes around Castle Combe

FAQs about hikes in Castle Combe

• Is hiking in Castle Combe suitable for families?
  Yes, Castle Combe is very family-friendly, offering many gentle paths perfect for outings with children.


• Where can I find places to eat along the hiking trails in Castle Combe?
  You'll find cosy cafes and pubs for lunch directly within Castle Combe village, and many nearby villages also offer pleasant spots to stop for a meal.


• Are there long-distance hiking options available in Castle Combe?
  While many routes are suitable for day trips, the entire Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty offers opportunities for full-day hikes or longer adventures, like the 14.4 km Path from Bybrook to Long Dean loop.


• What kind of scenery can I expect on hikes around Castle Combe?
  Expect picturesque landscapes with undulating pastures, charming woodlands, and serene streams. You'll also encounter historic village architecture, old mills, weirs, and stunning viewpoints over valleys and hills.


• What historical sights can I see on a hike in Castle Combe?
  Hikes here offer a glimpse into centuries past. You can explore streets lined with over 100 Grade Listed buildings, including pubs, old mills, the medieval market cross, and the impressive St Andrews church.


• Are there walks through forests or along rivers in Castle Combe?
  Absolutely! Many trails follow the banks of the By Brook river, winding through charming pockets of woodland. You'll find numerous waterside walks with old mills and weirs adding to the scenic beauty.


• What are the typical difficulty levels for hikes in Castle Combe?
  Hikes in Castle Combe generally range from easy to moderate, making them accessible for various fitness levels. You'll find gentle paths perfect for leisurely strolls and slightly more challenging routes for those seeking a longer outing.


• When is the best time of year to go hiking in Castle Combe?
  Spring and summer are particularly wonderful for hiking in Castle Combe, when the woodlands are at their greenest and the streams are flowing. The mild climate generally makes it enjoyable throughout much of the year.


• Is there parking available for hikers in Castle Combe?
  While specific parking details aren't listed, as a popular visitor village, there are typically public parking areas available for hikers. It's advisable to check local signage upon arrival.


• Can I bring my dog on hikes in Castle Combe?
  Many paths in and around Castle Combe are suitable for walking with dogs, especially the gentle trails. However, always be mindful of local signage regarding livestock or protected areas where dogs might need to be on a leash.

Exploring the historic village

As its name suggests, there was once a castle here. Built in the 12th-century, it was abandoned in the 13th, and only its foundations remain, just to the north. The village is hardly left wanting though. Some of the best hiking trails in Castle Combe take in its extraordinary streets that are lined by houses that look like they’ve wandered out of historical dramas. And they have: the village appears in numerous films and TV shows. The parish has over 100 Grade Listed buildings, most of which are Grade II-listed; something quite amazing given how small it is. 

From the pubs and mills to the medieval market cross and stunning St Andrews church, there are no buildings not worth admiring. Stroll the streets before heading into the countryside and don’t miss the bridge at the bottom of the village – it’s the most famous spot and for good reason. 

Woodlands, weirs and wonderful views

You don’t have to go far from the village to enjoy its glorious surroundings. As it sits on the banks of By Brook, a rather squiggly river, you can enjoy lots of waterside walks from Castle Combe in both directions. Numerous old mills sit beside the brook as well as several weirs, each adding to the magic of the trails. 

Much of the river is surrounded by pockets of woodland, making for a particularly wonderful experience in spring and summer when it’s at its greenest. All the hikes from Castle Combe are exceptionally scenic and usually include gentle climbs as you make your way in and out of the valley. Ascending nearby hills, you can enjoy pretty views over the various small valleys in the area, as well as looking down upon the village itself. 

The villages of Ford, North Wraxall, Nettleton and Yatton Keynell all make for lovely midway points on loop walks from Castle Combe. Many have lunch stops but perhaps the prettiest place to eat is Castle Combe itself.