The best walks and hikes around Kenn
4.5
(858)
13,131
hikers
24
hikes
Hiking trails around Kenn are primarily found within the Haldon Forest Park area, offering a network of paths through dense woodlands. The terrain generally features gentle inclines and descents, with elevation gains typically under 150 meters, making many routes accessible. These trails often lead to viewpoints providing vistas over the surrounding landscape, including the Exe Valley. The region's geology supports a mix of forest floor and well-maintained paths suitable for various hiking abilities.
Best hiking trails around Kenn
- The most popular hiking route is Haldon Forest Viewpoint – View of Exe Valley loop from Haldon Forest Park, a 4.5 miles (7.2 km) trail that takes about 2 hours to complete. This route offers expansive views of the Exe Valley from forested paths.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Haldon Forest MTB Skills Park – Haldon Forest Viewpoint loop from Ashton, an easy 2.0 miles (3.2 km) path. This trail navigates through forested areas, providing access to viewpoints and the MTB Skills Park.
- Local hikers also love the Haldon Forest Viewpoint loop from Haldon Forest Park, a 2.3 miles (3.7 km) trail leading through dense forest, often completed in about 1 hour.
- Hiking around Kenn is defined by dense woodlands, gentle hills, and scenic viewpoints. The network offers options for different ability levels, with a focus on easy and moderate trails.
- The routes in Kenn are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 400 reviews. More than 7,800 hikers have used komoot to explore Kenn's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 17, 2026
4.8
(24)
442
hikers
7.24km
01:58
100m
100m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(5)
282
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(6)
319
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(2)
28
hikers
5.60km
01:35
120m
120m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
15
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
This sheltered viewpoint is on the family friendly, multi-user trail at Haldon Forest. Big views over the flat lands around Exeter and towards the coast at Exmouth.
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Haldon Forest Park opened the new start to the red trail in mid December 2023 and it's fantastic. It's packed gravel with berms at the start, then splits in two. Take the right 'short cut' to cut the entire red in two (or take it to ride back to the start and do the new section again) or stay left to carry on along the new bit and then get onto the usual red. This new section is nowhere near as challenging as the main red, but it's super fast and fun. As it spits you out on the fire track after a short distance, it's great for kids too, who can have a great time on this punchy gravel but bail before the red gets hairy. The way it's set up means it's easy to only do this bit, ride back to the start, and do it again and again.
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Great little hire shop. £20 for 4 hours and decent bikes for the trials around the forest. Don't forget ID
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Nice and very cycle friendly cafe at Haldon Forest. Plenty of outside bike storage, picnic benches etc as well as indoor seating. Good simple menu for food, snacks, and drinks. Perfectly positioned to ride from here on the surfaced trails of Haldon or to include it as a stop in a longer loop. Open every day.
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As you round the corner on Haldon's Discovery Trail, the woods fall back and the views open up. Looking east, the Exe Valley drops down before your eyes and you can see right across to the other side. On a clear day, this view is always exceptional but autumn evenings or early mornings can be particularly special.
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Here you can hire mountain bikes for riding at Haldon Forest Park and enquire about the Segway tours that operate here. It's right next to the cafe, car park, play area and toilets so there's plenty of facilities for all the family. Bike servicing is also offered here, so if your mountain bike could do with a little TLC, it's a great place to come. At the end of the ride, make the most of the bike wash too (a small charge applies), so that's one less thing to clean when you get home! For more information about the hire bikes, availability and pricing, visit: http://www.forestcyclehire.co.uk/
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The pump track at Haldon Forest Park is found next to the cafe building and children's play park, and is best suited to toddlers and young children learning to ride. The aim of the game is to make it all the way around the twisting course without pedalling, which you'll find is particularly hard here! A great place for youngsters to practice riding while you can enjoy a cuppa from the cafe.
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After the thrilling descent on the Kiddens Trail that zig-zags down the hillside, you'll enter into the woodland section. Here the twisting singletrack darts between the tall pines, banked by mossy hillsides with a few stream crossings. It's a bit more pedally through here than the previous section, but really beautiful.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect on hiking trails around Kenn?
Hiking trails around Kenn are primarily found within the Haldon Forest Park area, characterized by dense woodlands and well-maintained paths. The terrain generally features gentle inclines and descents, with most routes having elevation gains typically under 150 meters, making them accessible for various abilities.
How many hiking trails are available in the Kenn area?
There are over 20 hiking trails available around Kenn. The majority, about 17, are rated as easy, with an additional 7 moderate routes, ensuring options for different fitness levels.
Are there any easy, family-friendly walks around Kenn?
Yes, Kenn offers many easy and family-friendly walks, particularly within Haldon Forest Park. An excellent option is the Haldon Forest MTB Skills Park – Haldon Forest Viewpoint loop from Ashton, an easy 2.0-mile (3.2 km) path that navigates through forested areas and provides access to viewpoints.
Are there circular walks available in Kenn?
Many of the trails around Kenn are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the popular Haldon Forest Viewpoint – View of Exe Valley loop from Haldon Forest Park is a 4.5-mile (7.2 km) circular trail offering expansive views.
What are some notable viewpoints or natural attractions along the trails?
Many trails lead to viewpoints offering vistas over the surrounding landscape, including the Exe Valley. Beyond the forest, you can explore natural monuments like Cockwood Harbour or the historic Woodbury Castle — Iron Age hillfort.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Kenn?
The hiking trails around Kenn are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 490 reviews. Hikers often praise the well-maintained paths, the peaceful forest environment, and the scenic viewpoints over the Exe Valley.
Are there any places to explore near the hiking routes?
Yes, beyond the immediate trails, you can find interesting places like the Exeter Ship Canal or the scenic Exe Estuary Trail, which are popular for walks and cycling. Countess Wear Bridges also offer a historical point of interest.
What is the best season for hiking in Kenn?
The dense woodlands of Haldon Forest Park make Kenn an enjoyable hiking destination throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage, while the sheltered forest paths can also be suitable for winter walks, though conditions may vary.
Are there any less crowded hiking options in Kenn?
While Haldon Forest Park is popular, exploring some of the slightly longer routes or visiting during off-peak hours can offer a more tranquil experience. Routes like the Kiddens Trail – Haldon Forest MTB Skills Park loop from Dunchideock might offer a quieter alternative while still providing access to the forest's beauty.
What should I bring for a hike in Kenn?
Given the varied weather in the UK, it's always advisable to bring appropriate layers, waterproofs, sturdy footwear, and sufficient water. While many trails are well-marked, a map or GPS device (like the komoot app) is recommended for navigation, especially if exploring less familiar paths.
Is there parking available for the hiking trails in Kenn?
Yes, Haldon Forest Park, where most of the trails are located, offers dedicated parking facilities. It's advisable to check the park's official website for current parking information and any potential fees.
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