4.5
(1655)
16,779
hikers
562
hikes
Hiking around Norton Malreward offers diverse landscapes for outdoor enthusiasts. The area is characterized by undulating terrain that rises to prominent hilltops, providing expansive vistas across the Chew Valley Lake and towards the Mendip Hills. Notable features include the Iron Age hillfort of Maes Knoll on Dundry Hill and the River Chew, which flows through the region. The local geology also features clay, red sandstone, and lias limestone.
Last updated: May 3, 2026
4.7
(74)
275
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(1)
2
hikers
4.96km
01:24
100m
100m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
7.17km
01:57
100m
110m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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As with many stories of stone circles, legends explained the stones were a petrified party of people. Aubrey wrote that The Cove were the parson, bridegroom, and bride. Another group of stones was the band, while the circles comprised the dancing guests later, the story evolved, as the wedding took place on a Saturday. As the evening wore on, one musician player (either a piper or a harper) had simply refused to play beyond the point of midnight since it would mean playing on into the Sunday. The furious bride claimed she would find another player even if it meant travelling to hell to fetch one. Then Hell came to her in the form of the Devil, dressed in a disguise of that as an old man. He played and played as the company endlessly danced, but soon to find that they couldn’t stop dancing, no matter how much they tried or badly wanted to, and they had became to turn into stone by in the Sunday morning
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Pensford Viaduct is a disused railway bridge. It was built in 1874 to carry the Bristol and North Somerset railway over the River Chew. It was closed in 1968 and is now preserved as a historic building. Great views of the viaduct can be had from Stanton Lane.
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This is very steep at the top..
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Beautiful Landscape & Walking Route Along River Chew Accesible From Pensford Bridge. Some initial parts of the path gets quite muddy after prior days of rain but can still walk through with boots. Best to walk after few days of dry weather.
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Great cakes all home made by the friendly and talented Cathy. Such a wonderful setting and plenty of seating as well as bicycle parking - a hidden gem not to be missed!
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Great coffee and great home made cakes in a lovely welcoming atmosphere - thanks so much Cathy!
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There are over 570 hiking routes accessible by bus around Norton Malreward, offering a wide variety of options for all skill levels. This includes more than 350 easy routes and over 210 moderate trails.
Yes, Norton Malreward offers numerous easy hiking options that are accessible by bus. Many routes feature gentle inclines and well-maintained paths, perfect for a relaxed outing. For example, the Pensford Viaduct – Pensford Viaduct loop from Norton Malreward is an easy 5.5 km route that provides scenic views without significant elevation gain.
The terrain around Norton Malreward is wonderfully diverse, ranging from undulating paths through the Chew Valley to more elevated sections on hills like Dundry Hill. You can expect a mix of riverside strolls along the River Chew, open countryside, and paths offering panoramic views from prominent hilltops such as Maes Knoll.
Yes, many of the bus-accessible routes around Norton Malreward are circular, allowing you to start and end your hike at the same bus stop. This makes planning your day trip straightforward. An example is the Pensford Viaduct – The Round House, Stanton Drew loop from Norton Malreward, a moderate 8.2 km circular trail.
The area is rich in history. You can hike to ancient sites like the Stanton Drew Stone Circles, one of England's largest prehistoric monuments. Another prominent landmark is the striking Pensford Viaduct, a Grade II-listed former railway bridge that spans the River Chew and is a highlight on several routes. The Iron Age hillfort of Maes Knoll also offers historical interest and incredible views.
Absolutely. Hikes from Norton Malreward bus stops often lead to breathtaking viewpoints. You can enjoy panoramic vistas from View from Maes Knoll, stretching across the Chew Valley Lake towards the Mendip Hills, and north to Bristol. The Chew Valley Lake itself is a significant natural feature, visible from various elevated points and offering scenic walks along its dam.
The bus-accessible trails around Norton Malreward are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from over 1,500 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the diverse landscapes, the historical points of interest, and the convenience of accessing these beautiful routes via public transport.
Yes, many routes are suitable for families. Look for trails marked as 'easy' with shorter distances and minimal elevation gain. These often pass through pleasant countryside or along the River Chew, providing enjoyable outings for all ages. The Shaded Forest Path – View of Pensford Viaduct loop from Norton Malreward is an easy 5 km option that could be great for families.
While most routes are easy to moderate, there are a few more challenging options for experienced hikers, with 11 difficult routes available. These trails typically involve steeper ascents and longer distances, often leading to the highest points of Dundry Hill or connecting to long-distance paths like the Monarch's Way.
Spring and autumn are generally considered the best seasons for hiking around Norton Malreward. In spring, the countryside bursts with new life, and in autumn, the changing foliage offers spectacular colours. Summer is also pleasant, though some paths may be more exposed to the sun. Winter hikes are possible, but trails can be muddy, so appropriate footwear is essential.
Many of the trails around Norton Malreward are dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy the countryside with your canine companion. However, always keep dogs under control, especially when passing through farmland with livestock. It's advisable to check local signage for any specific restrictions, particularly around nature reserves or protected areas.


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