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United Kingdom
England
South West England

Compton Martin

Easy hikes and walks around Compton Martin

4.5

(2241)

15,279

hikers

593

hikes

Easy hiking trails around Compton Martin are set within the picturesque Chew Valley in Somerset, offering diverse landscapes for outdoor activities. The area is characterized by rolling limestone hills, open fields, and woodlands, situated between Chew Valley Lake and Blagdon Lake. It lies north of the Mendip Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, providing varied terrain for hikers. The River Chew also flows through the region, with accessible walking routes along its banks.

Best easy hiking trails around Compton Martin

  • The most popular easy hiking route is Chew Valley Lake, Knowle Hill & Chew Magna loop — Mendip Hills, a 4.4 miles (7.0 km) trail that takes 1 hour 52 minutes to complete. This route offers views of Chew Valley Lake and explores the surrounding hills.
  • Another top favourite among local hikers is Knowle Hill loop from Chew Valley Lake, an easy 2.7 miles (4.3 km) path. This trail provides scenic views from Knowle Hill and passes by Chew Valley Lake.
  • Local hikers also love the Chew Valley Lake loop from West Harptree — Mendip Hills, a 3.6 miles (5.8 km) trail leading through the Mendip Hills and along Chew Valley Lake, often completed in about 1 hour 30 minutes.
  • Hiking around Compton Martin is defined by the expansive Chew Valley Lake, the tranquil Blagdon Lake, and the rolling hills of the Mendip Hills. The network offers options for different ability levels, with many easy and family-friendly routes.
  • The routes in Compton Martin are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 2000 reviews. More than 14000 hikers have used komoot to explore Compton Martin's varied terrain.

Last updated: June 30, 2026

4.6

(44)

260

hikers

#1.

Chew Valley Lake, Knowle Hill & Chew Magna loop — Mendip Hills

7.04km

01:52

70m

70m

The Chew Valley Lake, Knowle Hill & Chew Magna loop offers a diverse and scenic hiking experience at the northern edge of the Mendip Hills. You will find a mix of lakeside paths, riverside walks along the River Chew, woodlands, and open countryside fields. The landscape features gently undulating terrain with rolling hills and elevated views across the valley, including the expansive Chew Valley Lake. This easy 4.4-mile (7.0 km) hike involves a gentle 233 feet (71 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes around 1 hour and 52 minutes to complete. The atmosphere is tranquil, with soft, watery colors and shafts of sunlight, especially around the lake.

This trail is generally considered easy and suitable for most fitness levels, though paths can become muddy after heavy rain, so dry weather is recommended for the best experience. Refreshments and public toilets are available at Chew Valley Lake, and the nearby village of Chew Magna offers pubs and cafes for a post-hike treat. You can also find picnic spots around the lake, making it easy to extend your visit.

Chew Valley Lake is a nationally important site for wildlife, designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest and a Special Protection Area. It supports a huge population of waterfowl and other birds, with over 260 species recorded, and you might even spot some of the more than 30 mammal species, including occasional otters. The climb up Knowle Hill rewards you with extensive panoramic views across the Chew Valley to the Mendip Hills and Dundry Ridge, adding a memorable highlight to your hike.

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Easy

3.0

(2)

11

hikers

This easy 2.7-mile loop around Knowle Hill offers panoramic views of Chew Valley Lake and the Mendip Hills, perfect for beginners.

Easy
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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Tips from the Community

Sean Crow
February 20, 2026, Chew Valley Lake

The concrete outlet tower serves as the central control point for the reservoir's water supply. Connected by a bridge to the main dam, the tower houses sluice gates and valves that regulate the flow and distribution of water to the River Chew and the local water supply.

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Phil O'Gara
August 25, 2025, Knowle Hill

This hill, while lower than the surrounding ridges, provides great views from the top. Fern covered with several tracks crossing the slopes.

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great view and ultra relaxing

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Beautiful Lake. It's very large(!) And is really easily accessible, there is parking right by the edge of the lake, if you can not walk there. It's a fantastic spot for bird watching, too! There is a board that displays the birds you may be likely to see and when you'll see them. Please do not feed bread to the ducks & birds! (I know it was normal, I used to do it as a small child in the late 80s & 90s, but we know it's bad for them now)

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Bethan Owens
December 15, 2023, Chew Valley Lake

Chew Valley Lake is the 5th largest artificial lake in the UK. It was constructed in the 1950s to supply drinking water for Bristol and the nearby area. There are brilliant views of the lake and surrounding countryside as you pass along the dam.

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Hotswells
December 15, 2023, Chew Valley Lake

Chew Valley Lake formed by the construction of this dam on the River Chew in the 1950's. Built to provide drinking water for Bristol.

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Chew Valley Lake was created in the early 1950 s to provide drinking water to Bristol and the surrounding area. It also controls the flow rate of the River Chew. The A368 crosses the southern edge of the lake. There is car parking along the causeway, and it's always a popular bird watching area.

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Chew Valley Lake was created in the early 1950s to provide drinking water to Bristol and the surrounding area. It also controls the flow rate of the River Chew. This picnic area is a nice place to start a walk or stop for a lunch break. The views are lovely and it's easily accessible.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many easy hiking trails are available around Compton Martin?

There are over 280 easy hiking trails around Compton Martin. These routes are generally well-suited for beginners and those looking for a relaxed outdoor experience, often featuring gentle slopes and well-maintained paths.

What kind of scenery can I expect on easy hikes near Compton Martin?

Easy hikes around Compton Martin offer diverse and picturesque scenery. You can expect rolling limestone hills, open fields, and woodlands. Many trails provide stunning views of both Chew Valley Lake and Blagdon Lake, as the area is uniquely positioned between these two significant bodies of water. The Mendip Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty forms a beautiful backdrop for many routes.

Are there any family-friendly easy walks in the area?

Yes, Compton Martin is an excellent location for family-friendly easy walks. Many routes are designed with gentle terrain, making them suitable for all ages. For example, the Knowle Hill loop from Chew Valley Lake is an easy 2.7-mile path that offers scenic views and is popular with families.

Can I bring my dog on easy trails around Compton Martin?

Most easy trails around Compton Martin are dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful scenery with your canine companion. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash, especially when passing through farmland with livestock or in nature conservation areas. Please ensure you clean up after your dog to help keep the trails pleasant for everyone.

Are there easy circular walks available?

Yes, many of the easy hiking trails around Compton Martin are circular routes, perfect for starting and ending at the same point. These loops often take you through varied landscapes, including lakeside paths, fields, and woodlands. An example is the Chew Valley Lake loop from West Harptree — Mendip Hills, which is a 3.6-mile circular trail.

What are some interesting natural features or landmarks to see on easy hikes?

On easy hikes around Compton Martin, you can encounter several interesting features. The prominent Knowle Hill offers excellent viewpoints. You'll also frequently see the expansive Chew Valley Lake and tranquil Blagdon Lake. While not directly on easy trails, the wider area includes natural monuments like Ebbor Gorge and the scenic Cheddar Gorge, which are worth exploring if you venture further.

What is the best time of year for easy hiking in Compton Martin?

The best time for easy hiking in Compton Martin is generally from spring through autumn (April to October). During these months, the weather is milder, and the trails are less likely to be muddy. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, while autumn offers beautiful foliage. Winter hikes are possible, but trails can be wet and slippery, so appropriate footwear is essential.

What do other hikers say about the easy trails in Compton Martin?

The easy trails in Compton Martin are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 2,000 reviews. Hikers often praise the beautiful lakeside views, the peaceful atmosphere of the woodlands, and the well-maintained paths that make for an enjoyable and accessible outdoor experience.

What is the typical elevation gain on easy hikes around Compton Martin?

Easy hikes around Compton Martin are characterized by relatively gentle elevation changes. For instance, the View of Chew Valley Lake – Chew Valley Lake Picnic Area loop from Chew Stoke has an elevation gain of only about 17 meters. Most easy routes feature minor ascents and descents, making them suitable for those who prefer less strenuous terrain.

Are there any easy walks along the River Chew?

Yes, the River Chew flows through the area, and there are accessible walking routes along its banks. These paths offer a different perspective of the local landscape, often winding through picturesque countryside and providing opportunities to observe local wildlife. While specific easy routes along the entire river are not detailed here, many trails in the wider Chew Valley area will intersect or run parallel to sections of the river.

Where can I find parking for easy hiking trails near Compton Martin?

Parking for easy hiking trails around Compton Martin is typically available at designated car parks near popular trailheads, especially around Chew Valley Lake. Some routes may also have roadside parking options in villages or near specific points of interest. Always check local signage for any parking restrictions or fees.

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