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United Kingdom
England
South West England

Chew Stoke

Easy hikes and walks around Chew Stoke

4.5

(1752)

13,706

hikers

604

hikes

Hiking around Chew Stoke offers diverse landscapes centered around Chew Valley Lake, the largest artificial freshwater lake in South West England. The area is characterized by tranquil lakeside paths, rolling meadows, and woodlands, situated at the northern edge of the Mendip Hills. The River Chew and Strode Brook contribute to the lush, green valley, providing varied terrain for exploration.

Best easy hiking trails around Chew Stoke

  • The most popular easy hiking route is Chew Valley Lake, Knowle Hill & Chew…

Last updated: May 3, 2026

4.6

(41)

256

hikers

#1.

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

7.04km

01:52

70m

70m

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

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Easy

3.0

(2)

11

hikers

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

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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Popular around Chew Stoke

The best family-friendly bike rides in and around Bath and Bristol

Other adventures around Chew Stoke

The best family-friendly bike rides in and around Bath and Bristol

Cycling Collection by

Cycle Sprog- the family cycling experts

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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philogara
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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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 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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This is a new footpath that goes all the way to Woodford Lodge

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Lovely spot in a small woodland just down the path from the village.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many easy hiking trails are available around Chew Stoke?

There are over 300 easy hiking trails around Chew Stoke, offering a wide variety of landscapes from tranquil lakeside paths to rolling meadows and woodlands. The komoot community has explored over 600 routes in total in the area.

What makes the easy hikes around Chew Stoke unique?

The easy hikes in Chew Stoke are defined by their proximity to Chew Valley Lake, the largest artificial freshwater lake in South West England. This area is a significant site for wildlife, designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and a Special Protection Area (SPA), offering excellent opportunities for birdwatching amidst diverse ecosystems.

Are there any family-friendly easy walks in Chew Stoke?

Yes, many trails around Chew Valley Lake are ideal for families. The Grebe Trail is a well-surfaced, all-weather path suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs. The area also features picnic spots and cafes like Salt & Malt, making it easy to enjoy a day out with children.

Can I bring my dog on the easy hiking trails?

Several routes in the Chew Stoke area are dog-friendly. However, please be aware that dogs may need to be kept on a lead in certain sensitive wildlife areas, such as sections of the Grebe Trail around Chew Valley Lake, to protect local bird populations and other wildlife.

Are there any easy circular walks with good viewpoints?

Absolutely. The Knowle Hill loop from Chew Valley Lake is an easy 4.3 km path that provides panoramic views of Chew Valley Lake and the surrounding Mendip Hills. Another popular option is the Chew Valley Lake, Knowle Hill & Chew Magna loop, which also offers great vistas.

What is the typical duration for an easy hike in this area?

Easy hikes around Chew Stoke vary in length and duration. For example, the View of Chew Valley Lake – Chew Valley Lake Picnic Area loop is about 4.8 km and typically takes around 1 hour 14 minutes. Shorter options like the Chew Valley Lake – Chew Valley Lake dam loop are around 3 km and can be completed in under an hour.

Are there accessible trails for wheelchairs or pushchairs?

Yes, the Grebe Trail around Chew Valley Lake is a well-surfaced, all-weather path designed to be suitable for pedestrians, pushchairs, and wheelchairs, covering approximately 1.2 km. It offers beautiful lakeside views and is excellent for wildlife spotting.

What kind of wildlife can I expect to see on these trails?

Chew Valley Lake is a haven for wildlife, especially birds. Over 260 species have been recorded here, including various wildfowl and migrating birds that use the extensive reed beds. The woodlands also host numerous bird species and 13 of the 18 bat species resident in the UK.

Are there any points of interest or landmarks along the easy trails?

Yes, many trails offer scenic views of Chew Valley Lake itself. You might also encounter historical elements like ancient stone bridges or enjoy the natural beauty of the Mendip Hills. Knowle Hill is a prominent feature offering excellent views.

What do other hikers enjoy most about the easy trails in Chew Stoke?

The easy trails in Chew Stoke are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 1,600 reviews. Hikers often praise the stunning lakeside views, the peaceful atmosphere, and the well-maintained paths that make exploring the diverse landscapes enjoyable for all skill levels.

Are there any easy walks that pass by pubs or cafes?

While specific routes passing directly by pubs aren't highlighted in the data, the village of Chew Stoke and nearby Chew Magna offer several pubs and cafes. Many trails around Chew Valley Lake are close enough to these villages to combine a walk with a refreshment stop, such as Salt & Malt at the lake itself.

What is the best time of year to hike the easy trails around Chew Stoke?

The easy trails around Chew Stoke can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and summer offer lush greenery and abundant wildlife, while autumn brings beautiful foliage. Even in winter, the well-surfaced paths around Chew Valley Lake provide pleasant walking opportunities, though some more rugged paths might be muddier.

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