The best walks and hikes around Bridgwater
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1,560
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Hikes around Bridgwater explore a landscape where the town meets the rural Somerset Levels. The region is characterized by level paths along the River Parrett and the Bridgwater and Taunton Canal, as well as routes through the nearby wetlands of the Steart Marshes. To the west, the terrain becomes more varied with the rolling hills and woodlands of the Quantock Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Best hiking trails around Bridgwater
- The most popular hiking route is Chandos Glass Cone Ruins – Bridgwater Docks loop from Bridgwater, a 6.7 mile (10.7 km) trail that takes around 2 hours 45 minutes to complete. This route follows level paths along the canal and through the town's historic docks area.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Fenlyn's Clyce loop from Chilton Trinity, a moderate 10.4 mile (16.7 km) path. The trail features flat terrain along the River Parrett, passing through the Bridgwater Bay National Nature Reserve.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Midas Cafe loop from Bridgwater, a 4.5 mile (7.2 km) trail leading through urban and riverside environments, often completed in about 1 hour 50 minutes.
- Hiking around Bridgwater is defined by tranquil canal towpaths, expansive wetland reserves, and the rolling wooded combes of the Quantock Hills. The network of paths provides options for different ability levels, from easy, flat walks to more challenging hikes.
- The routes in Bridgwater are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.2 stars from over 100 reviews. More than 1,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Bridgwater's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 24, 2026
2
hikers
25.3km
06:37
190m
190m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
11
hikers
10.7km
02:43
20m
20m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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3.0
(3)
4
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
hikers
4.57km
01:10
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
hikers
4.61km
01:10
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Best time when less dog walkers.
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This stone circle was made within the last hundred years from ancient saddle stones and a large lump of granite found on Huntstile Farm. The good news is that it's officially sanctioned by the druids. It stands at the top of the hill above the organic farm with woodland to the north and great views in all other directions.
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Huntstile Organic farm in Goathurst has a great little café as well as B&B, self catering, camping and glamping. The café is normally open 10:00 15:00 but is currently (July 2022) closed on Thurs and Fri. They also have pizza nights. Call 01278 662358 to check hours.
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Several cafes in the area for refreshment and some interesting historical sites around the docks
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Bridgwater hasn't got its name for no reason. This thriving town has both the River Parrett and the Bridgwater & Taunton Canal winding through its heart. The canal is particularly lovely, with vibrant banks, old brick bridges and peaceful vistas. At only 14.5 miles (23.3 km) long, the canal links Bridgwater to Taunton and you can walk the entirety. This portion in Bridgwater makes for a lovely stroll and is part of the Samaritans Way South West footpath.
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‘Clyce’ or ‘clyse’ is a regional word for sluice and you’ll find many if you walk along the River Parrett. The Somerset Levels is reclaimed land and barely above sea level, resulting in a sprawling wetland area. The water management of the Levels has been going for hundreds, if not thousands of years and sluices are an important part of controlling the run-off from the rivers. Many of the clyces you’ll find have been in place for a considerable amount of time and are a fascinating part of the local history. New ones are still built today.
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While the River Parrett is tidal all the way up to Oath, further inland, Dunball is the first point at which mudflats are particularly evident. When the tide is low, the mud here is filled with birds, hunting around for snacks. Dunball is also a working dockyard, the last on the River Parrett. It’s evidence of this river’s industrial past and the docks can be clearly seen from the River Parrett Trail on the southern bank.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there many dog-friendly walks around Bridgwater?
Yes, the Bridgwater area offers many great options for walking with your dog. The Quantock Hills are particularly popular, with wide-open spaces and woodland trails. Many walkers enjoy taking their dogs to places like Ramscombe Great Wood. Just be mindful of local signage, especially regarding livestock and wildlife, and note that some places like Kings Cliff require you to take all waste with you as there are no bins.
What are the best places for a family-friendly hike?
For an easy and engaging family walk, the National Trust's Fyne Court is an excellent choice. It features a wild garden and several guided trails through woodland, including an all-ability circular path that's great for little legs. Another option is the Bridgwater and Taunton Canal, which offers a flat, safe towpath perfect for a relaxed stroll with the family.
Are there any easy, flat walks suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The area is known for its level terrain. The Midas Cafe loop from Bridgwater is a great starting point, offering a gentle 4.5-mile (7.2 km) walk along the riverside. For a longer but equally flat route, the towpath along the Bridgwater and Taunton Canal provides miles of easy walking through peaceful, rural scenery.
Where can I find a good circular walk?
There are several excellent circular routes. For a challenging day out, the Bridgwater Canal & North Petherton loop from Bridgwater is a long but rewarding hike. If you're looking for something that combines town and country, the Chandos Glass Cone Ruins – Bridgwater Docks loop from Bridgwater is a popular moderate option that explores the historic docks and canal.
What are some scenic hikes in the Quantock Hills near Bridgwater?
The Quantock Hills AONB is renowned for its scenery. A hike to Wills Neck, the highest point, offers panoramic views across Somerset and the Bristol Channel. For a mix of woodland and open heathland, the trails around Cothelstone Hill are a great choice, where you might also see wild Exmoor ponies. Great Wood is another popular spot for scenic woodland walks.
Can I go for a coastal walk near Bridgwater?
Yes, the Bridgwater Bay National Nature Reserve offers fantastic coastal walking opportunities. You can explore the unique landscape of saltmarshes and mudflats, which are a haven for birdlife. The Hiking loop from Bridgwater takes you through parts of this area, offering a substantial walk with coastal scenery. The England Coast Path also passes through the nearby Steart Marshes.
How do other hikers rate the trails around Bridgwater?
The hiking routes around Bridgwater are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.2 stars. Reviewers often praise the variety of landscapes, from the flat, peaceful canal towpaths to the beautiful rolling hills of the Quantocks.
Are there any hikes that include a stop at a pub or cafe?
Many routes pass through or near villages with pubs and cafes. The National Trust's Fyne Court has a well-regarded cafe on-site, making it a perfect end to a walk around the estate. For walks along the Bridgwater and Taunton Canal, you can find pubs in the villages the towpath passes through, such as North Petherton.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see?
The area is rich in wildlife. The Steart Marshes and Bridgwater Bay National Nature Reserve are key locations for birdwatching, home to various wildfowl and wading birds. In the Quantock Hills, you might spot red deer and Exmoor ponies, while the woodlands at places like Fyne Court are great for spotting woodpeckers and other birds.
How does hiking in the Quantock Hills compare to the Mendip Hills?
Both offer fantastic hiking, but with different characteristics. The Quantock Hills, west of Bridgwater, are known for their mix of steep wooded combes, open heathland, and coastal views. The Mendip Hills, further north, are characterized by limestone gorges like Cheddar Gorge, rolling hills, and extensive cave systems. The Quantocks often feel wilder and more intimate, while the Mendips have more dramatic limestone features.
What is the terrain like on the Bridgwater and Taunton Canal walk?
The walk along the Bridgwater and Taunton Canal is almost entirely flat and follows a well-maintained towpath. The surface is generally easy underfoot, making it suitable for all fitness levels, families, and even some pushchairs. It's a very peaceful and gentle walk through the Somerset countryside.
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