Chew Valley

The Chew Valley lies in north Somerset, a low-lying river valley named after the River Chew. Its gently rolling farmland stretches between higher ground to the north, west, south and east. The valley includes Blagdon Lake and Chew Valley Lake, both created by damming the Chew in the 1950s. Chew Valley Lake supplies drinking water to Bristol and nearby towns. The area is recognised internationally for its bird species, plants and insects. The villages date back to the Domesday Book and show traces of Stone Age settlement. Many buildings are listed, with churches holding Grade I status. The main settlement is Chew Magna, which serves as the commercial centre. The valley falls partly within the Mendip Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and most of the open land lies in the Bristol/Bath Green Belt. Parish councils manage local matters while unitary authorities handle wider services. Visitors find wide views across farmland and lakes framed by wooded hills. Chew Valley Lake offers paths for walking and cycling beside the water. Blagdon Lake attracts birdwatchers and anglers. The older villages preserve stone cottages and ancient churches. Hedgerows support rare plants and mature oaks line the lanes. The quiet lanes and open spaces make it a place to walk or simply sit and watch the changing light over the valley.