The best running trails around Mendip

The Mendip Hills offer a diverse and dramatic landscape for runners. You can expect impressive limestone formations, including deep gorges like Cheddar Gorge, expansive plateaus, ancient woodlands, and numerous valleys. The terrain varies from gentle paths to strenuous climbs, with elevations reaching over 300 meters, providing both challenging ascents and rewarding panoramic views.

There are over 640 running routes available in the Mendip Hills. These routes cater to a wide range of abilities, with approximately 67 easy routes, 476 moderate routes, and 101 difficult routes, ensuring options for every runner.

The Mendip Hills are rich in natural beauty. You can encounter spectacular views along Cheddar Gorge, explore ancient woodlands in areas like Ebbor Gorge, and enjoy panoramic vistas from peaks such as Beacon Batch or Black Down Summit. Some routes also offer views towards iconic landmarks like Glastonbury Tor.

Yes, many of the running routes in the Mendip Hills are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the Ebbor Gorge, Wookey Hole trail loop is a popular option that takes you through ancient woodlands and past natural features.

The Mendip Hills are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 90 reviews. Runners often praise the varied terrain, the stunning natural beauty of the gorges and plateaus, and the extensive network of trails suitable for different abilities. Over 5,000 runners have used komoot to explore this region.

While many routes in the Mendip Hills can be challenging, there are easier, more moderate paths suitable for families. Look for routes with lower elevation gain and shorter distances. For instance, the Castle Moat loop from Wells is a moderate, shorter option.

Many trails in the Mendip Hills National Landscape are dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy a run with your canine companion. However, it's always advisable to keep dogs on a lead, especially near livestock or in nature reserves like Ebbor Gorge, to protect wildlife and ensure safety. Always check local signage for specific restrictions.

Access to the Mendip Hills is generally good, with various starting points for routes. Many trailheads offer parking facilities, though these can vary in size and may be busy during peak times. For routes starting near towns like Frome, public transport options such as train stations can also be utilized, as seen with the River Frome & East Mendip Way loop from Frome station.

Yes, the Mendip Hills offer a variety of shorter running routes, including options around the 5k mark. These are great for a quick run or for beginners. The Castle Moat loop from Wells is a good example of a moderate route that is just over 5k in length.

Absolutely. The Mendip Hills are renowned for their stunning viewpoints. Routes often ascend to plateaus and peaks like Crook Peak or Wavering Down, offering panoramic vistas across the Somerset Levels, the Chew Valley, and even to Wales. The Velvet Bottom Nature Reserve – View of Cheddar Gorge loop provides spectacular views of England's largest gorge.

For those seeking a longer challenge, sections of the 50-mile West Mendip Way traverse some of the most picturesque landscapes in the region. The challenging terrain of the Mendips also inspires various organized trail running events throughout the year, catering to long-distance runners.

Yes, some routes in the Mendip Hills incorporate historical or unique attractions. For example, the Nunney Castle – Catherine Street loop from Frome takes you past the impressive medieval Nunney Castle, offering a blend of natural beauty and historical interest during your run.