The best walks and hikes around Croscombe
4.5
(601)
4,291
hikers
311
hikes
Hiking around Croscombe offers access to the diverse landscapes of the Mendip Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The region is characterized by rolling hills, ancient woodlands, and verdant valleys, with the River Sheppey flowing through the village. Trails often traverse a mix of open meadows and shaded forest paths, providing varied terrain for exploration. This area features carboniferous limestone formations and offers panoramic views from elevated points.
Best hiking trails around Croscombe
- The most popular hiking route is The Bishop's Palace, Wells – Wells City Centre loop from St Cuthbert Out, a 8.35 miles (13.4 km) trail that takes 3 hours 37 minutes to complete. This moderate route explores the historic surroundings of Wells.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Hiking loop from Shepton Mallet, an easy 4.29 miles (6.9 km) path. This trail offers a pleasant walk through the rural landscape surrounding Shepton Mallet.
- Local hikers also love the Tree Tunnel Descent – Horseshoe Inn loop from St Cuthbert Out, a 4.57 miles (7.4 km) trail leading through wooded valleys and countryside, often completed in about 2 hours 8 minutes.
- Hiking around Croscombe is defined by rolling hills, ancient woodlands, and river valleys within the Mendip Hills. The extensive network of trails offers options for various ability levels, from easy strolls to more challenging ascents.
- The routes in Croscombe are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 500 reviews. More than 3,900 hikers have used komoot to explore Croscombe's varied terrain.
Last updated: October 27, 2026
4.8
(6)
39
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
5.0
(1)
2
hikers
6.91km
01:56
130m
130m
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
6
hikers
7.37km
02:08
190m
190m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
5.0
(1)
1
hikers
8.07km
02:15
150m
150m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
5.0
(1)
9
hikers
7.13km
01:58
120m
120m
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
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Tips from the Community
The historic heart of England's smallest city, Wells Market Place serves as the bustling commercial and social hub of Wells. Framed by striking historic architecture, independent shops, and cozy cafes, it offers visitors a wonderful blend of medieval heritage and vibrant everyday life. Historic Atmosphere: Surrounded by centuries-old buildings, the square retains much of its historic character and provides direct access to the famous Wells Market, which hosts lively stalls twice a week. Central Landmarks: The square sits just steps away from major civic buildings like the Wells City Council at the Town Hall, and acts as a natural gateway to nearby iconic sights like Wells Cathedral. Visitor Hub: For those looking to plan their stay, the Visit Wells information point nearby helps visitors navigate local attractions, walking trails, and events.
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Loaf is a highly regarded artisan bakery and café located on Market Street in Wells. Renowned for its relaxed atmosphere and focus on quality, local ingredients, it is a favorite spot for both locals and visitors looking for exceptional baked goods, coffee, or a light meal. Artisan Sourdough & Pastries: The bakehouse is famous for its hand-crafted sourdough loaves, morning buns, cinnamon rolls, and seasonal pastries, all baked fresh daily. Brunch & Lunch Menu: Beside takeaway treats, they offer a thoughtfully curated seated menu featuring inventive toasties, breakfast bowls, and savory tarts that showcase local Somerset produce. Specialty Coffee & Atmosphere: Serving expertly pulled specialty coffee, the interior offers a warm, welcoming vibe with simple, rustic decor perfect for catching up with friends or taking a quiet break.
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The cloisters at Wells Cathedral are a beautifully preserved, tranquil quadrangle adjoining the south side of the nave. Unlike many other English medieval cathedrals, Wells was never a monastery; it was a secular cathedral run by canons. As a result, the cloisters were designed less for solitary monastic living and more for formal processions, administration, and quiet study. Architectural Evolution: The present structures were largely built between the 13th and 15th centuries. The eastern walk is the oldest, while the upper floor of the west walk houses the Chained Library, which still retains books secured to desks with iron chains. Intricate Vaulting & Carvings: As you walk through the passages, look up at the elegant Perpendicular Gothic lierne vaulting, decorated with intricately carved stone bosses depicting foliage, angels, and heraldic shields. The Garth: The open central courtyard—known as the Garth—features a peaceful lawn and houses the Camery Well, one of the ancient natural springs that gave the city of Wells its name.
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The striking scissor arches inside Wells Cathedral are one of the most remarkable architectural marvels of the medieval world. Designed by master mason William Joy in the 14th century, these unique structural braces were not built merely for decoration—they were a desperate and ingenious engineering solution to a critical crisis. Structural Rescue: When the central tower was heightened in the early 1300s, the underlying foundations and piers began to sink and crack under the massive weight, threatening the entire structure with collapse. The Scissor Design: To prevent disaster, massive inverted arches were constructed crossing the crossing space, creating a distinctive X-shape resembling an open pair of scissors that brilliantly redistributed the heavy loads. Aesthetic Triumph: What began as a purely functional emergency measure has evolved into a breathtaking visual icon, celebrated by visitors and architectural historians alike for its futuristic, almost organic Gothic grace.
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Nestled in Somerset, The Bishop's Palace & Gardens is a breathtaking 13th-century medieval residence. Surrounded by a tranquil, swan-inhabited moat, it offers visitors an enchanting glimpse into history. The estate spans 14 acres of stunning, beautifully manicured grounds. Highlights include the meditative well pools, vibrant herbaceous borders, and romantic ruins of the Great Hall. It is a wonderfully peaceful destination that effortlessly blends centuries of heritage with vibrant, natural beauty.
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Imagine a scene straight out of a fairytale: calm water reflecting high medieval walls and ancient stone towers. That’s the moat at the Bishop’s Palace in Wells. Fed by fresh natural springs, it’s surrounded by shaded, tree-lined paths—perfect for an easy stroll. The local swans even ring a bell near the drawbridge when they want food! It’s a wonderfully quiet, picturesque spot to slow down, watch the ducks, and soak in history.
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Great local recreation area, ideal for relaxing, hiking and wildlife watching
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A beautiful city worth seeing, which despite its fame has not lost its charm - the absolute highlight of course is the cathedral 🥰
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Croscombe?
There are over 300 hiking routes recorded around Croscombe on komoot, offering a wide variety of options for all skill levels. This includes more than 170 easy routes, 120 moderate trails, and a selection of challenging hikes for experienced adventurers.
What kind of terrain can I expect on hikes near Croscombe?
Hiking around Croscombe offers a diverse landscape within the Mendip Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. You'll encounter a mix of rolling hills, ancient woodlands like Ham Woods and Croscombe Wood, and open meadows. Trails often follow the River Sheppey through valleys and feature carboniferous limestone formations, providing varied and interesting terrain.
Are there any easy, family-friendly walks in the Croscombe area?
Yes, Croscombe offers many easy routes suitable for families. For a pleasant stroll through the rural landscape, consider the Hiking loop from Shepton Mallet, which is an easy 6.9 km path. The extensive network of footpaths ensures there are gentle options for all to enjoy.
Can I find circular hiking routes around Croscombe?
Many of the trails around Croscombe are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end in the same location. An example is the Hiking loop from St Cuthbert Out, a moderate 8.06 km trail that takes you through varied scenery.
What notable landmarks or natural features can I see while hiking near Croscombe?
The region is rich in natural and historical points of interest. You can explore dramatic geological features like Ebbor Gorge, or visit historical sites such as Wells Cathedral. Further afield, the iconic Glastonbury Tor offers expansive views. The Mendip Hills themselves provide stunning valleys and panoramic vistas.
Are there any hikes that include a pub or cafe stop?
While specific routes with integrated pub stops aren't detailed in every description, many trails pass through or near villages with local amenities. For instance, the Tree Tunnel Descent – Horseshoe Inn loop from St Cuthbert Out is named after a local inn, suggesting opportunities for refreshments along or near the route.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Croscombe?
The hiking trails around Croscombe are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from over 500 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse landscapes, from quiet woodlands to open meadows, and the well-maintained network of paths that cater to various abilities.
Are there any trails that offer great viewpoints?
Yes, many routes in the Croscombe area, particularly those in the Mendip Hills, lead to elevated points offering fine views. From higher ground, you can often enjoy panoramic vistas across the Somerset Levels and even the Dorset Hills on a clear day. Dundon Beacon Nature Reserve, for example, is known for its views and archaeological remains.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails around Croscombe?
Many public footpaths and trails in the countryside around Croscombe are dog-friendly. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, especially when passing through farmland with livestock or in nature reserves to protect local wildlife and comply with local regulations.
Are there any lakes or reservoirs accessible by hiking near Croscombe?
Yes, the area around Croscombe features several beautiful water bodies. You can hike to places like Litton Reservoirs, which offer tranquil scenery. Other highlights include viewpoints overlooking Chew Valley Lake, such as View of Chew Valley from Hinton Blewett.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Croscombe?
Croscombe offers enjoyable hiking throughout the year. Spring brings wildflowers to the meadows and fresh greenery to the woodlands. Summer provides warm weather for longer excursions. Autumn showcases beautiful fall foliage, while winter offers crisp, quiet walks, though some paths may be muddy. Each season provides a unique experience of the Mendip Hills.
Are there any challenging hikes for experienced hikers?
While Croscombe is known for its accessible trails, there are also more challenging options within the Mendip Hills. These routes often involve significant elevation gains and diverse terrain, providing a good workout for experienced hikers. You can find 14 difficult routes listed on komoot for the area.
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