A stream cutting through Horner Wood on the Holnicote Estate, Somerset. — A stream through Horner Wood | © National Trust Images/John Miller

Countryside areas in Somerset

There's a wealth of outdoor places from tors and gorges to woodlands and streams to visit in Somerset. Climb hills to see far-reaching views or relax and watch the children play in the fresh air.

Visit locations around the Mendip Hills and Somerset for walks through countryside and get some fresh air outdoors.

View of the geological features in the limestone gorge at Cheddar Gorge, Somerset

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Cheddar Gorge

Discover the heights of England’s largest gorge. Head out for a walk, take in the views and spot wildlife including Cheddar Gorge’s famous feral goats.

View up the steps towards the roofless St Michael's Tower at Glastonbury Tor

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Glastonbury Tor

Discover what to see and do at the Tor, a site of religious significance for over 1,000 years that's home to some amazing wildlife.

The view from Gorge Walk at Cheddar Gorge, Somerset

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Mendip Hills

Explore the Mendip Hills and the wildlife within. Visit Ebbor Gorge, the perfect place to bring the whole family, or head to Burrow Mump for scenic views across Somerset.

The orchard with spring flowers including cowslips and camassia at Lytes Cary Manor, Somerset

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The estate at Lytes Cary Manor

Get outdoors and explore the waymarked paths through the historic country estate. Look out for wildlife including chiffchaffs, roe deer and water voles that call this place home.

Two visitors walking their dog in the woodland in autumn at Calke Abbey, Derbyshire

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Countryside near Wellington Monument

On your visit to Wellington Monument, learn about its history, go on one of the great walks, take a tour of the monument or simply enjoy all the wildlife this little corner of Somerset has to offer.

Find lots of places to top and explore in north Somerset from woods to a great vantage point for far-reaching views.

A medieval packhorse bridge surrounded by trees at Horner Wood

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Horner Wood

Discover Horner Wood, one of the largest ancient oak woods in Britain. Walk, ride or cycle through this National Nature Reserve which is bursting with wildlife.

Two walkers standing next to a rock formation at Dunkery Beacon on the Holnicote Estate

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Explore Holnicote Estate

Holnicote Estate has something for everyone, from its wild moorland and shingle beaches to ancient woodland and charming villages. Plus, keep an eye out for its resident red deer.

Three mountain bikers cycling through the woods with a dog, near Webber's Post on the Holnicote Estate, Exmoor National Park, Somerset

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The countryside around Webber's Post

Explore Webber's Post, Exmoor’s highest point, and enjoy spectacular views over Horner Wood and the wild expanse of moorland stretching up to Dunkery Beacon.

A large tree with yellowing autumn leaves, next to a pyramid-shaped den made of branches leaned against each other

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The estate at Fyne Court

Fyne Court is a haven for wildlife in spring, with clues to its past life as an Arcadian garden. You can also explore the Quantock Hills, with enjoyable walks and captivating views.

Visitors walking at Heddon Valley, Devon

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Exploring the Heddon Valley

Explore the wooded river valley reaching inland down to the sea at Heddon's Mouth. Heddon Valley's walking routes include two accessible routes for all-terrain mobility scooters with Tramper.

Man canoeing down river rapids at Watersmeet

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Things to see and do at Watersmeet

From fishing to canoeing, there's an outdoor adventure to suit everyone at Watersmeet. Take a walk through ancient woodland or along the banks of the river.

Visitors enjoy the scenery from the garden at the Buttery Tea Room, Lorna Doone Valley

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Things to do in Lorna Doone Valley

Discover this hidden valley in Exmoor, made famous by RD Blackmore in his novel Lorna Doone and home to a wide variety of wildlife such as red deer and Exmoor ponies.