ハナム・アボッツのおすすめウォーキング＆ハイキングルート

Can be abit of a fun mess when it rains

A lovely spot to stop for a break or drink

A quagmire in winter.

Conham River Park has breathtaking beauty around every corner. The woodland and river are home to lots of wildlife; herons can regularly be observed, bats can be seen at dusk, water voles can be spotted, and many bird species inhabit the area. Alongside the Avon is a Local Nature Reserve composed of three maturing broadleaved woodlands. There are lots of places to relax, as well as swimming spots and many trails to explore. It can get busy at times, especially hot summer days, but it’s easy to see why. A wonderful escape from the city! You can follow the riverside path (albeit with a couple of crossings) all the way to Bath, which makes for a wonderful walk or jog.

The trees on the opposite side of the river are used by nesting grey herons every year. The prehistoric-looking birds have been using this site as a ‘heronry’ for a number of years now. Herons arrive in February and typically lay their eggs in the same nests each year, which hatch between March and April. The best time to observe the birds is in April, when nests are still visible before they become obscured by tree leaves.

Hailed as Bristol's best-kept secret, Beese's is a wonderful riverside bar with a large, charismatic and sunny beer garden overlooking the Avon. It’s something of a Bristol institution. The bar opens from spring to late summer every year and serves good food and drink. You can catch the occasional gig here, too. Access is via the Conham River Ferry (directly across on the opposite bank) for £1, which travels whenever people need it. Alternatively, you can head round to Eastwood Farm. The large meadow next to Beese’s is the ‘Costa del Bristol’ — a popular wild swimming, sunbathing and picnic spot that is brilliant on a summer afternoon.

This picturesque lock has a couple of pubs, the Old Lock & Weir and the Chequers Inn, both of which serve food. There is plenty of outdoor seating by the river and always a warm and vibrant atmosphere, especially in summer.

Mountain Bike tyres recommended!