The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Sourton

Sourton offers a good selection of family-friendly hiking trails, with 24 routes in total. Among these, 6 are specifically easy-rated, making them perfect for families with younger children or those looking for a relaxed outing.

Family hikes around Sourton offer diverse and dramatic landscapes. You can expect expansive open moorland, impressive rocky outcrops like Sourton Tors, and scenic views over the Tamar Valley. Many routes also feature beautiful reservoirs, such as Meldon Reservoir, and the historic Meldon Viaduct. The area is part of Dartmoor National Park, providing a true taste of its rugged beauty.

Yes, many of the family-friendly trails around Sourton are circular, offering varied scenery without retracing your steps. For example, the Meldon Dam – View of Meldon Reservoir loop from Sourton is a moderate 8.4 km circular hike that takes you around the reservoir with lovely views.

While the immediate Sourton area is known for its tors and reservoirs, a short distance away you can visit Lydford Gorge, which is the deepest river gorge in the southwest and features an impressive waterfall. On trails closer to Sourton, you'll encounter the striking Yes Tor summit and High Willhays summit, the highest points in Dartmoor, offering panoramic views.

Yes, parking is generally available near the starting points of many trails around Sourton. Specific parking information can often be found on individual route pages, but popular spots like those near Meldon Reservoir or Sourton Tors usually have designated parking areas, though they can fill up during peak times.

While Sourton itself is a rural area, some trails may be accessible via public transport connections to nearby towns. However, for maximum flexibility with family outings, especially with younger children, driving is often the most convenient option. It's advisable to check local bus schedules for services connecting to Dartmoor National Park villages if you plan to rely on public transport.

The spring, summer, and early autumn months generally offer the most pleasant conditions for family hikes in Sourton, with milder weather and longer daylight hours. However, Dartmoor's weather can be unpredictable, so always be prepared for rapid changes, regardless of the season. Sturdy footwear and appropriate clothing are essential year-round.

Many trails in Dartmoor National Park are dog-friendly, but it's crucial to keep dogs under close control, especially on open moorland where livestock (sheep, cattle, ponies) graze. During nesting seasons for ground-nesting birds (typically March to July), dogs should be kept on a lead. Always clean up after your dog to help keep the trails enjoyable for everyone.

The komoot community highly rates the hiking experiences around Sourton, with an average score of 4.68 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning panoramic views from the tors, the tranquility of the moorland, and the well-maintained paths around areas like Meldon Reservoir. The variety of terrain, from gentle riverside walks to more open moorland, is also frequently highlighted.

Beyond the natural beauty, the area around Sourton is rich in history. You can explore the remnants of a disused Ice Works from the late 19th century, and discover archaeological features like ancient stone circles and prehistoric pools. The historic Meldon Viaduct, part of the multi-use Granite Way, is also a notable landmark on routes like the Meldon Dam – Meldon Viaduct loop from Sourton.

While many routes offer a moderate challenge, there are easier sections and shorter walks that can be adapted for toddlers. The areas around Meldon Reservoir, for instance, provide relatively flat and well-defined paths. Look for routes specifically rated as 'easy' in the guide, which typically have less elevation gain and shorter distances, making them more manageable for little legs.

Dartmoor is home to diverse wildlife. On your family hikes, you might spot the iconic Dartmoor ponies, sheep, and cattle grazing freely on the moorland. Birdwatchers can look out for various species, especially in areas like the Black-a-Tor Copse National Nature Reserve, known for its rare lichens and mosses. Keep an eye out for buzzards soaring overhead and smaller birds in the wooded valleys.

While Sourton itself is a small village, there are pubs and cafes in nearby towns and villages on the edge of Dartmoor National Park. It's a good idea to pack snacks and drinks, especially for longer family outings. Some routes, like the Meldon Viaduct – Simmons Park loop from Sourton, might take you closer to amenities in larger settlements.