The best walks and hikes around Landkey

Yes, many trails in the Landkey area are great for walking with dogs. The region's mix of woodland paths and open fields offers plenty of space to explore. The Barnstaple Long Bridge loop is a good option that follows the river. Always be mindful of local signage, especially concerning livestock, as grazing is common in the hills.

For a shorter, engaging walk, the Barnstaple Castle – Barnstaple Long Bridge loop is an excellent choice. It's a relatively flat and easy trail. For more unstructured fun, locals enjoy visiting Whiddon valley woods, which has a stream that's perfect for kids to play in.

Yes, Landkey and the surrounding area, including the larger town of Barnstaple, are served by local bus routes. Barnstaple also has a train station, providing wider access to the region. Many walks can be started directly from the villages or from bus stops along the main roads, making it feasible to explore without a car.

For walks starting in Landkey village, on-street parking is the primary option, so please park considerately. For routes beginning in Barnstaple, there are several public car parks available. It's always a good idea to arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a spot for popular routes like those heading up to Codden Hill.

Absolutely. The area is well-known for its circular routes that allow you to start and end in the same place without retracing your steps. A great example is the Landkey to Venn Tarka Trail – Codden Beacon Viewpoint loop, which combines woodland paths, a section of the Tarka Trail, and a rewarding climb to a viewpoint.

The landscape around Landkey is classic North Devon countryside. Expect to see rolling 'whale-backed' hills, ancient broad-leafed woodlands, and tranquil paths alongside the River Taw and its tributaries. A major highlight is the panoramic view from Codden Hill, which on a clear day can stretch from Dartmoor to Exmoor.

The ascent to Codden Hill is generally considered a moderate challenge. While it involves a steady climb, the paths are well-established and the ascent is gradual rather than steeply technical. The effort is well worth it for the spectacular 360-degree views from the summit beacon.

Yes, sections of the famous Tarka Trail are easily accessible from Landkey. The trail, which follows a disused railway line, runs along a tributary of the River Taw near the village. It offers flat, gentle walking through peaceful woodland, making it a relaxing part of any local hike.

Yes, you can find welcoming spots for refreshments after your walk. The nearby village of Bishop's Tawton is home to the historic Chichester Arms pub, a popular stop for walkers. The larger town of Barnstaple also offers a wide variety of pubs, cafes, and tea rooms to relax in.

The trails around Landkey are highly regarded by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the variety of the terrain, from the peaceful riverside sections of the Tarka Trail to the rewarding climbs up to panoramic viewpoints like Codden Hill. The mix of well-marked paths and quiet country lanes is frequently mentioned as a highlight.

There are over 170 hiking routes to discover around Landkey on komoot. These range from short, easy strolls to more challenging moderate hikes, ensuring there's a trail for every fitness level and interest.

Yes, the area has plenty of options for beginners. A great choice is the Hiking loop from Forches, which is relatively flat and offers a pleasant introduction to the local scenery. Exploring sections of the Tarka Trail is also an excellent, mostly level option for those new to hiking.