The best walks and hikes around Spreyton
4.7
(938)
5,956
hikers
219
hikes
Hikes around Spreyton explore the northern edge of Dartmoor National Park. The area is characterized by rolling moorland, granite hills known as tors, and open, expansive landscapes. Routes often involve ascents to viewpoints like Cosdon Beacon, providing wide views across the Devon countryside.
Best hiking trails around Spreyton
- The most popular hiking route is Cosdon Beacon loop from South Zeal, a 4.2 mile (6.8 km) trail that takes about 2 hours 18 minutes to complete. This route features a steady climb to the summit of Cosdon Beacon.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Cosdon Beacon loop from Throwleigh, a moderate 5.5 mile (8.8 km) path. The trail circles the base of the large hill before the ascent.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Cosdon Beacon – View of Sticklepath loop from Throwleigh, a 8.2 mile (13.1 km) trail leading through the open moorland, often completed in about 3 hours 50 minutes.
- Hiking around Spreyton is defined by moorland tracks, ascents to granite tors, and paths through pastoral landscapes. The network of trails provides options for both moderate hill walks and longer, more challenging day hikes from Spreyton.
- The routes in Spreyton are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from more than 990 reviews. More than 7,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Spreyton's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 29, 2026
5.0
(4)
27
hikers
6.83km
02:18
350m
350m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
19
hikers
6.94km
02:06
230m
230m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
7
hikers
8.81km
02:40
280m
270m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(2)
10
hikers
8.74km
02:50
380m
380m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
8
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Sometimes called Cawsand Beacon or Cosdon Hill, Cosdon Beacon was once thought to be the highest peak on Dartmoor. Willhayes has since taken the crown but that doesn't take away the immenseness of this spot. Bronze Age settlements have been found on the west of the hill and evidence of neolithic tools. It is peppered with cairns and kistvaens which shine a light on the historic importance of the site. On a clear day both the English and Bristol Channels can be see from high up here.
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no bridge over the river- be cautious when crossing as rocks are very slippery. I'd recommend crossing on the narrower spot to the east
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Whilst Ashridge Court itself is private and difficult to catch a glimpse of (unless you're attending a wedding at its wonderful restored Great Barn), it's the gate posts which most charm hikers as they pass by. Looking like giant chess rooks, the castellated posts are simply stunning. On several of the estate's gates, hiking along the adjacent footpath and discovering these is like finding a secret garden.
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North Tawton is a lovely village with a particularly pretty square. The town hall is a Grade II-listed building dating to the 19th century whilst a mullion windowed house with a gorgeous door dates back to the 16th. A clock tower sits in the middle and was built in 1887. The poet Ted Hughes once called this village his home after buying a house here in 1961 with Sylvia Plath. Hughes continued to live in the village until his death in 1998.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there many hiking trails to choose from around Spreyton?
Yes, there are over 230 hiking routes to explore in the area. The trails range from easy strolls to more challenging day hikes, primarily exploring the rolling moorland and granite tors on the northern edge of Dartmoor National Park.
What do other hikers think of the trails near Spreyton?
The area is highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars. Hikers often praise the expansive, open landscapes and the rewarding panoramic views from the top of the tors, like Cosdon Beacon.
Are there any easy, family-friendly walks in the area?
Absolutely. While many routes involve ascents, there are plenty of gentler options suitable for families. The area around the base of the hills offers less strenuous paths through pastoral landscapes, perfect for a shorter day out with children.
Can I bring my dog on the hikes around Spreyton?
Yes, the open moorland of Dartmoor National Park is a great place for hiking with dogs. However, you should be prepared to keep your dog on a lead, especially during lambing and bird-nesting seasons (typically March to July) and whenever livestock are present.
What is a good option for a longer day hike?
For a more substantial walk, consider the Cosdon Beacon – View of Sticklepath loop from Throwleigh. At over 13 km, it provides a fantastic tour of the open moorland and takes around four hours to complete.
What kind of scenery should I expect on these hikes?
The landscape is classic Dartmoor. Expect wide-open, rolling moorland, paths that wind between granite outcrops known as tors, and expansive views across the Devon countryside. The routes are largely exposed, offering a real sense of wildness.
Are the trails well-marked?
The main paths are generally clear, but the open moorland can be challenging to navigate, especially in poor weather or fog. It's always recommended to carry a map and compass or use a reliable GPS device, like the komoot app, for navigation.
How do I get to the trailheads and is there parking?
Most hikes in this area start from small villages like South Zeal or Throwleigh. These villages typically have limited on-street parking or small car parks near the start of the trails. It's best to arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a spot.
What should I pack for a day hike in this part of Dartmoor?
The weather on Dartmoor can change very quickly. Essential items include waterproof clothing (jacket and trousers), sturdy hiking boots, extra layers of warm clothing, a map, and a compass or GPS. Also, be sure to bring enough water and food, as there are no facilities on the open moor.
Are there any circular walks available?
Yes, most of the popular routes in this guide are circular, or 'loop' hikes. This allows you to start and finish in the same place without retracing your steps, such as the Hiking loop from South Zeal, which offers a moderate circuit of about 7 km.
Are there any particularly challenging hikes?
The main challenge comes from the ascents and the potentially difficult navigation in poor weather. A route like the View of Sticklepath – Cosdon Beacon loop from South Zeal involves a significant climb of nearly 400 meters, which requires a good level of fitness.
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