The best walks and hikes in South West England

Yes, there are many circular routes. For a walk that combines history with dramatic scenery, the Cheddar Gorge loop from Cheddar in the Mendip Hills is a great option. This route offers fantastic views from the top of England's largest gorge. Another excellent choice is the Old Harry Rocks Loop, which takes you to the famous chalk sea stacks on the Jurassic Coast.

Many trails in the region are dog-friendly, but it's important to be mindful of the environment. In national parks like Dartmoor and Exmoor, dogs should be kept on a lead, especially during lambing and bird nesting seasons (typically March to July). Coastal paths are generally welcoming, but be cautious near cliff edges. Always check local signage for specific restrictions.

For a memorable family day out, the Lydford Castle & Whitelady Waterfall loop is an excellent choice. It's a relatively easy walk through a beautiful gorge managed by the National Trust, leading to the impressive Whitelady Waterfall. The area also features a tearoom, making it a complete outing.

Cornwall's coastline offers plenty of challenges for experienced hikers. The Lizard Peninsula loop to Kynance Cove is a rewarding moderate hike with stunning views and varied terrain. It takes you to the southernmost point of mainland Britain and the beautiful Kynance Cove.

Spring and autumn are often considered the best times for hiking. You'll experience milder weather, fewer crowds, and beautiful seasonal colours. Summer offers longer daylight hours but can be busy, especially on popular coastal routes. Winter hiking can be atmospheric, particularly on the moors, but be prepared for wet, muddy conditions and shorter days.

There is a vast network of trails to explore. The region offers over 25,000 routes on komoot, catering to all abilities. This includes everything from easy riverside strolls to difficult multi-day treks along the coast.

The region is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Hikers frequently praise the incredible diversity of the landscape, from the wild, open moorlands of Dartmoor and Exmoor to the breathtaking cliffs and hidden coves of the South West Coast Path. The well-maintained paths and the mix of natural beauty and historical sites are also popular highlights.

The Cotswolds area is famous for its charming villages and rolling hills. A fantastic route that captures this is the Bourton-on-the-Water & Stow-on-the Wold loop. This moderate walk connects two of the most picturesque towns in the area, taking you through classic English countryside.

Yes, many popular hiking areas are accessible by public transport. Towns like Bath have excellent rail connections, making it easy to access trails like the Bath Skyline. For coastal paths, the Coasthopper bus services in areas like Cornwall and Devon are designed to connect walkers to different sections of the South West Coast Path. It's always best to check timetables in advance, especially in rural areas.

South West England is full of iconic sights. The Valley of Rocks on the Exmoor coast is a highly-rated spot, known for its dramatic prehistoric rock formations and resident wild goats. For a different perspective, the Mendip Hills National Landscape offers stunning limestone scenery and ancient sites. On the Jurassic Coast, a walk around the Isle of Portland on the loop from Chesil Beach provides spectacular sea views.

Many traditional walks in the region are designed around a good pub. For example, after exploring Lydford Gorge, the nearby Castle Inn is a popular spot for a meal, though booking ahead is recommended. In the Cotswolds, a route like the Padstow to Trevone loop in Cornwall finishes in a town famous for its excellent food and drink options, perfect for a post-hike reward.