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South West England

Publow

The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Publow

4.5

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5,638

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44

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Family friendly hiking trails around Publow are characterized by tranquil riverside paths, gently rolling green valleys, and ancient woodlands. The region, nestled in Bath and North East Somerset, England, offers a diverse and scenic backdrop for outdoor activities. Notable features include the River Chew, which flows through the area, and the Victorian-era Pensford Viaduct, a prominent landmark integrated into several routes. This varied terrain provides accessible options for hikers of different abilities.

Best family friendly hiking trails around Publow

  • The…

Last updated: May 3, 2026

4.9

(48)

198

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#1.

River Chew – Pensford Viaduct loop from Pensford

6.18km

01:36

30m

30m

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

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Easy

5.0

(21)

73

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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

4.3

(6)

42

hikers

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

Holly
March 17, 2025, Woodland Pond

I wouldn't go out of your way to come here... But, if you happen to be in / near here on a walk, then you may as well add it on! • Also, this pond is very deep in the woodland. There is a path all around it, and it is very pretty; it's mostly obscured from view (which is great) because this means that you can peek through the foliage and see birds who aren't aware you're there! Of course, they will be as soon as you move on! I have only been once, it was very muddy after & during rain, so I can't advise on other seasons.

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WELL! When I walked here, it was (genuinely) the muddiest hike I had ever been on! So, if you're planning to go & it's been raining a lot recently, be prepared for actual flooded fields! It is a really stunning place, so it is worth it, and usually, of course, it won't be flooded! But because it is low-laying, rainwater does accumulate in the fields around, just something to bear in mind if it is/has been very wet.

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It is not so common for a Christian place of worship – which encompasses the whole of heaven – to be dedicated to “ALL SAINTS”. Usually it is one (or occasionally two) named saints who hold the patronage of a church – and thus usually also of the parish or town in which it is located. But to find the origin of such a dedication, one has to go far back in history, because the model for this practice of dedication to ALL SAINTS can be seen as a pagan custom, according to which there were already central temples in pre-Christian times that were dedicated to all deities (PANTHEON). The probably most famous Pantheon, formerly a pagan temple and now a Christian place of worship, is located in the Italian capital.

Translated by Google

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As with many stories of stone circles, legends explained the stones were a petrified party of people. Aubrey wrote that The Cove were the parson, bridegroom, and bride. Another group of stones was the band, while the circles comprised the dancing guests later, the story evolved, as the wedding took place on a Saturday. As the evening wore on, one musician player (either a piper or a harper) had simply refused to play beyond the point of midnight since it would mean playing on into the Sunday. The furious bride claimed she would find another player even if it meant travelling to hell to fetch one. Then Hell came to her in the form of the Devil, dressed in a disguise of that as an old man. He played and played as the company endlessly danced, but soon to find that they couldn’t stop dancing, no matter how much they tried or badly wanted to, and they had became to turn into stone by in the Sunday morning

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The Stanton Drew stone circles are located just outside the village of Stanton Drew in the English county of Somerset. The largest stone circle is the Great Circle, standing in a 113 metres in diameter and is in-fact the second largest stone circle to be discovered in Britain. After Avebury and It’s considered to be one of the largest Neolithic monuments to have ever been built. The date of the construction is not actually accurately known of, but it’s thought to have been built between 3000 and 2000 BCE. These standing stone circles of which have been studied since John Aubrey's visit in 1664. It was only made a scheduled monument of it is today in 1982. Please be aware that an entrance fee is charged by the landowner for any entry in among the grounds of the Stone Circles and any public access is at his discretion only. NO DOGS ALLOWED! As the land is used for agriculture purposes and usually has cattle grazing on the fields where the standing stones are. Please be aware that the English Heritage sites do not permit drone flying from or over sites in our care, by any circumstances except by contractors or partners undertaking flights for a specific purpose, who satisfy stringent CAA criteria, have the correct insurances and permissions, and are operating under controlled conditions only. Just having experienced this ourselves before.

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September 23, 2024, Pensford Viaduct

Pensford Viaduct is a disused railway bridge. It was built in 1874 to carry the Bristol and North Somerset railway over the River Chew. It was closed in 1968 and is now preserved as a historic building. Great views of the viaduct can be had from Stanton Lane.

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This footpath between Woollard and Compton Dando is part of the 45 mile (72 km) Community Forest Path which circles Bristol. This section crosses fields above the River Chew.

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Gorgeous Woodland. Really stunning villages nearby, too. The fields in the vicinity can become *very* waterlogged after a lot of rain!!

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many family-friendly hiking trails are available around Publow?

Publow offers a great selection of family-friendly hiking trails. You'll find over 40 routes suitable for various ages and abilities, with 18 of these specifically rated as easy, perfect for families with younger children.

What kind of natural features can we expect to see on family hikes in Publow?

The family-friendly trails around Publow are rich in natural beauty. You can expect to encounter tranquil riverside paths along the River Chew, gently rolling green valleys, and ancient woodlands like Lord's Wood. Many routes also feature picturesque ponds, such as the Pond in Lord's Wood.

Are there any easy circular routes suitable for families with young children?

Yes, there are several easy circular routes. For a pleasant stroll, consider the River Chew – The Gift Box Café loop from Pensford, which is 6.2 km long and rated easy. Another great option is the Pond in Lord's Wood – Woodland Pond loop from Pensford, an easy 6.7 km trail through scenic woodlands.

What are some notable landmarks or points of interest along the family trails?

A prominent landmark you'll often encounter is the historic Pensford Viaduct, a Victorian-era structure that adds a unique architectural element to the natural landscape. Routes like the Pensford Viaduct – Pensford Viaduct loop from Pensford offer excellent views of this impressive structure. You might also spot the Stanton Drew Stone Circles and Cove nearby.

What do other hikers say about the family-friendly trails in Publow?

The komoot community highly rates the trails in Publow, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the well-maintained paths, the peaceful riverside sections, and the beautiful woodland scenery, making it a popular choice for family outings.

Are there any trails that combine views of the Pensford Viaduct with riverside walking?

Absolutely! The Pensford Viaduct – River Chew loop from Pensford is a moderate 7.7 km route that perfectly blends views of the iconic viaduct with serene stretches along the River Chew, offering a varied and engaging experience for families.

Can we find places to eat or drink near the hiking trails in Publow?

Yes, the village of Pensford, which serves as a starting point for many trails, offers options for refreshments. The River Chew – The Gift Box Café loop from Pensford even includes 'The Gift Box Café' in its name, suggesting a convenient stop for families.

What is the best time of year to go hiking with family in Publow?

Publow's trails are enjoyable year-round, but spring and summer offer the most pleasant conditions with lush greenery and warmer weather. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, while winter can be charming, though some paths might be muddier. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.

Are there any trails that go through ancient woodlands?

Yes, Lord's Wood is an ancient woodland in the area, and several trails pass through it. The Pond in Lord's Wood – Woodland Pond loop from Pensford is a great example, offering shaded paths and a chance to experience the natural flora of the area.

Are there any options for wild swimming near the family hiking routes?

While not directly on every family hiking route, the area does have natural swimming spots. You can find the Woollard River Swimming Spot listed as a nearby highlight, which might be an interesting addition to a family day out after a hike.

What is the typical duration and distance for family-friendly hikes in Publow?

Family-friendly hikes in Publow vary in length and duration. Easy routes can be around 6-7 km, taking approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, such as the River Chew – The Gift Box Café loop from Pensford. Moderate trails might extend to 7-8 km, taking closer to 2.5 hours, like the Pensford Viaduct – Pensford Viaduct loop from Pensford.

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