New Year's walks in Somerset to blow away the cobwebs
Some people get up on New Year's Day with their elbows sharpened, ready to hit the sales. Some just want to cherish a bit of quiet time as they mentally prepare to write 2022 2023 for the next six months.
Whichever group you belong to, there's no better way to get some head space and some exercise than going on a long walk.
Not only hiking has become really hip, it has benefits to the entire body including strengthened muscles and seriously reduced stress levels. Plus, after hibernating in your tier area over the festive season it just feels nice to get some fresh air into your lungs and reacclimatise to the outside world.
Here's a list of the top 10 trails around Somerset, courtesy of Alltrails. The trails range from easy to moderate levels of intensity, from quaint village walks to hikes with panoramic landscape views.
Cheddar Gorge is a limestone gorge in the Mendip Hills, and one of Britain's most spectacular natural landmarks. Discover its awe-inspiring cliffs and its extraordinary subterranean caves, revealing many secrets about our prehistoric ancestors.
2. Bathwick and Claverton Down Circular (Bath Skyline
This Bath-based hike is rich in historic citings and varied terrain of rolling hills and enchanted woods. There's plenty of places to stop for a bite to eat along your hike too.
Brean Down stands high above the surrounding coast and extends far into the Bristol Channel. It features prehistoric sites and a fort built in 1862 to protect against France under Napoleon III. Grab a hot chocolate and take in the winter views from the cafe at the bottom of the cliffs.
4. Lydeard Hill Wills Neck and Great Hill
This circular route through the Quantock Hills visits the peaks of Lydeard Hill, Wills Neck and Great Hill. Enjoy the rolling green fields, scenic countryside and wild horses as you walk along.
A circular walk from the iconic Tarr Steps clapper bridge in Exmoor. The simple route crosses this impressive ancient bridge, before following a riverside journey through the woodland, a designated National Nature Reserve that runs alongside the River Barle. This is an idyllic habitat enjoyed by salmon, otters and the elusive dormouse.
6. Crook Peak
A mix of hills and valleys, providing far-reaching views across to Cheddar, Brent Knoll and the Weston coastline. Several trail options make it customisable for the hiker.
7. Goblin Combe: Cox's/Knapps Circular
Be immersed in nature with this forest trail near Clevedon. Picturesque winter views make the steep incline to top of the hills well worth the effort.
A circular walk from the small village of Kilve in the Quantock Hills. The walking route explores a beautiful section of the north Somerset coast, with glorious views across the Bristol Channel and a chance to explore the beaches which are rich in fossils.
9. Glastonbury Tor Loop from Dod Lane
This route takes in the climb to the summit of Glastonbury Tor with sweeping views over the surrounding countryside. Watch the winter sun set from the top of a hill for a whole new level of serenity.
Suitable for most abilities, this trail takes you through a quaint village along a stream, through to woodlands and open fields.
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