The best walks and hikes around Chittlehamholt

Yes, the area around Chittlehamholt is ideal for circular hikes. Many trails are designed to start and end in or near the village, taking you through the surrounding woodlands and along the River Mole before looping back. This makes logistics simple as you can easily return to your starting point.

For a gentle and accessible outing with family, the Riverside Path – Eggesford Castle loop from Wembworthy is an excellent choice. It's an easy 5.7 km walk with minimal elevation gain, following a peaceful riverside path that is suitable for most fitness levels.

Most trails in the Chittlehamholt area are dog-friendly, especially through the woodlands and open countryside. However, you will likely cross fields with livestock, so be prepared to keep your dog on a lead in these areas. Always check for local signage regarding off-lead walking, particularly in nature reserves.

Absolutely. Several footpaths connect Chittlehamholt and nearby villages like Umberleigh, which have traditional pubs perfect for a mid-hike break or a post-walk meal. Planning a route that passes through one of these villages is a great way to combine a countryside walk with some local hospitality.

The diverse habitats, from the ancient woodlands to the banks of the River Taw and River Torridge, support a rich variety of wildlife. Keep an eye out for woodland birds, deer, and river life. Nearby, Halsdon Nature Reserve is a prime spot for wildlife watching, while Meeth Quarry Nature Reserve is a haven for birdwatchers.

Yes, while the area is known for gentle walks, there are more demanding options. For a longer, more strenuous hike requiring good fitness, consider the Eggesford Forest – All Saints Church, Eggesford loop from Eggesford. This 12.9 km trail involves significant ascents and descents through the forest.

Eggesford Forest offers a network of well-maintained paths and tracks through extensive woodland. The trails vary in difficulty, from gentle strolls to more challenging routes with steep sections. It's a popular destination for its serene atmosphere and the beautiful canopy of trees, making it a great choice for a peaceful woodland hike.

Yes, many routes incorporate local history. You can find trails that pass near the site of Eggesford Castle or lead to historic churches like All Saints Church in Eggesford. The landscape itself is historic, with ancient woodlands and Bronze Age barrows, such as the one found on Codden Hill.

The trails are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars. Hikers often praise the tranquility of the woodlands, the scenic riverside paths along the Taw and Mole, and the well-marked network of footpaths through the rolling North Devon countryside.

The region is rich in ancient woodlands. Besides the popular Eggesford Forest, you can explore trails passing through Pitt Wood near Umberleigh or visit Uppacott Wood, a Devon Wildlife Trust reserve known for its old-growth trees and panoramic views. These areas offer classic, peaceful woodland hiking experiences.

Yes, Chittlehamholt is located near sections of both the Tarka Trail and the Two Moors Way. You can easily plan a day hike to join a portion of these famous long-distance routes, such as the Tarka Trail section that runs from Eggesford towards Barnstaple, following the scenic Taw Valley.

For some of the best panoramic views, a hike towards Codden Hill is highly recommended. From its summit, you can see across North Devon, with views stretching towards Dartmoor and Exmoor. Many local circular walks also break out of the woods to offer glorious views across open fields and rolling hills.