The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Badminton

There are 5 family-friendly hiking trails around Badminton, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging routes. Most of these, 3 to be exact, are considered easy, making them suitable for families with younger children or those looking for a relaxed outing.

The komoot community rates the trails around Badminton highly, with an average score of 4.3 out of 5 stars from over 770 ratings. Hikers often praise the picturesque landscapes, the chance to spot wildlife like the red deer, and the well-maintained paths that make for enjoyable family adventures.

Yes, for a shorter, easy walk, consider the Red Deer Herd loop from Badminton. This 3.9 km route is perfect for a gentle outing and offers a chance to see the resident red deer herd in the Badminton Estate parkland. Another easy option is the Red Deer Herd – Badminton loop from Badminton, which is slightly longer at 7.2 km but still very accessible.

Absolutely! The Badminton Estate is home to a magnificent red deer herd, which you can often spot on trails like the Red Deer Herd – Badminton loop from Badminton. The area is also characterized by rolling hills, expansive parkland, and beautiful tree-lined paths, offering a classic Cotswolds experience.

Yes, all the family-friendly routes in this guide are circular, making them convenient for starting and ending at the same point. For an easy and scenic circular walk, try the Badminton – Poppy Field in the Cotswolds loop from Badminton, which covers about 7.5 km through charming countryside.

The region boasts several interesting attractions. You could visit the charming Castle Combe Village, often called one of England's prettiest villages. For history buffs, Dyrham Park House offers a 17th-century mansion, formal gardens, and an ancient deer park. The historic Church of Saint John the Baptist in Old Sodbury is also worth a visit.

While the immediate Badminton area is more known for its parkland, you can find charming water features nearby. The Biddestone Village Pond and a general Duck Pond are lovely spots for a tranquil moment, and the Lasborough Lakes and Mansion offer picturesque views slightly further afield.

Spring and summer are ideal for family hikes, with wildflowers blooming and warmer weather. Autumn offers beautiful foliage, but be mindful of the red deer rutting season in the deer park. Winter walks can be magical, but paths might be muddy, so appropriate footwear is essential.

For families seeking a greater challenge, the Horton Camp Hillfort – Uley Bury Iron Age Hill Fort loop from Badminton is a moderate 14.5 km route. It offers more elevation gain and a longer distance, providing a rewarding experience for those with good fitness levels. There's also a more difficult 18.6 km version, the Uley Bury Iron Age Hill Fort – Horton Camp Hillfort loop from Badminton, for very active families.

Yes, the area around Badminton is nestled within the beautiful South Gloucestershire countryside and forms part of the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). This designation ensures the preservation of its stunning landscapes, rolling hills, and charming villages.

Dogs are generally welcome on public footpaths in the Badminton area. However, it's crucial to keep them on a short lead, especially when walking through fields with livestock or within the Badminton Estate's deer park, to ensure the safety of both your pet and the local wildlife.