The best walks and hikes around Littleham

Yes, the area is well-suited for circular hikes. Many routes combine sections of the South West Coast Path with inland footpaths through rolling hills and quiet countryside, allowing you to start and end in the same place without retracing your steps. The Mermaid's Pool – Kipling Tors loop from Abbotsham is a great example of a popular circular walk offering fantastic coastal views.

There are over 90 easy-rated hikes in the region. For a gentle and accessible walk, consider exploring the sections of the Tarka Trail that follow old, flat railway lines along the River Torridge. These paths are generally well-surfaced and suitable for all ages and fitness levels.

Most trails around Littleham and along the North Devon coast are dog-friendly. However, you will be walking through areas with livestock and near cliff edges. It's essential to keep your dog on a lead, especially in fields with sheep and on the coastal path for their safety.

For impressive scenery, the Peppercombe Coach House – View of Westward Ho! Coast loop from Abbotsham is an excellent choice. This route takes you through coastal woodland and opens up to sweeping views over Bideford Bay and the rugged North Devon coastline.

The terrain is varied, offering something for everyone. You'll find a mix of easy, relatively flat riverside walks and more strenuous, moderate hikes. The coastal paths often involve steep climbs and descents, while inland routes through the rolling hills provide a gentler challenge. Out of nearly 180 trails, most are rated as easy or moderate.

Parking is typically available in nearby villages like Abbotsham or the larger town of Bideford, which serve as common starting points for many trails. Some routes along the coast may have dedicated pay-and-display car parks near popular spots like Westward Ho! or Appledore. Always check for local parking restrictions before you set off.

Yes, the larger town of Bideford is the main transport hub for the area and is served by regular bus routes. From Bideford, you can access the start of many trails, including those leading to Appledore and along the Tarka Trail. Smaller villages like Abbotsham have less frequent services, so it's best to plan your journey in advance.

Many walks are designed to pass through or finish in villages with traditional pubs. Appledore, for instance, is known for its charming pubs and is a feature on the Appledore Village – Appledore Colorful Streets loop from Bideford. Planning a route that includes a stop in a village is a great way to find refreshments.

The Tarka Trail is easily accessible from Bideford, which is very close to Littleham. A popular route, the Bideford Long Bridge – Rolle Canal Roving Bridge loop from Bideford, follows a section of the trail along the River Torridge. This part of the trail is largely flat and follows the path of a historic railway line.

The hiking routes around Littleham are highly regarded by the komoot community. Reviewers often praise the stunning coastal scenery, the variety of the terrain mixing coast and countryside, and the tranquility of the inland paths through North Devon's rolling hills.

The area is rich in wildlife. Along the coast, you can spot various seabirds, and if you're lucky, seals or dolphins in Bideford Bay. The river valleys and woodlands of the Tarka Trail are home to diverse birdlife, and the trail itself is named for the otters that inhabit the local rivers.