The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Devon

Devon offers a vast selection of outdoor adventures, with over 4,000 hiking routes recorded on komoot. More than 2,000 of these are classified as easy, making them perfect for families looking for accessible and enjoyable walks across the region's diverse landscapes.

Absolutely! Devon is home to some beautiful waterfalls that are accessible via family-friendly trails. A prime example is the Lydford Castle & Whitelady Waterfall loop of Lydford Gorge in Dartmoor National Park. This easy route takes you through the stunning Lydford Gorge, where you can marvel at the 30-meter high Whitelady Waterfall and the churning Devil's Cauldron. You can also explore the Lydford Gorge highlight for more details.

Many family-friendly routes in Devon are circular, allowing for a varied experience without retracing your steps. For instance, the Gara Point & Revelstoke Drive loop from Noss Mayo offers an easy coastal walk with beautiful views. Another option is the Holwell Tor & Smallacombe Rocks loop in Dartmoor, which provides a moderate challenge with rewarding moorland scenery.

Devon's family-friendly trails often lead to fascinating landmarks and natural wonders. You can explore the dramatic rock formations of the Valley of Rocks in Exmoor National Park, known for its wild goats. Dartmoor's iconic granite tors, like Haytor Rocks, offer panoramic views. For a unique experience, consider routes near Beer Quarry Caves or the ancient woodlands of Wistman's Wood.

Devon is beautiful year-round, but the best time for family hikes generally depends on your preference. Spring and summer offer warmer weather and blooming wildflowers, making coastal and woodland walks particularly pleasant. Autumn brings stunning foliage to areas like Dartmoor and river valleys. Even in winter, many trails are accessible, especially in sheltered woodlands or along the coast, though conditions can be more challenging on the moors.

While many trails are best reached by car, Devon does offer options for public transport access, particularly in and around larger towns and along popular routes. The South West Coast Path, for example, has sections well-served by local buses. For specific routes, it's always best to check local bus timetables and routes in advance to plan your journey effectively.

The komoot community highly rates hiking in Devon, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers frequently praise the incredible diversity of landscapes, from the rugged coastlines and expansive moorlands to the tranquil river valleys and ancient woodlands. The well-maintained paths, clear signage, and the abundance of natural beauty and wildlife spotting opportunities are also often highlighted as key reasons for an enjoyable family hiking experience.

Yes, Devon has a good selection of trails suitable for pushchairs and toddlers, often found in country parks, along disused railway lines, or on well-surfaced paths in woodlands. Haldon Forest Park near Exeter is an excellent choice, offering numerous accessible trails. When choosing a route, look for 'easy' graded walks with minimal elevation gain and smooth surfaces to ensure a comfortable experience for little ones.

Many family-friendly hiking routes in Devon pass through or near charming villages and towns that offer welcoming pubs and cafes. Coastal walks, in particular, often have refreshment stops available. For example, routes around Noss Mayo, like the Noss Mayo and Revelstoke Drive Loop, provide opportunities to enjoy local hospitality after your walk. It's always a good idea to check opening times beforehand, especially outside of peak season.

Devon's diverse habitats make it a fantastic place for wildlife spotting. On Dartmoor, you might encounter Dartmoor ponies and various bird species. Coastal paths offer chances to see seabirds, and if you're lucky, seals or dolphins. The Valley of Rocks is famous for its wild goats. Woodland trails, such as those near Lydford Gorge, are excellent for observing woodland birds and small mammals. Encourage children to bring binoculars and a nature guide to enhance their experience.

The terrain on family-friendly hikes in Devon is incredibly varied. You'll find everything from well-surfaced, flat paths in country parks and along river valleys to slightly more rugged, but still manageable, trails on the edges of Dartmoor and Exmoor. Coastal paths can feature some inclines and steps but often offer smoother sections too. Always check the route description for specific terrain details, but generally, easy routes are designed to be accessible for most abilities.