4.5
(1144)
7,617
hikers
48
hikes
Easy hiking trails around South Brent offer access to the diverse landscapes bordering Dartmoor National Park and the South Devon coast. The region is characterized by open moorland, granite hills (tors), and river valleys, providing varied terrain for outdoor activities. Hikers can explore ancient sites, reservoirs, and woodlands, with paths ranging from gentle riverside strolls to routes across the South Moor. This area serves as a gateway to Dartmoor's natural features, including the River Avon and its boulder-filled valley.
Last updated: April 25, 2026
4.5
(21)
325
hikers
5.91km
01:39
120m
120m
Start at Shipley Bridge for an easy hike to Avon Dam, covering 3.7 miles (5.9 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 388 feet (118 metres). This route takes about…
4.3
(21)
320
hikers
5.79km
01:35
90m
90m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.0
(1)
17
hikers
4.31km
01:10
60m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
13
hikers
5.14km
01:22
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
10
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Lovely little hump back bridge on 'road unsuitable for motors.' Ok for bikes though.
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At the end of the paved road up from Shipley Bridge you get a fantastic view of Avon Dam. You have to cross the River Avon just before you get to the dam, but it's all paved and easy going. The dam was constructed in 1957 to supply drinking water to the growing population housed in the towns in South Devon. It's best to visit after lots of rainfall to see the overflow in all its splendour!
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Look out for the Clipper Tea van here on more popular, good weather days!
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The Avon Dam was built in 1957 to supply water to the coastal towns of South Devon. You can ride up the access road to the base of the dam but will have to leave your bike or push up to see the reservoir.
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Road bridge over River Avon. C17 or C18 packhorse bridge with hump back and widened on upstream side. Stone rubble. single round arch. Large stone slabs forming string with parapets above with large granite coping stones. In 1669 Lydia Bridge was in decay and the existing bridge appears to be either the restored earlier bridge or an entire rebuilding of late C17 or C18 https://britishlistedbuildings.co.uk/101307206-lydia-bridge-south-brent#.Y_SY0SaZO3A
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Shipley Bridge is a major access point to Dartmoor's southern moors. There is a parking lot, toilets and information boards. A paved trail winds its way up through the Avon Dam Reservoir Valley to Avon Dam Reservoir. Initially this runs next to the river. Along the path you will meet stray pigs.
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South Brent offers a good selection of easy hiking trails, with 16 routes specifically categorized as easy. In total, there are 48 hiking routes of varying difficulties in the area, providing plenty of options for exploration.
Easy hikes around South Brent often lead you through diverse landscapes. You can explore the tranquil River Avon valley, discover the impressive Avon Dam Reservoir, or encounter ancient sites on Dartmoor's South Moor. Other notable features include Dartmeet, where two rivers converge, and the scenic Cadover Bridge.
Yes, you can enjoy an easy walk to a picturesque waterfall. The Waterfall at Lydia Bridge – Lydia Bridge Waterfall loop from South Brent is a 2.7-mile (4.3 km) trail that takes you through the countryside to the beautiful Lydia Bridge Waterfall.
Many easy trails in the South Brent area are ideal for families. Routes like Shipley Bridge to Avon Dam – Dartmoor Miles Without Stiles are part of Dartmoor's 'Miles Without Stiles' network, designed to be accessible for all abilities, including those with pushchairs. These paths often follow gentle gradients along rivers or reservoirs.
Yes, the South Brent area, being on the edge of Dartmoor National Park, is generally very dog-friendly. Many easy trails, particularly those along the River Avon and to the Avon Dam, are suitable for dogs. However, always keep dogs under close control, especially near livestock or ground-nesting birds, and follow the Countryside Code.
Absolutely. The Waterfall at Lydia Bridge – Lydia Bridge Waterfall loop from South Brent is a popular easy circular route. Another option is the Lady's Wood Footpath Sign – Glaze Brook Stone Bridge loop from South Brent, which offers a pleasant 2.7-mile (4.3 km) loop through the local countryside.
A common starting point with ample parking for many easy trails is the Shipley Bridge car park. From here, you can access routes leading to the Avon Dam Reservoir and along the River Avon. Other trails may have smaller, local parking areas or be accessible from South Brent village itself.
The South Brent area is beautiful year-round. Spring brings wildflowers and new growth, while summer offers longer daylight hours for leisurely strolls. Autumn showcases stunning foliage, and even winter can be magical with crisp air and clear views, though some paths might be muddier. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
The komoot community highly rates the hiking experience around South Brent, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 300 reviews. Hikers often praise the area's diverse scenery, from the open moorland to the peaceful river valleys, and appreciate the well-maintained paths that make for enjoyable and accessible walks.
Yes, the Shipley Bridge to Avon Dam – Dartmoor Miles Without Stiles route is specifically designed to be accessible. It follows a tarmac road alongside the River Avon, making it suitable for wheelchairs, pushchairs, and those with limited mobility, offering a scenic journey to the reservoir.
Easy hikes in the South Brent area vary in length and duration. For example, the popular Shipley Bridge to Avon Dam trail is about 3.7 miles (6.0 km) and takes approximately 1 hour 39 minutes. Shorter loops, like the Waterfall at Lydia Bridge loop, can be completed in about 1 hour 10 minutes.
South Brent village itself has some public transport links. From the village, you can access local paths that connect to the wider network of easy trails. For routes further into Dartmoor, such as those starting at Shipley Bridge, public transport options might be limited, so checking local bus schedules is advisable.


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