The best walks and hikes around Woodbury

Yes, the heathlands around Woodbury are generally great for walking with dogs. The open spaces on trails like the Woodbury Common loop from Four Firs offer plenty of room to explore. However, be mindful of local signage, especially during bird nesting season or when livestock is present, as you may be required to keep your dog on a lead.

The hiking around Woodbury is defined by the unique East Devon Pebblebed Heaths. Expect a mix of open heathland with gorse and heather, patches of woodland, and gentle rolling hills. Many paths are unpaved and can be sandy or muddy depending on the season. The area offers a sense of open space with wide-ranging views.

Yes, there are several options suitable for families. The East Devon Pebblebed Heaths – Little plank bridge loop from Yettington is a good choice. At under 4 miles with minimal elevation gain, it's a manageable length for a family outing, offering a great introduction to the local heathland scenery.

Absolutely. Most of the popular routes in the area are designed as loops, making logistics simple. For example, the Woodbury Castle & the Pebblebeds loop from Woodbury starts and finishes near the village, allowing you to easily park and complete the circuit without needing to arrange transport.

You'll find a wide variety of options, with over 100 hiking routes to explore in the region. These range from short, easy strolls to more challenging all-day treks, covering the diverse landscapes of the pebblebed heaths, river estuaries, and nearby coastline.

The area is highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars. Hikers often praise the beautiful and unique scenery of the pebblebed heaths, the well-maintained paths, and the peaceful atmosphere of the countryside.

Yes, for those seeking a more challenging day out, there are longer trails available. The East Budleigh & Ladram Bay loop from Woodbury Common is a great example, covering nearly 15.5 miles (25 km) and taking you through varied terrain towards the coast.

Yes, you can. The region has a rich history. A key historical feature is Woodbury Castle, an Iron Age hill fort. You can walk right through this ancient site on several routes, which offers a glimpse into the area's distant past while you enjoy the views.

Certainly. For a change of scenery from the heaths, you can explore trails along the River Exe estuary. The Topsham Dock – RSPB Bowling Green Marsh loop from Exton is perfect for this, offering flat paths and excellent opportunities for birdwatching along the river.

The terrain is varied but generally manageable. Most trails are rated as easy or moderate, featuring gentle hills rather than steep mountains. The main challenges can be the trail surfaces, which can be uneven, sandy, or muddy, and the length of some of the longer loops. There are a few difficult routes for those seeking a tougher challenge.

There are several car parks providing access to the heaths. Four Firs car park is a popular starting point for many circular routes. Another common access point is the car park near Woodbury Castle. Arriving early is recommended, especially on sunny weekends, as they can fill up.