The best walks and hikes around Sheldon

Hiking in Sheldon takes you through the quintessential English countryside of the Blackdown Hills. Expect a peaceful landscape featuring a mix of quiet woodlands, open commons with wide-ranging views, and gentle, rolling hills connected by country paths.

Yes, Sheldon is well-suited for families and beginners, with over half of the trails rated as easy. A great option is the Broadhembury Village loop from Broadhembury, a short 2.5-mile (4.1 km) walk that's perfect for a gentle outing.

Dogs are generally welcome on the public footpaths around Sheldon. However, you will be walking through farmland with livestock. Always keep your dog on a lead and under close control, especially near sheep and cattle. Be sure to follow the Countryside Code.

The terrain is generally not too demanding. Most routes follow well-trodden footpaths, quiet country lanes, and tracks across fields and through woods. While there are some ascents, they are typically gentle and manageable for most fitness levels.

While the region is known for more gentle walks, there are a few difficult trails for those seeking a challenge. These longer routes involve more significant elevation changes and can take a full day to complete, offering a more strenuous workout in the Blackdown Hills.

There is a wide variety of options to explore, with over 140 different hiking routes around Sheldon. These range from short, easy strolls to more demanding all-day hikes, ensuring there's a trail for every ability.

The hiking routes in Sheldon are highly regarded by the komoot community, with more than 1,300 visitors rating the trails. Reviewers often praise the peaceful atmosphere, the mix of woodland and open countryside, and the quiet, well-maintained paths.

Yes, many of the popular trails are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same place without retracing your steps. For example, the Blackborough Common loop via Garnsey's Tower is a great circular walk that showcases the area's open common land.

Parking is typically available in the villages that serve as trailheads, such as Dunkeswell and Broadhembury. Some routes may start from designated lay-bys or small car parks near commons or woods. It's always best to check the starting point of your chosen route for specific parking details and arrive early on sunny weekends.

Yes, several hikes incorporate local history. The popular Dunkeswell Abbey – St. Mary's Church, Hemyock loop from Dunkeswell connects the historic ruins of the Cistercian abbey with the local village church, offering a walk through the region's past.

Some routes, like the Northill Airfield and Café loop from Kerswell, are planned specifically to pass by a café. Many of the villages in the area, such as Broadhembury, have traditional pubs or small shops where you can find refreshments.