The best walks and hikes in Mid Devon

There are over 300 hiking routes to explore in Mid Devon. These range from easy, short strolls to more challenging day hikes, with the majority being easy or moderate, ensuring plenty of options for all ability levels.

The region is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Hikers often praise the varied scenery, from the tranquil river valleys of the Exe and Culm to the open, panoramic views found in the Blackdown Hills.

Yes, circular walks are very common in Mid Devon. They allow you to explore an area without retracing your steps. A great example is the Wellington Monument & woodland loop — Blackdown Hills, which combines history with beautiful woodland scenery.

Mid Devon is known for its beautiful river valleys. The Exe Valley Way offers fantastic opportunities for riverside walking. For a shorter, accessible taste, consider The Bridge Inn – New Bridge (River Barle) loop from Exebridge, which follows the scenic River Barle.

The region has several beautiful wooded areas perfect for a quiet hike. The Knowles Wood & Blackborough Common loop is an excellent choice, taking you through peaceful woodland and across open common land.

Absolutely. With its extensive network of footpaths, bridleways, and open commons, Mid Devon is very dog-friendly. Many trails, like the Blackborough Common loop via Garnsey's Tower — Blackdown Hills, offer wide-open spaces. Just be mindful of livestock and keep your dog under control, especially in farming areas.

The level towpath of the Grand Western Canal Country Park is perfect for families, offering a flat and safe environment for a walk. Another great option is the short and scenic River Exe Valley from Bickleigh Mill, which is manageable for little legs.

Mid Devon offers a gentler landscape compared to the wild, rugged moorlands of Dartmoor and Exmoor. You'll find more rolling hills, sheltered river valleys, and pastoral countryside. While it lacks the dramatic tors of Dartmoor, it provides a less exposed and often more tranquil hiking experience.

Yes, the most notable is the Two Moors Way, a 117-mile coast-to-coast route connecting Dartmoor and Exmoor. A significant section passes through the heart of Mid Devon, showcasing its quintessential rolling countryside. You can hike sections of it, such as the part through the Culm Valley on the Hemyock to Culmstock via the Culm Valley trail.

While Mid Devon is known for more gentle terrain, you can find challenging hikes by combining routes or tackling longer distances with significant ascent. The Hemyock to Culmstock Beacon — Blackdown Hills trail is a good example, covering over 9 miles (15 km) with nearly 300 meters of climbing.

Green lanes are historic, unsurfaced tracks, often ancient drovers' roads or parish boundary paths, enclosed by hedgerows. They are a characteristic feature of the Devon countryside and offer quiet, atmospheric walking away from traffic. Many public footpaths in Mid Devon follow these historic routes, such as on the Hemyock & Dunkeswell Abbey loop.

Mid Devon is close to several highly-regarded natural attractions perfect for hikers.

• Haldon Forest Park: A very popular, well-managed forest with numerous marked trails for all abilities, from easy family strolls to more strenuous bike and walking paths.
• East Devon National Landscape: This nearby area offers beautiful heathland, wooded valleys, and sections of the famous Jurassic Coast for more dramatic coastal hiking.