The best walks and hikes in Somerset Levels National Nature Reserve

Yes, the region is excellent for circular walks. The flat landscape and network of paths along rhynes (drainage ditches) and rivers create numerous loop opportunities. While many routes are level, some incorporate climbs to prominent hills for panoramic views. For a longer, more challenging loop that explores the vast open landscape, consider the Burrow Mump & West Sedge Moor loop.

The Somerset Levels are ideal for family outings due to the predominantly flat terrain. The Avalon Marshes area is particularly suitable, with reserves like Shapwick Heath and Ham Wall offering accessible paths and boardwalks. The Avalon Marshes Centre is a great starting point, providing toilets, a café, and information before you head out on a gentle walk.

Dogs are generally welcome on public footpaths, but it's crucial to keep them under close control, especially on a lead. This is a sensitive landscape with ground-nesting birds, grazing livestock, and other wildlife. Always check the specific rules for nature reserves, as some areas may have restrictions to protect the fauna and flora.

The Somerset Levels are a paradise for wildlife watchers. The wetlands, particularly within the Avalon Marshes reserves like Ham Wall and Shapwick Heath, are famous for birdlife. Listen for the booming call of the bittern and look for great white egrets, marsh harriers, and hobbies. The area also supports otters, water voles, and a rich variety of dragonflies.

A popular and well-equipped starting point is the Avalon Marshes Centre. It offers parking, a café, toilets, and direct access to trails leading into Shapwick Heath and Westhay Moor. For walks around Burrow Mump, there is parking available in the village of Burrowbridge, which serves as a convenient base for exploring the southern part of the Levels.

The experience is quite different. The Somerset Levels offer vast, open, and flat landscapes defined by wetlands, rhynes, and expansive skies, ideal for leisurely walks and birdwatching. In contrast, the Mendip Hills National Landscape is a limestone plateau offering more strenuous hikes with significant elevation changes, rocky gorges like Ebbor Gorge, and panoramic views from high ridges.

While the area is better known for its circular day walks, the flat terrain lends itself to long-distance hiking. You can connect various local paths and trails to create extended routes. For a challenging day-long hike that covers significant ground, the 20.5 km Westhay Moore, Meare, & Division Rhyne loop explores the heart of the Avalon Marshes.

The region is highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.5 stars. Hikers frequently praise the unique, peaceful atmosphere of the wetlands, the excellent opportunities for birdwatching, and the beauty of the wide-open landscapes. The mix of easy, flat paths and the occasional rewarding climb up hills like Burrow Mump is also a popular feature.

Yes, winter can be a spectacular time to hike in the Somerset Levels, especially for birdwatching when vast flocks of wintering waterfowl arrive. However, be prepared for wet and muddy conditions. Many paths follow riverbanks and cross low-lying fields, so waterproof hiking boots are essential. Some paths may be flooded after heavy rain.

Absolutely. While the region is mostly flat, the hikes to the top of Burrow Mump and Glastonbury Tor are famous for their incredible 360-degree panoramic views. These isolated hills rise dramatically from the surrounding plains, allowing you to see for miles across the patchwork of fields and wetlands. The Burrow Bridge and Toll Gate – Burrow Mump loop is a moderate walk that includes this rewarding climb.

There is a vast network of trails to explore, with over 300 routes available on komoot. These range from very short, easy access walks of just a couple of kilometres to much longer, challenging day hikes, ensuring there's a suitable option for every fitness level.

Accessing the heart of the reserves by public transport can be challenging, as services are often limited in this rural area. The nearest major town with a train station is Bridgwater. From there, you may be able to use local bus services to get closer to trailheads, but it's best to check timetables in advance as services can be infrequent.