Farleigh Hungerford Castle and River Frome Circular

This 8.2 km circular route near Farleigh Hungerford in Somerset combines the atmospheric ruins of a 14th-century castle with a lovely stretch of walking along the River Frome. From the castle, the path drops into the valley and follows the river through green meadows and quiet woodland edges before looping back through rolling farmland. The moderate difficulty reflects some steady climbs on the return leg, with 152 metres of elevation gain overall, but nothing that feels punishing. It's a walk with genuine variety — history, river, fields and woods all in one outing.

Dogs will enjoy this dog friendly walk for the riverside sections and the constantly changing ground underfoot. The Frome provides water access for drinking and paddling at several points. However, livestock is moderately likely through the farmland sections, so leads are essential through fields and gates should be closed carefully behind you. Off-lead potential is lower here than on open moorland walks, but the rich variety of terrain and scent keeps dogs thoroughly engaged throughout the 2.5-hour circuit.