The best walks and hikes around Combe Martin

The trails along the coast are characterized by rugged paths with significant ascents and descents. You'll be walking on narrow tracks along high sea cliffs, which can be challenging but offer spectacular views. The paths are a mix of grassy tracks, gravel, and rocky sections, so sturdy footwear is essential. The area includes Great Hangman, the highest sea cliff in mainland Britain.

Yes, there are several excellent circular routes. For a rewarding challenge with fantastic coastal scenery, the Combe Martin loop via Little Hangman is a popular choice. It's a moderate walk that takes you over the prominent hill of Little Hangman, providing great views over the Bristol Channel.

For a gentler walk suitable for families, consider the trail to Heddon's Mouth. It's a well-regarded and relatively easy walk from the National Trust car park down a wooded valley to a scenic pebble beach. The path follows the River Heddon and is a great option for a less strenuous day out.

Yes, the area is generally dog-friendly. Most trails, including sections of the South West Coast Path, are suitable for dogs, but be mindful of steep cliffs and keep them under control, especially near livestock. After your walk, you can visit a dog-friendly pub like the historic 'Pack o' Cards' in the village.

For hikes starting in the village, there are several pay-and-display car parks near the beachfront. These provide good access for the climbs up to both Little and Great Hangman. For walks slightly further afield, such as the one to Heddon's Mouth, there is a dedicated National Trust car park at the start of the trail.

The hike from Combe Martin to Ilfracombe is considered difficult. It's a long point-to-point route of nearly 12 miles (19 km) with over 500 meters of elevation gain. The path is strenuous with many steep climbs and descents as it follows the dramatic coastline.

While the immediate coastal paths are more known for cliffs than waterfalls, a short drive will take you to National Trust's Watersmeet. This highly-rated spot features a beautiful river gorge where the East Lyn River and Hoar Oak Water converge, creating a series of cascades and small waterfalls in an ancient woodland setting. There are numerous walking trails to explore the area.

For unparalleled panoramic views, the summit of Great Hangman is a must-visit, as it's the highest point on the South West Coast Path. The nearby Little Hangman also offers stunning vistas. For a different perspective, the Valley of Rocks is a famous local landmark known for its dramatic prehistoric rock formations, wild goats, and sweeping ocean views.

Summer offers the best chance for clear weather and long daylight hours, and you might see the grasslands carpeted with orchids. However, spring and autumn are also excellent times to visit, with fewer crowds and pleasant hiking conditions. The heathlands are particularly vibrant with birdlife in the autumn. Winter hiking is possible but be prepared for wet and windy weather on the exposed coast.

Yes, Combe Martin is served by local bus routes that connect it to nearby towns like Ilfracombe and Barnstaple. This makes it possible to undertake point-to-point walks, such as the coastal trail to Ilfracombe, and then take a bus back to your starting point. Be sure to check the latest bus timetables as services can be less frequent, especially on weekends and outside of the main tourist season.

The trails around Combe Martin are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Hikers frequently praise the stunning and dramatic coastal scenery, the challenging but rewarding climbs to viewpoints like Great Hangman, and the variety of walks available, from rugged coastal paths to sheltered inland valleys.