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United Kingdom
England
South West England
Devon
North Devon

Shirwell

Easy hikes and walks around Shirwell

4.5

(681)

4,830

hikers

248

hikes

Easy hiking trails around Shirwell are found in North Devon, England, a region characterized by diverse landscapes. The area features a mix of accessible paths, gravel routes, and varied terrain, including gentle hills and river valleys. Shirwell's location provides access to both inland routes and the broader North Devon coastal paths, offering a range of natural features for exploration.

Best easy hiking trails around Shirwell

  • The most popular easy hiking route is Arlington Court loop from Arlington, a 1.9…

Last updated: August 24, 2026

4.6

(5)

87

hikers

#1.

Old Lake Bird Hide – Church of St James loop from Arlington

3.25km

00:57

90m

80m

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Easy

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

16

hikers

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

5.0

(1)

1

hikers

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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Tips from the Community

National Trust North Devon
August 21, 2026, Superb singletrack through Deerpark Wood

This is a fantastic stretch of singletrack through Deerpark Wood, especially if taken south to north to fully enjoy the downhill. Deerpark Wood is beautiful in the spring, when bluebells create a dazzling display.

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Smallacombe Bridge is a prominent crossing of the River Yeo, used by many of Arlington Court's walking routes. It connects Woolley with the trail through the delightful Wilderness, which takes you back to the heart of the estate.

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This Grade 2-listed building is the parish church of Arlington and is situated next to the impressive Arlington Court. While there are some 14th-century features, much of the building owes itself to a 19th century restoration by architect RD Gould. It's a lovely sight on the estate, especially when reflected in the waters of the nearby Wilderness Pond.

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The Wilderness is a lovely wooded stream valley near the heart of the Arlington Estate. The trail through here connects Arlington Court, its gardens and museum to Smallacombe Bridge on the River Yeo and the delightful Old Lake, where a natural restoration project is underway.

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The ornate Memorial Urn marks one of Miss Rosalie Chichester's favourite spots on the Arlington Estate. The estate was the home of the Chichester family from the 1820s until 1949, when it was donated to the National Trust by Miss Rosalie. Today, there's an impressive 2,600 acres of woodland, parkland and pretty valleys to explore.

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The sight of the Church of St James reflected in the still waters of Wilderness Pond is one of the finest on the Arlington Estate. This lovely ornamental pond is just a short walk from the main house and a nice spot to pause in quiet contemplation.

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Just a short detour from the Arlington Estate's popular Old Lake Walk is this bird hide. The hide is situated near the Old Lake, the former basin of which is being restored back to a more natural river landscape, thus aiding the local wildlife. The estate is renowned for its barn owls, though you're much more likely to see the likes of mallards and moor hens from this vantage.

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Arlington Court is a beautiful country house built in the early 1820s. It features lovely formal gardens and wider grounds that are a delight to explore on foot or by bike. There are over 25 miles (40 km) of trails through woodland, parkland and serene valleys to explore.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many easy hiking trails are available around Shirwell?

Shirwell offers a wide selection of easy hiking trails, with over 120 routes specifically categorized as easy. In total, there are more than 250 hiking routes in the area, catering to various preferences.

What kind of terrain can I expect on easy hikes around Shirwell?

The easy hiking trails around Shirwell feature a mix of accessible paths, gravel routes, and varied terrain. You'll encounter gentle hills, river valleys, and rural landscapes. Routes like the Arlington Court – Steep Gravel Path loop from Arlington offer a good example of the mixed gravel paths and gentle ascents common in the area.

Are there any easy circular walks in Shirwell?

Yes, many of the easy trails around Shirwell are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Popular options include the Arlington Court loop from Arlington and the Junction Near Barnstaple loop from Shirwell, both offering convenient round trips through the local countryside.

Are the easy hiking trails around Shirwell suitable for families with children?

Yes, the easy trails in Shirwell are generally suitable for families with children. Their shorter distances and manageable elevations make them ideal for younger hikers. The area around Arlington Court, for instance, provides pleasant and accessible paths for a family outing.

Can I bring my dog on the easy hikes in Shirwell?

Many trails in the Shirwell area are dog-friendly, but it's always recommended to check local signage for specific restrictions, especially in nature reserves or near livestock. Generally, dogs are welcome on leads on most public footpaths.

What natural features or viewpoints can I discover on easy hikes?

While Shirwell's easy trails focus on gentle landscapes, the broader North Devon region offers stunning natural features. You can find beautiful river gorges like Watersmeet (though some sections may have steeper ascents/descents) and enjoy scenic views from spots like Jubilee Cairn. For coastal views, the wider area provides access to dramatic sea views along the South West Coast Path.

Are there any interesting landmarks or attractions near the easy hiking routes?

Yes, several interesting landmarks and attractions are accessible from or near the easy hiking routes. Arlington Court is a prominent attraction that many trails incorporate. You can also find highlights like Ilfracombe Harbour, Isley Marsh Nature Reserve, and Tarka Trail: Instow to Fremington within a short distance, offering diverse points of interest.

What do other hikers enjoy most about the easy trails in Shirwell?

The easy trails in Shirwell are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.5 stars from over 580 reviews. Hikers often praise the varied terrain, the peaceful countryside, and the well-maintained paths, particularly around areas like Arlington Court.

Are there places to eat or drink near the easy hiking trails?

Yes, you can find options for refreshments near the trails. For example, the Hunter's Inn is a notable pub in the wider area that hikers often visit. It's advisable to check opening times, especially in smaller villages.

What is the best time of year to hike the easy trails in Shirwell?

Shirwell's easy trails can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather and vibrant greenery, while autumn brings beautiful foliage. Even in winter, many paths remain accessible, though some may be muddy, so appropriate footwear is recommended.

Where can I find parking for the easy hiking trails around Shirwell?

Parking is generally available at key starting points for many trails, particularly around popular locations like Arlington Court. In smaller villages or rural trailheads, roadside parking might be an option, but always ensure you park responsibly and do not obstruct local access.

Are there any accessible trails for those with mobility issues?

The Shirwell area features a mix of accessible paths and gravel routes. While specific fully accessible trails may vary, the general nature of 'easy' trails often means flatter, wider paths. It's recommended to check individual route descriptions for detailed information on surface and gradient if specific accessibility needs are a concern.

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