The best running trails around Exford

Exford offers a wide selection of running routes, with nearly 75 trails mapped on komoot. These routes cater to various fitness levels, ranging from moderate riverside paths to challenging moorland ascents.

Jogging routes around Exford feature diverse terrain within Exmoor National Park. You'll encounter open moorland, wooded valleys, and rolling hills. Many paths follow river valleys, while others ascend to viewpoints, providing varied elevation changes and scenic backdrops.

Yes, Exford is an excellent base for challenging long-distance runs. For instance, the Tarr Steps clapper bridge – Withypool Stone Bridge loop from Simonsbath is a difficult 31.2 km (19.4 miles) route. Another demanding option is the View of Cow Castle – Withypool Stone Bridge loop from Simonsbath, covering 21.8 km (13.5 miles) with significant elevation.

Exford's running routes offer access to stunning natural features and landmarks. You can reach Dunkery Beacon Summit, the highest point on Exmoor, for panoramic views. The ancient Tarr Steps clapper bridge over the River Barle is another notable historical site. You might also encounter Withypool Stone Bridge and various other viewpoints like Great Rowbarrow Cairn.

While many routes are challenging, there are moderate options available. The Landacre Bridge – Withypool Stone Bridge loop from Landacre Lane is a moderate 7.6 km (4.7 miles) trail that follows river valleys, perfect for a less strenuous jog. The River Exe also offers peaceful riverside paths ideal for a relaxed pace.

The running routes in Exford are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Nearly 500 runners have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the stunning scenery and diverse landscapes of Exmoor National Park.

Yes, many of the running routes around Exford are circular, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the popular Dunkery Beacon and Great Rowbarrow loop from Exford and the Dunkery Beacon loop from Dunkery Bridge — Exmoor National Park.

Exmoor National Park, where Exford is located, is generally dog-friendly, offering many trails suitable for running with your canine companion. However, it's always important to keep dogs under close control, especially near livestock or ground-nesting birds, and to follow the Countryside Code.

Exford offers beautiful running conditions throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant landscapes. Summer is also popular, though moorland trails can be exposed. Winter running is possible but requires appropriate gear for potentially wet and windy conditions, especially on higher ground.

While specific routes linking directly to pubs aren't detailed in the guide, Exford village itself has amenities. Many routes pass through or near villages like Withypool, which often have local pubs or cafes where you can refuel after your run. The Landacre Bridge – Withypool Stone Bridge loop from Landacre Lane, for example, passes near Withypool.

Running routes in Exford can feature significant elevation gains, especially those heading towards viewpoints like Dunkery Beacon. For example, the Dunkery Beacon and Great Rowbarrow loop from Exford involves over 430 meters (1,400 feet) of ascent, offering a challenging workout and rewarding views.

Exford is a good base for accessing trails, and parking is generally available within the village or at designated car parks within Exmoor National Park. It's advisable to check specific starting points for routes for the most convenient parking options.