The best walks and hikes around Wembworthy
4.6
(50)
252
hikers
11
hikes
Hikes around Wembworthy explore the Mid-Devon countryside, primarily following paths within the valley of the River Taw. The region is characterized by a patchwork of agricultural fields and woodlands, including the nearby Eggesford Forest. The terrain generally consists of gentle riverside strolls and routes over low rolling hills, offering trails for various fitness levels.
Best hiking trails around Wembworthy
- The most popular hiking route is Riverside Path – Eggesford Castle loop from Wembworthy, a 3.5 mile (5.7 km) trail…
Last updated: May 5, 2026
4.5
(10)
47
hikers
5.71km
01:33
80m
80m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
10
hikers
13.7km
03:54
300m
300m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(3)
9
hikers
10.5km
02:55
200m
200m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
8
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
6
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Wembworthy
Tips from the Community
Free parking. Area good for mountain biking and gravel riding. Café nearby at Eggesford train station
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Overlooking the TawValley, at the northern end of Heywood Wood, stand the remains of an early medieval motte and bailey castle. Motte and bailey castles are medieval fortifications introduced into Britain by the Normans. This type of castle was made up of an artificial mound, or motte, on which was built a wooden or stone structure known as a keep. Next to this at least one bailey, a fortified embanked enclosure containing additional buildings, would be built. Although many were occupied for only a short period of time, motte and bailey castles continued to be built and occupied from the 11th to the 13th centuries, after which they were superseded by other types of castle. Heywood CastleAt Heywood the circular motte is about 8 metres high and almost 50 metres in diameter, surrounded by a rock-cut ditch 4 metres wide and 2 metres deep. Around the top of the motte is a bank, up to 4 metres high in places. The crescent shaped bailey which lies to the north-east of the motte is 60 metres long and 40 metres wide and bounded on all sides by a bank 2 metres rising to about 4 metres on the eastern side, where there is an entrance with a causeway across the ditch which extends to the outer bank, which surrounds both the motte and bailey. From the bailey to the motte on the north east side there is the possibility of a bridgeway. On the north side of the bailey a more modern entrance has been formed. https://www.devon.gov.uk/historicenvironment/explore-devons-heritage/heywood-castle-eggesford/
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This place is well worth a visit, it is a huge Norman castle mound. No structures are visible (Probably only a wooden keep now long gone) but really worth seeing, it is still quite imposing 1000 years on. "At Heywood the circular motte is about 8 metres high and almost 50 metres in diameter, surrounded by a rock-cut ditch 4 metres wide and 2 metres deep. Around the top of the motte is a bank, up to 4 metres high in places. The crescent shaped bailey which lies to the north-east of the motte is 60 metres long and 40 metres wide and bounded on all sides by a bank 2 metres rising to about 4 metres on the eastern side, where there is an entrance with a causeway across the ditch which extends to the outer bank, which surrounds both the motte and bailey. From the bailey to the motte on the north east side there is the possibility of a bridgeway. On the north side of the bailey a more modern entrance has been formed. The castle at Heywood possibly took the place of an earlier castle some 500 metres to the south in the grounds of Heywood House, on the steep valley side above the River Taw. An alternative theory is that both date to the 1130s and 1140s, and were built during the civil war between Matilda, daughter of Henry I, and his nephew Stephen." https://www.devon.gov.uk/historicenvironment/explore-devons-heritage/heywood-castle-eggesford/
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With a network of paths, this diverse woodland is a lovely place to explore. Keep a look-out for wildlife, wildflowers, and interesting fungi. Visit throughout the year; it's different in every season.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any easy, family-friendly walks near Wembworthy?
Yes, the area is well-suited for families. Most of the trails are rated as easy, featuring gentle terrain. A great option is the View of Eggesford House loop from Chulmleigh, which is a short walk of just over 2 km, making it manageable for little legs.
Can I take my dog on the hiking trails?
Yes, the Wembworthy area is generally dog-friendly. Many trails pass through public footpaths where dogs are welcome, but they should be kept under control, especially near livestock.
Eggesford Forest is a particularly popular spot for dog walkers, with numerous paths where your dog can often be let off the lead safely. Remember to follow local signage.
What is the general terrain like on the hikes around Wembworthy?
The hiking terrain is characterized by the gentle valley of the River Taw. You can expect peaceful riverside paths, trails through woodlands, and routes across rolling agricultural hills. The majority of hikes are easy to moderate, with minimal steep climbs.
Are there any circular walks available?
Absolutely. Many of the recommended routes are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same place without retracing your steps. For a pleasant loop that takes in some local history, consider the All Saints Church, Eggesford – View of the stately home loop from Eggesford.
Where can I find parking for the trails?
While many walks start from villages with on-street parking, some dedicated trailheads have their own car parks. For example, Heywood Wood, a popular starting point for local walks, offers a small, free car park for visitors.
Is the area accessible by public transport?
Yes, the nearby Eggesford railway station provides good access to several trails. It's a stop on the Tarka Line between Exeter and Barnstaple. From the station, you can directly access trails leading into Eggesford Forest and towards Wembworthy.
What do other hikers think of the trails around Wembworthy?
The trails are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars. Hikers often praise the peaceful atmosphere, the beautiful riverside scenery along the River Taw, and the well-maintained paths through Eggesford Forest.
Are there any long-distance paths that pass near Wembworthy?
Yes, Wembworthy is close to two significant long-distance trails. The village is a waypoint on Devon's Coast-to-Coast route, and the famous Tarka Trail also passes nearby, offering extensive options for longer hikes through the region.
What kind of historic sites can I see on a walk?
The area is rich in history. Many routes offer views of historic landmarks. For example, the Eggesford Castle – Riverside Path loop from Wembworthy takes you past the site of the old castle. You can also find trails that pass by the historic All Saints Church and offer distant views of Eggesford House.
Are there any challenging hikes for more experienced walkers?
The immediate Wembworthy area is known more for its gentle and moderate trails. While there are some longer routes like the 13 km Eggesford Forest – All Saints Church, Eggesford loop from Eggesford, for truly challenging hikes you would need to travel a short distance to the rugged landscapes of Dartmoor or Exmoor National Parks.
Where are the best places for woodland walks?
For enchanting woodland scenery, Eggesford Forest is the primary destination. It features a network of trails among impressive Douglas Fir trees. Another lovely, quieter option is Heywood Wood, which offers a pleasant circular walk and is home to the remnants of a medieval hillfort.
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