Discover our countryside

Best of the countryside

Somerset is famous for special places like Exmoor National Park and the Mendip Hills, Quantock Hills and Blackdown Hills Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. We also have a stunning coastline and the wetlands of the Somerset Levels are a paradise for wildlife. Local people equally treasure their ordinary “countryside next door” and green spaces which can be a great escape without having to travel too far.

Get Outside!

Our friends at Get Outside in Somerset have lots of information on their website to help you get outdoors and move more in ways that suit you. They will help you to explore things to do near you and further afield in Somerset. Check out their site and get inspired.

Visit Get Outside in Somerset website

Bus walks

Somerset Bus Partnership has put together a great collection of walks which anyone can access using local buses.  There are Winter Walks and Coastal Walks and even walks which use some bus routes that are currently under threat.  Let your feet do the talking and make use of these routes so that they keep running.  With flat fares of just £3 per journey, it makes sense. Even if you are a car owner – imagine – you don’t have to worry about getting muddy boots in your nice, clean car!

Visit Buses of Somerset website to discover walks from the bus

Why not combine a walk with a trip on a steam train?

West Somerset railway volunteers have put together detailed directions for a fabulous 3 mile walk in the West Somerset countryside, from Crowcombe Heathfield Station to Stogumber Station. This country walk stays close to the railway line giving maximum opportunity for spotting locomotives in action. At the end of the walk, you can either retrace your steps or ride the West Somerset Railway back to the start.  There is even an opportunity to have a cream tea while you wait for your train!

A 3 mile walk from Crowcombe Heathfield Station to Stogumber Station