The best walks and hikes around Doulting

There are over 200 hiking routes to explore around Doulting, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging sections of long-distance paths. The area offers a great variety, with 105 easy, 96 moderate, and 3 difficult trails available.

The komoot community rates the hiking in Doulting very highly. Reviewers often praise the beautiful rolling countryside of the Mendip Hills, the well-preserved historic footpaths, and the chance to see significant landmarks like ancient tithe barns and Victorian viaducts right from the trail.

Yes, many trails are great for walking with a dog. However, the routes often cross farmland with livestock, so it's essential to keep your dog on a lead in these areas. For off-lead opportunities, a visit to a nearby woodland area like the popular Beacon Hill Woods can be a good option.

Absolutely. The region has many shorter, easier walks that are perfect for a family outing. Look for routes with minimal elevation gain that explore the local fields and woodlands. Trails that pass by the River Sheppey or the heritage East Somerset Railway line are often a hit with younger children.

Yes, Doulting is an excellent base for circular hikes. Many routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same place without retracing your steps. These range from short village walks to longer, more demanding circuits like the 10-mile Charlton Viaduct loop from Shepton Mallet that take in a wider section of the surrounding landscape.

The trails around Doulting are rich with history. You can walk past the magnificent 600-year-old Abbey Tithe Barn, see the Doulting Stone Quarry which supplied stone for Wells Cathedral, and discover St. Aldhelm's Well, the ancient spring that marks the source of the River Sheppey.

While some trailheads are accessible via bus services connecting to nearby towns like Shepton Mallet and Frome, many of the more rural starting points are best reached by car. It's recommended to check local bus schedules in advance as services can be infrequent, especially on weekends.

For hikes starting in Doulting village, on-street parking is available but can be limited, so please park considerately. For trails starting in nearby towns like Shepton Mallet, there are several public car parks. Some popular nature spots like Stockhill Wood have their own small car parks, but they can fill up quickly on busy days.

The terrain is typical of the Somerset countryside. Expect rolling hills, grassy footpaths through fields, and some woodland tracks which can become muddy after rain. The area sits on the edge of the Mendip Hills, so some routes involve steady climbs that reward you with expansive views.

Yes, Doulting is a key point on the East Mendip Way, a long-distance trail stretching from Wells to Frome. You can hike a section of this path for a more challenging day out, enjoying beautiful farmland, ancient woods, and distant views of Glastonbury Tor.

Many trails offer fantastic views across the Sheppey Valley and the wider Somerset landscape. Hikes that climb towards the East Mendip Way provide some of the best panoramic vistas. From certain high points on clear days, you can even spot the famous Glastonbury Tor in the distance.

While the area is known for moderate walks, there are options for those seeking a challenge. The Charlton Viaduct – Marbury's Café loop from Shepton Mallet is a difficult-rated hike of nearly 12 miles (19 km) with over 300 meters of ascent, offering a strenuous but rewarding day on the trails.