The best walks and hikes around Broadhembury

Yes, many trails in the area are loops that bring you back to your starting point. These routes allow you to explore the surrounding countryside without needing to retrace your steps. A good example is the Broadhembury Village loop, a short and easy walk perfect for a quick outing.

The hiking terrain is quite varied. You can expect to encounter a mix of sunken country lanes, green paths through open fields, and trails through lush woodlands. The area is part of the Blackdown Hills, so some routes involve gentle rolling hills with moderate elevation gains that reward you with expansive views.

Broadhembury is a great place to hike with dogs, with many public footpaths crossing open fields and woodlands. Keep in mind that you'll be walking through farmland, so be prepared to keep your dog on a lead, especially around livestock. A popular spot for a dog walk is Castle Neroche, which features woodland trails.

There are plenty of easier hikes suitable for the whole family. These trails are generally shorter and have minimal elevation gain. For a straightforward and pleasant walk, consider the Northill Airfield and Café loop from Kerswell, which is relatively flat and manageable for most fitness levels.

For impressive views, seek out trails that climb the ridges surrounding the village. Hikes that gain some elevation often open up to spectacular panoramas of the Devon countryside and the village of Broadhembury nestled in the combe. A walk towards Hembury Fort, an Iron Age hillfort, provides some of the most rewarding viewpoints in the region.

You'll find a wide selection of routes to choose from, with over 150 trails mapped in the area. This includes everything from short, gentle strolls to more challenging long-distance treks, ensuring there's a path for every ability and interest.

The area is highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.4 stars. Hikers often praise the peaceful atmosphere, the beautiful rolling hills of the Blackdown Hills National Landscape, and the charming character of the thatched-roof village.

Most walks start directly from the village of Broadhembury, where you can find on-street parking. Please be considerate of residents when parking. For some trails starting outside the village, there may be small lay-bys or designated parking areas, but these can be limited.

The village of Broadhembury itself is the main hub for refreshments, with a traditional pub that makes a perfect start or end point for a hike. Some routes, like the one passing the Northill Airfield, may have a café nearby, offering a welcome break during your walk.

The diverse landscape of woodlands, fields, and river valleys supports a variety of wildlife. As you explore the quieter paths, keep an eye out for deer in the woods and listen for the call of buzzards soaring overhead. The area's wildflower meadows are also a highlight, especially in spring and summer.

Yes, for those seeking a more strenuous challenge, there are longer routes that explore the wider Blackdown Hills area. The Knowles Wood – Broadhembury Village loop is a demanding 11.6-mile (18.6 km) hike with significant elevation, taking you through extensive woodland and countryside.