The best walks and hikes around Sampford Courtenay

Yes, the area is well-known for its circular routes. The parish itself has mapped out five circular walks of varying lengths, plus a village trail. These routes are generally gently undulating and take you through fields and quiet lanes with lovely views of the moor. For a more challenging circular hike on the moor itself, consider the Nine Maidens Stone Circle – Belstone Common Tor loop from Belstone, which explores ancient sites and offers expansive views.

Dogs are welcome on most public footpaths, but it's important to be mindful of the local environment. Many walks pass through fields with livestock, so you must keep your dog on a lead in these areas. On the open moorland of Dartmoor National Park, dogs should also be kept under close control, especially during lambing and ground-nesting bird season (typically March 1st to July 31st).

Certainly. For a gentle and accessible option, the Abbeyford Woods – Stick Shelter in the Forest loop from Folly Gate is a great choice. This short, easy walk through the popular Abbeyford Woods is perfect for families. Additionally, the local village trail in Sampford Courtenay offers a relaxed way to explore the immediate surroundings.

Yes, Sampford Courtenay is an excellent starting point for a pub walk. The village has two pubs, The New Inn and The Countryman, which are perfect for starting or finishing a hike. You can follow one of the local circular routes directly from the village and return for refreshments. Many trails connect the village to the surrounding countryside, allowing for a rewarding walk followed by a well-earned meal.

The region is rich in history. The Sampford Courtenay village trail itself highlights historical points of interest, including St. Andrew's Church and sites related to the 1549 Prayer Book Rebellion. For a walk that takes in prehistoric sites, the trail to the Nine Maidens Stone Circle is a great option, leading you to a Bronze Age monument on the moor.

A section of the long-distance Tarka Trail runs near the village. You can connect to it via local footpaths that lead towards Sticklepath. This part of the trail offers a varied walk through tranquil countryside and wooded river valleys, following the path of the River Taw. It's a great way to experience a segment of this famous 180-mile route.

To experience the classic Dartmoor landscape of granite tors, a hike to Oke Tor is highly recommended. Considered one of the best tors on the north moor, it offers stunning 360-degree views that include High Willhays, the highest point on Dartmoor. Many routes starting from the nearby village of Belstone will lead you up onto the high moor to experience these dramatic rock formations.

Yes, Abbeyford Woods is a highly regarded local spot for woodland walks. It offers a variety of paths through a diverse forest, making it a peaceful alternative to the open moorland. The trails are generally easy and suitable for all skill levels. Another option is the walk along the East Okement River, which takes you through beautiful wooded valleys.

There are over 280 hiking routes to explore around Sampford Courtenay, offering a fantastic variety for all abilities. The selection includes about 128 easy routes perfect for gentle strolls, 128 moderate trails for a good day out, and over 20 difficult hikes for those seeking a proper moorland challenge.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning, expansive views from the high moorland, the tranquility of the wooded river valleys, and the mix of easy village paths and challenging treks on Dartmoor.

For walks starting in Sampford Courtenay, there is on-street parking available, but please park considerately as it is a small village. For hikes heading onto the main part of Dartmoor, the village of Belstone has a dedicated car park which is a popular starting point for routes to Cosdon Beacon and Oke Tor. Always check for any local parking restrictions or fees.

Sampford Courtenay has a railway station on the Dartmoor Line, which connects to Okehampton and Exeter. This makes it possible to access the area without a car. From the station, you can connect to local footpaths, including the Tarka Trail, to begin your hike. However, services can be infrequent, so it's essential to check the train timetable in advance.