4.2
(168)
854
hikers
8
hikes
Bus station hiking trails around Chard Town offer access to a diverse landscape in Somerset, England. The region is characterized by rolling hills, ancient woodlands, and steep-sided valleys, particularly within the Blackdown Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Lush countryside, tranquil reservoir paths, and wildflower meadows contribute to varied scenery for outdoor activities. The area features a network of footpaths suitable for different fitness levels, with elevations generally under 200 meters.
Last updated: May 3, 2026
5.0
(3)
15
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
14
hikers
10.6km
02:43
50m
50m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Sign up for free
1
hikers
11.8km
03:06
100m
100m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
hikers
6.86km
01:46
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Donyatt Halt Records for Donyatt Halt state: "This halt, opened on May 5th, 1928, has a single platform edged with wooden sleepers, and a small wooden shelter. A pathway leads up from the platform to the road, which crosses the line by an overbridge at the Ilminster end of the platform. An ornate oil lamp stands at the top of the path and there are various posts with brackets for hanging oil lamps in winter." It would be the guard's duty to light and extinguish these lamps. Five trains a day operated in each direction taking about 45 minutes for the 15 - mile journey from Taunton to Chard, having made stops at Thornfalcon, Hatch, Ilton, Ilminster and Donyatt. Donyatt.com
0
0
Chard is a charming town located in Somerset, near the county borders of Devon and Dorset. Chard is a very notable town as it is the birthplace of powered flight. In 1848, in the town of Chard, Victorian aeronautical pioneer John Stringfellow first demonstrated that engine-powered flight was possible - and the rest is history!
3
0
Chard Reservoir is no longer used as a commercial reservoir but is managed as a nature reserve. A lovely, peaceful spot to stop and watch the water birds.
1
0
Built in 1842 to provide water for the local canal this is now a nature reserve and fishing lake managed by South Somerset District Council.
1
0
Nice statue of a girl waiting for the train that will never come along the well maintained gravel track but some sharp changes in direction make the run from ilminster to chard confusing if you expect to be on the old railway tracks
2
0
Rest the bike up and take in the views across the reservoir, great for all the family with a walk path into the local nature reserve. No cafe or shop, so make sure you take your own food/drinks/fuel!
1
0
There are 8 hiking trails accessible from bus stations around Chard Town. These routes offer a variety of experiences, from tranquil reservoir paths to scenic countryside loops.
Hikes accessible from Chard Town bus stations often lead you through the diverse landscapes of Somerset. You can expect rolling hills, ancient woodlands, and tranquil paths around the Chard Reservoir Nature Reserve, which is known for its diverse wildlife. The surrounding area is characterized by lush countryside and wildflower meadows, offering a picturesque backdrop for your outdoor adventures.
Yes, there are 3 easy hikes available. A great option is the Chard Reservoir Nature Reserve – Chard Reservoir loop from Chard, which offers a gentle walk around the tranquil reservoir. Another easy route is the Chard Reservoir – Chard Reservoir Nature Reserve loop from Knowle St. Giles, providing similar peaceful scenery.
Yes, all the hiking routes listed in this guide are circular, meaning you will end your journey back at your starting point, which is convenient for bus travel. For example, the Sunset View Over the River – Chard Reservoir Nature Reserve loop from Chard is a popular circular option.
Many of the trails around Chard Town are dog-friendly, especially those through natural reserves like Snowdon Park, which is on the edge of Chard. When hiking with your dog, always ensure they are under control, especially near livestock or wildlife, and check for any specific local restrictions.
Yes, some routes offer glimpses of historical interest. For instance, the Stone Railway Bridge – Donyatt Halt loop from Chard passes by Donyatt Halt, a former railway station. While not directly on all bus-accessible routes, the wider region features significant sites like Castle Neroche Iron Age Hill Fort and Lambert's Castle Hillfort, which offer fascinating insights into the area's past.
The hiking trails around Chard Town are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.2 stars from 163 ratings. Reviewers often praise the tranquil nature of the routes, the well-maintained paths, and the opportunities for birdwatching, especially around Chard Reservoir.
Many of the trails, particularly the easier loops around Chard Reservoir, are well-suited for families. They offer relatively flat terrain and pleasant scenery, making them enjoyable for all ages. The Chard Reservoir Nature Reserve – Chard Reservoir loop from Chard is a good example of a family-friendly option.
Yes, several routes offer scenic viewpoints. The Sunset View Over the River – Chard Reservoir Nature Reserve loop from Chard is specifically named for its scenic vistas. The wider Blackdown Hills AONB, which borders Chard, is renowned for its elevated positions offering expansive views of the surrounding countryside.
Spring and summer are particularly pleasant for hiking around Chard Town, with wildflowers blooming and wildlife active around areas like Chard Reservoir. Autumn offers beautiful foliage, especially in the woodlands. While winter hikes are possible, be prepared for potentially muddy conditions on some trails.
Yes, there are 5 moderate hikes available. For a longer, more moderate challenge, consider the Chard Reservoir – Chard Reservoir Nature Reserve loop from Chard, which covers nearly 12 km. These routes typically involve more varied terrain and longer durations compared to the easy options.


Browse the best Hikes in other regions.