Highlight • Summit
May Hill Summit
Hiking
5.0
(83)
Cycling
5.0
(2)
Mountain biking
5.0
(2)
Road cycling
5.0
(2)
Running
5.0
(1)
There are several footpaths that lead you up May Hill, all of which entail fairly gentle ascents. This makes the hill ideal for exploring no matter what your hiking background is.
A charming wooded hillside with far-reaching views
The surrounding area is a web of footpaths and bridleways so you can begin your hike from almost anywhere. In fact, three named, long-distance hiking trails cross the hill’s summit: Wysis Way, Gloucestershire Way and Geopark Way. You can approach the summit from three directions: north, south and west and loop walks are easy to design.
At the top, you’ll find the clump of pines and a trig pillar. It’s well worth walking around the perimeter of the trees to enjoy the wonderful views in every direction. The Forest of Dean lies in the fore and the Brecon Beacons rise in the distance when looking to the west. There are also benches at the summit, perfect for a rest and a bite to eat.
May Hill is easy to explore in all seasons with the appropriate clothing. Rising to 971 feet (296 m) but mostly wooded, it offers reasonably good shelter should a shower catch you out. With mixed woodlands, the colours change with the seasons, so it’s always worth returning.
Tips
March 25, 2021
Hiking
January 13, 2021
Hiking
August 28, 2019
Hiking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near May Hill Summit
4.8
(25)
91
hikers
4.87km
01:24
120m
130m
Embark on the easy May Hill loop, a 3.0-mile (4.9 km) hike that takes about 1 hour and 24 minutes to complete, featuring an elevation gain of 394 feet (120 metres). The trail begins with a steep climb to the summit, where you'll find the distinctive clump of Corsican pine trees. After the initial ascent, the path becomes more gentle, leading you through varied terrain including open grassland, mixed woodlands, and picturesque meadows. Be prepared for potentially muddy sections in the woodlands, especially after rain, and you will encounter two stiles along the way. From the summit, you can enjoy far-reaching panoramic views across Herefordshire, the Severn Estuary, and the Forest of Dean.
While the research does not specify trailhead access or parking details, it notes that the trail is generally considered easy to moderate, making it suitable for various fitness levels. The area is vibrant with seasonal changes; you might see bluebells in spring, heather in summer, or dragonflies around the ponds on the Huntley Estate. Sturdy shoes are recommended due to some rough and undulating sections of the path. The trail is accessible year-round, offering different colors and experiences depending on the season.
May Hill is a significant landmark, easily recognizable by its iconic pine trees planted in 1887 to commemorate Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee. These trees have historically served as a beacon for sailors on the Severn Estuary. The hill itself straddles the boundary between Gloucestershire and Herefordshire, with historical markers visible along the route. May Hill is also steeped in local folklore, known for legends of fairies and ancient May Day celebrations, where Morris Dancers still gather. You will find benches at the summit, perfect for resting and soaking in the extensive views, and you might even spot ponies, pigs, and sheep grazing the common land.
3.0
(1)
10
hikers
12.8km
03:51
390m
400m
Hike the moderate 7.9-mile May Hill & Huntley Hill loop for panoramic views, woodland paths, and a challenging initial climb.
4.3
(7)
25
hikers
8.76km
02:34
230m
230m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 300 m
Good to know
Family Friendly
yes
Wheelchair access
no
Dog Friendly
yes
Weather
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Tuesday 19 May
18°C
11°C
46 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 26.0 km/h
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