The best walks and hikes around Ugborough

Yes, many trails in the area are great for walking with dogs. The open moorland offers plenty of space, but be aware that livestock graze freely, so dogs should be kept under close control or on a lead. For a sheltered, dog-friendly walk, consider a trail through Longtimber Woods, where they can often enjoy a paddle in the river.

Certainly. The area offers several gentler options suitable for families. For an easy walk with varied scenery, consider the Western Beacon Summit – Butterdon Hill Summit loop from Ivybridge. It's a relatively short circular route that still provides a taste of the moorland and great views without being too strenuous.

The trails around Ugborough offer a good mix for all abilities. You'll find everything from easy riverside strolls to challenging moorland treks. Out of more than 30 routes, most are rated as easy or moderate, with only a few classified as difficult. This balance makes it a great destination for both casual walkers and experienced hikers.

Yes, circular routes are very common here. They allow you to explore the landscape without retracing your steps. A popular moderate option is the Ugborough Beacon – Western Beacon Summit loop from Moorhaven Village, which takes you across the open moorland to two of the area's prominent peaks.

Ugborough village itself is an excellent base for a walk followed by refreshments. The village square, home to The Ship Inn and The Anchor Inn, is a perfect starting or finishing point. You can plan a route that loops back into the village to enjoy a well-earned meal at one of these traditional pubs.

Parking availability depends on your chosen trailhead. For walks starting from Ivybridge, the Station Park & Ride is a convenient option. For routes ascending to Ugborough Beacon, there is a car park near the old golf course. Always check for local parking restrictions, especially when leaving your car in smaller villages.

Public transport directly to Ugborough village is limited, so arriving by car is generally easier. However, the nearby town of Ivybridge has a train station and better bus connections, making it a practical starting point for many trails in the southern part of the area, such as those heading towards Western Beacon.

The trails along the River Erme offer a gentler, more sheltered experience compared to the open moors. The The River Erme in Longtimber Woods – Pithill Wood loop from Ivybridge is a popular choice, following the river through beautiful ancient woodland. It's a peaceful walk, ideal for hotter days or when you prefer to avoid the exposed hills.

Yes, the region is rich in history. The moors around Ugborough are dotted with prehistoric remains like stone rows, burial cairns, and the foundations of ancient settlements. The challenging Long Stone, Piles Hill – View of Redlake Hill loop from Ivybridge takes you deep into an area known for its significant Bronze Age sites, including some of the longest stone rows on Dartmoor.

The historic Two Moors Way, which connects Dartmoor and Exmoor, passes through this area. You can walk sections of it as part of a day hike, particularly on the trails between Western Beacon and Butterdon Hill. This allows you to experience a part of a classic long-distance path while enjoying the local scenery.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning panoramic views from the beacons, the mix of wild moorland and sheltered woodland, and the fascinating prehistoric sites scattered across the landscape. The accessibility of rewarding hikes is a frequent highlight.

There are over 30 curated hiking routes to explore around Ugborough on komoot. These range from short, easy loops to long, challenging moorland treks, ensuring there's a suitable trail for every fitness level and interest.