The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Petrockstowe
4.6
(55)
285
hikers
39
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Petrockstowe traverse the green Devonshire countryside, characterized by wooded paths and views towards Dartmoor. The region features the River Torridge and the Beam Aqueduct, offering diverse natural features for exploration. Historically shaped by clay pits, the landscape now integrates remnants like the former Petrockstow Station platform into routes such as the Tarka Trail. These natural features Petrockstowe trails provide varied terrain for family friendly walks Petrockstowe.
Best family friendly hiking trails around Petrockstowe
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is Mosaic Otter Sculpture – Tarka the Otter Sculpture loop from Peters Marland, a 3.9 miles (6.2 km) trail that takes 1 hour 39 minutes to complete. This easy path features the notable Mosaic Otter Sculpture along the Tarka Trail.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Wooded Path – Glebe Pit Lake loop from Petrockstowe, a moderate 6.4 miles (10.3 km) path. This route offers wooded sections and views of Glebe Pit Lake.
- Local hikers also love the Petrockstow Station Platform – Wooded Path loop from Petrockstowe, a 6.3 miles (10.1 km) trail leading through wooded areas and past the historic Petrockstow Station Platform, often completed in about 2 hours 44 minutes.
- Hiking around Petrockstowe is defined by green Devonshire countryside, wooded paths, and the River Torridge. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy family friendly hikes Petrockstowe to moderate trails.
- The routes in Petrockstowe are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 50 reviews. More than 260 hikers have used komoot to explore Petrockstowe's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 1, 2026
5.0
(1)
21
hikers
10.3km
02:39
50m
50m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
7
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
10.1km
02:44
130m
130m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Petrockstowe
Other adventures around Petrockstowe
Tips from the Community
Today, all that remains of Petrockstow station is a platform. It was originally built to serve the clay pits and quarries in the area, it then went on to be used as part of the local Light Railway. Its use as a railway station ended with the Beeching Cuts but it lives on as part of the Tarka Trail – a long-distance foot and cycle path.
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There are a few sculptures along the Tarka Trail and this one is of Tarka the Otter himself. It has a stunning mosiac and a concave body. Standing peacefully at the side of the path, it can come as quite a surprise if you're daydreaming.
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Keep an eye out for goosanders and great crested grebes when you visit the flooded Meeth Quarry nature reserve. The reserve is crossed by the Tarka Trail, which makes getting there by bike easy, although there is also car parking available. Make sure to seek out the bird hides and look for the Exmoor ponies that graze here. Check out more information about the nature reserve here: https://www.devonwildlifetrust.org/nature-reserves/meeth-quarry
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available around Petrockstowe?
There are over 35 family-friendly hiking trails around Petrockstowe, offering a variety of experiences for different ages and abilities. You'll find a good mix of easy and moderate routes to explore.
What kind of terrain can we expect on family hikes in Petrockstowe?
The trails around Petrockstowe typically feature green Devonshire countryside, wooded paths, and sections along the River Torridge. Many routes, especially those on the Tarka Trail, offer accessible and well-established paths, making them suitable for families.
Are there any easy, shorter walks suitable for families with young children?
Yes, for an easier and shorter walk, consider the Mosaic Otter Sculpture – Tarka the Otter Sculpture loop from Petrockstowe. This route is just under 5 km and is rated easy, perfect for little legs.
What are some interesting landmarks or attractions we might see on a family hike?
Many trails offer glimpses of the region's unique features. You might encounter the mosaic otter sculpture along the Tarka Trail, or see the historic Beam Aqueduct. The area also has remnants of its past, like the former Petrockstow Station platform, now integrated into the Tarka Trail.
Are there any circular routes that are good for families?
Absolutely. Many of the family-friendly routes are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same spot. For a moderate circular option, the Wooded Path – Glebe Pit Lake loop from Petrockstowe offers a pleasant 10 km journey through varied scenery.
Can we find trails with viewpoints or scenic vistas?
While many trails offer tranquil wooded paths and riverside views, some routes provide glimpses towards the rugged beauty of Dartmoor National Park in the distance. The green Devonshire countryside itself offers many picturesque moments.
What do other hikers say about the family-friendly trails in Petrockstowe?
The family-friendly trails around Petrockstowe are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 out of 5 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful wooded paths, the accessibility of the Tarka Trail, and the overall natural beauty of the Devonshire countryside.
Are there any longer, moderate family hikes for more active families?
For families looking for a bit more of a challenge, the Petrockstow Station Platform – Wooded Path loop from Petrockstowe is a moderate 10 km hike. It requires good fitness but features easily accessible paths through lovely wooded areas.
Is there a good time of year to visit Petrockstowe for family hiking?
Petrockstowe offers enjoyable hiking throughout the year. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, summer provides lush green landscapes, and autumn showcases beautiful foliage. Even in winter, the wooded paths can be tranquil, though some paths might be wet.
Are there any facilities or places to stop for refreshments near the trails?
Yes, some routes pass near villages like Hatherleigh, which may offer cafes or pubs. The Puffing Billy Trading Co. is also a notable facility in the area that hikers might find useful.
What is the Tarka Trail and how does it relate to family hiking in Petrockstowe?
The Tarka Trail is a significant long-distance foot and cycle path that passes directly through Petrockstowe. It offers accessible and well-established paths, making many sections ideal for family-friendly hikes. You'll find several routes that incorporate parts of this famous trail.
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