For many people, owning a caravan or motorhome is a great opportunity to get out into the countryside and enjoy some hiking.
With that in mind, it’s worth noting that a new 20-mile circuit of Bath hiking trail has been launched with the help of volunteers from Cotswolds National Landscape and the Ramblers.
The route can be tackled independently or as part of a guided walk, with the next one being held on the weekend of May 10th and 11th, 2025.
Taking two days to cover the circuit, hikers can spend the night in their leisure vehicle in between to rest their weary legs.
If you’re holidaying in Bath and would like to do just a short part of the route, it can also be cut up into smaller, more manageable sections.
During the 18th century, doctors in Bath recommended patients take to the surrounding hills and valleys to exercise and improve their wellbeing.
This tradition continues to this day, with the countryside around the city representing a clear opportunity for so-called green therapy.
Walking the route
The circuit of Bath hiking trail can be found on Ordnance Survey maps and on the Long Distance Walkers Association website, helping you to plan your way.
Along the way, you can expect to see beautiful countryside, fascinating industrial and social history, and a number of quaint villages.
These include Southstoke, Englishcombe, Upper Swainswick, Batheaston, Bathampton and Monkton Combe.
Stop off at spots like Little Solsbury Hill, Southstoke, Millenium Viewpoint and Beckford’s Tower to take in the vistas along the way.
Habitats for wildlife
The chance to see interesting flora and fauna is another great reason to get out into the countryside with your leisure vehicle. The circuit of Bath route has a number of opportunities.
Beavers and otters can sometimes be seen in the River Avon, while a combination of ancient woodland and new planting gives a variety of species many different types of trees to use as homes.
The local community
Bringing the new route to fruition has involved many volunteers from the local community, with the Ramblers providing waymarking and improvements to the path.
The community-owned Packhorse pub in Southstoke is among one of the places hikers can take a break during the hike and enjoy some local hospitality.
Look out for the Primrose Hill Community Woodland, which was planted in the year 2000 and is still maintained by volunteers.
