The best walks and hikes in Huntspill River National Nature Reserve

Yes, the area is very family-friendly. The landscape is predominantly flat, making for easy-going terrain. There are 69 easy trails in the region, many of which are short loops perfect for little legs. A good option is the Burnham-on-Sea Beach – Burnham-on-Sea Low Lighthouse loop from Burnham-on-Sea, which is a gentle walk with coastal views.

Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the trails. However, as this is a National Nature Reserve with sensitive wildlife and grazing livestock, you must keep your dog under close control at all times, and on a lead where signposted. Please be mindful of nesting birds, especially on the ground.

The terrain is characteristically flat, following the man-made river channel across the Somerset Levels. Most paths are well-maintained permissive footpaths along the riverbanks, consisting of grass or earth. While generally easy-going, they can become muddy and uneven after wet weather, so sturdy footwear is recommended.

There are several informal parking areas and lay-bys along the roads that run parallel to the Huntspill River, providing access to the permissive footpaths. Some access points have small, unpaved car parks. Be aware that some of these can be rough with potholes, so it's best to drive with care when entering.

Yes, there are several circular routes. While the main permissive path runs linearly along the river, many trails combine sections of the riverbank with quiet country lanes and other footpaths to create a loop. For a longer circular hike, consider the The Purple Spoon loop from Highbridge, which takes you through the expansive marshlands.

The reserve is a haven for wildlife, especially birds. Around 200 species have been recorded here. Keep an eye out for wading birds like oystercatchers and redshanks, birds of prey such as peregrines and sparrowhawks, and warblers in the reedbeds. The area is also famous for being a major moulting ground for shelducks. Otters and barn owls also inhabit the reserve.

The area is highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.4 stars. Hikers often praise the peaceful, flat walks along the river, the excellent opportunities for birdwatching, and the unique, open landscape of the Somerset Levels.

There is a wide variety of routes to explore, with over 100 trails mapped on komoot in the region. These range from short, easy strolls along the riverbank to longer, more moderate hikes that venture further into the surrounding wetlands and countryside.

While the reserve itself is focused on nature, there are amenities in the nearby towns and villages. For a place with refreshments and facilities, the highly-regarded Avalon Marshes Centre is a short drive away and has a cafe. The nearby towns of Highbridge and Burnham-on-Sea also offer a selection of pubs and cafes.

The river is not a natural feature; it's an artificial channel excavated during World War II. Its primary purpose was to supply a huge volume of fresh water to a nearby munitions factory. As you walk, you might spot historical remnants from this era, such as concrete pillboxes along the banks.

Accessing the trails directly by public transport can be challenging as most trailheads are in rural locations. The nearest towns with bus and train services are Highbridge and Burnham-on-Sea. From there, you would likely need to walk or take a taxi to reach the main footpaths along the river.