The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Wells

Begin your moderate hike on the Well's Cathedral, The Bishop’s Palace, and Dincote loop, a journey spanning 6.3 miles (10.2 km) with an elevation gain of 442 feet (135 metres). This route offers a pleasant blend of historic cityscapes and tranquil countryside, taking approximately 2 hours and 44 minutes to complete. You will walk on easily accessible paths, transitioning from the grandeur of Wells' landmarks to peaceful fields and meadows. Imagine the intricate Gothic architecture of Wells Cathedral, built from honey-colored stone, as a central visual anchor. The trail also guides you through the 14 acres of gardens at The Bishop's Palace, before leading you into the serene rural landscape where you might encounter grazing cows.

Planning your visit for this moderate route means ensuring you have a good level of fitness, even though many sections are quite accessible. While there are no specific permits or fees mentioned, you should consider general parking availability in Wells, especially during peak times. The path combines paved sections near the Bishop's Palace with unpaved routes through fields, so appropriate footwear is advisable. Starting your hike earlier in the day can help you avoid crowds, particularly around the popular historic sites.

This loop provides a unique opportunity to experience the historical heart of Wells alongside its pastoral surroundings. The Bishop's Palace is particularly notable for its unique swans, which have learned to ring a bell for food, adding a charming and memorable detail to your visit. The route's combination of architectural marvels and natural beauty makes it a standout choice for exploring the Somerset region. It offers a distinct perspective on the area, moving from the grandeur of human history to the quiet simplicity of rural life.

Embark on the Wells to Ebbor Gorge loop via Wookey Holes Caves, a moderate hike covering 7.4 miles (11.9 km) with an elevation gain of 1167 feet (356 metres), typically taking around 3 hours and 31 minutes. You will experience a varied landscape, from open fields and woodlands to dramatic limestone formations. As you traverse Ebbor Gorge, expect steep climbs and descents, with sections that can be rocky, wet, and muddy, demanding good footwear. The route offers expansive views over the Somerset Levels, reaching Glastonbury Tor on a clear day, and passes by the famous Wookey Hole Caves. You will also encounter pretty streams and interesting rock formations along the way.

This loop is generally considered a moderate hike, though some variations can be strenuous, requiring good fitness due to the steep climbs and descents. Navigating the potentially rocky, wet, and muddy sections within Ebbor Gorge requires sure-footedness, so make sure you wear appropriate hiking boots. It is advised to stick to waymarked paths throughout the route, as departing from them can be dangerous. Be prepared for several stiles and kissing gates along the way.

Ebbor Gorge itself is a significant natural landmark, often described as the "loveliest and most unspoilt gorge in the Mendips." Formed over 200,000 years ago, its unique geology and biodiversity make it a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest and a National Nature Reserve, rich in wildflowers and birdlife. Portions of the loop often follow the West Mendip Way, ensuring well-established routes, and you will also pass historical elements like ancient trackways and lime kilns.