The best family-friendly hikes and walks around South Molton

There are 8 family-friendly hiking trails around South Molton featured in this guide, offering a mix of easy and moderate options suitable for various family abilities. These routes allow you to explore the charming town and its beautiful surrounding countryside.

Yes, for a gentle and accessible option, consider the South Molton Town Centre loop from South Molton. This easy 4 km route is perfect for families looking for a shorter stroll with minimal elevation gain, ideal for little legs or pushchairs.

The trails around South Molton offer a variety of sights. You can enjoy tranquil riverside paths along the River Mole, explore parts of the historic market town, and discover viewpoints offering panoramic vistas. For example, the area around Codden Hill provides stunning views towards Exmoor and even Lundy Island on a clear day, with highlights like the Codden Beacon Viewpoint and the Caroline Thorpe Memorial.

Many of the family-friendly routes around South Molton are circular, making them convenient for starting and finishing in the same spot. A great example is the South Molton Market Square – The Poltimore Inn loop from South Molton, which is a moderate 13.9 km trail that brings you back to where you started.

The komoot community highly rates the family-friendly trails around South Molton, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Hikers often praise the well-maintained paths, the peaceful rural scenery, and the convenience of routes starting directly from the town centre, making them ideal for family outings.

Yes, several routes are designed to pass by local establishments. For instance, the The Poltimore Inn – Riverside Park loop from South Molton is a moderate 9.2 km trail that includes The Poltimore Inn, offering a convenient stop for refreshments or a meal during your hike.

Absolutely! South Molton is often referred to as the 'Gateway to Exmoor National Park'. While the trails in this guide focus on the immediate vicinity, its strategic location makes it an excellent base for day trips into Exmoor, where you can find even more diverse landscapes and family-friendly activities.

Spring, summer, and early autumn are generally the most pleasant times for family hiking in South Molton. During these seasons, you can expect milder weather, longer daylight hours, and the countryside to be in full bloom or displaying beautiful autumnal colours. Always check the local weather forecast before heading out.

Many of the trails in the South Molton area are dog-friendly, allowing you to bring your furry family members along. However, it's always important to keep dogs under control, especially when passing through farmland with livestock, and to follow the Countryside Code. Look out for specific signage on individual routes.

For families with older children looking for a bit more of a challenge, the Riverside Park – South Molton Market Square loop from South Molton is a moderate 9.7 km route. It offers a good distance and some varied terrain, providing a rewarding experience without being overly strenuous.

Yes, South Molton has public parking facilities within the town centre, making it convenient to access many of the trailheads directly. Routes often start from central locations like the South Molton Market Square, where parking is typically available.