The best walks and hikes around Tavistock

Yes, the area is well-suited for families. Most of the curated routes are rated as easy. For a day out with plenty of activities, the Tamar Trails Centre is a popular choice, offering various paths and a cafe. Another great option is the relatively flat Cooper River Park loop via Cooper River Trail — Camden, which is perfect for a shorter, relaxed walk.

Many trails around Tavistock are dog-friendly, especially in open areas like Dartmoor. However, always be mindful of livestock and keep your dog on a lead where required. The walk to Pew Tor is a great option for enjoying wide-open spaces with your dog, but be aware of grazing ponies and sheep.

For panoramic views, head into Dartmoor National Park. The area around Pew Tor is highly regarded by local walkers for its stunning vistas across the moorland. Brent Tor also offers dramatic 360-degree views from the church at its summit.

Yes, there are several circular routes. For an easy loop, consider the Haddon Lake Park loop — Haddon Heights. Many trails on Dartmoor and in the Tamar Valley can also be adapted into loops, allowing you to explore the varied scenery without retracing your steps.

The region offers lovely walks along its rivers. The Tavistock Canal provides a peaceful and level path that follows the historic waterway through meadows. For a more rugged experience, the trail to Double Waters takes you to the scenic confluence of the River Walkham and River Tavy.

The most spectacular waterfall in the area is at Lydford Gorge, a highly-rated National Trust site. It features the 30-meter high Whitelady Waterfall within the deepest river gorge in the South West. The trails here involve some steep sections and steps but are well-maintained.

Tavistock is an excellent starting point for exploring Dartmoor. You can drive a short distance to various car parks that serve as trailheads for popular tors. For example, the car park at Pork Hill provides good access for walks to tors like Pew Tor, Cox Tor, and Staple Tor.

Yes, while many local routes are easy, you can find more demanding treks. The Wallworth Park via Cooper River Trail — Camden is a moderate hike offering a longer walk of over 11 km. For a true challenge, you could tackle a section of a long-distance path like The Archangel's Way, which begins at Brent Tor.

The routes in the area are enjoyed by the komoot community. Reviewers often praise the stunning and varied landscapes, from the wild, open moorlands of Dartmoor to the peaceful river valleys. The mix of historical sites and natural beauty is a frequently mentioned highlight.

For days with less-than-perfect weather, consider a woodland walk where the trees provide some shelter. The trails at the Tamar Trails Centre or around the Burrator Reservoir offer good options with forested sections. Always wear appropriate waterproof gear and footwear as paths can become muddy.

Many walks can be planned to start or end near a pub or cafe. The village of Lydford has the Castle Inn near the entrance to Lydford Gorge, which is a popular spot. The Tamar Trails Centre also has its own cafe, making it easy to get refreshments after your walk.

For a gentle and relatively flat walk, the Tavistock Canal path is an excellent choice. It's a level route that is generally suitable for a wide range of abilities. The Blueberry Hill loop via Red Trail — Gibbsboro is another very short and easy option for a quick stroll.