4.5
(2120)
14,613
hikers
588
hikes
Easy hiking trails around Compton Martin are set within the picturesque Chew Valley in Somerset, offering diverse landscapes for outdoor activities. The area is characterized by rolling limestone hills, open fields, and woodlands, situated between Chew Valley Lake and Blagdon Lake. It lies north of the Mendip Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, providing varied terrain for hikers. The River Chew also flows through the region, with accessible walking routes along its banks.
Last updated: May 3, 2026
4.6
(42)
255
hikers
7.04km
01:52
70m
70m
The Chew Valley Lake, Knowle Hill & Chew Magna loop offers a diverse and scenic hiking experience at the northern edge of the Mendip Hills. You will find a mix…
3.0
(2)
11
hikers
4.33km
01:09
50m
50m
This easy 2.7-mile loop around Knowle Hill offers panoramic views of Chew Valley Lake and the Mendip Hills, perfect for beginners.

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5
hikers
5.79km
01:31
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
77
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1.0
(1)
73
hikers
3.07km
00:48
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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The concrete outlet tower serves as the central control point for the reservoir's water supply. Connected by a bridge to the main dam, the tower houses sluice gates and valves that regulate the flow and distribution of water to the River Chew and the local water supply.
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This hill, while lower than the surrounding ridges, provides great views from the top. Fern covered with several tracks crossing the slopes.
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Beautiful Lake. It's very large(!) And is really easily accessible, there is parking right by the edge of the lake, if you can not walk there. It's a fantastic spot for bird watching, too! There is a board that displays the birds you may be likely to see and when you'll see them. Please do not feed bread to the ducks & birds! (I know it was normal, I used to do it as a small child in the late 80s & 90s, but we know it's bad for them now)
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Chew Valley Lake is the 5th largest artificial lake in the UK. It was constructed in the 1950s to supply drinking water for Bristol and the nearby area. There are brilliant views of the lake and surrounding countryside as you pass along the dam.
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Chew Valley Lake formed by the construction of this dam on the River Chew in the 1950's. Built to provide drinking water for Bristol.
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Chew Valley Lake was created in the early 1950 s to provide drinking water to Bristol and the surrounding area. It also controls the flow rate of the River Chew. The A368 crosses the southern edge of the lake. There is car parking along the causeway, and it's always a popular bird watching area.
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Chew Valley Lake was created in the early 1950s to provide drinking water to Bristol and the surrounding area. It also controls the flow rate of the River Chew. This picnic area is a nice place to start a walk or stop for a lunch break. The views are lovely and it's easily accessible.
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There are over 280 easy hiking trails around Compton Martin. These routes are generally well-suited for beginners and those looking for a relaxed outdoor experience, often featuring gentle slopes and well-maintained paths.
Easy hikes around Compton Martin offer diverse and picturesque scenery. You can expect rolling limestone hills, open fields, and woodlands. Many trails provide stunning views of both Chew Valley Lake and Blagdon Lake, as the area is uniquely positioned between these two significant bodies of water. The Mendip Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty forms a beautiful backdrop for many routes.
Yes, Compton Martin is an excellent location for family-friendly easy walks. Many routes are designed with gentle terrain, making them suitable for all ages. For example, the Knowle Hill loop from Chew Valley Lake is an easy 2.7-mile path that offers scenic views and is popular with families.
Most easy trails around Compton Martin are dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful scenery with your canine companion. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash, especially when passing through farmland with livestock or in nature conservation areas. Please ensure you clean up after your dog to help keep the trails pleasant for everyone.
Yes, many of the easy hiking trails around Compton Martin are circular routes, perfect for starting and ending at the same point. These loops often take you through varied landscapes, including lakeside paths, fields, and woodlands. An example is the Chew Valley Lake loop from West Harptree — Mendip Hills, which is a 3.6-mile circular trail.
On easy hikes around Compton Martin, you can encounter several interesting features. The prominent Knowle Hill offers excellent viewpoints. You'll also frequently see the expansive Chew Valley Lake and tranquil Blagdon Lake. While not directly on easy trails, the wider area includes natural monuments like Ebbor Gorge and the scenic Cheddar Gorge, which are worth exploring if you venture further.
The best time for easy hiking in Compton Martin is generally from spring through autumn (April to October). During these months, the weather is milder, and the trails are less likely to be muddy. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, while autumn offers beautiful foliage. Winter hikes are possible, but trails can be wet and slippery, so appropriate footwear is essential.
The easy trails in Compton Martin are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 2,000 reviews. Hikers often praise the beautiful lakeside views, the peaceful atmosphere of the woodlands, and the well-maintained paths that make for an enjoyable and accessible outdoor experience.
Easy hikes around Compton Martin are characterized by relatively gentle elevation changes. For instance, the View of Chew Valley Lake – Chew Valley Lake Picnic Area loop from Chew Stoke has an elevation gain of only about 17 meters. Most easy routes feature minor ascents and descents, making them suitable for those who prefer less strenuous terrain.
Yes, the River Chew flows through the area, and there are accessible walking routes along its banks. These paths offer a different perspective of the local landscape, often winding through picturesque countryside and providing opportunities to observe local wildlife. While specific easy routes along the entire river are not detailed here, many trails in the wider Chew Valley area will intersect or run parallel to sections of the river.
Parking for easy hiking trails around Compton Martin is typically available at designated car parks near popular trailheads, especially around Chew Valley Lake. Some routes may also have roadside parking options in villages or near specific points of interest. Always check local signage for any parking restrictions or fees.


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