The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Combe Martin

There are over 25 family-friendly hiking trails around Combe Martin, ranging from easy strolls to more moderate adventures. This guide focuses on a selection of these routes, perfect for exploring the beautiful North Devon coast and Exmoor National Park with your family.

The terrain around Combe Martin is quite varied, offering a mix of coastal paths, woodland trails, and ascents to dramatic cliffs. You'll find well-maintained paths, but also some steeper sections and uneven ground, especially on routes like the Combe Martin & Great Hangman loop. Many trails offer stunning views over the Bristol Channel and the surrounding AONB.

Yes, there are several easy options perfect for families with young children. The View of Broadsands Bay – Watermouth Harbour loop from Combe Martin is an easy route, offering lovely coastal views without significant climbs. These shorter trails often allow for rockpooling and beach access at low tide, which can be a great activity for little ones.

Many trails around Combe Martin are dog-friendly, but it's always best to check specific route details. Remember to keep dogs on a lead, especially near livestock, cliff edges, and during ground-nesting bird seasons. The coastal paths and sections of Exmoor National Park generally welcome well-behaved dogs.

Combe Martin is rich in natural beauty and historical sites. You might encounter the impressive Little Hangman or the towering Great Hangman cliffs, offering expansive views. Other highlights include the sheltered Combe Martin Beach, ideal for rockpooling, and the historic St Peter ad Vincula church in the village. Further afield, you could visit the dramatic Valley of Rocks.

Absolutely! Circular routes are great for family adventures as you end up back where you started. The Combe Martin & Great Hangman loop is a popular circular option that takes you up to the impressive Great Hangman. Another good choice is the Combe Martin loop via Little Hangman, offering fantastic coastal views.

Spring and summer are generally the most popular times for family hiking in Combe Martin, offering milder weather and longer daylight hours. In June and July, you might spot common spotted orchids and heather along the coast. Autumn can also be beautiful with changing foliage, but be prepared for potentially wetter conditions. Winter walks are possible, but trails can be muddy and weather more unpredictable.

Parking is generally available in and around Combe Martin, often near the village centre or specific trail starting points. It's advisable to check local signage for parking restrictions and fees. For routes starting directly from the village, you'll usually find convenient options.

Combe Martin is served by local bus routes, making some trailheads accessible via public transport. The village itself is a hub, and many routes, especially those starting directly from Combe Martin, can be reached without a car. Always check current bus schedules before planning your trip.

The komoot community highly rates the trails around Combe Martin, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning coastal views, the variety of terrain suitable for different ages, and the opportunity to explore both the dramatic coastline and the fringes of Exmoor National Park. Many highlight the sense of adventure and the chance to spot local wildlife.

Yes, Combe Martin's diverse landscape, from its rugged coastline to its proximity to Exmoor National Park, offers excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting. Along the coast, you might see various seabirds, and if you're lucky, seals or dolphins in the Bristol Channel. Inland, Exmoor is home to red deer, ponies, and a variety of birdlife. Keep an eye out for interesting flora like orchids and heather during the warmer months.