The best waterfall hikes and walks around Mendip

This guide highlights a selection of trails around Mendip, including one specifically leading to a waterfall. The featured routes offer diverse experiences across the region's dramatic landscapes, from easy strolls to more moderate ascents.

Yes, for an easy and family-friendly option, consider the Newton Farm Shop & Café – Newton Brook Waterfall loop from Bath Spa University. This 2.6-mile (4.1 km) trail features gentle elevation changes and leads directly to the Newton Brook Waterfall, making it ideal for a relaxed outing.

The Mendip Hills, a designated National Landscape, offer diverse terrain. You can expect dramatic limestone gorges, undulating plateaus, and ancient woodlands. Trails range from gentle paths through flower-rich grasslands to steeper ascents with prominent rocky outcrops, all shaped by water erosion.

Yes, the Newton Farm Shop & Café – Newton Brook Waterfall loop from Bath Spa University is a circular route that takes you to the Newton Brook Waterfall and back. Many of the trails in the Mendips are designed as loops, offering varied scenery without retracing your steps.

Beyond the waterfalls, the Mendip Hills are rich in natural beauty. You might encounter spectacular gorges like Ebbor Gorge, or explore the fascinating Wookey Hole Caves. The region also features expansive views from high points like Black Down Summit, offering panoramic vistas across the Somerset Levels.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 1100 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse landscapes, from dramatic gorges to ancient woodlands, and the variety of routes suitable for different ability levels.

While the primary waterfall trail mentioned is easy, the Mendip region offers more moderate hikes that can be combined with exploring areas known for water features. For example, the The Circus, Bath – Bath Abbey loop from Bath is a moderate 5.6-mile (9.0 km) trail that includes some elevation gain, offering views of Bath's architecture and surrounding natural areas where water erosion has shaped the landscape.

The Mendip Hills offer unique experiences year-round. Spring brings blossoming wildflowers, while summer provides extended daylight hours for exploration. Autumn showcases vibrant foliage, and winter can transform the landscape with dramatic, often more powerful, waterfalls after rainfall. Always check local conditions before heading out.

Parking availability varies by trailhead. For routes like the Newton Farm Shop & Café – Newton Brook Waterfall loop, you may find parking at or near the starting point, such as Newton Farm Shop. It's always recommended to check specific route details on komoot for parking information before your trip.

Some areas of the Mendip Hills, particularly those closer to towns like Bath, are accessible by public transport. For instance, routes starting from Bath, such as The Circus, Bath – Bath Abbey loop from Bath, are easily reachable. For more remote waterfall locations, public transport options might be limited, and a combination of bus and walking or private transport may be necessary.

Yes, some trails, like the Newton Farm Shop & Café – Newton Brook Waterfall loop, start or pass by amenities such as the Newton Farm Shop & Café, where you can find refreshments. In larger towns bordering the Mendips, like Bath, there are numerous cafes, pubs, and restaurants available.

Given the varied terrain and potential for wet conditions near waterfalls, it's advisable to wear sturdy, waterproof hiking boots with good grip. Layered clothing is recommended to adapt to changing weather, and a waterproof jacket is essential, especially during wetter seasons or when close to the spray of waterfalls.