The best family-friendly hikes and walks around South Tawton

There are nearly 10 family-friendly hiking trails around South Tawton, ranging from easy strolls to more moderate adventures. This guide features 5 easy routes and 4 moderate ones, ensuring options for various family fitness levels.

The trails around South Tawton offer a mix of terrain, from gentle paths through woodlands and along river valleys to more open moorland with gradual ascents. You'll encounter the characteristic granite tors of Dartmoor, and some routes, like those leading to Cosdon Beacon, involve a steady climb to panoramic viewpoints.

Yes, for families looking for an easy, shorter option, the Hiking loop from Sticklepath is a great choice. It's just over 3 km long and has minimal elevation gain, making it perfect for little legs. Another easy circular option is the South Zeal Church – Tarka the Otter Bridge loop from Sticklepath, which is around 5.5 km.

Many family-friendly routes offer stunning views. Cosdon Beacon is a prominent feature, providing panoramic vistas across Dartmoor, and on clear days, you can even see both the English and Bristol Channels. You might also encounter distinctive granite tors. For example, the View of Dartmoor National Park – Cosdon Beacon loop from Sticklepath offers excellent opportunities to experience these natural landmarks.

Many trails in the Dartmoor National Park area, including those around South Tawton, are dog-friendly. However, always keep dogs under close control, especially on open moorland where livestock may be grazing. It's also advisable to check for any specific local restrictions or seasonal requirements, particularly during bird nesting seasons.

You'll find several interesting points along the trails. The Cosdon Beacon – Tarka the Otter Bridge loop from Sticklepath passes by the Tarka the Otter Bridge. Other notable attractions in the wider area include the historic Fingle Bridge over the River Teign and the impressive Meldon Viaduct. The area is rich in history, with ancient cairns and even 19th-century mine workings.

Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for family hikes, with blooming wildflowers and longer daylight hours. Autumn brings beautiful colours to the woodlands. While winter hikes are possible, be prepared for colder, potentially wet conditions and shorter days, especially on the exposed moorland. Always check the weather forecast before heading out.

For families with older children or those seeking a longer adventure, the Cosdon Beacon – Tarka the Otter Bridge loop from Sticklepath is a moderate 12.7 km route with over 450 meters of elevation gain. Another moderate option is the View of Dartmoor National Park – Cosdon Beacon loop from Sticklepath, which is slightly longer at 13.5 km.

Parking is generally available in and around the villages like Sticklepath and South Zeal, which serve as common starting points for many trails. Specific parking details often vary by route, so it's always a good idea to check the individual route descriptions for the most accurate information before your trip.

The komoot community highly rates the trails around South Tawton, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 400 ratings. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, the sense of adventure on the moorland, and the well-maintained paths that make for enjoyable family outings.

Yes, the South Tawton Parish Council has published a leaflet detailing several mapped walks around South Zeal and South Tawton, which identify points of interest and historical facts. You can often find these resources locally or sometimes online, for example, on the Sampford Courtenay Parish Council website, which covers nearby areas.