Farleigh Hungerford Castle and River Frome Circular
Somerset
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.
At a Glance
- Distance
- 8.2 km (5.1 miles)
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Duration
- 2 hr 30 min
- Walk Type
- Woodland, River, Historic
- Route Type
- Circular
- Off Lead Potential
- Low
- Livestock Risk
- Moderate
- Facilities
- Cafe at castle, Toilets
- Parking
- English Heritage car park at Farleigh Hungerford Castle
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Farleigh Hungerford Castle and River Frome Circular dog friendly?
Yes, this is a well-suited walk for dogs and earns a solid 8 out of 10 for dog friendliness. The River Frome is accessible at several points along the route, giving dogs plenty of opportunities to drink and paddle, and the constantly changing mix of riverside paths, meadows and woodland edges makes for a genuinely engaging outing.
Can dogs be off lead at Farleigh Hungerford Castle and River Frome Circular?
Off-lead potential is lower here than on more open walks, largely because the route passes through farmland sections where livestock is moderately likely. Leads are essential through fields, and gates should be closed carefully behind you , but dogs will still find plenty to keep them occupied across the varied terrain.
What should I know before visiting Farleigh Hungerford Castle and River Frome Circular with my dog?
The route is 8.2 km and takes around 2.5 hours, with some steady climbs on the return leg, so it's worth making sure your dog is comfortable with moderate distances. There's a café and toilets at the castle, and parking is available in the English Heritage car park at Farleigh Hungerford Castle , a handy base for starting and finishing the circuit.
Farleigh Hungerford Castle Car Park, Farleigh Hungerford, Bath BA2 7RS
51.3174, -2.2866
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