The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Exmoor

Our guide features nearly 20 family-friendly hiking trails around Exmoor, offering a variety of experiences suitable for all ages. These include 5 easy routes, perfect for younger children or those looking for a gentle stroll.

Exmoor offers incredibly diverse landscapes for family hikes. You can explore dramatic coastlines with rugged cliffs, vast open moorland, lush wooded valleys like those around Watersmeet, and picturesque riverbanks. This variety ensures there's always something new to discover.

Yes, Exmoor has several easy and short walks perfect for families with younger children or those new to hiking. For example, the Riverside Path – Wheal Eliza mine ruins loop from Simonsbath is an easy route covering about 6.6 km, and the Simonsbath Village – Wheal Eliza mine ruins loop from Simonsbath is even shorter at around 4.3 km.

Absolutely! Many of the family-friendly trails in Exmoor are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. The The Chains loop — Exmoor National Park is a moderate circular option, offering a great way to experience the moorland.

Exmoor is rich in natural beauty and historical landmarks. You might encounter the unique rock formations of the Valley of Rocks, the ancient Tarr Steps clapper bridge, or the highest point in Exmoor, Dunkery Beacon Summit, offering panoramic views. Many trails also pass through scenic river valleys and ancient woodlands.

While some paths might be suitable, many trails in Exmoor, especially those on moorland or through wooded valleys, can be uneven, rocky, or muddy, making them challenging for prams or strollers. It's best to check individual route descriptions for specific accessibility information. Generally, flatter, wider paths in village areas or along specific river sections might be more suitable.

Exmoor is generally very dog-friendly, and many family hiking trails welcome dogs. However, please be mindful of livestock, especially Exmoor ponies and sheep, by keeping dogs on a lead in certain areas, particularly on open moorland. Always check local signage for specific restrictions, especially during lambing season or in nature reserves.

Exmoor offers beauty year-round. Spring brings wildflowers and newborn lambs, while summer provides warmer weather for exploring the coast and moors. Autumn showcases stunning heather blooms and vibrant foliage. Even winter can be magical, though some paths may be muddy or icy. Always check weather conditions before heading out.

Yes, Exmoor is a fantastic place for wildlife spotting! Keep an eye out for the iconic Exmoor ponies grazing freely across the landscape and red deer, especially in quieter areas. Along rivers, you might spot otters or salmon. The diverse habitats also support a wide array of birdlife.

The family-friendly trails in Exmoor are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of approximately 4.7 out of 5 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning natural beauty, the sense of wildness, and the well-maintained paths that make for enjoyable family adventures.

Exmoor's landscape is dotted with history. You might come across ancient Bronze Age barrows, such as the Great Rowbarrow Cairn, or other ancient burial mounds on hills like Winsford Hill. These sites add a fascinating historical dimension to your outdoor explorations.

Many trailheads in Exmoor have designated parking areas, often small car parks or roadside lay-bys, particularly near popular spots and villages. Public transport options are more limited, but some villages are served by local bus routes. Planning your route in advance and checking specific trailhead access is recommended.