The best walks and hikes around Broadhempston

There are over 400 hiking routes to explore around Broadhempston. The area offers a great variety, with more than 230 easy trails perfect for gentle walks and over 150 moderate hikes for those seeking more of a challenge.

Yes, the region is well-suited for families. You'll find many gentle paths, especially around the Dartington Hall Estate which has historic gardens and a deer park. For a specific short and accessible route, consider the The Green Table – The Green Table loop from Littlehempston, which is a pleasant walk of about 2.6 miles (4.1 km).

Most trails in the countryside around Broadhempston are great for dogs, offering plenty of space in woodlands and across open fields. However, be aware that many paths cross farmland with livestock, so you'll need to keep your dog on a lead in these areas. Also, when hiking in Dartmoor National Park, it's important to keep dogs under control to protect ground-nesting birds and ponies.

While some trailheads are accessible via local bus services connecting Broadhempston to nearby towns like Totnes, many of the more rural routes are best reached by car. Totnes has a mainline train station, and from there you can use buses or taxis to get closer to the start of your hike. Planning your journey in advance is recommended.

Parking availability varies by trail. For walks starting in villages like Broadhempston or Ipplepen, on-street parking is often available but can be limited, so please park considerately. Popular attractions like Dartington Hall Estate and Buckfast Abbey have dedicated pay-and-display car parks. For trails in Dartmoor, such as near Haytor Rocks, you will find designated parking areas, though they can get busy.

Yes, the area is fantastic for circular walks, meaning you can start and end in the same place without retracing your steps. A great example is the Orley Common & Broadhempston loop from Ipplepen, a moderate 4.8-mile (7.7 km) route that takes you through a mix of woodland and open common land.

The landscape is incredibly varied. You'll hike through a pastoral tapestry of rolling hills, ancient sunken lanes, and vibrant hedgerows typical of the South Devon AONB. Many trails also follow the serene banks of the River Dart. For a more rugged experience, trails heading towards Dartmoor National Park feature windswept tors and moss-covered granite outcrops.

The area offers several longer day hikes. For a substantial walk that explores the local food culture and countryside, the Riverford & North Wood loop from Dartington is a 9.4-mile (15.1 km) route. It provides a good challenge with beautiful views and varied terrain.

The trails are highly regarded by the komoot community, earning an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars. Hikers often praise the beautiful mix of woodland and riverside paths, the well-maintained trails, and the peacefulness of the countryside away from the main tourist spots.

The diverse habitats support a rich array of wildlife. In the woodlands, look for bluebells in spring and listen for birds. On Dartmoor, you'll almost certainly see the famous wild ponies. Along the River Dart, you might spot dippers and kingfishers. The area is also home to rare species like the greater horseshoe bat and the impressive Ash black slug.

Many routes pass through or near villages with traditional pubs. A great option that combines a scenic hike with a notable destination is the Buckfast Abbey loop from Riverford Field Kitchen. This trail starts near a renowned restaurant and takes you to the historic Buckfast Abbey, which has its own café for a mid-hike break.

Yes, the area has several beautiful woodland trails. The local Broadhempston Community Woodland offers a tranquil environment for a shorter walk. For a more extensive woodland experience, many routes incorporate sections through the ancient woods on the Dartington Hall Estate, which are especially stunning in spring and autumn.