Discover Chew Magna

Chew Magna brings together several themes that make it easy to distinguish between different reasons for choosing it as a destination: architectural history and medieval village history, as well as trails along the river and through the countryside. The River Chew flows through Chew Magna and its parish. The village lies near the northern edge of the Mendip Hills, which are designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and along the B3130. The river, hills and road provide a sense of the area’s layout. During your stay, you can decide whether to focus on historic sites in the village or on trails and the natural surroundings.

Church and medieval village history

The Church of St Andrew is a Grade I listed parish church, the highest category. Its origins date back to the 12th century. An impressive medieval cross stands in the churchyard; it is thought to date from the 15th century. Here, you can encounter different historical associations in one place: the church’s early origins and a cross whose dating is qualified by a note of uncertainty. The village’s history also extends beyond individual monuments: in the Middle Ages, Chew Magna was a thriving centre of the wool trade. This adds an economic dimension to the village’s architectural history.

Circular walk and countryside

The circular walk through Chew Magna combines village streets with paths along the river and through the countryside. It passes the village’s main sights before continuing through open fields along the River Chew. Village streets, riverside paths and open countryside make up distinct sections of the same circuit. The route description also makes the River Chew a recurring feature of the landscape; it flows through the village and its parish as well.

Another option nearby is the Chew Valley Lake Recreational Trail. It is 2.7 km long and accessible to bicycles, pushchairs and wheelchairs. As access conditions can change, check them before your visit. The two routes can be distinguished by their stated features: the circular walk combines village streets, riverside paths and open fields, while the trail at Chew Valley Lake has a specified length and accessibility for different modes of transport.

Birdwatching and local places

At Chew Valley Lake, visitors with a permit can watch birds from five bird hides; 260 bird species can be seen there. Permit conditions and opportunities for birdwatching are subject to site management. This makes birdwatching a distinct focus alongside the trails, subject to the conditions at the lake.

Local places beyond the historic buildings also offer a sense of orientation: the Veg Shed, at the entrance to The Community Farm on Denny Lane in Chew Magna, sells organically grown seasonal produce. The Old School Room is now the village’s main venue for activities. Alongside the church, churchyard and trails, you can also find a place selling seasonal produce and a central hub of village life.

Discover more destinations: Wellow, Radstock, Bath, Farmborough, Keynsham, Farrington Gurney, Midsomer Norton, Pensford.

For the main travel overview: Bath And North East Somerset.