4.3
(173)
1,274
hikers
108
hikes
Hikes around Plymtree explore the East Devon countryside, situated near the Blackdown Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The region is characterized by a patchwork of pastoral landscapes, rolling hills, and ancient woodlands. Trails often follow tranquil river valleys and pass through historic villages, offering a range of routes for different fitness levels.
Last updated: April 28, 2026
4.9
(7)
62
hikers
7.39km
02:05
160m
160m
Embark on the Broadhembury Circular Walk, a moderate hiking experience spanning 4.6 miles (7.4 km) with an elevation gain of 518 feet (158 metres), typically completed in about 2 hours and 4 minutes. This route takes you through the scenic Blackdown Hills National Landscape, offering a diverse landscape of rolling hills, dense woodlands, and the tranquil River Tale valley. You will traverse varied paths, including sunken lanes, green tracks, and open fields, with magnificent views of the Devon countryside, especially from elevated points like North Hill.
While many paths are easily navigable, some sections can be rugged or muddy, particularly in winter, so suitable footwear is essential. The trail involves a steady climb between the village and the airfield, balanced with enjoyable downhill segments. You will encounter stiles and areas where livestock may be present, requiring you to keep dogs on leads. The walk begins and ends in Broadhembury, a village known for its historic thatched houses and 17th-century cottages.
This trail is celebrated for its natural beauty and unique features. You might spot gliders from North Hill Airfield overhead or observe wildlife like deer and soaring buzzards. The route also offers views towards Hembury Fort, an ancient site with origins dating back to the Neolithic and Iron Ages. After your hike, consider visiting The Drewe Arms, a historic local pub that is dog-friendly and offers a welcoming spot for refreshments.
4.7
(10)
42
hikers
6.76km
01:49
80m
80m
Explore the tranquil and varied landscape of the Knowles Wood & Blackborough Common loop, an easy hike through ancient woodlands and open heathland. This 4.2-mile (6.8 km) loop takes about 1 hour and 48 minutes to complete, with a gentle elevation gain of 270 feet (82 metres). You'll wander through Knowles Wood, a small ancient forest with wide, undulating trails, and discover Blackborough Common's forestry woodland, home to gorgeous ancient beech trees. The route also offers rolling hills and open heathland, which are especially vibrant in late summer, and superb views along the way.
Located in the Blackdown Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in Devon, the Knowles Wood & Blackborough Common loop is easily accessible for a pleasant outing. Its easy difficulty and generally accessible paths, a mix of unpaved, unknown, and some paved sections, make it suitable for hikers, runners, and walkers of all skill levels. The trail's gentle inclines and lack of significant elevation gain mean you can enjoy the scenery without strenuous effort. Consider visiting in late summer to experience the heathland at its most vibrant.
Beyond its natural beauty, the trail offers glimpses into the area's past, particularly its old whetstone mining history. Within Blackborough Common, you can find remnants of this industry, including Garnsey's Tower, the ruins of a three-story stone building believed to have sheltered miners. The route is also known for its peaceful atmosphere and diverse flora, such as a rare Tom Putts apple tree. Keep an eye out for gliders taking off, with a memorial bench providing a perfect spot to observe them.

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5.0
(2)
16
hikers
9.54km
02:30
70m
70m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
8
hikers
4.31km
01:10
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
hikers
18.0km
04:58
310m
310m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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The Drewe Arms is a beautiful country pub selling a good range of cask ales. Food is very good, but not sold Sunday evenings. Well worth a visit.
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Northill Airfield is an aerodrome located in the southwest corner of the Blackdown Hills Area of Natural Beauty in Devon. It is home to the Devon & Somerset gliding club and features a little café which is open to the public and serves up hot drinks, meals and cakes. Please note, the café is only open on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and weekends.
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Broadhembury village lies within the borders of the beautiful Blackdown Hills Area of Natural Beauty in Devon. It's a quintessential Devonshire village featuring thatched roofs, a pub and an old church.
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A wide undulating trail leads you through Knowles Wood, a small ancient forest located near Blackborough Common.
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Blackborough Common is a beautiful forestry woodland located ontop of Blackborough Hill that features a medley of gorgeous ancient beech. There are a number of connecting trails that lead you around the woods, where you can discover remnants of an old mining history and a tower!
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Here you will find the remains of Garnsey's Tower, once a 3-storey-high stone building thought to be a shelter for whetstone minsers.
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Bridge over the River Otter, near Ottery St Mary - pleasant spot for a break.
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Yes, there are over 100 hiking routes in the Plymtree area. The trails range from easy strolls to more challenging treks, with a good mix of options for all fitness levels. You'll find 58 easy, 45 moderate, and 6 difficult routes to explore.
The hiking routes around Plymtree are well-regarded by the komoot community. With over 1,200 visitors sharing their experiences, the trails have earned a high average rating. Hikers often praise the serene East Devon countryside, the quiet woodlands, and the well-marked paths through the Blackdown Hills.
Many trails in the area are suitable for walking with a dog, but it's always best to keep them on a lead, especially near farmland with livestock. A popular spot for dog walkers is
Blackborough forest, which offers quiet woodland paths. Remember to check for any specific restrictions on your chosen route before you go.
Absolutely. The area has numerous easy walks perfect for a family outing. For a straightforward and enjoyable walk, consider the Northill Airfield and Café loop from Kerswell. It's a relatively flat and short route, making it manageable for little legs.
Yes, for those seeking a longer and more strenuous day out, the region offers some difficult trails. The Knowles Wood – Broadhembury Village loop from Broadhembury is a great option, covering over 18 km with significant elevation gain, providing a rewarding challenge with varied scenery.
Many routes pass through or near charming villages with traditional pubs. The Broadhembury Circular Walk is an excellent choice, as it starts and ends in the picturesque village of Broadhembury, where you can find a pub to relax in after your hike.
You can hike around Plymtree year-round, but late spring and summer are particularly beautiful when the wildflowers are in bloom and the days are longer. Late summer is also a great time to see the bell-heather across the Blackdown Hills. Autumn offers stunning colours in the woodlands. Be prepared for muddy paths in winter and after heavy rain.
Yes, the Otter loop from Feniton is a lovely walk that follows the River Otter. It's a great opportunity for wildlife spotting, with chances to see signs of beavers and various bird species like kingfishers in a tranquil setting.
The area is rich in history. On various trails, you can discover landmarks spanning centuries. Look for Iron Age hillforts like Hembury Fort, the historic Culmstock Beacon, and remnants of the area's industrial past, such as whetstone mining ruins in the Blackdown Hills.
Sturdy, waterproof footwear is essential, as trails can be muddy, especially through woodlands and after rain. It's also wise to bring waterproof layers, as the weather can change quickly. Pack water, snacks, and a fully charged phone. An Ordnance Survey map is also recommended for navigating the network of rural paths.
Many hikes in the Blackdown Hills AONB offer spectacular panoramic views. A walk to Culmstock Beacon is highly recommended for its stunning vistas across the Culm Valley. On a clear day from some higher points, you can even see as far as the sea at Sidmouth.
Besides the main trails, locals enjoy exploring specific natural areas. Hunkin Wood is a well-liked spot for walking along the River Culm, offering beautiful scenery. For a quieter experience, Blackborough forest provides a peaceful escape with its extensive woodland paths.
Yes, the region is great for cycling. The rolling country lanes offer a challenge for road cyclists, while flatter options like the Grand Western Canal Cycle Route provide a more leisurely ride. For more cycling route ideas in the wider area, you can look at resources like Visit Devon.


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