The best walks and hikes around Christow

There are over 10 hiking trails around Christow, offering a variety of experiences. These routes range from easy strolls to more challenging treks, primarily within the Teign Valley and on the fringes of Dartmoor National Park.

Yes, Christow offers several easy hiking trails, particularly around the reservoirs. These paths are generally less strenuous and perfect for a relaxed outing. An example is the Hiking loop from Trusham, which is an easy 1.7 km route.

The terrain around Christow is quite varied. You can expect peaceful paths around reservoirs like Kennick, Tottiford, and Trenchford, as well as sections through ancient woodlands and rolling hills in the Teign Valley. Some routes extend into the Dartmoor fringes, offering more rugged, open moorland with granite tors and potentially bouldery sections.

Many of the popular routes around Christow are circular, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For instance, the Kennick Reservoir – Tottiford Reservoir loop from Kennick, Tottiford & Trenchford Reservoirs is a moderate 7.9 km circular trail that offers scenic views.

Yes, many trails around Christow are dog-friendly, especially those around the reservoirs and on the open moorland fringes of Dartmoor. However, it's always advisable to keep dogs under control, particularly near livestock or in nature conservation areas. Please check local signage for specific restrictions.

Christow is a great destination for family walks, especially the leisurely routes around the reservoirs. The relatively flat and well-maintained paths make them suitable for all ages. These areas provide a safe and scenic environment for families to enjoy nature together.

Hiking around Christow offers access to several natural landmarks. You can explore the beautiful reservoirs themselves, or venture towards Dartmoor National Park where you might encounter impressive granite formations like Haytor Rocks or Hound Tor. The Teign Valley also features ancient woodlands with streams tumbling over boulders.

Parking is generally available at key access points for popular trails, particularly near the reservoirs like Kennick, Tottiford, and Trenchford. There may also be parking options in Christow village itself, serving as a starting point for routes like the Kennick Reservoir – Trenchford Reservoir loop from Christow.

While many routes are moderate, Christow's proximity to Dartmoor National Park means you can find more challenging hikes. These routes often involve steeper ascents, open moorland, and potentially rugged or bouldery sections, requiring appropriate footwear. A longer moderate option is the Tottiford Reservoir – Kennick Reservoir loop from Ashton, covering over 10 km with significant elevation changes.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 1500 reviews. Hikers often praise the peaceful reservoir paths, the beauty of the ancient woodlands, and the varied terrain that caters to different abilities. The scenic views and the opportunity to connect with nature are frequently highlighted.

While Christow is a rural village, some local bus services connect it to larger towns. It's advisable to check current bus timetables for routes that serve Christow or nearby villages, which may offer access points to the trail network. Planning your route in advance with public transport stops in mind is recommended.

Yes, some hiking routes in and around Christow can be planned to include a stop at a local pub. The Artichoke Inn in Christow village is a well-known local establishment that can serve as a convenient starting or finishing point for a hike, allowing you to enjoy refreshments before or after your walk. Another option is the Kennick Reservoir – Tottiford Reservoir loop from Christow, which starts and ends near the village amenities.