The best walks and hikes around Atherington

Yes, there is a wide selection of routes. You can find over 80 designated hiking trails in the area, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging climbs, ensuring plenty of options for all fitness levels.

The trails around Atherington are highly regarded by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the region's classic North Devon scenery, which includes rolling green hills, quiet woodlands, and the panoramic views from the top of Codden Hill.

Absolutely. Many routes in the area are loops, so you can finish back where you started. For a rewarding riverside walk, consider the Around the Mole loop from Satterleigh and Warkleigh, which offers a peaceful experience through the local countryside.

Most of the public footpaths and trails in the countryside around Atherington are dog-friendly. However, you will be walking through farmland with livestock, so it's essential to keep your dog on a lead and under control, especially near sheep and cattle.

Yes, there are several easier walks suitable for families. A great option is the Around the Mole loop from Chittlehamholt. It's a relatively short and gentle walk, making it perfect for an outing with children.

For some of the best panoramic views in North Devon, head to Codden Hill. The summit offers sweeping vistas across the landscape towards Exmoor and Dartmoor. The Codden Beacon Viewpoint loop from The Park Community School is a direct and rewarding route to the top.

Yes, sections of the famous Tarka Trail are easily accessible. This trail is well-known for its flat, traffic-free paths along a former railway line, making it ideal for leisurely walks. The Landkey to Venn Tarka Trail – Codden Beacon Viewpoint loop from Landkey incorporates a lovely part of the trail.

The terrain is varied. You can expect a mix of riverside paths along the River Taw, ascents up rolling hills like Codden Hill, and walks through pastoral fields and broadleaf woodlands. Most routes follow well-defined public footpaths, but some sections can be muddy after rain.

While many local routes are moderate, for a more strenuous challenge you can drive to nearby Exmoor National Park or Dartmoor National Park. These parks offer vast, wild landscapes with more demanding and remote hiking opportunities. The South West Coast Path also offers challenging sections with dramatic sea views.

Many of the charming villages surrounding Atherington, such as Bishop's Tawton and Chittlehamholt, have traditional pubs that are perfect for a mid-hike refreshment or a meal after your walk. Routes like the loop from Bishop's Tawton start and end in a village with a pub.

Besides the immediate trails, hikers often visit nearby attractions. Codden Hill is a focal point for its incredible views. For dramatic coastal scenery, the Valley of Rocks is a highly-rated favorite, known for its unique rock formations and wild goats. For a true wilderness experience, the vast moorlands of Dartmoor National Park are also within driving distance.