Hiking Collection by Dan Hobson
10
Tours
36:41 h
86.5 mi
5,700 ft
Bristol is well known for its world-class street art, vibrant culture, laid back attitude and rich history. Along with all the perks of being a bustling metropolis, this offbeat and alternative city boasts much natural beauty. Encircled by idyllic countryside and with many green spaces woven into the urban landscape, it truly is a city for outdoor enthusiasts.
In this Collection, I am sharing ten of my favourite hikes in and around Bristol. Honed and perfected from hiking and trail running in the area, these routes showcase the natural splendour that is right on the doorstep. While there are a couple of obvious choices, these Tours will hopefully reveal some oft-overlooked gems, too.
All hikes begin within the city limits or are less than a 30-minute drive away. Each starts at a tried-and-tested — typically free — parking spot and can be reached on public transport (details of both are provided in the Tour descriptions). All of these routes make top-notch trail runs.
Exploring lofty hilltops with breathtaking views, lush riversides with wild swimming spots, prehistoric monuments, enchanted woodlands, wildlife-rich nature reserves, picturesque rolling pastures, chocolate-box villages and traditional watering holes, the diverse landscapes this Collection covers are testament to how lucky Bristolians are.
The majority of these hikes take three to four hours to complete (which is generally what I look for in a local walk). However, there are some leisurely loops and longer routes here. Plus, most can be easily adapted to fit your requirements.
These routes are suitable for all abilities. While there are plenty of ups-and-downs, there is nothing too steep or sustained. You will need sturdy footwear at all times of year. In winter, decent boots and waterproofs are necessary. If you’re planning to take advantage of the wild swimming and picnic spots I’ve included, make sure you pack the sunscreen.
While you never stray too far from civilisation, refreshment is not always abundant so be sure to bring food and water with you.
If you want to discover some quality gravel rides around Bristol, check-out this Collection: komoot.com/collection/922289.
Kelston Roundhill is a familiar fixture on the North East Somerset horizon. It is little wonder then that the tree-crowned summit affords breathtaking panoramic views. This Tour takes you there via idyllic meadows and gentle riversides, ending marvelously at a country pub.
From The Shallows car park…
by Dan Hobson
Despite being the third largest complex of prehistoric standing stones in England, Stanton Drew stone circle is surprisingly little-visited. This Tour takes you to the magnificent monument and explores the idyllic Chew Valley.
From Pensford, join the Two Rivers Way footpath and follow it under Pensford…
by Dan Hobson
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
This leisurely hike explores one of the most popular walking spots in Bristol, Blaise Castle Estate, before winding back through Lawrence Weston Moor Nature Reserve, one of the area’s last remaining fragments of marshland.
From the car park, hike past Blaise Museum, which houses a social history collection…
by Dan Hobson
When it comes to walking or running from the doorstep, this route, and countless variations of it, is one I come back to time and time again.
Taking in the oft-overlooked St Anne’s Wood and Nightingale Valley, venturing through forgotten meadows and winding back along a stunning stretch of the River…
by Dan Hobson
This Tour explores the mystical woodland and rocky valley trails of Goblin Combe and the idyllic Yeo Valley. Expect breathtaking views, enchanting forest, Iron Age remains and quintessential Somerset countryside.
From the car park, you are straight into Goblin Combe nature reserve, an impressive limestone…
by Dan Hobson
If you want big hill vibes close to Bristol, Beacon Batch is the place to go. The highest point in the Mendip Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), you can expect some of the best views in the region here. Furthermore, this Tour explores rare wildlife havens and Iron Age remains.
From the…
by Dan Hobson
With picturesque woodland paths, abundant wildlife, iconic views and renowned MTB trails, Leigh Woods is synonymous with Bristol’s outdoors culture. This Tour winds through the beloved woodland and explores the spellbinding countryside and riverside that surrounds it.
From the Forestry England car park…
by Dan Hobson
This loop is perfect for a lazy summer afternoon. Taking you along the River Avon to one of Bristol’s best kept secrets, Beese’s Riverside Bar, it explores idyllic nature reserves with wild swimming spots and plenty of wildlife.
From the village centre car park, cross St Anne’s Footbridge and head right…
by Dan Hobson
This riverside ramble takes you from the heart of Bath to Bristol city centre along the banks of the River Avon. Meandering through varied and picturesque countryside with an urban start and finish, this route is an absolute gem.
The Bristol and Bath Railway Path makes for a terrific bike ride between…
by Dan Hobson
This hike explores the Bristol-edge of the Cotswolds, taking in Golden Valley Nature Reserve, Dyrham Park and endless dreamy landscapes.
From the car park, head left on the road, cross and hike along the lane into Golden Valley Nature Reserve. While these days, it is a picturesque woodland and wildlife…
by Dan Hobson
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