The best walks and hikes around Wells
4.5
(731)
5,748
hikers
73
hikes
Hikes around Wells Somerset explore a landscape of rolling hills, verdant forests, and open meadows. The city is located on the southern edge of the Mendip Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty defined by its limestone ridges and gorges. The terrain offers a mix of gentle paths through the Somerset Levels and more challenging ascents into the hills, providing varied scenery for hikers.
Best hiking trails around Wells
- The most popular hiking route is the Wells to Ebbor Gorge loop via Wookey Holes Caves — Mendip Hills, a 7.4 mile (11.9 km) trail that takes about 3 hours 30 minutes to complete. This route features ascents into the Mendip Hills and passes near the notable Ebbor Gorge.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is the Well's Cathedral, The Bishop’s Palace, and Dincote loop, a moderate 6.3 mile (10.2 km) path. The trail combines views of the city's historic landmarks with walks through the surrounding countryside.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love The Bishop's Palace, Wells – Wells Cathedral loop from Wells, a 2.5 mile (4.0 km) trail leading through the city's historic center, often completed in about 1 hour.
- Hiking around Wells is defined by limestone gorges, rolling hills, and paths that cross the flat Somerset Levels. The network of trails provides options for different ability levels, from short city walks to more demanding Mendip Hills walking routes.
- The routes in Wells are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 80 reviews. More than 800 hikers have used komoot to explore Wells's varied terrain.
Last updated: October 24, 2026
4.1
(10)
42
hikers
10.2km
02:45
130m
140m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
4.6
(5)
26
hikers
11.9km
03:32
360m
360m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
4.8
(8)
182
hikers
4.08km
01:03
20m
20m
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
5.0
(11)
40
hikers
12.7km
03:36
280m
280m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
4.8
(8)
51
hikers
12.8km
03:41
320m
320m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Other adventures around Wells
Tips from the Community
Nestled in the heart of Somerset, The Bishop's Palace is a magnificent 13th-century medieval residence that has served as the official home of the Bishops of Bath and Wells for over 800 years. Surrounded by impressive stone ramparts and a picturesque, swan-inhabited moat fed by natural thermal springs, the estate offers a breathtaking glimpse into ecclesiastical history. Entering via the medieval gatehouse and drawbridge reveals 14 acres of beautifully manicured, tranquil grounds. Visitors can explore the meditative well pools—the very natural springs that gave the historic city of Wells its name—alongside vibrant herbaceous borders and the romantic, ivy-clad ruins of the Great Hall. The palace seamlessly blends centuries of architectural heritage with quiet, natural elegance. The resident mute swans even add a charming touch to the experience, famously trained to ring a bell near the gatehouse when they are hungry. It is a wonderfully peaceful destination that invites guests to slow down and immerse themselves in a quintessential slice of English history.
0
0
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.
0
0
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.
0
0
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.
0
0
Hello, my laptop speakers sounded tinny, the sound cut out at louder settings, and the videos were barely understandable. After a long dry spell on other sites, a colleague recommended https://capo-spin.at/bonus , and I took a bit more risk. For players in Austria, the processes are transparent, and the winnings were enough for a pair of active desktop speakers with 20 watts RMS, separate tweeter, and sound control. The sound is now clear, the movies sound full, and the video conferences are finally productive without constant asking again.
0
0
Great local recreation area, ideal for relaxing, hiking and wildlife watching
2
0
A beautiful city worth seeing, which despite its fame has not lost its charm - the absolute highlight of course is the cathedral 🥰
2
0
Always lovely to see these and walk up to the small hidden path at the top which takes you onto the road. If you are lucky sometimes you can hear the music students practising as you walk by.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any easy, family-friendly walks around Wells?
Yes, the area around Wells has many gentle paths perfect for a family outing. For a very short and accessible walk that takes in the city's main sights, consider the The Bishop's Palace, Wells – Wells Cathedral loop from Wells. It's a flat, 2.5-mile (4 km) route that's great for all ages.
Can I take my dog on the hiking trails near Wells?
Many trails in the Mendip Hills are dog-friendly, but it's always best to keep dogs on a lead, especially near livestock. The area around Ebbor Gorge is a popular choice for dog walkers, offering woodland paths and open spaces. Always check local signage for specific restrictions.
What are the best places for hiking in the Wells area?
The top destination for hikers is the Mendip Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), which offers a variety of trails. A particularly popular spot is the National Trust - Ebbor Gorge National Nature Reserve, a highly-regarded nature preserve known for its dramatic limestone gorge, ancient woodlands, and well-maintained walking paths.
Are there any circular walks starting from Wells?
Yes, there are numerous circular routes that begin and end in Wells, allowing you to explore the surrounding countryside without needing to retrace your steps. A great moderate option is the Well's Cathedral, The Bishop’s Palace, and Dincote loop, which combines historic city views with paths through nearby fields and meadows.
What kind of scenery can I expect on hikes around Wells?
The landscape is incredibly varied. You'll find hikes that take you up into the limestone hills of the Mendips for panoramic views, routes that descend into dramatic, wooded gorges like Ebbor Gorge, and gentle, flat walks across the Somerset Levels with views towards Glastonbury Tor.
How many hiking trails are there around Wells?
There are over 60 curated hiking routes to explore around Wells on komoot. These range from short, easy walks around the city to more challenging full-day hikes in the Mendip Hills, with 37 trails rated as easy and 24 as moderate.
Are there any challenging hikes in the area?
Yes, for those seeking a more strenuous hike, the Mendip Hills provide plenty of elevation gain. The Wells to Ebbor Gorge loop via Wookey Holes Caves — Mendip Hills is a popular choice that includes some steep ascents and rewarding views, covering around 7.4 miles (11.9 km).
What do other hikers think of the trails around Wells?
The trails are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 out of 5 stars. Hikers often praise the stunning views from the Mendip Hills, the beauty of the natural gorges, and the pleasant mix of historical landmarks and peaceful countryside.
Can I hike to Wookey Hole from Wells?
Yes, you can easily walk to Wookey Hole. Several routes connect Wells to the famous caves, often passing through beautiful countryside and woodland. The trails are typically well-marked and offer a scenic journey of a few miles.
Where can I find the best views on a hike near Wells?
For some of the best panoramic views, head up into the Mendip Hills. Trails that climb out of the city towards Ebbor Gorge offer fantastic vistas across the Somerset Levels, with Glastonbury Tor visible in the distance on a clear day. The Ebbor Gorge – View of Ebbor Gorge loop from Wells is an excellent choice for its scenic viewpoints.
Are there any long-distance trails that pass through Wells?
The most significant long-distance path in the region is the Mendip Way. This 50-mile (80 km) trail traverses the Mendip Hills AONB from Weston-super-Mare to Frome, passing just north of Wells. You can easily join sections of the trail for a fantastic day hike.
Most popular routes around Wells
Most popular attractions around Wells
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
