The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Hennock

There are 7 family-friendly hiking trails around Hennock featured in this guide. These range from easy strolls to moderate walks, ensuring options for various family abilities.

The trails are selected for their manageable distances, generally gentle elevation changes, and engaging natural surroundings. Many routes offer well-maintained paths around scenic reservoirs, providing safe and enjoyable experiences for families. For example, the Tottiford Reservoir – Trenchford Reservoir loop is an easy option, perfect for a shorter outing.

Yes, there are 2 easy trails specifically highlighted in this guide. These routes typically feature minimal elevation gain and shorter distances, making them ideal for families with toddlers or very young children. The Tottiford Reservoir – Trenchford Reservoir loop is a great example, offering a pleasant 1.9 km walk.

You can expect a diverse range of terrain, from well-trodden paths around the scenic reservoirs like Kennick, Trenchford, and Tottiford, to paths through enchanting wooded valleys and rolling countryside. Some routes might also offer glimpses of Dartmoor's distinctive granite tors in the distance.

While the immediate family-friendly routes focus on gentler landscapes, the wider area around Hennock is on the fringes of Dartmoor National Park. You can easily access iconic tors like Haytor Rocks and Hound Tor, which are popular nearby attractions for more adventurous exploration. The historic Hisley Bridge is also a charming local landmark.

While not directly on the routes in this guide, the renowned Canonteign Falls, England's highest waterfall, is a significant attraction nearby. It features its own circular walk leading to 'Buzzards View' with magnificent vistas across the Teign Valley, making it a great family day out in the vicinity.

Many trails in the Dartmoor area, including those around Hennock, are dog-friendly. However, it's always best to keep dogs on a lead, especially near livestock or during ground-nesting bird seasons. Please check specific signage at trailheads for any local restrictions.

Yes, many of the family-friendly routes around Hennock are circular, or 'loop' trails. This design makes navigation straightforward and allows you to return to your starting point without retracing your steps. Examples include the Trenchford Reservoir – Tottiford Reservoir loop and the Tottiford Reservoir – Kennick Reservoir loop.

Dedicated car parks are available at key starting points for many of the reservoir walks, such as the Tottiford Picnic Site, which serves as a convenient base for several routes. For other local Hennock walks, village parking may be available, but it's always advisable to check local signage.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 1400 ratings. Reviewers often praise the tranquil beauty of the reservoir walks, the well-maintained paths, and the stunning views across the Teign Valley and Dartmoor, making it a beloved destination for family outings.

Hennock village and the surrounding areas offer local cafes and pubs where families can refresh themselves after a hike. While not directly on every trailhead, many are a short drive away, providing opportunities for a meal or a drink. It's a good idea to check opening times in advance.

Beyond the main attractions, keep an eye out for the picturesque River Bovey, especially around the historic Hisley Bridge. In early spring, Dunsford Wood and Dunsford Nature Reserve are particularly known for their vibrant displays of wild daffodils, adding a beautiful seasonal highlight to your visit.