The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Westhay Moor

Westhay Moor offers a wide selection of routes suitable for families. You'll find over 150 hiking trails in the area, with more than 70 of these classified as easy, making them perfect for outings with children.

The trails in Westhay Moor are generally flat, traversing a unique wetland environment with reed beds, lakes, and wet woodlands. While many paths are easily accessible, some can become wet and muddy, especially during winter or after rain. We recommend wearing appropriate footwear.

Yes, there are several easy circular routes. For a pleasant stroll, consider the Westhay Moor Nature Reserve loop from Meare, which is just over 3 km. Another great option is the Shady Drove – Westhay Moor Nature Reserve loop, covering about 4 km.

Westhay Moor is a haven for wildlife, especially birds. You might spot marsh harriers, kingfishers, great white egrets, and even bitterns. In winter, the reserve hosts spectacular starling murmurations. Keep an eye out for otters and water voles in the waterways too! There are several birdwatching hides, like the Viridor Hide, for excellent viewing opportunities.

Dogs are generally not permitted on the sensitive mire areas of Westhay Moor Nature Reserve. On other permissive tracks, dogs must be kept on leads to protect the wildlife. Please check specific trail regulations before you go. Note that the No Dogs Allowed – Bagley Community Orchard loop explicitly states no dogs.

The reserve itself is a significant natural feature, being the largest surviving fragment of lowland acid mire in the South-West. You can observe specialized flora like sundews and cotton grasses. From certain vantage points, you might also catch scenic views of iconic landmarks such as Glastonbury Tor to the southeast and the Mendip Hills to the north.

Westhay Moor offers something year-round. Spring and summer are great for seeing diverse flora and hearing birdsong. Autumn and winter are particularly spectacular for birdwatching, especially for the starling murmurations between autumn and February, and the large numbers of overwintering birds.

For families seeking a longer adventure, the Westhay Moor Nature Reserve – Shady Drove loop offers a moderate 5.3 km hike. For very active families with older children, the challenging Westhay Moore, Meare, & Division Rhyne loop is a substantial 20.5 km route, though it is rated as difficult due to its length.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the unique wetland landscapes, the abundance of wildlife, and the peaceful atmosphere. Many highlight the well-maintained trails and the excellent birdwatching opportunities.

While specific parking details vary by trailhead, Westhay Moor Nature Reserve generally provides parking facilities for visitors. It's always a good idea to check the starting point of your chosen route for precise parking information before your visit.

Given the wetland environment, waterproof footwear is highly recommended, especially outside of dry summer months. Binoculars are great for wildlife spotting, and don't forget water, snacks, and appropriate clothing layers for changing weather conditions. Sunscreen and insect repellent can also be useful.