The best running trails around West Harptree
4.4
(120)
5,115
runners
385
runs
Jogging routes around West Harptree offer diverse landscapes for runners, situated within the scenic Chew Valley and bordering the Mendip Hills. The region features prominent natural elements such as Chew Valley Lake, providing open vistas and tranquil settings. Terrain varies from relatively flat paths along the River Chew to more challenging routes with significant elevation changes in the Mendip Hills, including areas like Burledge Hill. This varied environment supports a range of running experiences for different fitness levels.
Best jogging routes around West Harptree
- The most popular jogging route is Ring O' Bells, Hinton Blewett – Burledge Hill Trig Point loop from Bishop Sutton, a 7.1 miles (11.5 km) trail that takes 1 hour 14 minutes to complete. This route includes ascents to Burledge Hill, offering expansive views over Bishop Sutton and Chew Valley Lake.
- Another top favourite among local runners is Chew Valley Lake dam – Chew Valley Lake loop from Bishop Sutton, a moderate 5.9 miles (9.4 km) path. This route provides continuous views of Chew Valley Lake, characterized by its open and tranquil scenery.
- Local runners also love the River Chew loop from East Harptree, a 3.9 miles (6.3 km) trail leading through riverside paths and verdant countryside, often completed in about 40 minutes.
- Jogging around West Harptree is defined by Chew Valley Lake, the Mendip Hills, and the River Chew. The network offers options for different ability levels, from gentle riverside paths to more strenuous hill climbs.
- The routes in West Harptree are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 90 reviews. More than 4000 runners have used komoot to explore West Harptree's varied terrain.
Last updated: September 30, 2026
112
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
12
runners
6.27km
00:40
70m
70m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
runners
12.2km
01:18
170m
170m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
runners
14.1km
01:30
180m
180m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
It's a really pretty village not far from Chew Valley Lake. If you're on a hike, you may likely pass through it, or you can start from here. Easily accessible footpaths through fields & generally a pretty area.
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A cosy country pub serving locally produced food and excellent beer (other drinks are very much available). The pub is very dog/mucky outdoor type friendly, so a perfect stop mid run. The Ring O' Bells is on the Butcombe Trail, a 47 mile (75 km) circular pub crawl around the Mendip Hills.
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Great views. Tough and technical climb up from the lake side. If on a gravel bike, it's more of a hike-a-bike segment, particularly if fully loaded with bags (wouldn't recommend as part of a bikepacking trip). Steep with large loose rocks. A fun challenge nonetheless. Once you get past this though, views are great and the surface eventually becomes double track.
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West to East is the climb. Tough going on both gravel and MTB, large loose rocks combined with some particularly steep sections make for a technical climb, wouldn't recommend with fully loaded bikes (if doing as part of a bikepacking trip) unless you don't mind a bit of hike-a-bike (all part of the fun really). Views at the top make it well worthwhile though.
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Just outside the village of Hinton Blewett and on the Limestone Link footpath, pause at the bench here to enjoy the excellent views across the countryside. Patchwork fields, big skies and distant hills make this a wonderful snack stop on a clear day. The viewpoint looks north west across the Chew Valley and you can glimpse the edge of the Mendip Hills due west.
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Cycling through the lanes you don’t see many vehicles. Good for cyclists.
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A very unusual aqueduct, completed in 1851. It is formed from wrought iron tubes on top of limestone piers. It is still in use, part of a network of aqueducts and tunnels feeding the Valley’s spring water to Bristol. It is thought to be the oldest surviving example of this type of engineering in existence and, in order to preserve it, was listed by English Heritage in 1989.
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Harptree Combe – a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). In contrast to the conifers of East Harptree Woods, this area contains deciduous oak and ash woodland, with old hazel coppice and rough, marshy grassland. Steep limestone walls rise on both sides, with tiny caves visible in the rock face. It is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) to protect the flora and fauna that thrive in its old ash woodland, rocky crags and rough grassland.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many running routes are available around West Harptree?
West Harptree offers a wide variety of running experiences, with over 380 routes available. These range from easy paths to more challenging trails, catering to different fitness levels.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the jogging trails in West Harptree?
The terrain around West Harptree is quite varied. You'll find relatively flat paths along the River Chew and around Chew Valley Lake, as well as more challenging routes with significant elevation changes in the Mendip Hills, including areas like Burledge Hill. Some paths can be muddy, especially after rain, offering a more immersive natural experience.
Are there any easy running routes suitable for beginners or a relaxed jog?
Yes, West Harptree has several easier options. For a gentle run, consider the River Chew loop from East Harptree, which is about 3.9 miles (6.3 km) and leads through pleasant riverside paths and verdant countryside. There are 36 easy routes in total.
Where can I find scenic views while running in West Harptree?
For breathtaking views, many routes offer glimpses of Chew Valley Lake, providing open vistas and a tranquil setting. The Chew Valley Lake dam – Chew Valley Lake loop from Bishop Sutton is a great option for continuous lake views. Additionally, routes ascending Burledge Hill, such as the Ring O' Bells, Hinton Blewett – Burledge Hill Trig Point loop from Bishop Sutton, offer expansive outlooks over Bishop Sutton and Chew Valley Lake.
Are there any circular running routes in the area?
Yes, many of the running routes around West Harptree are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same location. Examples include the Ring O' Bells, Hinton Blewett – Burledge Hill Trig Point loop from Hinton Blewett, which provides a rewarding circuit with hill climbs and views.
What natural features or landmarks can I see along the running trails?
The area is rich in natural beauty. You can enjoy views of Chew Valley Lake, explore sections of the Mendip Hills National Landscape, and run alongside the River Chew. Highlights like Beacon Batch summit trig point and Black Down Summit and Wild Ponies are also within reach, offering stunning natural sights.
Can I bring my dog on the running trails in West Harptree?
While the guide doesn't specify dog-friendly rules for every route, the natural environment of West Harptree, including the Mendip Hills and Chew Valley, generally welcomes dogs. It's always best to keep dogs on a leash, especially near livestock or protected wildlife areas, and to check local signage for specific restrictions.
Are there longer running routes for those seeking a challenge?
Absolutely. For a longer and more challenging run, consider routes like the Ring O' Bells, Hinton Blewett – Combe Hay Aqueduct loop from Hinton Blewett. This route covers approximately 8.8 miles (14.2 km) with significant elevation gain, offering a good workout amidst varied landscapes.
What do other runners enjoy most about jogging in West Harptree?
The running routes around West Harptree are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 90 reviews. Runners often praise the diverse landscapes, from tranquil lake views to challenging hill climbs, and the overall natural beauty of the Chew Valley and Mendip Hills.
Is there parking available near the running routes?
Yes, many popular starting points for running routes in and around West Harptree, such as those near Bishop Sutton or Hinton Blewett, typically have parking facilities. It's advisable to check specific route details for precise parking information.
When is the best time of year to go running in West Harptree?
West Harptree offers enjoyable running conditions throughout the year. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery with changing foliage. Summer is great for longer daylight hours, while winter runs can be invigorating, though some paths in the Mendip Hills might be muddy after rain. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
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