The best walks and hikes around Buckland Brewer

Yes, there's a wide variety of trails. You can find over 140 routes in the area, ranging from gentle strolls through river valleys to more strenuous coastal treks. This includes 77 easy routes, 61 moderate ones, and 5 difficult trails for experienced hikers.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Hikers often praise the mix of quiet, pastoral countryside, peaceful woodland paths, and the easy access to the dramatic North Devon coastline.

Absolutely. The region has many gentle routes suitable for families. A good example is the Hiking loop from Abbotsham, which is a relatively flat walk through the countryside. The valleys of the River Duntz and Lydeland Water also offer pleasant, easy-going terrain.

Yes, the area is generally dog-friendly, with many public footpaths crossing open countryside and through woodlands like Craneham Wood. However, always be mindful of livestock in fields and keep your dog on a lead where required. Coastal paths can have steep drops, so exercise caution.

The region provides excellent access to the South West Coast Path. For a rewarding coastal hike with great views, consider the Peppercombe Coach House – View of Westward Ho! Coast loop from Abbotsham. This route takes you through beautiful coastal terrain and offers expansive sea views.

Yes, if you're looking for a challenge, the area has some demanding routes. The Clovelly – The Hobby Drive loop from Parkham is a strenuous 23.3 km trek with significant elevation gain, best suited for hikers with a high level of fitness.

For panoramic vistas, head to the higher ground. On a clear day, the area around Tower Hill in Buckland Brewer offers views towards both Exmoor and Dartmoor National Parks. Many coastal routes, like the View of Westward Ho! Coast – Peppercombe Coach House loop from Parkham, also provide stunning scenery of the North Devon coast.

Yes, many of the most popular trails are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same place without retracing your steps. The Mermaid's Pool – Kipling Tors loop from Abbotsham is a well-regarded moderate circular hike that showcases the area's varied landscape.

While not directly on the immediate village trails, the nearby Speke's Mill Mouth Waterfall is a highly-rated local attraction on the coast. You can incorporate a visit into a coastal walk along the South West Coast Path near Hartland Quay for a dramatic sight.

The terrain is quite varied. Expect rolling hills, quiet country lanes, and muddy tracks through fields. You'll also find sheltered woodland paths in places like Venton Wood and North Wood. Closer to the coast, the paths can be steep, rugged, and offer dramatic cliff-top walking.

Reaching trailheads by public transport can be challenging due to the rural nature of the area. Main towns like Bideford have better bus connections, from which you might be able to access the start of some routes. However, for maximum flexibility in exploring the more remote trails, travelling by car is generally more convenient.

Parking is often found in small lay-bys, village car parks, or designated spots near popular coastal access points like Bucks Mills or Hartland Quay. It's best to plan ahead, as parking can be limited, especially for more rural trailheads. Arriving early is recommended during peak season.