Average rating Walking in the Mendips

An Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and a national centre for outdoor sports, including caving, climbing, abseiling and, of course, walking, the Mendip Hills have something for everyone. This five night break waking in the Mendips can be guided, or self-guided, wither way it brings you the best of this fantastic region!

Comprising the historic counties of Devon, Dorset, Cornwall and Somerset, as well as the cities of Bristol, Plymouth and Exeter, the West Country is Britain’s agricultural heartland. The region is renowned for its moors, downland and spectacular coastline, as well as for its rich cultural heritage that included Neolithic sites, Roman settlements, the World Heritage city of Bath and countless medieval castles that are amongst the finest in Britain. The West Country is also much-loved for its tasty local produce, from ciders and beers to cheeses and clotted cream.

This six-day tour takes you to the Mendip Hills in the heart of the West Country. From your base in picturesque Loxton, you’ll head to Cheddar Gorge then up into the Hills, with awesome views of Glastonbury Tor and the Somerset Levels. You’ll cross pastureland near Shiplate and dense woodland at Upper Canada, then at Wavering Down you’ll be treated to a spectacular 360 degree panorama, including views across the Bristol Channel. Other highlights included the National Trust property of Kings Wood and the Victorian Gothic Banwell Castle. You’ll also climb up to Beacon Batch (325 metres) and Crook Peak, the two highest points in the Mendips.

A great tour covering some of England’s most least trodden paths. You only need to be in good health for these walks. Although you’re not covering any mammoth distances – you’ll average about 8 miles per day – there are a few hills to negotiate. Rest assured it’s not all uphill; there are plenty of valley villages with cosy pubs and tasty Somerset ciders. The tour is self-guided (you’ll be given a detailed map with route notes) so you can explore the countryside at your own pace, leaving plenty of time for photography, wildlife-spotting and other interests. You will require your own transport to take you to the start points of the walks.

Getting there

Bath is easily accessible by either train or car.

Price includes

Accommodation, breakfast, route notes, map.

Price details

£195 per person for the self-guided option
(singles supplement £75)



The guided option is £385 per person

Comfort level

Reasonably comfortable (Inns, B&Bs, luxury camping etc.)

Experience required

A reasonable interest is all that is needed