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20 top things to do in the Mendip Hills

Are you looking for the best things to do in the Mendip Hills? If so, you’re in the right place!

Drive 20 minutes south of Bristol, and the city gradually peters out, making way for the rolling, limestone Mendip Hills. 

This natural wonderland is among one of the best day trips from Bristol and Bath, but with the exception of the town of Cheddar in the south, masses of tourists haven’t quite discovered it yet!

However, I used to visit frequently when I lived in Bristol and loved the stunning views from every hilltop and the wonderful solitude that a day’s hike in the Mendips offered. 

So, I’ve put together all of my favourite things to do in the Mendips, plus a few tips for visiting! 

Table of Contents

Things to do in the Mendip Hills

The best things to do in the Mendip Hills include hiking some (or all) of the Mendip Way, exploring the mystical Cheddar Gorge, shorter hikes like Three Priddy Droves, hiking to the top of Blackdown and ambling around Blagdon Reservoir. This part of Somerset is underrated and absolutely charming!

Hike some of the Mendip Way

Spanning across the entire network of hills, this is one of the best long-distance hikes in the South West. 

It’s a 50 mile/ 80 kilometre waymarked trail traversing from Weston-super-Mare to Frome, taking in the beautiful towns of Cheddar, Wells and Shepton Mallet. 

On this route, you’ll take in some of the best places to visit in Somerset , but also enjoy countless sweeping views of the hills in blissful solitude. 

It’s actually composed of two trails – the West Mendip Way and the East Mendip Way, with Wells being the central point. This makes it easy to complete in sections! 

You can read more about the Mendip Way here.

Be amazed at Cheddar Gorge

The piece de resistance of the Mendip Hills, Cheddar Gorge is easily its most popular attraction. 

The UK doesn’t have all that many dramatic gorges, but Cheddar’s is definitely world-class – in fact, it’s the biggest gorge in the UK . 

You can do the Cheddar Gorge Loop Walk to explore the entire gorge from above, with spectacular views over the countryside and towards Cheddar Reservoir.

Also, don’t forget to drive and walk down the windy road that goes through the gorge.

Explore the network of Cheddar Caves

When you’re all gorge-d out, there are plenty of ancient caves to visit in Cheddar as well. 

Gough’s Cave is the largest show cave in Cheddar Gorge and is one of the best in the country.

It has breathtaking cathedral caverns and audio guides can tell you all about its creation, use in the Stone Age, excavation and how Cheddar Man was discovered here!

Cox’s Cave and Dreamhunters is a cave experience that tells you the story of prehistoric people.

Inspired by the discovery of Cheddar Man in the area, Cox’s Cave is an immersive and educational experience loved by young and old alike. 

Enjoy a country atmosphere in Cheddar Town

The gorge is not all this town has to offer. As you might be able to guess by the name, a wide range of delicious cheeses are made here; yes, it’s where cheddar cheese comes from!

There are two cheese shops in town, and you can even do a cheese factory tour. 

Delicious locally-made cider and cream teas are also on the menu at virtually every eatery in town.

Here are all of the best things to do in Cheddar.

Hike up Bleadon Hill and admire the view

Bleadon Hill is part of the West Mendip Way; you can walk to here all the way from Weston-super-Mare. 

At the top, you’ll see beautiful views around this part of the Mendips and out to the sea. 

There’s also a popular 9-hole golf course on Bleadon Hill!

Once you’ve climbed down from the hill, pop into The Queens Arms, the main Bleadon village pub. 

Take in the Three Priddy Droves Walk

This is one of my favourite walks in the Mendips, and it’s very accessible from Bristol. 

Starting from the village of Priddy, the Three Priddy Droves Walk is a 4.5 mile circular walk, encompassing country roads and green fields. 

Look out for the Priddy Nine Barrows on the route, which are round barrows from the Bronze Age!

You can find directions here.

Check out the views from Blackdown, the highest part of the Mendips!

Blackdown is the highest peak in the Mendips. From here, you can take in awe-inspiring views from all over Somerset! 

It’s a fairly easy hike to reach the top, and the trails are also popular with mountain bikers. 

Park at Burrington Ham Car Park and use Maps.Me or an OS Map to guide you around. 

(If you don’t know, Maps.Me is a free app that has lots of trails that Google Maps doesn’t include). 

I also wrote a full guide to the Blackdown Hike that you can follow!

Have a gentle amble around Blagdon Reservoir

Famous amongst fishers for being the home of still-water trout, Blagdon Lake is, unsurprisingly, a popular spot for angling. 

However, it’s also a lovely location for a stroll.

It’s one of the gentler hikes in the Mendips area, which makes it popular with families and dog walkers. 

Only the North West corner of the lake is open to the general public; the footpath runs adjacent to Butcombe Bay.

For the rest of the lake, you’ll need a permit. 

It’s also worth visiting the beautiful village of Blagdon.

While Mendip villages aren’t quite as storybook-like as those in the Cotswolds, the small settlement has some beautiful Mendip views, a couple of pubs and a tranquil church. 

Explore The Organic Gardens

The Organic Gardens, run by Yeo Valley (the yoghurt company!) is a six and a half acre space featuring ornamental and edible plants. 

A lovely place to take a stroll and enjoy horticulture, you can visit as an add-on to seeing Blagdon Lake, Chew Valley Reservoir or Blagdon Village. 

There’s also a small cafe on-site. 

The Organic Gardens are open most Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays until the end of October, and you can pre-book your entry here .

See the gorgeous Chew Valley Lake 

Another lake in striking distance of Bristol is the Chew Valley Lake. Famous for its sailing club, the Chew Valley Lake is also home to nature trails, picnic areas, angling opportunities and birdwatching. 

The Woodford Lodge serves breakfasts, lunches, dinner and plenty of gin at its gorgeous lakeside location, and it makes a great base to explore the lake. 

The two nature trails – Grebe Nature Trail and Bittern Nature Trail – are both less than 1.5 km and boast birdwatching opportunities and wildflower-filled meadows. 

As far as sailing is concerned, Chew Valley Lake has a community membership sailing club with boats going out regularly each week.

There’s also a Royal Yachting Association Push the Boat Out Day that takes place once a year when non-members can register for a taster sail. 

Cycle the Strawberry Line

Marketing itself as “a traffic-free route from the Mendips to the Sea”, the Strawberry Line is part of a network of old railway lines that used to span the country.

It currently spans from Cheddar to Yatton, which is slightly inland and between Clevedon and Weston-Super-Mare. 

The Strawberry Line Association is trying to extend the line from Yatton to Clevedon and from Cheddar all the way to Shepton Mallet. 

But you can currently cycle the open part of the line, which is another lovely way to explore the Mendips! 

Mendip Activity Centre

If you’re looking for things to do in the Mendips with kids, look no further than the Mendip Activity Centre ! 

With caving excursions, frisbee adventure golf, tobogganing, canoeing, abseiling and so much more, there’s tonnes to enjoy here. 

Activities take place at the activity centre or in the local area. 

There’s also a campsite which is open every summer. 

Walk around charming Axbridge

As far as historic Mendip towns go, Axbridge is one of the best. 

It’s a small place, but it dates back to the era of King Alfred and was a Saxon town. In fact, it was one of Wessex’s 30 settlements that were fortified to defend against the Vikings !

A market town, it got its royal charter in the 13th century.

Walk around and enjoy the gorgeous half-timbered buildings spilling down to the main square, which dates back to the Medieval era. 

The most popular attraction in Axbridge is King John’s Hunting Lodge, run by the National Trust, which is now a museum of local history. 

Also, don’t miss the Axbridge Lavender Field , which is in bloom in the summer months and run by Lavender & Co, who make delicious floral-scented products. 

Places to visit near the Mendips

There are plenty of Somerset-focused spots to visit around the Mendips too. From Weston-super-Mare to Wookey Hole, there’s something for families, hikers, historians and foodies. Of course, you can visit on a day trip from Bristol or Bath too!

Take a look at the best places to visit near the Mendips!

Owned by the National Trust, Brean Down is a natural pier that protrudes into the sea.

You can walk all 1.5 miles of the distance, taking in views of the Somerset Levels, South Wales and the Bristol Channel. 

There’s also a Roman Temple on site, plus the Victorian Palmerstone Fort! 

Weston Super Mare

Weston-Super-Mare is one of the closest beaches to Bristol . 

It’s worth visiting for its range of attractions for people of all ages, including its famous Grand Pier.

The beach is very tidal (it’s part of the Bristol Channel, which has the second-largest tidal range in the world!), so if you take a dip here, beware of boggy areas (it’s possible to get stuck in them) and know that the tide can come in very fast. 

There are also a few museums in town, and you can take a day trip out to Steep Holme Island where there are hiking trails!

See all of the best things to do in Weston-super-Mare here.

Wookey Hole Caves

Wookey Hole Caves are located close to cheddar and is another popular place to visit with families. 

A place of caves and adventure, here you’ll find beautiful natural caverns, a cave diving museum, dinosaur grove where you can meet dinosaurs, 4D cinema and Wild Wookey, which is a caving experience. 

It’s a really popular attraction with families, although there’s plenty for older groups to enjoy too! 

You can use Groupon to get voucher deals.

Wells is one of the smallest cities in the country, but that doesn’t make it any less worth visiting! 

In fact, Wells has one of the most beautiful Cathedrals in the UK, and was the earliest to be built in Gothic style, dating back to 1175. 

The nearby Vicar’s Close is thought to be the oldest solely residential street with intact buildings in England.

This is a bit of a mouthful – another way to say it is the only remaining Medieval residential street in England! 

Either way, walking down it is like going back in history, making it a must-do while you’re in the area. 

Plus, visit Bishops Palace which has been the residence of the Bishops of Bath and Wells for more than eight centuries, or the Wells and Mendip Museum which ties the history together. 

Glastonbury

One of the most enchanting places to visit in South West England, Glastonbury isn’t actually in the Mendips, but it sits just south of the hills. 

If you’re staying in the Mendips for a few days, it’s well worth making the tips out to the town!

Most famous for the Glastonbury festival, there’s still plenty to do here other times of year too (and I’d recommend avoiding it on the festival weekend unless you have tickets – it’s chaotic!). 

Hike up Glastonbury Tor, a hill with mythical connections (it’s been linked to the Isle of Avalon which is where King Arthur was buried), visit the ruins of Glastonbury Abbey, or just take a walk around the town centre and enjoy all the shops. 

Shepton Mallet Prison 

The market town of Shepton Mallet sits just to the east of the Mendips. 

It’s a pleasant town to walk around, but there isn’t much in the way of attractions – apart from the Shepton Mallet Prison. 

Sometimes called the most haunted jail in the world, the Shepton Mallet Prison has a long history stretching back centuries, and only recently did it stop becoming a prison. 

From stories of notable residents (ever heard of the Krays?) to details about the recent penal system, this is a fascinating look into the past and present of prisons. 

You can do guided tours and several other experiences. Tickets are bookable on the website . 

West Country Games

Located close to Bristol, but not actually in the city, are the West Country Games. 

These are the perfect thing to do for a stag or hen party, and they’re also popular with corporate events or large groups of friends!

They’re basically a huge obstacle course with a West Country theme; tractors and cows and all!

You can read more about the West Country Games here.

Where to stay in the Mendips

The Swan Inn

Enjoy a warm welcome and a hearty breakfast at The Swan Inn , a cosy pub with rooms in Winscombe.

Relax in spacious and comfortable rooms, savour local dishes at the restaurant and bar, and explore the stunning Mendip Hills nearby.

Click here to see rates and availability.

The Langford Inn

Experience luxury and charm at The Langford Inn , a converted 17th-century barn in Langford.

Indulge in modern and elegant rooms, with balconies or terraces overlooking the countryside.

Taste seasonal cuisine at the restaurant and bar, and discover the beauty of the Mendip Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Beryl Country House

Treat yourself to a stay at Beryl Country Hous e , a magnificent Victorian mansion near Wells.

Admire the antiques, fireplaces and four-poster beds in your room, soak in a roll-top bath, and enjoy views of the Mendip Hills or Wells Cathedral.

Swim in the outdoor pool, relax in the gardens and woodland, and sample homemade and organic food.

Country Pubs in the Mendips

As you’d expect from a rural area, there are some incredibly cosy pubs in the Mendips! 

• The New Inn Blagdon : This country pub is loved by locals for its beer garden with impressive lakeside views. Expect quality pub grub and plenty of local ales. 
• The Mendip Inn : Despite the name, this country pub is located just outside the Mendip area, but it’s a beautiful recently renovated pub with a tantalising menu serving the best of British cuisine. 
• The Riverside Inn : In the heart of Cheddar, this pub has an international menu, a private car park and a pub garden. 

How to get to the Mendips

Bristol is the easiest jumping point for the Mendip Hills. The Mendip Xplorer leaves the city and serves some of the Mendip Hills, although not all of them!

The easiest way to get to the Mendips is, by far, to drive. You can take the M4 (which connects to London) or M5 (which connects to Birmingham or Exeter) to reach the AONB.

Where are the Mendips? 

The Mendips are located in North Somerset. Their northernmost edge is about 7 miles south of Bristol. 

How long do I need in the Mendips? 

It depends on what you want to do! 

You could definitely spend two days in Cheddar, walking around the gorge, exploring the caves and spending some time in the town. 

Then, you could spend a day exploring the northern Mendips area; Blagdon, Chew Valley Lake and Blackdown Hill. 

Wells and Glastonbury would take another day. 

If you wanted to visit Wookey Hole, Shepton Mallet or Weston Super Mare, you’re looking at another day!

Plus, there are lots of day hikes on the Mendip Way. I enjoyed the Weston Super Mare to Bleadon Hill out-and-back hike, but again, that’s another day. 

As you can see, it’s easy to spend a week or more exploring the Mendips – and we haven’t even gotten started on the best things to do in Bristol and Bath yet! 

Mendip Hills FAQ

Why are they called the mendips .

Nobody is 100% sure where the word “Mendips” come from, but people think that it could have come from “Myne-deepes”, which is a Medieval term. 

Or, it could be a combination of the word Mened, which is a Brythonic word meaning upland moorland, and hop, which is an Anglo-Saxon word for valley. 

What is the highest point in the Mendips? 

The highest point in the Mendips is Blackdown. From here, you can see all over the hills and to the Somerset coastline! 

How were the Mendips formed? 

The Mendips are ancient limestone hills that were created when two landmasses collided in the south of England. When this happened, the layers of rocks crashed into each other, were compressed and rose to form hills. 

Are you ready to explore the Mendips?

The beautiful countryside of the Mendip hills is rural Somerset at its finest. Enjoy gorgeous hikes, ancient history and the awe-inspiring Cheddar Gorge as you visit this wonderful yet underrated area of South West England! 

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Meandering Wild

A slow travel guide to the Mendip Hills, Somerset

The Mendip Hills are located southwestern part of England, weaving through the counties of Somerset and North Somerset. Renowned for their distinctive limestone landscapes, the Mendip Hills are a place to escape the busy nearby cities of Bath and Bristol.

These hills are characterised by a unique blend of rugged ridges, expansive plateaus, and deep valleys. Designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), the Mendip Hills offer the chance to immerse yourself in the tranquillity of nature while exploring an ancient landscape shaped over millions of years.

The Mendip Hills stand out for their rich cultural heritage, housing prehistoric sites, medieval settlements, and historic landmarks. Cheddar Gorge, with its dramatic cliffs and winding caves, is a prime example of the area’s unique geology.

The area has a network of trails all joined by the Mendip Way that runs along the length of the hills. Along the way, there are small villages, open moorlands and forests, all with unique habitats and wildlife.

Things to do in the Mendip Hills

The Mendips are the perfect place to explore year-round. The landscape is dotted with deep gorges and nature reserves while the villages and towns are small and intimate oozing with history.

Wells is the smallest city in England , known for its historic architecture and picturesque surroundings. It is recognised more recently for its starring role as the fictional West Country Village of Sandford in the 2007 action comedy Hot Fuzz.

Here are some things to do in Wells:

• Wells Cathedral – The centrepiece of the city, Wells Cathedral is a magnificent example of Gothic architecture, boasting intricate sculptures and the iconic West Front.
• Vicar’s Close – Adjacent to the cathedral, Vicar’s Close is a well-preserved medieval street in Europe, featuring a row of picturesque houses that once housed the cathedral’s clergy.
• Bishop’s Palace – A medieval palace with stunning gardens, a moat with bell-ringing swans, and a drawbridge makes the Bishop’s Palace an enchanting historical site that offers a glimpse into the home of the Bishop of Bath and Wells.
• Palace Wells and High Street Rivulets – Within the Bishop’s Palace, natural springs called “Palace Wells” give rise to small streams that gracefully flow down the bustling High Street, adding to the city’s character.
• Mendip Hospital Cemetery – Just outside the city is the burial ground for the Somerset and Bath Lunatic Asylum which was in use from 1848 to 1991 and is now a nature reserve.
• Somerset Levels – Surrounding the city, the Somerset Levels is a unique wetland area with diverse wildlife and rich ecosystems, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers.

Mendip Way – Walks on the Mendip Hills

The Mendip Way is an 80-kilometre trail with 1,800 metres of ascent that runs from Uphill near Weston-super-Mare to Frome. The western section of the trail begins at the Bristol Channel and offers stunning views of the Somerset Levels. It then crosses the central Mendip plateau and descends to Cheddar Gorge . The eastern section of the trail passes through the city of Wells and then continues to Frome. The landscape in this section is characterised by deep, secluded valleys.

The Mendip Way is broken up into two distinct parts the West Mendip Way and the East Mendip Way. In both sections, there are a lot of circular walks that make the trail achievable in short day hikes.

Crook Peak to King’s Wood Walk

One of our favourites is the out-and-back walk from Kings Wood at Shute Shelf across Wavering Down past the trig point to Crooks Peak. This hill can be seen from the M5 motorway and has views across the Somerset Levels, out towards Exmoor National Park and across the Bristol Channel to South Wales.

It is a moderate walk with a few steep sections and 236 metres of ascent so a good level of fitness is needed. The trail is well-marked but uneven in places. In bad weather, it can become muddy and slippery, especially through Kings Wood at the beginning and end of the walk.

KING’S WOOD TO CROOK PEAK CIRCULAR WALK Winscombe Hill, BS25 1DH

Difficulty  – Medium |  Distance  – 7.2 kilometres (4.5 miles) |  Time  – 2 hours CHECK THE ROUTE

Cheddar Gorge and Caves

Cheddar Gorge is a breathtaking area with dramatic limestone cliffs that tower up to 130 metres high. The road follows the ancient river bed through the gorge as it snakes its way up to the Mendip plateau.

The gorge is home to the Cheddar Caves, a series of subterranean chambers and passages formed over millions of years, showcasing impressive stalactites and stalagmites. These caves hold immense historical significance, with evidence of human occupation dating back over 10,000 years, making them one of Britain’s most important prehistoric sites.

The village of Cheddar is nestled at the foot of the gorge with its traditional architecture and small pubs away from the commercial madness of the Gorge. In the centre of the village close to St Andrew’s Church is the 15th Century hexagonal Market Cross. There is also a large reservoir with a well-made path around the shore which is good for birdwatching.

Cheddar is also renowned for its world-famous Cheddar cheese, which has been produced in the area for centuries, and it is possible to sample and purchase from local producers. Cave-matured cheddar is stored and chilled at the nearby Wookey Hole Caves and Cox’s Cave in Cheddar.

The gorge has a number of walking routes with the most obvious being the Cheddar Loop that takes you along the top of the cliffs for the full length of the gorge. There is also a range of places to go caving and climbing and guides will take you exploring from the village.

CHEDDAR GORGE AND CAVES Cliff Road, Cheddar, BS27 3QF

Hours  – 10 am to 5 pm (Mon-Sun) Website – Cheddargorge.co.uk You do not need to pay to drive through the Gorge, walk to the Lookout or visit the small shops.

Shepton Mallet Prison

While prison is an unusual thing to include in a slow travel guide and is just off the edge of the Mendip Hills, HMP Shepton Mallet is so full of history and is quite unique that I feel that it is an experience not to be missed.

Originally built in 1610 and inaugurated in 1625, HMP Shepton Mallet held the title of the oldest operating prison in the United Kingdom until its closure in 2013. It is one of the few prisons in the UK open to the public.

Throughout its history, the prison housed numerous notorious inmates, including soldiers, debtors, and prisoners of war, as well as notorious criminals such as the Kray twins in the 1950s. During World War II, the prison was used as a military prison and execution site, where 18 German spies were hanged by British authorities.

Today, Shepton Mallet Prison offers guided tours with retired prison officers, who provide a unique opportunity to explore its dark and intriguing history. The tours include access to the prison’s eerie wings, cells, and gallows, offering a chilling glimpse into the lives of its former inmates and the harsh conditions they endured.

If you prefer you can wander the cells alone and take time to absorb the heavy, unsettling atmosphere that pervades every corner of the building. Whilst ghosts are not something I usually mention, Shepton Mallet is an exception with a number of well-documented visitors.

SHEPTON MALLET PRISON Frithfield Lane, Shepton Mallet, BA4 5FQ

Hours  – 10 am to 5 pm (Mon-Sun) Website – sheptonmalletprison.com There is a small parking area within the prison walls, just drive through the arrivals archway

Wookey Hole Caves and Mill

The caves at Wookey Hole formed over millions of years with impressive stalactites, stalagmites and subterranean lakes. These are part of one of the longest and deepest cave complexes in Britain with more areas being discovered and opened up each year.

The site’s history dates back to the Stone Age, making it one of Britain’s oldest continuously inhabited places. Archaeological findings suggest human occupation in the area around 5,000 years ago. During the medieval period, the caves became a site for religious pilgrimage due to the belief in the healing powers of the waters within the caves.

Wookey Hole Mill is a 19th-century paper mill located nearby and there is a chance to see demonstrations of how paper is made using traditional methods in the buildings close to the cave exit.

The caves and mill are a popular attraction for families and it can be busy. We find that visiting on the first or last tours of the day means you can have a more peaceful experience. The caves are on a timed entry system but once you leave the caves you are free to wander the paper mill and caving exhibitions.

WOOKEY HOLE CAVES AND MILL The Mill, High Street, Wookey Hole, Wells, BA5 1BA

Hours  – 9.30 am to 5.30 pm (Mon-Sun) Website – wookey.co.uk Check their website for opening times if there has been heavy rain as the caves can flood

Chew Valley Lakes

The Chew Valley is part of the Mendips and has two artificial lakes – Chew Valley and Blagdon. Blagdon Lake was completed in 1905 with Chew Valley being completed in 1956. Both were constructed to supply water to Bristol City and are privately owned by Bristol Water.

It is not possible to walk the entire circumference of the lakes, but there is a large parking area and birdwatching location on the road that crosses Chew Valley Lake. The Grebe and Bittern nature trails are signposted from the picnic area. Over winter shovelers and black-headed gulls can be seen in the open water and other important species can be spotted year-round. Chew Valley Lake is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest and a Special Protected Area meaning that access is restricted.

CHEW VALLEY LAKES Chew Magna, Bristol BS40 8SZ

The parking area is a great spot for birdwatching or to start a walk. If you want a quick stop there is a large parking area on the main A368 at Herriots Bridge near West Harptree

Other places to explore

There are so many places to explore on the Mendips that it is almost impossible to list them all in one place and give full details. Listed below are other places to explore if you have more time in the area.

• Axbridge village is located just a few miles from Cheddar. It has a number of ancient streets with King John’s Hunting Lodge on the corner of the main square which is now a small museum.
• Beacons Batch is the highest point on the Mendip Hills with views across towards Bristol and south Wales.
• Bleadon Hill is the highest point on the western end of the hills and has amazing 360 views across the Bristol Channel and Somerset Levels.
• Burrington Coombe and Ham are areas of Special Scientific Interest and another gorge to be explored
• Deer Leap is the place for misty views out across the Somerset Levels with views of Glastonbury Tor peeking above the mist.
• Dolebury Warren is an Iron-Age hillfort with evidence of ancient field systems. It is a lovely walk across the moorland which links to the wooded valley at Rowberrow Warren on the West Mendip Way.
• Draycott Sleights is a small nature reserve with stunning views out across the Somerset Levels. It is close to Cheddar Gorge and part of the West Mendip Way.
• East Harptree Woods is an evergreen forest offering walking trails and views across the Chew Valley. You will also find the Smitham Chimney here, the last remaining lead-smelting chimney on the Mendip Hills.
• Ebbor Gorge is a miniature gorge formed from limestone. It is tucked away behind Wookey Hole and is often overlooked. It is a National Nature Reserve and is particularly pretty on an early spring morning when the bluebells are in flower.
• Priddy is an ancient settlement on the Mendip Hills . In the centre of the village green is the wooden Hurdle stack. The village has a long tradition of an annual sheep fair and folk festival.
• Priddy Mineries and Stockhill Forest are a great place to start walks in the area including a short walk to the Priddy Nine Barrows. The old lead ore mines that form the mine workings have been reclaimed by nature and are now small lakes.
• Rodney Stoke is one of the 9 Thankful Villages in Somerset where no one was lost in World War 1. The village has a beautiful 12th Century Church – St Leonard’s with unusual wooden screens and there is a small wooded nature reserve nearby. This church is a little special to me as I was married there!

Map of things to do on the Mendips

This map includes all the top things to do on the Mendip Hills that I have included in this guide.

How to use this map  – Click on the top left of the map to display the list of locations, then click on the locations to display further information. Click on the top right corner of the map to open a larger version in a new tab or the star to save to your Google Maps.  

HOW TO GET TO THE MENDIP HILLS

The Mendips are easy to access if you have a car. The M5 motorway passes through a natural cutting in the hills close to Crook Peak and by coming off at Junction 22 for Burnham-on-Sea you will pick up signs for Cheddar Gorge.

From Bristol, the A38 past Bristol Airport passes through the Mendips at Shute Shelf or further east the A39 skirts the area towards Shepton Mallet.

Public transport to the area and for getting around is very limited. Details of bus services can be found on the  Mendip Hill AONB official website .

GETTING AROUND THE MENDIP HILLS

If you are driving around the area, the main roads to use for planning are the A371 from Axbridge to Wells, the A368 that runs along the north edge of the hills through the Chew Valley and the B3135 that goes through Cheddar Gorge towards Shepton Mallet.

I'm Suzanne the traveller and photographer behind Meandering Wild. With over 30 years of experience travelling to different corners of the world in search of wildlife and remote locations nearly all of the advice on this website is from my own exploring.

• Celebrating 50 Years of Caring Together
• Moments on Mendip
• Mendip Rocks!
• Cheddar Gorge For Everyone
• Sustainable Recreation
• Mendip National Nature Reserve
• Mendip Nature Connections
• Nature Calling
• The Mendip Hills National Landscape Partnership
• Management Plan
• Nature Recovery
• Farming in Protected Landscapes
• Farming Case Studies
• Mendip Hills Fund
• Volunteering
• Young Rangers
• Visiting the Mendip Hills
• Special Qualities
• Mendip Explorer’s Passport
• Darker Side of Mendip
• The Mendip Way

Find your Mendip Hills

• Mendip hills National Landscape

You are welcome to download and print our Visitor Guide or  Contact us for a copy and we’ll be happy to put one in the post.

Draycott Sleights & Rodney Stoke NNR Leaflet

Download this map and guide to discover the wildlife and heritage at this National Nature Reserve on the southern slopes of the National Landscape.

Mendip Hills National Landscape Chew Valley Visitor Guide

Please download your copy of the Chew Valley Visitor Guide here – it is no longer available in print.

A Guide for Dog Owners and Dog Walkers on the Mendip Hills National Landscape

The Mendip Hills National Landscape is a great place for dogs and their owners. But please remember that you and your dog share the outdoors with others. You have the right to explore the footpaths and bridleways as well as areas of ‘Access Land’ providing that you act responsibly and keep your dog under control at all times.

This handy leaflet will ensure you and your dog have a great visit to the Mendip Hills National Landscape.

Black Down & Burrington Ham

Black Down trig point is the highest point on Mendip offering terrific views across to Wales. Significant wildlife and archaeology and excellent for walking, cycling and horse riding.

Burrington Combe and Ham to the North are designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest for their wildlife habitats.

Cheddar Gorge

The internationally famous Cheddar Gorge boasting the highest inland limestone cliffs, dramatic caves and cliff top walk.

To find out more, click here.

Chew Valley

A chance to slow down and relax around Chew Valley Lake with cafe, tearoom and nature trails. The Grebe nature trail is suitable for pedestrians, pushchairs and wheelchairs.

To find out more, click here .

A distinctive peak of open grassland with areas of gorse and scrub. The Mendip Way passes over the peak (OS Explorer Maps 141 and 153). There is a car park with picnic tables on Webbington Road.

The village green is at the centre of the ancient settlement of Priddy. The Hurdle stack on the green is a symbol of the ancient wool trade and Priddy sheep fair.

An ancient woodland with ground flora, access to Wavering Down and Crook Peak and is on the route of  Mendip Way   adjacent to the Strawberry Line.

Priddy Mineries & Stockhill Forest

Nature has reclaimed this former lead mining site and is an amazing area for wildlife watchers.  Walks up to North Hill and Priddy Nine Barrows can start here.

Sitting next to the Mineries is Stockhill Forest offering easy-going trails.

An open access site with fantastic views over the Somerset Levels. Excellent for walks, picnics, flying kites. There is a car park with picnic tables.

East Harptree Woods

An evergreen forest offering easy-going trails and superb views across the Chew Valley leading to Smitham Chimney, the last remaining lead smelting chimney on Mendip.

Bleadon Hill

The highest point of the Western end of the Mendip Hills offering 360 degree stunning views.

Ebbor Gorge

A dry limestone gorge and is a designated National Nature Reserve.

Wookey Hole Caves

A visitor attraction that takes in the 50,000 year History of the caves.

Click here for more information.

Cheddar Gorge & Caves

You can enjoy the awe-inspiring cliffs to the subterranean stalactite show caves at this visitor attraction. It is also an international centre for caving and rock climbing.

Blagdon Lake

The lake covers 440 acres and is classified as a SSSI by Natural England for the wildflower meadows and bird populations. The long, narrow shape makes it ideal for both boat and bank fishing.

Dolebury Warren

An iron age hillfort of great interest for its grassland, limestone heath vegetation and ancient field systems

Tourist Information Centres

Opening times will have changed due to Covid-19 restrictions

• Bath Tourist Information Centre  Bath Abbey Church Yard, Bath BA1 1LY Tel:0906 711 2000 Email:  [email protected]  Mon-Sat 9.30am-5.30pm, Sun 10am-4pm
• Burnham On Sea  TIC, South Esplanade, Burnham-On-Sea, Somerset, TA8 1BUTel: 01278 787852 Email:  [email protected]   Open every day 10am -2pm until 25th March and then 10am-4pm. Closed on Easter Sunday
• Cheddar Visitor Information Centre The Cliffs, Cheddar BS27 3QE Tel: 01934 744689 Email: [email protected] Open 1030 to 1530 at weekends, and 1030 to 1300 on weekdays
• Frome  TIC, The Library, Justice Lane, Frome, Somerset BA11 1BE Tel: 01373 465757 Email:  [email protected]  Open Mon-Fri 9.30am-5pm, Sat 9.30am-4pm
• Glastonbury  TIC, High Street, Glastonbury, Somerset BA6 9DP Tel: 01458 832954 Email:  [email protected]  Open Mon-Thurs 10am-4pm, Fri and Sat 10am-4.30pm
• Shepton Mallet  TIC, 70 High Street, Shepton Mallet BA4 5AS Tel:01749 345258 Email:  [email protected]  Open Mon-Fri 10am-4pm and Sat 10am-1pm
• Street  TIC, Clarks Village, Farm Road, Street, Somerset BA16 0BB Tel: 01458 447384 Email:  [email protected]  Open Mon-Sat 10am-4pm and Sun 11am-4pm
• Taunton  TIC, Library, Paul Street, Taunton, Somerset TA1 3XZ Tel: 01823 336344 Email:  [email protected]  Open Mon-Sat 9.30-4.30 closed Sundays and Bank Holidays
• Wells Visitor Information Service , Wells and Mendip Museum, 8 Cathedral Green, Wells, BA5 2UE Tel: 01749 671770 Email:  [email protected]  Open Winter Mon-Sat 11am-4pm Summer Mon – Sat 10-5

Discovering Black Down

This was a three year project (2013-2016) funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund. The project was designed to raise awareness of the wildlife and archaeological value of the Black Down and Burrington Commons through activities, events and training.

In recent years erosion and damage to specific features and the site in general has occurred through a combination of recreational use, sensitive site conditions and weather. The legacy of Discovering Black Down will be to ensure local community and user group volunteers continue to play an active role in the care and conservation of this area’s heritage.

The project has now come to a close but the website Discovering Black Down will remain available.

Download the Discovering Black Down app for maps, memories and lots more

Greentraveller Guide to the Mendip Hills National Landscape

The Greentraveller online guide to the Mendip Hills National Landscape was launched in 2013 and the Facebook campaign is now running. Greentraveller has already produced guides for a number of National Landscapes and National Parks that list where to stay, visitor attractions, eating out and activities. This work was a part funded by a Sustainable Development Fund grant.

We hope you enjoy your visit to the Mendip Hills. Please contribute to their conservation and enhancement; your donations support local community and voluntary groups in the area.

You can make a donation online through our  Just Giving  page  here . For more information you can also visit the Mendip Hills Fund page .

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Mendip Hills

Ubley Warren Nature Reserve - Matt Sweeting

About the Mendip Hills

The Mendip Hills are a rich and distinctive part of Somerset’s varied landscapes, with dramatic limestone hills rising up from the Levels to give outstanding views and some fantastic sites for wildlife. The unique geology of the area is visible not only in stone outcrops, gorges and characteristic dry-stone walls, but in the variety of species-rich wildflower meadows, calcareous grasslands, acidic heaths and ancient woodlands that the area supports.

Stretching between Frome and Western-Super-Mare, the predominantly limestone Mendip Hills have been an important area for our work for many decades. Half of our nature reserve landholdings are in Mendip, reflecting the value of habitats in the area, which in turn support a rich diversity of species. This includes important populations of nationally rare species such as the hazel dormice. Over 26 species of butterfly have been recorded at our Draycott Sleights Nature Reserve alone, whilst the Mells valley supports 12% of the UK population of greater horseshoe bat.

Explore our current work in Mendip

Action for a wilder mendip.

We provide training, advice and support to communities and land managers in Mendip to take action for nature, Key to this is enabling people to share skills and work together to conserve, connect and restore wildlife habitats.                     

Mendip Hills Farm Cluster

We facilitate the Mendip Hills Farm Cluster - a group of farmers and other land managers that are working collaboratively to enhance the landscape for nature. Group members share skills and deliver benefits across their varied landholdings that go far beyond what could be achieved if they each worked alone. Through this the members are helping to connect fragmented habitats and provide the network of habitats needed for species to thrive and move through the landscape...

Habitat Management for Mendip Dormice

We’re delighted to share that we have secured new funding to support a group of neighbouring nature-friendly landowners in the Mendip Hills to enhance habitats for dormice. This builds on the positive momentum of the group from the first phase of the Habitat Management for Dormice Project in 2023, with further Farming in Protected Landscape (FiPL) funding now granted to help boost declining populations of this charismatic species on their land in Phase 2.

Our grassland and woodland reserves in Mendip form core areas in Somerset’s Nature Recovery Network. It's vital that we secure biodiversity here and prevent further habitat fragmentation through restoration and habitat creation programmes. Rachel Fickweiler, Head of Nature Reserves

Previous projects in Mendip

Mendip Habitats Fit for the Future

Mendip Woodlands and Wildflowers

Making Space for Butterflies in Mendip

Save our Magnificent Meadows

Contact our mendip hills team, lila morris, mendip conservation officer.

Image: Matt Sweeting

Lila is an ecologist, land management adviser and wildlife surveyor, who works with volunteers and landowners to restore wildlife habitats, and has mapped habitats across Mendip to understand how well they interconnect as ecological networks. She is passionate about giving people opportunities to learn traditional skills such as coppicing and hedgelaying, as well as survey skills. 

Contact: email  [email protected]  or call 01823 652474 

Jemima Western, Mendip Hills Farm Cluster Facilitator

Jemima is a zoologist with a passion about the intersection of landscape-scale ecology and farming. Jemima works with farmers, partners, and other land managers across the Mendip Hills National Character Area to deliver landscape-scale restoration of habitats through collaborative working.

Contact: Email:  [email protected]  or call 07840 840704

Pippa Rayner, Wilder Projects Coordinator

Pippa is a grassland ecologist, community empowerment facilitator and project manager, with many years experience in creation, restoration and enhancement of wildflower meadows, as well as working to support communities to support nature in their local area. She has a passion for working collaboratively to help partners, land managers, individuals and communities join forces to increase the impact and visibility of their action for nature. Pippa also develops and coordinates projects at the Trust, with some of her time focused on work in the Mendip Hills.

Contact: email [email protected]  

Explore Mendip reserves

Explore wonderful woodlands and flower-filled grasslands within these inspirational hills.

Ubley Warren

Ubley Warren bears the scars of an industrial past with low gullies cut into the limestone rock called rakes and deep mine shafts…

Draycott Sleights

Photographers and serious naturalists alike love Draycott Sleights for the rich variety of wildlife and spectacular panoramic views…

Cheddar Complex

Two SWT reserves make up the Cheddar Complex; Long Wood and Velvet Bottom. The complex offers a chance to explore the desolate beauty of…

King's Castle Wood

Just a mile south-east of the centre of Wells, this is an ancient semi-natural woodland, made up primarily of ash, hazel and field maple…

Edford Meadows

A plant rich grassland covering several fields renowned for its variety of orchids. There is also an area of wet woodland adjacent to…

Harridge Wood

Sadly this woodland is badly affected by ash die back. This means that the ash trees are not in good health, they and their limbs are…

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Climb rocks and explore caves of the Mendip Hills

Mendip hills, somerset.

The Mendip Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is made up of dramatic limestone ridges which offer spectacular views

Explore the stunning hills and valleys of the Mendip Hills on foot, bike, or horse. Designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, it is made up of steep slopes and spectacular gorges, with wooded combes acting as the habitat for a plethora of wildlife. 

Cycle to the dramatic Cheddar Gorge on the Strawberry Line, or walk the hilltops following the Mendip Way from the coast to the historic city of Wells. Take in the breathtaking views and the fresh air of the countryside. 

Europe's largest underground cave network offers caving adventures for both the beginner and the experienced caver. This striking landscape also offers climbing and abseiling on the Gorge and quarry rock faces, so there's always something to keep you active and engaged.

• Find out more about Mendip Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and plan your visit
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Mendip Hills

From the outside they reveal centuries of history from the pre-historic at Cheddar to the Iron-Age. They are fantastic places for walking, cycling and horse riding and the views from the top of these hills are truly breathtaking. The hills are also a haven for wildlife.

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Hikes & Walks In The Mendip Hills

England,United Kingdom

Welcome to an enchanting journey through the magnificent Mendip Hills National Landscape in Somerset, England. This travel guide will lead you through the rich tapestry of landscapes, scenic walks, and the historic charm of the Mendip region. Every step unveils the exceptional beauty and diverse topography of this remarkable area, from the iconic Cheddar Gorge, a stunning limestone chasm, to the renowned Mendip Way, a trail that winds through captivating hills and valleys.

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The 10 most beautiful hikes in Mendip Hills National Landscape

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Forecast for Mendip Hills National Landscape

How long is the mendip way.

Embark on the famous Mendip Way, a long-distance trail covering around 50 miles. Not only famous for its varied landscapes, but also for the historic and cultural landmarks it reveals along the way. This trail weaves a tapestry of history and tradition along its journey, from the intriguing ruins of old lead mines to the relics of ancient hill forts. The charming villages dotted along the way welcome weary walkers, offering a glimpse into local life, cosy pubs, and opportunities to savour delicious regional cuisine, making it a delightful experience that isn't just about the walk but also about the rich tapestry of stories and experiences waiting to be discovered along this iconic trail.

The Mendip Way

Explore Cheddar Gorge

Explore the dramatic limestone cliffs and winding trails of Cheddar Gorge, an iconic and picturesque location. The walk provides stunning views of the gorge, with opportunities to delve into the history of its formation and witness the unique flora and fauna that call this area home.

A lovely circular walk taking in the stunning views from both sides of Cheddar Gorge.

West Harptree-Litton Reservoirs

Starting at West Harptree this circular walk takes you to the beautiful Litton reservoirs, before returning Via Smithan Hill to West Harptree, with great views overlooking Chew lake along the way.

Starting at West Harptree this circular walk takes you to the beautiful Litton reservoirs, before returning Via Smithan Hill to West Harptree, with ...

Reach The Summit Of Black Down

When reaching the peak of Black Down,  hikers are not only treated to stunning views, but also have the opportunity to learn about the area's history and ecology. This ancient environment hides stories inside its folds, from prehistoric barrows to World War II relics, giving an intriguing layer to the trek. The surrounding heathland is a sanctuary for a variety of plants and fauna, making it a great location for birdwatching and nature appreciation. 

Heathlands are such important habitats that in 1986 all European heathlands were given the protection of the European Union (EU) Habitats Directive.

Pensford-Stanton Drew-Chew Magna Circular

This circular trail offers a delightful mix of scenic beauty, historical landmarks, and charming rural landscapes. Starting in Pensford, the route meanders through idyllic paths, passing by the captivating Stanton Drew Stone Circles—an ancient and mystical site featuring the third-largest stone circle in Britain. As the trail continues, it leads through rolling farmlands and quaint villages, eventually reaching Chew Magna, known for its picturesque setting and historic charm.

This is a great walk in North East Somerset, around the Pensford, Stanton Drew, Chew Valley Lake, Chew Magna and Norton Malreward areas passing the ...

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The best walks and hikes around Mendip

A land steeped in Arthurian legend, where a mystical island can sometimes be seen rising above an ethereal layer of mist, where deep fissures cut through the bedrock of the hills and where lush water meadows stretch across one of the flattest plains in the realm. Walks around Mendip allow you to explore this magical landscape, imbibe the unique atmosphere and invigorate your soul.

The Mendip Hills have long been a favourite of outdoor enthusiasts. Containing some of the most staggering limestone gorge scenery in the UK and boasting some incredible vistas, hiking here is delightful. Delve deep into ancient gorges, traverse dramatic craggy scarps, amble in superb woodland and stride out across grassy plateaus. Hikes around Mendip have a little bit of everything.

The Somerset Levels have a timeless charm of their own. This former marshland, altered through the ages by agriculture, is dripping in mythology and legend. At its heart is Glastonbury Tor, a sudden upthrust amongst the flat surroundings that has huge spiritual significance to many.

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Glastonbury Tor loop from Glastonbury Abbey

Ebbor gorge loop from deerleap — mendip hills aonb.

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Ebbor gorge & wookey hole loop from priddy — mendip hills aonb, ebbor gorge & milton hill loop from wookey hole — mendip hills aonb, priddy mineries & north hill loop from stockhill wood — mendip hills aonb, ebbor gorge, priddy & deer leap nature reserve loop — the mendip hills, well's cathedral, the bishop’s palace, and dincote loop, wells to ebbor gorge loop via wookey holes caves — mendip hills aonb, shapwick heath national nature reserve, sign up for more hikes and tips from our community.

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Exploring the mendip hills.

Some of the best hiking trails around Mendip explore the limestone hills of the same name. Characterised by steep slopes, spectacular gorges, rocky outcrops and a high windswept plateau, you can make hiking in the Mendips as strenuous or as relaxing as you like. Many trails cross heathland where you might just catch sight of an Exmoor pony amongst the heather, whilst trails through wooded combes of ash and maple provide habitats for a variety of wildlife.

Having a gorge-ous time

The Mendip Hills are probably most famous for their astounding gorge scenery. Cheddar Gorge is the largest in the UK at three miles long (five km) and 400 feet (122 m) deep. Some of the finest hikes around Mendip explore its famous weathered crags, historic caves and impressive limestone pinnacles. Clifftop routes here are awe-inspiring, as are the views. It is one of the most spectacular landscapes in England.

Near the delightful village of Wookey Hole is Ebbor Gorge, boasting dramatic cliffs and popular caverns of its own. An adventure here places you amongst magnificent limestone scenery and superb woodland trails. You are welcome to bring the dog along, as long as they are kept on a lead.

Arthurian legend on the Isle of Avalon

One of the most popular objectives for walks in Mendip is Glastonbury Tor. This isolated hill rises from the flat land of the Somerset Levels and its distinctive conical form is clearly visible for miles around. It is topped by the roofless St Michael’s Tower, all that remains of an ancient church. Once known as the Isle of Avalon, it is rich in mythology – the setting for many great stories and legends. In one such tale, King Arthur was said to have sought refuge here having been fatally wounded in battle.

Our Tour recommendations are based on thousands of activities completed by other people on komoot.

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Discover the most popular attractions around Mendip

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Peaks around Mendip

Didn’t find what you were looking for? Check out more Hikes throughout Mendip below and find the perfect Tour in your destination.

• Glastonbury
• Mendip Hills AONB
• Longleat Woods
• East Pennard
• West Pennard
• Norton St Philip
• St Cuthbert Out
• Upton Noble
• Ston Easton
• Leigh-On-Mendip
• Baltonsborough
• Lydford-On-Fosse
• West Bradley
• Witham Friary
• Westhay Moor National Nature Reserve
• Rodney Stoke
• Ebbor Gorge National Nature Reserve
• Stoke St. Michael
• Rodney Stoke National Nature Reserve
• North Wootton
• Milton Clevedon
• Postlebury Wood
• Ham Wall National Nature Reserve
• Buckland Dinham
• Chilcompton
• Shepton Mallet
• Stratton On The Fosse
• Chewton Mendip

Explore more of Somerset : Browse the best Hikes in other regions.

• Sedgemoor District
• West Somerset District
• Taunton Deane
• South Somerset

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• › Rural, Countryside and Nature Breaks
• › Guide to Britain's National Landscapes and AONBs for Holidays
• › Mendip Hills AONB Guide

Guide to the Mendip Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty for Cottage Breaks

Looking to Book a Holiday Home in the Mendip Hills AONB?

Browse Cottages in the Mendip Hills

What Do the Mendip Hills Offer for Cottage Breaks?

Set in scenic Somerset, starting close to Weston super Mare in the West and stretching East to Chewton Mendip and south as far as Wells, the Mendip Hills AONB with its limestone hills, Chew Valley lakes, gorges, rocks and impressive views out to the Somerset Levels has lots to offer and interest visitors.  

Key Attractions in the Mendip Hills include:

• Cheddar and Cheddar Gorge - a stunning area, part of which is protected by the National Trust, this 3 mile long limestone gorge is a sight to behold.  Visit the National Trust site to discover the steep cliffs on the northern side of the gorge.  This area is popular with walkers, hikers and rock climbers.  Cliff top walks offer superb views over the surrounding landscape. Also at Cheddar Gorge are Cheddar Caves, including Gough's Cave, a showcave open to visitors.  
• Glastonbury - this mystical town lies outside of the Mendip Hills, just 6.5 miles south from Wells.  Home to Glastonbury Tor which is well worth a visit for the views out over the surrounding countryside from the peak and home to plenty of mystique, magical themed shops as well as cafes and eateries, Glastonbury is a fascinating place to visit.  
• Wells - situated just outside of the Mendip Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Wells is England's smallest city and with its fascinating historical architecture and rich history makes for a great day out.  
• Wookey Hole - Just on the edge of the Mendip Hills AONB, close to Wells, is this fascinating network of caves, steeped in legend.  
• Weston super Mare - this popular seaside town lies just west of the western part of the Mendip Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and with its sandy beach and pier is a popular place for a day out.  

Walks in the Mendip Hills

The two main walks in the Mendip Hills that can guide you to some of the best of the scenery are: •     the Mendip Way (made up of the West Mendip Way which connects Weston super Mare to Wells and the East Mendip Way which connects Wells to Frome). •     the Limestone Link , a 36 mile route all the way from the Cotswolds to the Mendip Hills.  

Holidaying in the Mendip Hills AONB

Wherever you choose to stay in the Mendip Hills, whether in a town or in a rural retreat or farmstay cottage deep in the countryside, we hope you find the perfect holiday rental for your Somerset holiday on Country Cottages Online.  

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Mendip Basecamp

Mendip Basecamp, Lyncombe Drive, BS25 5PQ, Churchill

Description

Mendip Basecamp was delighted to be awarded the Gold campsite at the 2023-2024 Bristol, Bath & Somerset tourism awards!

Basecamp is an award-winning, off-grid family adventure camp in the Mendip Hills National Landscape - just minutes from the M5 and Weston-super-Mare. Surrounded by ancient woodland you can pitch where you like, park right by your tent and enjoy evenings around the campfire. Well-behaved dogs are welcome! With no check-out time, you can leave whenever you are ready.

Mendip Basecamp is camping how it should be: rural, laid-back and relaxed but with essential luxuries. Usually reserved for schools and private groups, in 2020, Mendip opened Basecamp up to families for the very first time- and hasn’t looked back since. Public bookings are available throughout the summer holidays and summer weekends.

Bring your own tent or campervan, book bell tents, glamphouses or stay in Mendip Lodge (with free breakfast). Facilities include hot showers, clean flushing toilets, a camp shop, a country Lodge with a cider garden (and live music), an onsite activity centre, USB charging and WIFI. Free activities throughout the summer include live music, orienteering, circus skills, treasure hunts, free climbing tower and nature craft.

The campsite is less than a 5-minute woodland walk from Mendip Activity Centre, home to over 20 different adventurous, outdoor activities including rock climbing, kayaking, archery, frisbee golf and air rifle.

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Basecamp is open May half term, every summer weekend and the school summer holidays.

Mendip Basecamp Mendip Basecamp Lyncombe Drive Churchill Somerset BS25 5PQ United Kingdom

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so much to do, so little time

Trip to Russia. Day 2. Moscow. Off to the left, through Sparrow Hills to the City

“If you want to see a city like a local and understand it, visit a market, a train station, and a cemetery.”                                                                                                                                                  Unknown

On our second day, we took a turn from my apartment building to the left, towards Neskuchny Garden . In Russian, the name of this park means something like Not Boring or Merry Garden. It is the oldest park in Moscow laid out in the 1700s by a merchant Prokofy Demidov. To guard it, he posted his servants all over the place. From top to bottom, the guards were covered in white chalk and looked like usual garden sculptures. When visitors were misbehaving or breaking something, “the statues” would start moving and talking. Rumors about live statues in Demidov garden spread throughout Moscow and crowds poured in to check out the miracle. This is when the garden got the reputation of a not boring one.

This palace which belonged to Demidov, was the center of the garden. It changed hands many times. In the 1830s, Nicolas I bought it for his wife Alexandra Fedorovna. After the revolution, in 1930s, this palace was given to the Russian Academy of Sciences for its Presidium.

Access to the grounds has never been restricted to the public and it was my shortcut on the way to school in grades 1-10. This garden had the most luxurious lilac trees. If you happen to make friends with police guarding it, and those guys were always my friends, they would let you into the garden late at night to cut some of the lilac and bring it home. Every year, on May 21, I would bring armfuls of gigantic lilac branches for my mother’s birthday. They were her favorite flowers. It you weren’t friendly with police, you still could get flowers by climbing through the fence separating the courtyard of my building and that of the Academy. You just had to be careful and try not to get caught. I don’t remember anyone ever being caught or punished.

Once we cut through the Academy, we came into the courtyard of the next apartment building. Back when I was in school, that building was referred to as The Sixteenth — this was its number on Leninsky Prospekt. Mine was Twelfth and The Academy was Fourteenth.

That Sixteenth courtyard had the best hills for sleigh riding imaginable: steep on one side, easy on the other. My grandmother first brought me here when I was five and we just moved to Leninsky Prospect. Later, I was bringing little Anton.

These hills are so overgrown now. And here’s this civilized paved path between them — benches on either side. Does anyone even sleigh here anymore?

The best hill was in the middle. If you could get a good load on the sleigh — two or three people — and the front rider could properly steer, you could slide under three bridges along the long trail all the way to the Moskva River. And then it would be the longest trip to pull the sleigh back up.

We took a little detour to look at this four story building. I remember it as brownish gray. Today, it is some indefinable pink. It was my school where I studied from the first grade to the tenth, until college.

The two windows on the second floor, to the right of the awning, are the classroom #23 where I started learning the English language. I was in the second grade. My teacher’s name was Nina Sergeevna Pankratova.

The grounds of the school were protected by a metal fence. We couldn’t get close and returned back to the park. I remember this former summer house that, in the 1800s, belonged to Count Fyodor Orlov, as a library or a reading hall. You could go and read there but you couldn’t check the books out.

My family and friends called this place “gulianka” or a place to go for a walk. The word was made up by my mother to mark the place where we were getting together with other little kids and their mothers. Anton spent here the first seven years of his life.

My mother was a firm believer in the benefits of fresh air for the little children and Anton was taken here twice daily — rain or shine or snow, hell or high water. Life in our house revolved around Anton’s outings to gulianka. To make thing fun, my mom and I put together a group of women with the children of approximately the same age. The core group was made of three Antons, Koliunya, Kiriusha, Tyoma, Anechka, Phillip and his brother Masik. There were other kids floating in and out. But those were the solid core.

During food shortages of the 90s, mothers of our gang masterfully borrowed kids from each other to stand on line when food was rationed to the number of people present in line. In turn, our children knew to refer to each other as siblings, change clothes to create a new look for each new shopping “parent.” They loved each other. They fought. The mothers made a pretty tight group, too. So kids’ shenanigans would not ruin adult relationships, the mothers made a rule not to interfere into fights until first blood. And if there were issues, somehow each of the mothers was able to produce some proof that it was her child’s fault and not that of the other. We had campfires here and roasted potatoes. Done with nursing, we would bring drinks to have a party as kids rolled in the snow, in puddles, in sand, in piles of coal. Why was that coal there?

These nine met when in diapers sleeping in their prams. Together they entered the first grade in that pink school.

Further into the park, we came to this 17th century grotto. It was a fantastic place for hide-and-seek and for hiding talismans signifying forever friendships. There still might be pieces of a broken glass that my friend Oxana and I — sixth graders — buried to proclaim eternal loyalty to each other.

A monument dedicated to the 800th anniversary of Moscow. One of my most hated places in the park. Memories of this beautiful rotunda are forever tainted with those of the outdoor PE classes in Neskuchny Garden: cross country skiing in winter, track and field in spring. I especially hated skiing — dragging to school not only a backpack, but a pair of skis, poles, walking in those stupid ski shoes, freezing in the beginning of the class, then sweating and freezing in the end. Every day in winter, I was hoping for -21°C so outdoor activities would be cancelled.

This walk from my apartment through Neskuchny Sad to Sparrow Hills to Kievskaya train station was one those hikes we did routinely. I walked this route many times — there and back — alone or with my dad talking about things. We took all family guests and friends on this walk. During my high school and college days, it was the path to check the endurance and “interests and pursuits” of cute boys floating around.

As soon as little Anton got on his feet and going, probably at the age of three, my dad took him on this walk. They came back with Anton obviously grinding his teeth and holding back tears and my dad disappointed:

— You’d better check this kid’s boots. Looks like he needs a new pair, — dad snapped and went to his desk.

My mom and I rushed to Anton, to see what was wrong. Those were the very new boots. They were just handed down from the son of our neighbor two years Anton’s senior. What could have been wrong? We pulled them off. In one of the boots, there was a gigantic beaded button, from one of my sewing projects, with a pointed metal loop sticking out, which was obviously digging into Anton’s hill the whole time. 

The hike — there and back — takes three and a half hours. At least.

Across the river, there’s Luzhniki Arena , where, in 1980, they had the opening and closing ceremonies of the 1980 Olympic Games.

All major sports events take place there. Also in Luzhniki, my brother Alesha started his tennis training that took him up to the top and, then, down to the bottom.

We climbed up the Sparrow Hills to the observation square. This was a fantastic place to watch fireworks — the entire skyline would be constantly lit with shots coming from all over. I was here to watch fireworks only once or twice. Once. With my fear of crowds, I preferred my balcony — we could see blasts from at least six different locations.

If you turn your back to the Sparrow Hills observation square, you’d face the main building of the Moscow State University , the headquarters of my school. This building houses the administrative offices, dormitories, one or two departments — Geology and Geography, I believe — and, in one wing, there are professors’ apartments. Other departments are spread all over town. Mine is by the Red Square.

And here’s little Charlotte on the steps of the school her grandma helped to build and her mother studied at.

This skyscraper was erected in the 1950s when my mother studied here. Students were required to participate in the construction work. At home, we have pictures of my mom from that time on the construction site. 

Thoughts of transfer on Charlotte’s mind?

Here’s something new. In the place where a trampoline for high ski jumps stood, there is now a cable track and cars.

We took a ride in a cable car across the Moskva River from the Sparrow Hills to Luzhniki complex. The day was hot and the breeze from the water felt good.

Luzhniki complex with its alleys and arenas was deserted. August — everyone was away in camps and on vacations. We probably passed the building where I played handball while in middle school.

Here’s the Olympic torch with a figure of little Misha the Bear, the symbol of the 1980 Moscow Olympic Games , which were boycotted by the United States over the war in Afghanistan.

When, during the closing ceremony, they launched a Misha balloon into the air over Luzhniki, we were watching him go up and up into the sky from our apartment balcony as a teary song was transmitted over radio and TV.

Novodevichy Monastery and its cemetery. The monastery is now active and monks do not appreciate visitors. The cemetery is another story — it is open to the public. Tourists from all over the world pour here by busloads. The cemetery is a historic and literary memorial, a museum of sculpture under the open sky, an inspiration to live, enjoy life, and to keep going.

Some call this place the Russian Pantheon. There are people here who shaped the history of the country. Their names were in our school textbooks, their faces on television. Victims are buried next to their tormentors. Sculptors are buried next to the monuments they created. There are so many interesting stories among these graves. There’s nothing sad or depressing here. Moscovites come to this garden for a walk, to read the names engraved on stones as memories bring back poems and music. And inspire.

The cemetery consists of three parts: the old, the new, and the very new. Although the layout is quite confusing, we found almost everyone we were looking for.

Here’s Alexander Vertinsky — a poet, a singer, a composer, an actor. The shape of his grave reminds of a grand piano, his instrument of choice.

During the 1920s, Vertinsky emigrated from Russia and spent more than 20 years abroad. He came back in the middle of the Second World War. He was crazy popular, but officially he never really existed. He was never on the radio. No stories about him in the media.

My dad’s mother and aunt were very fond of him and played his music at home all the time. They tried to get to his concerts whenever possible. My dad’s aunt told me this story. When Vertinsky returned from abroad, he was so happy and overwhelmed to be back at home that he put his suitcases down and got on his knees to kiss the ground. When he got up, his suitcases we gone. According to the legend, he sighed: “I recognize you, Mother Russia.”

At his funeral, his wife tore a piece of paper out of her notebook and put it in his coffin, saying: “He’s a poet. What if he decides to write something.” 

Uncle Stiopa Mikhalkov . He is mostly known for children’s poetry and fables. One day, he published a poem in “Pravda” newspaper called “Svetlana.” Stalin, who had a daughter with the same name really like that poem. After that, Sergei Mikhalkov did not have any problems. He was even summoned to write the words to the Soviet National Anthem .

This is ballerina Galina Ulanova . Her fragile silhouette carved into a rough white stone is there to reflect the sophistication of her lines and strength of her character.

Beloved circus actor and a movie star Yuri Nikulin . He is sitting here on his overcoat and having a cigarette. His dog Fedor is nearby. There are always fresh flowers on his grave, especially on his birthday.

Igor Moiseev , the greatest 20th century choreographer of character dance and a founder of the Moiseev Ballet Company. I read somewhere that he was asked about 20 times to join the Communist Party and every time he refused because he was deeply religious.

Here are Mstislav Rostropovich , one of the greatest cellists and conductors of the 20th century, and his wife, Galina Vishnevskaya , an opera singer. During Soviet times, they fell out of favor for their support of Alexandr Solzhenitsyn . At first, they were prohibited to perform, then they were denied Soviet citizenship. They lived abroad for 16 years and were allowed to return back in the 1990s.

Nikita Sergeevich Khrushchev . This monument made out black and white marble is supposed to reflect controversial personality of the Soviet leader. The sculptor is Ernst Neizvestny . There’s a story here.

One year during the Khrushchev Thaw, in Moscow, there was an exhibition of artist-nonconformists. Someone decided to bring Nikita Sergeevich to that exhibit. The decision was intentional. Everyone knew that Krushchev hated the modernist stuff. The organizers were expecting the leader to blow up and use his reaction as an excuse to go after the artists. It all happened as expected. Krushchev was screaming, spitting, cursing, stomping his feet. The only person who dared to argue with him was a sculptor Ernst Neizvestny. The leader threatened to sent him to work in uranium mines.

Ironically, it’s Neizvestny, who was approached by the Krushchev family to make a monument for the grave. And it’s also ironic that nonconformist Neizvestny produced the most realistic head of the leader — wart and all.

This figure reminded me of the days my dad and I were glued to our TV set. I was in the first grade. Mom was away on vacation and dad allowed me to stay up late. And we were not the only ones hooked. Moscow streets were deserted for twelve days when they were showing the miniseries “Seventeen Moments of Spring.” Vyacheslav Tikhonov played Shtirlitz — a Soviet officer who infiltrated into the high levels of Nazi Germany. Here is the actor in that role.

Ivan Kozlovsky , a great Russian tenor. My grandmother, dad’s aunt, who had never married and never had children of her own, was very fond of opera. Kozlovsky was one of her favorites. She also loved Sergei Lemeshev and was absolutely mad about Leonid Sobinov . She collected cards with their images in real life and in costumes.

When I was little, she would sit with me going through her cards telling stories of their lives, retelling opera plots. I remember her walking around the apartment and constantly singing areas from various operas. “Evgeny Onegin“ was her favorite. She belonged to the group of women called “Sobinistki.” These women were so fond of Leonid Sobinov that, during the war, they gave him and his family their food rations and lined up to help his family with household chores.

Andrey Tupolev , a Russian and Soviet aviation engineer, under whose guidance more than a hundred types of aircrafts were created. During Stalin’s purges, he was arrested on some dubious charge and sent to a concentration camp, where he continued to work in a secret construction bureau. At the start of the Second World War, he was released and, later, rehabilitated.

Another monument we never missed when I was here with my mom. Alexander Bakulev was one of the founders of thoracic surgery in the USSR. He was famous for his work with heart defects.

Two hands are holding a red ruby symbolizing a heart. They say the ruby has been stolen a few times but always replaced.

In the old part of the cemetery, there is an area called The Cherry Orchard, where Anton Chekhov , Konstantin Stanislavsky , and many actors of the Moscow Academic Art Theater are buried. This is the place of Stanislavsky who founded the theater — a stage curtain with the trademark sign of Chekhov’s Seagull are on his tombstone.

Across from Stanislavsky, there is Chekhov himself. The writer died in Germany and was transported to Russia in a train car designed to carry mussels. He was buried here, next to his father. Later, his wife, Olga Knipper-Chekhova , was buried here, too. According to people who worked on this monument, it is exactly as tall as Chekhov himself was. The three spears on top are supposed to symbolize the three sisters or, some say, three pillars of life — Faith, Hope, and Love.

This stone called “Golgotha” that is on the grave of Russian writer Mikhail Bulgakov has an interesting history. It is so called because it resembles the shape of the mountain where Jesus Christ was crucified.

A few years before his death, Bulgakov wrote to one oh his friends about Nikolai Gogol , the author of a novella “Overcoat,” whom he admired. “Teacher, cover me with your cast iron overcoat,”— were Bulgakov’s words addressed to Gogol.

Gogol himself never wanted a monument on his grave. Knowing that, his friend Konstantin Aksakov found a plain black stone somewhere in Crimea. This stone, called by the workers of the cemetery Black Sea granite was installed on Gogol’s grave with the inscription of prophet Jeremiah words: “Laugh with my bitter speech.” That was in the 1800s.

In 1952, Soviet government decided to replace that simple stone on Gogol’s grave with a fancy new bust saying something like: “To the great Russian artist of words Nikolai Vasilievich Gogol, from the Government of the Soviet Union.” 

The “Golgotha” stone went into storage in the cemetery workshop.

When Bulgakov’s widow, Yelena Sergeevna, was looking for a tombstone for her husband, she stumbled upon this rock — either in one of the workshops or in a ditch were the refuse was thrown. She was told that some time ago the stone topped the grave of Nikolai Gogol. She bought the rock and installed it on her husband’s grave upside down so the inscription is now on the bottom. The prophecy and Bulgakov’s wish came true.

And Yelena Sergeevna is now next to her husband.

When I was little, this monument impressed me. For a long time, I did not know who that was. It’s the folds of the fabric and the posture of a man with hands in his pockets staring at the ground with the sign “His soul was chaos” that stuck in my mind. Later I learned that this was the son of Maxim Gorky , a Russian writer, whose book “Life of Klimt Samgin” affected me so in high school. Vera Mukhina, a sculptor popular in Soviet times, made this image of a person born from stone.

One of the most visited places at the cemetery is the grave of Nadezhda Allilueva Stalina . She shot herself after a fight with her husband, Joseph Stalin. Many documentaries were filmed about the mystery of her life and death. From what I’ve read and heard, it feels that they truly loved each other and were very close. But as it always happens when two strong personalities try to coexist, life becomes complicated. Some historians say that Stalin was crushed by her death and that particular incident triggered a change in his personality, making him bitter and vengeful, turning him into a tyrant.

During her funeral, “the leader of the peoples” accused his wife of betraying him. Later, Stalin frequently visited her grave and cried here. His comrades didn’t want their leader to be seen during weak moments or maybe they were afraid of the assassination, so they would not allow anyone here when Stalin was present. Rumor has it they even kicked Vladimir Tatlin out of his workshop in the bell tower of the monastery. The great artist returned here only for his final rest.

Allilueva’s monument was vandalized several times. And it also did not hold up well to the elements. For a while, it was kept under a clear plastic cube. Finally, the original one was moved to the Tretyakov gallery and replaced by an identical copy made out of white marble.

Russian writer and journalist Vladimir Gilyarovsky . He was called the king of Moscow reporters. He was an expert on all things Moscow — history, architecture, geography, current events, food, elite and common.

Once he wrote a favorable article about a Lev Tolstoy sculpture. The sculptor was so pleased with the review that he promised to make Gilyarovsky a tombstone of real meteorite to reflect his true character. To that, Gilyarovsky laughed and said that he was not Tolstoy, neither was he planning to die.

Twenty five years later, Gilyarovsky was buried at this cemetery with his image cut into the meteorite found by that sculptor.

It doesn’t seem like the best idea to take your children on their first visit to a country to a cemetery. But when I was little, my mom and grandma brought me here so many times telling the stories they knew, pointing to things. I was always looking forward to the trip. Today, probably, I wanted to come back here myself. And I dragged my family with me.

Charlotte picked up my vibe, studied the layout, and asked to find Dmitry Shostakovich . We located the grave on the map of the old part very quickly and then went around in circles for a while not being able see the tombstone — so small it was compared to others next to it.

Shostakovich’s granite is decorated with metallic letters and numbers. One thing was missing — unfortunately. Was it vandalism or reconstruction? Between the dates of his birth and death, there used to be four notes: re, mi-bemol, do, ti. If to write these notes in Latin — D, Es (or S), C, H — they would make the initials of the composer’s name — DSCH. The theme of these four notes was also considered his trademark.

I was surprised, relieved, and excited when Charlotte unexpectedly picked up the idea of looking for the places of interesting people just for the fun of talking about them, and about who they were, and why they are important to you.

She verbalized my thoughts on differences in cultural values. Suddenly there was my daughter telling me that the problem was not with me. We talked about how culture can equate with money and status or mean understanding and co-suffering.

There was this pesky tour guide who tried to weasel his way in to explain how different this cemetery is from all the the others. It is. People buried here are more alive than those walking the streets now.

It was time for lunch and I was craving Georgian, one of my favorite cuisines. Georgia is now an independent country. It used to be one of the republics of the former Soviet Union. Its geographic position on the shores of the Black Sea made it a popular summer destination. When I was little, Georgian food was not available in Moscow and we could partake it only during a few brief weeks of summer vacations. Childhood memories of their kabobs, cheese pies, hot and tart sauces, vegetable pâtés, the smell of utskho-suneli and khmeli-suneli will forever be a sign of a special treat and childhood.

Right outside of the Novodevichi Cemetery there was this place — “ At Pirosmani’s ,” a restaurant named after a Georgian painter Niko Pirosmani .

Artsy and cozy, it was just what we wanted. The time was an odd one — too late for lunch, too early for dinner. But lately, it has become our time to eat. One advantage to this trait when eating out — the restaurants are never crowded.

We easily got a perfect spot by an open window overlooking traditional Georgian grape vines.

The restaurant turned out to be a hot spot for local and international celebrities. There were pictures of Bill Clinton attending some event here with Monica Lewinski, Yoko Ono, Roman Polanski, Richard Gere, prime ministers of Japan, Canada, president of South Korea, prince of Denmark, to name a few.

And this is what they do here. After a celebrity rubs their butt on a particular chair, a metal plaque is made and attached to the chair of contact. Customers now can either choose whose chair to sit on or to be surprised. I accidentally rubbed my butt with Mick Jagger, Tom — with former German Chancellor Helmut Kohl. Charlotte got intimate with the Russian poet Bella Akhmadullina, Lizzie — with the French actress Annie Girardot. 

This celebrity overload made the service for mere mortals quite subpar. Our waiter was visibly bored and tired although the day was just beginning. He missed one of our orders, mixed up another one, and lazily blamed that on us. Being fancy, he was not taking notes and our hospitality expert Lizzie says this never works.

We started with khachapuri emeruli, a cheese-filled bread that has to be eaten by hand with melting cheese dripping all over your fingers.

Major Georgian thing — a plate of fresh herbs on the table. You can wrap it in bread, eat it by itself, or use it wipe sauce off your plate.

Satsivi — chicken in garlic walnut sauce — is usually served cold and I’d say the consistency and flavor of it can be compared to that of hummus.

Georgian vegetable pâtés — pkhali. Mmm… I can eat any version of it at any time of the day. It can be eggplant, leek, beet, spinach. Cooked and finely chopped vegetables are combined with loads of ground walnuts, garlic, fresh herbs, and traditional Georgian spices.

Cheremsha — pickled garlic scapes. Those were nothing special and, honestly, they tasted like they just came out of a can. I remember clearly how great cheremsha tasted from the barrels of Georgian babushkas trading in Moscow markets during the Soviet times.

Chicken tapaka — a young chicken fried under a press in a special pan called tapa. There are quite a few Georgian restaurants around us in the New York-New Jersey area where I have ordered this dish several times and it never worked — they use a small chicken or quails to cook it. The trick is that the chicken has to be young. Not small, but young — not much meat but lots of crust and flavor.

And of course — a kabob. We ordered lamb, got veal. Oh, well — overdone… The satsibeli sauce — a tomato-peppery-garlicky concoction — saved it.

Rested and refueled, we continued our walk toward the Russian White House and the new Moscow Business center.

We crossed Bogdan Khmelnitsky pedestrian bridge. Here we are at its entrance. The bridge itself is completely enclosed in glass. As you walk, it feels like you’re walking through a shopping mall with all those little stores and eateries.

The bridge dumped us onto the Square of Europe, which looked like it still was under construction. The square was supposed to symbolize Russia’s attempt to integrate with the European Union. In the center of this square was a fountain named “Abduction of Europe.” Hmm?..

Tom wanted to check out the railroad terminal overlooking the Europe Square (per quote at the start of this post) and we poked into Kievskaya Train Station. The glass roof here was designed by Vladimir Shukhov, the same architect who built the department store adjacent to Red Square. All in all, this is the most elegant train station in Moscow.

Hotel Ukraina is one of the seven original Moscow skyscrapers commissioned by Joseph Stalin. It is built on a very low river embankment and a special water retention system was designed to keep this building sound.

The House of the Government of the Russian Federation or Russian White House. October of 1993 came to mind. I was already at NYU. It was one of my first conversations with Tom when we were standing in a classroom watching on TV this building being shelled by army tanks.

Right now, on the top of the building there is a coat of arms. Before 1993, there was a clock. This clock stopped after the very first tank’s strike. The artillery activity covered the bottom of the building with black soot. Suggestions were floating that, instead of cleaning the building, the dirty parts should be covered with black marble — for posterity. But that obviously didn’t happen. 

At that point of the day, we were getting tired but no one wanted to admit it. The Moscow International Business Center was ahead of us. That was something completely new to me. I do not even remember what was in its place when I lived in Moscow. Probably some kind of an industrial zone with falling apart factories.

Yes, this is not Burj Khalifa and 57 is not as impressive as 163. And the observation deck was enclosed. The windows were covered with multiple fingerprints, which made taking pictures not possible.

Lots of light on the streets of Moscow these days. Lots of cars.

From here, we opted for a metro ride home. Conveniently, the entrance was at the base of one of these City buildings. New Moscow metro stations are not as impressive as the old ones but my family is used to New York City subway so it didn’t matter. They will have a real subway tour another day.

Tired but undefeated, we returned home. After a long hot day on foot, everyone was craving a shower. The hot water was off.

Another perk of Moscow life. Every summer, for a couple of weeks or so, they turn off hot water for maintenance purposes. Timing is random. As good luck would have it, in my building, they turned it off for the week of our visit. We heated water to wash hair. Then, led by Charlotte — apparently she’s done it before — we all took cold showers.

My technique was to get into the tub staying away from the water, do one arm, another arm, legs, the front of the body. Then — deep breath, bit lip, eyes closed — icy water goes on shoulders and back.

How I did not pass out, I do not know.

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Russia: One Week Itinerary

Russia , the largest country in the world has been on my bucketlist for the longest time. This is where the first ‘women only’ tour of Ticking the Bucketlist is headed. We are off tomorrow and would be spending one week in this enchanting land!

Here is what our ‘one week in Russia’ itinerary looks like….

Day 1: Moscow – Izmailovsky Flea Market and ‘Moscow by Night’

We start our trip from Delhi on an Aeroflot flight and reach Moscow at about 0835 in the morning. We head straight to our hotel to stretch our legs and get some shut-eye. We need to charge our batteries for the Russian sojourn. We are staying in the Best Western Vega at the Izmailovsky area, which is very famous for its local flea market. The  Izmailovsky Market is the best place in Moscow for souvenir shopping …dolls, porcelain, jewelry boxes…we will buy them all from here.

Day 2: Moscow – Moscow City Tour and Kremlin Tour

A red building at the Red Square of the Kremlin

Having seen the city’s light the previous night, it is time to see the city’s colours this morning. We will set off on the Moscow City Tour shows us the highlights of city, starting with the Red Square. This is our day to click a 1000 pictures in front of all the monuments that represent Moscow…St Basil’s Cathedral, the Bolshoi theatre, the Olympic Stadium and the Sparrow Hills.

Exploring the Kremlin

Today is also the day to visit and learn more about the most famous monument in Russia. Kremlin, literally means a fort inside a city. Dynasties built on the site, one century after another and the site came to known as the Kremlin in the 14the century. The walled structure of the Kremlin includes palaces and cathedrals… and a historical past!

Later in the evening, we will enjoy the Russian circus that many of us have seen to television ever so often. Acrobats, clowns and animals….its is time to let the little girl in you come out and clap her hands!  

Day 3: Moscow – Metro Stations and Arbat Street followed by the Bolshoi Ballet 

Mosaics on the walls of the metro station

Today, we set out to explore the metro stations of Moscow, each of which is a stellar work of art. Stunning frescos and chandeliers in marble surroundings… it’s a work of art! We will then walk along the Arbat street, which is the city’s only pedestrian street, lined with shops and cafes.

As the night unfolds, I intend to don a classy dress and get set to watch one of the finest shows on earth at the Bolshoi Theatre. I have always been awestruck by the art form and would love to see some of the best performers in the world move gracefully. A performance that is rated as one of the best in the world has to be ticked off my bucketlist!

Day 4: Moscow – Day Tour to Sergiev Posad followed by a crazy bar hopping night!

Sergiev Posad is one the strongest spiritual centres in Russia. Home to stunning churches, Sergiev Posad will give us a flavour of the famous ‘Golden Ring’ of Russia. The tour will take 5-7 hours and we will be back at the hotel in second half.

Exploring Sergiev Posad

This will be our last night in Moscow, and we are not going to leave the city without sampling some fine Russian vodka. So, this night is dedicated to bar hopping and pub crawling. Hope to meet some travellers and make new friends.

Day 5: Saint Petersburg – Sapsan train experience to Saint Petersburg and Matryoshka Doll painting class

Saint Petersburg , our next destination, is at least 700 km away from Moscow… and we will zip zap zoom on the Sapsan (the high speed train) to get there in about four hours! The high speed trains are engineering marvels, worth experiencing and we ride this iron horse in the afternoon, reaching St Peterburg in the evening.

As a group, we also join a masterclass to paint our own nested Matryoshka dolls… our own little souvenir to carry and remind us of a fun week in Russia.

With our very own Matryoshka dolls!

Day 6: Saint Petersburg – City Tour and Peterhof Palace

The day starts with a city tour of Saint Petersburg that will give us a peek into what this city has… many bridges, stunning castles, colourful cathedrals and fortresses.

Post lunch, we will head to the Peterhof Palace, also called the Russian Versailles. With spring having set in, the gardens would be green and the fountains will put up a show…I am excited!

Peterhof Palace

Day 7: Saint Petersburg – Hermitage Museum and Shopping

The highlights tour on the previous day will surely make us want to see more of Saint Petersburg…and we will do so by visiting the Hermitage Museum, which is also called the ‘Louvre of Russia’. The Hermitage complex itself is of architectural delight … and the collections have stories to speak which will hopefully, spike our interest enough to make to go back read our history textbooks.

The Hermitage Museum

The rest of the day is totally free to visit any of the other monuments or simply shop … it’s every girl’s favourite sport, isn’t it?

Our last night Russia… Oh Russia!!!! Tonight we will explore the party scene in SPB … or maybe … pack for the next day?

Day 8: Saint Petersburg …Bye Bye Russia

Memories, souvenirs and new friendships… it’s time take them all back to India! We check out of our hotel and take the flight from SPB to Delhi, via Moscow.

Farewell Russia!

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About post author, 11 responses.

Your photos are beautiful! I have always wanted to visit Russia, especially after seeing Anastasia (the Disney movie) 🙂 I can’t believe those mosaics are on the walls at the METRO STATION! How unreal. Great stuff, thanks for sharing.

Wow that is quite an awesome itinerary. I mean… huge Russia in 1 week. I am still dreaming of St. Petersbourg. So many people told me that it is gorgeous. And I would die to see the Ballet

You know I have never considered Russia but this itinerary looks amazing. St. Petersburg looks beautiful. I will certainly consider a trip there now

I’ve only been to St Petersburg so far, and did a few tours in the city and around. But I have a good friend in Moscow, so the incentive is definitely there to go back. I enjoy doing those by night experiences and see how cities transform in different times of day – especially if it’s topped with a circus visit, amazing 🙂

We are thinking of heading to Russia next Summer so will deffo use this itinerary, looks amazing! Would love to visit the Kremlin in Moscow! Thanks for sharing!

I have always been fascinated by Russia. I like the colourful rounds domes on the Palaces just like an Aladin’s Palace. FIFA Football World will be held in Russia next year and I will try my best to visit this beautiful country and will follow your itinerary and contact you. 🙂

Moscow and Kremlin city tour looks amazing. Your one week itinerary is helpful and complete tour of Russian delights. St.Petersburg city tour is also enchanting and splendid. I really want to have Russian vacation now after seeing your pictures

Wow, this is awesome. Well weaved itinerary! We had always dreamed of taking pictures of those onion-domed palaces and those colors on the palaces are just mind blowing. We didn’t know that there is a Versailles in Russia the exterior paint and the colors look much similar. We had loved it in France and would love to visit it in Russia too.

The Peterhof Palace is a delight to visit. Highly recommend it if you are in SPB

I haven’t visited Russia, but it’s definitely on the list! This a great itinerary, I love how you included things to do but also gave some leeway to do things on your own as well (like shopping haha). Beautiful pictures, the buildings and Russian dolls are stunning! I wonder if they’re all hand painted.

The dolls are all hand painted. The cost increases depending on the quality of work and the artist.

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