The best walks and hikes around Lopen

Yes, the countryside around Lopen offers many opportunities for walks with dogs. The area's network of public footpaths through fields and quiet lanes is generally dog-friendly. However, you will likely cross fields with livestock, so it's essential to keep your dog on a lead and under control in these areas.

Definitely. The landscape is characterized by gentle hills, making it great for walkers of all ages. For a shorter, accessible outing, consider the Mere Lynches loop from South Petherton. It's a relatively flat and short walk through the quiet rural landscape, perfect for a family adventure.

The hiking around Lopen features classic Somerset rolling countryside. You can expect gentle hills, open agricultural fields, and well-trodden footpaths connecting small villages. Most routes have minimal elevation changes, making for pleasant walking conditions without strenuous climbs.

Yes, for those seeking a more demanding day out, there are longer routes that combine several points of interest. The Mere Lynches – Ham Hill Quarry Earthworks loop from South Petherton is a difficult trail that covers over 19 km and includes a visit to the historic Ham Hill.

Many of the popular routes start from nearby villages like South Petherton or Merriott, which have some bus services connecting them to larger towns in the area. However, services can be infrequent, especially on weekends, so planning your journey in advance is highly recommended.

The trails are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of over 4 stars. Hikers often praise the peaceful countryside, the well-defined paths, and the charm of walking through the historic Somerset landscape.

The area is ideal for circular walks. A great example is the Wigborough Manor loop from South Petherton, which takes you on a moderate journey through the surrounding fields and past the historic Wigborough Manor.

The walks around Lopen are rich with local history. Depending on your route, you might pass by notable sites like the beautiful East Lambrook Manor Gardens, the historic Wigborough Manor, or the impressive earthworks at Ham Hill Country Park.

The Hiking loop from Merriott is considered a moderately difficult walk. It involves a gentle ascent of about 97 meters through fields and countryside paths over its 9.3 km distance, making it a rewarding challenge for regular walkers.

Many routes pass through or near villages like South Petherton and Merriott, which have traditional pubs perfect for a post-hike refreshment. Starting your walk from one of these villages makes it easy to plan a stop at a pub at the beginning or end of your hike.

There is a wide variety of trails to choose from, with over 190 routes mapped on komoot in the Lopen area. The majority of these are easy or moderate, offering plenty of options for different fitness levels and preferences.

This is a popular moderate hike of about 11.5 km. The East Lambrook Manor Gardens – Mere Lynches loop from South Petherton is mostly flat and follows countryside paths, with the renowned gardens being a major highlight along the way.