The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Thorncombe
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Family friendly hiking trails around Thorncombe navigate a landscape characterized by rolling countryside, ancient woodlands, and a network of well-maintained footpaths. The region features varied topography, from gentle valleys to secluded, steep-sided areas, bordered by the Axe, Synderford, and Blackwater rivers. These trails offer opportunities to explore historical sites and natural features, including areas of mixed woodland and heathland. The terrain is generally accessible, providing options for various fitness levels.
Best family friendly hiking trails around Thorncombe
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is St Mary's Church, Thorncombe – Forde Abbey and Gardens loop from Thorncombe, a 5.9 miles (9.5 km) moderate trail that takes 2 hours 34 minutes to complete, offering views of the historic Forde Abbey.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Forde Abbey and Gardens – St Mary's Church, Thorncombe loop from Forde Abbey, a moderate 5.3 miles (8.6 km) path. This route winds through rolling countryside, providing scenic vistas of the abbey and its surroundings.
- Local hikers also love the Forde Abbey – Forde Abbey and Gardens loop from Thorncombe, a 2.3 miles (3.7 km) easy trail leading through the grounds of Forde Abbey, often completed in about 59 minutes.
- Hiking around Thorncombe is defined by rolling countryside, ancient woodlands, and river valleys. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy strolls to moderate excursions.
- The routes in Thorncombe are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 870 reviews. More than 5900 hikers have used komoot to explore Thorncombe's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 4, 2026
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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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1
hikers
3.72km
01:00
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.52km
01:29
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
While there was already a church in Thorncombe, the current one was built, incorporating elements from the old church, in the late 19th century. Some of its older elements include the Sanctuary Chair, from 1650, or the arch under the tower, from the 14th century. The weathercock on the tower dates back to the 18th century.
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This 13th century Anglican church is a Grade II listed building and, while its age is impressive, it holds a far more intriguing treasure. It has a surviving copy of ‘Foxes Book of Martyrs’, first published in 1563. It’s not everyday you get to see a book that old. The largest publishing effort in England at that time, the book is filled with woodcut impressions and is a work of Protestant history. This copy lies in a glass cabinet in the church and is well worth seeing.
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This stunning patch of woodland lies just outside the village of Wayford and holds wonderful serenity under its canopy. It experienced a little fame in 2014 and 2015 thanks to its proliferation of fairy doors. While it started with just one intricately crafted wooden door in the base of a tree, more and more doors cropped up and with them came crowds and children who left presents and notes for the fairies. The local residents eventually shut the wood temporarily and removed the doors but the wood is no less magical for its fairy exodus. Instead, you’ll find tumbling streams, vibrant flora and unusual trees.
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This Grade I-listed building is an exceptionally grand residence complete with sprawling gardens and a giant fountain. The priory was built in the 1100s and takes its name from the nearby river crossing. The abbey was surrendered during the Dissolution and had many tenants. Through the centuries it’s been renovated and undergone significant change. Today, you can still see evidence of some of the earliest sections, particularly the cloisters and the Great Hall. The gardens at Forde Abbey are spectacular and include lawns, water features and an arboretum. It also has the highest powered fountain in the country, which comes on intermittently and might surprise you if you’re walking by. There’s a cafe, shop and plant nursery here making it easy to while away your time. There is a charge to enter which is not insignificant.
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The village shop is run by community volunteers. There is a small cafe area serving teas and coffee. We arrived at 14:15 and we had just missed their lunch serving. They do take bookings I understand. No made up sandwiches but they did do pasties and sausage rolls. Bought the makings of cheese and tomato rolls and ate outside. Very pleasant.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available around Thorncombe?
There are 5 family-friendly hiking routes around Thorncombe featured in this guide, ranging from easy strolls to more moderate adventures. These trails are perfect for exploring the beautiful Dorset countryside with your family.
What kind of landscapes can we expect on family hikes in Thorncombe?
Thorncombe offers a wonderful mix of landscapes for families. You'll find rolling countryside, ancient woodlands, and well-maintained footpaths. Many routes pass through areas rich in trees like mature oaks and sweet chestnuts, and in spring, you might even see carpets of bluebells. The area is also bordered by rivers like the Axe, Synderford, and Blackwater, adding to the scenic beauty.
Are there any easy, shorter routes suitable for families with young children?
Yes, for families looking for an easier, shorter walk, consider the 3.7 km loop from Forde Abbey – Forde Abbey and Gardens loop from Thorncombe. This easy route offers a pleasant experience without being too strenuous for little legs.
What are some notable landmarks or points of interest we can see on these family hikes?
Many routes offer views of the historic Forde Abbey and its beautiful gardens. You can also explore Thorncombe Wood Local Nature Reserve, which is listed on the Ancient Woodland Inventory and features a well-preserved Roman road. For panoramic views, Pilsdon Pen Summit and Trig Point is Dorset's second-highest point, offering stunning vistas. Other nearby highlights include Golden Cap Summit and Colmer's Hill.
Are there any circular routes available for family walks?
Absolutely! All the routes in this guide are circular, making them convenient for families. For example, you could try the 9.45 km St Mary's Church, Thorncombe – Forde Abbey and Gardens loop from Thorncombe, which starts and ends in the same location.
What do other hikers say about the family-friendly trails in Thorncombe?
The family-friendly trails around Thorncombe are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from over 870 reviews. Hikers often praise the beautiful scenery, the variety of landscapes, and the well-maintained paths that make for enjoyable family outings.
Are the trails suitable for pushchairs or prams?
While some sections of the trails might be suitable, many of the paths around Thorncombe, especially those through ancient woodlands and rolling countryside, can be uneven or muddy, making them challenging for standard pushchairs. For more accessible options, the Hardy's Birthplace Visitor Centre, adjacent to Thorncombe Wood, offers all-terrain Tramper Mobility Scooters for hire, which can navigate some of the wider trails.
Is Thorncombe Wood Local Nature Reserve a good place for families to explore?
Yes, Thorncombe Wood Local Nature Reserve is an excellent spot for families. It's a 'magical pocket' of mixed woodland and heathland, home to Dartmoor ponies in Black Heath and a haven for amphibians and dragonflies at Rushy Pond. It also has historical significance as the childhood landscape of Thomas Hardy. You can find more information about the reserve on the Dorset Council website.
What is the best time of year to go hiking with family in Thorncombe?
Spring and summer are particularly lovely for family hikes in Thorncombe, when the woodlands are alive with bluebells and wood anemones, and the weather is generally milder. Autumn also offers beautiful colours. While winter walks are possible, some paths might be muddy, so appropriate footwear is essential.
Are there any longer, more challenging family routes for older children?
For families with older children or those seeking a longer adventure, the 15.26 km St Mary's Church, Thorncombe – Forde Abbey and Gardens loop from Thorncombe offers a moderate challenge with more distance and elevation gain, allowing for a full day out exploring the countryside.
Where can we find parking for these family-friendly trails?
Many of the local walks, including those mentioned in this guide, often start from St Mary's Church in Thorncombe, where parking facilities may be available. Additionally, the Hardy's Birthplace Visitor Centre, which serves as a gateway to Thorncombe Wood, provides parking and is a good starting point for exploring that area.
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