The best city hikes and walks in Bath and North East Somerset

There are over 80 urban hiking trails in Bath and North East Somerset, with the majority being easy to moderate in difficulty. This makes the region accessible for a wide range of walkers looking to explore the city and its immediate surroundings on foot.

Yes, many urban routes in the region are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same location. For example, you can enjoy the Pulteney Bridge – The Circus, Bath loop from Bath, which offers a pleasant exploration of the city's iconic landmarks.

Urban hikes in Bath offer a unique blend of cityscapes and natural beauty. You'll find panoramic views across Bath, Bristol, and the surrounding countryside from elevated points. Many routes provide stunning vistas of historic architecture like Pulteney Bridge and Bath Abbey, often framed by the rolling hills that encircle the city.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.57 stars from over 2,100 ratings. Reviewers often praise the seamless blend of urban charm with accessible green spaces, the rich historical context of the routes, and the stunning viewpoints that offer expansive vistas of the city and its natural surroundings.

Yes, many of the urban trails are suitable for families, particularly the easier routes. Paths along the River Avon or the Kennet and Avon Canal offer flat, scenic walks. Routes like the The Roman Baths – Bath Abbey loop from Bath Spa are relatively short and pass by major attractions, keeping younger explorers engaged.

Many urban trails in Bath and North East Somerset are dog-friendly, especially those that follow public footpaths and canal towpaths. However, it's always advisable to keep dogs on a lead, particularly in busy city areas, near livestock, or in nature reserves to protect wildlife. Always check local signage for specific restrictions.

Urban hikes in Bath are rich with historical sights. You can explore iconic landmarks such as The Roman Baths and Bath Abbey. Other routes might lead you past impressive structures like Pulteney Bridge, or offer views of the city's Georgian architecture. Further afield, you might encounter ancient sites like the Stanton Drew Stone Circles and Cove.

Bath is well-served by public transport, making many urban trailheads easily accessible. Bath Spa train station is centrally located, and numerous bus routes connect to various parts of the city and surrounding villages. This allows you to reach starting points for walks like the The Circus, Bath – Pulteney Bridge loop from Bath Spa without needing a car.

Absolutely. The region is known for its rolling countryside and hills surrounding Bath, providing excellent viewpoints. Highlights like Kelston Roundhill and Prospect Stile Viewpoint offer sweeping panoramas of the city and beyond, extending to the Severn bridges and even the Black Mountains on a clear day.

While most urban hikes are easy, there are options for a slightly more challenging experience. For instance, the Bath Abbey – The Roman Baths loop from Bellots Railway Bridge is rated as moderate, offering a longer distance and some elevation gain compared to the easier city strolls, while still keeping you close to urban points of interest.

Even on urban-adjacent hikes, you'll find beautiful natural features. The River Avon and the Kennet and Avon Canal provide tranquil waterside paths. You might also encounter significant natural landmarks like Chew Valley Lake, an internationally recognized site for its diverse bird species and plant life, offering a peaceful escape just outside the city center.