4.5
(120)
597
hikers
81
hikes
Easy hiking trails Poughill offer access to a diverse landscape in North Cornwall, England. The region features a rugged coastline with dramatic cliffs and sandy beaches, contrasting with lush countryside, fertile fields, and hedgerows inland. Poughill itself is nestled in a wooded hollow, with paths leading through serene woodlands and alongside small rivers. The area provides varied terrain, from coastal paths with sea views to tranquil rural routes.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
4.3
(4)
12
hikers
2.74km
00:47
70m
70m
An easy 1.7-mile hike along the Exe Valley Way, exploring riverside views, woodlands, and historical sites like Bickleigh Mill.
4.0
(2)
18
hikers
5.54km
01:30
80m
80m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Sign up for free
4.0
(3)
14
hikers
6.89km
01:59
160m
160m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(3)
8
hikers
3.56km
00:59
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
4
hikers
4.15km
01:08
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
be careful on the road crossing, bring a towel and be prepared to wait for service, it's busy here in the wknds in summer.
2
0
Using the power of moving water to drive a mill wheel is an ancient invention of the human spirit of discovery, the origins of which can be traced back to times long past. Thanks to such a construction, human or animal muscle power could be easily replaced by the power of the natural elements through a watercourse - natural or artificially created - in order to grind grain into corn or press oil from fruit, for example. There are essentially two different ways of driving watermills: * Either the flowing water simply hits the blades of the water wheel from below to set it in motion; or * the water is guided above the wheel - usually through a so-called "mill channel" - and falls onto the blades; this type of construction is more efficient due to natural gravity.
5
0
The duo also visited the site of Bickleigh Bridge, a picturesque spot in East Devon. However, on a promotional tour in 2003, Garfunkel confirmed the song was inspired by sources closer to their home
1
0
Bickleigh Mill is an 18th century water mill which is still working to this day. The Mill is now also home to shops and eateries. With its gorgeous riverside location it is a lovely place to start or finish a walk, or stop partway along to refuel.
5
0
The River Exe flows all the way from Exmoor in the north to Exmouth in the south. The Exe Valley Way follows the river from the Exe Estuary to Exford on Exmoor. Not quite all the way to the source of the river but you can add on that additional stretch if you wish to. The official route is 72km (45 miles long) and is way marked. This section here between Tiverton and Bickleigh would make a nice day out, starting at either end. Its around 11km there and back and fairly flat.
4
0
Scooped some water out, filtered it and a made a coffee.
3
0
The inspiration for Paul Simon to write the song (according to local legend). Beware of traffic when crossing - it's single carriageway and a fairly busy road.
1
1
Great place for lunch or a Devon cream tea (cream first, jam on top - the proper way - this is Devon!). There's also a gift shop adjoining.
0
0
Poughill offers a great selection of easy hiking trails, with over 45 routes specifically categorized as easy. In total, there are more than 85 hiking routes in the area, catering to various preferences.
Easy hikes around Poughill feature a diverse landscape. You can expect paths through lush countryside, fertile fields, and hedgerows, as well as serene woodlands and routes alongside small rivers. While some easy trails may offer glimpses of the rugged coastline, they generally avoid the more challenging clifftop sections.
Yes, Poughill has several excellent circular easy walks. For example, the Hiking loop from Crediton is an easy 3.4-mile path through rural landscapes. Another popular option is the Bickleigh Bridge – Bluebell Wood Path loop from Bickleigh, which is 4.3 miles and leads through wooded areas.
Many easy trails around Poughill are ideal for families. The gentle gradients and varied scenery, including woodlands and riverside paths, make them enjoyable for all ages. The proximity to Bude also means some walks can be combined with seaside activities.
Yes, Poughill is generally dog-friendly. Many of the easy trails through the countryside and woodlands are suitable for dogs, though it's always advisable to keep them on a lead, especially near livestock or on coastal paths where cliffs can be dangerous. Always check local signage for specific restrictions.
While on easy hikes, you might encounter charming historical elements of Poughill village itself, such as thatched cottages. Nearby attractions include the historic Bickleigh Mill & The Bridge Inn, Shobrooke Park Lake and Stone Bridge, and the ancient St Swithun's Church and Holy Well.
The easy trails in Poughill are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 100 reviews. Hikers often praise the tranquil rural landscapes, the well-maintained paths, and the opportunity to experience Cornwall's natural beauty without strenuous effort.
While Poughill is close to the coast, many of the designated 'easy' trails focus on the inland countryside and wooded areas. However, some routes may offer distant views of the sea and headland, particularly as you approach the village's edge or head towards nearby Bude. For direct coastal access, you might find slightly more challenging sections of the South West Coast Path.
The best time for easy hikes in Poughill is generally from spring through autumn. During these seasons, the weather is milder, and the countryside is vibrant with wildflowers or autumn colours. Winter can also be pleasant, but paths might be muddy, especially in wooded or riverside areas.
Easy hikes around Poughill vary in length and duration. For instance, the Exe Valley Way: Bickleigh Loop is 1.7 miles and takes about 45 minutes, while the Bickleigh Bridge – Bluebell Wood Path loop from Bickleigh is 4.3 miles and can take around 2 hours.
Yes, parking is generally available in and around Poughill, especially in the village itself or at designated car parks for popular walking areas. Many trailheads for easy routes are accessible from village parking spots or small lay-bys. Always check local signage for specific parking regulations.
Poughill is a small village, and while local bus services connect it to nearby Bude, direct public transport to specific trailheads might be limited. It's often best to use Poughill village or Bude as a base and then walk to the start of your chosen easy trail. For detailed public transport information, it's recommended to check local bus schedules.
Yes, Poughill village itself has local amenities, and its proximity to Bude means you're never far from options for refreshments. Many easy walks can lead you to or past charming pubs and cafes, particularly in Poughill or when walking towards Bude. The Bickleigh Mill & The Bridge Inn is an example of a place you might encounter on a hike.


Browse the best Hikes in other regions.