The best walks and hikes around Meare

Hiking in Meare offers a distinctive experience due to its location within the Somerset Levels, characterized by extensive wetland landscapes, reed beds, and meadows. This area, historically home to the vast Meare Pool, provides unique opportunities for wildlife spotting, including various bird species, otters, and water voles. The flat terrain also makes for generally accessible walking.

There are over 20 hiking trails around Meare, catering to various skill levels. You'll find a good mix of routes, with 13 easy trails, 8 moderate, and 2 more challenging options.

Yes, Meare offers many easy trails perfect for beginners and families. For instance, the Bittern Trail is an easy 4.4-mile route through Shapwick Heath National Nature Reserve, known for its wildlife. Another great option is the Square House – Ham Wall Nature Reserve loop, an easy 2.8-mile path exploring a key wetland bird habitat.

The hiking trails in Meare are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.6 stars from over 700 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the area's tranquil wetland scenery, abundant wildlife, and the well-maintained paths through nature reserves like Shapwick Heath and Ham Wall.

Yes, many of the trails in Meare are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A notable longer circular route is the Westhay Moore, Meare, & Division Rhyne loop, which covers about 12.7 miles through the broader wetland landscape. Shorter circular options include the Ham Wall Nature Reserve loop from RSPB Ham Wall.

Many trails in Meare are dog-friendly, especially those on public footpaths. However, as much of the area consists of sensitive nature reserves with abundant wildlife, it's crucial to keep dogs on a lead to protect ground-nesting birds and other animals. Always check specific reserve rules before your visit.

Meare's wetland environment is a haven for wildlife. Hikers often spot a variety of birds, including marsh harriers, kingfishers, and great white egrets, particularly in reserves like Shapwick Heath and Ham Wall. Otters and water voles can also be found in these habitats, making it an excellent area for nature observation.

Yes, Meare is rich in history. You can explore the 14th-century Meare Fish House, an important monastic fishery building. The sites of the Iron Age Meare Lake Villages also offer a glimpse into the area's ancient past. Additionally, nearby attractions include the iconic Glastonbury Tor and the dramatic Cheddar Gorge.

Meare offers enjoyable hiking year-round, but each season has its charm. Spring and autumn are ideal for birdwatching, with migratory species passing through. Summer provides pleasant conditions for longer walks, while winter, though potentially wetter, can offer a unique perspective of the landscape, sometimes resembling the historic Meare Pool during flooding.

Parking is generally available at or near the entrances to the main nature reserves and popular trailheads in Meare. For example, RSPB Ham Wall often has dedicated parking facilities for visitors accessing trails like the Main Entrance to Ham Wall loop. It's always advisable to check specific route details for parking information.

While Meare itself is a small village, the surrounding Somerset Levels area has various pubs and cafes where you can refresh after your hike. Many local establishments offer traditional fare and are often found in nearby villages, providing a welcoming stop for hikers.

Given Meare's wetland environment, trails are generally flat but can be muddy, especially after rain or during winter. Many popular routes in nature reserves feature well-maintained paths, and some may include boardwalk sections. Appropriate waterproof footwear is often recommended.