Once a railway line which famously carried delicious Somerset strawberries out into the world, this easy-going trail now meanders through cider country, peaceful wetlands and pretty Somerset villages. The largely traffic-free route is made for an unhurried autumn adventure, with orchard views and plenty of fresh country air along the way. Take on the Yatton to Cheddar stretch for a longer outing, then head to The Swan nearby.
Step into the woods and heathland that shaped Thomas Hardy’s imagination. The three and five-mile routes weave beneath leafy canopies and across open ground, with wild ponies, ancient earthworks and traces of a Roman road to spot. It feels wonderfully removed from the everyday, yet The King’s Arms is close by for a leisurely lunch in the heart of Dorchester.
Bradford on Avon is made for exploring on foot. It has an excellent Walkers are Welcome website with a brilliant collection of marked routes ranging from easy rambles to challenging 18-mile hike. One of our favourites is the 3.7-mile Woods and River circular walk which begins outside the Explore Bradford on Avon office, just opposite Timbrell’s Yard. The route climbs gently through woodland before opening onto fields beside the River Avon, then passes through wildlife-rich Widbrook Woods and returns along the Kennet and Avon Canal. Before descending into town, pause at the viewpoint for one of the best views across Bradford on Avon before making your way back to Timbrell’s Yard for lunch, drinks or a well-earned rest by the river.
