The best walks and hikes around Knowstone
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2,322
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Hikes around Knowstone explore the agricultural landscape of Mid Devon, characterized by rolling hills and quiet country lanes. The area provides access to the open moorland of the Knowstone & Rackenford Moors nature reserve, a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest. The region also sits on the edge of Exmoor National Park, offering routes that pass through river valleys and ancient woodlands.
Best hiking trails around Knowstone
- The most popular hiking route is View of Brimblecombe Valley – London Inn loop from Hawkridge, a 5.6 mile (9.0 km) trail that takes about 2 hours 38 minutes to complete. This moderate hike features views across the Brimblecombe Valley.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is London Inn loop from Molland, a moderate 4.9 mile (7.8 km) path. The route involves an elevation gain of around 243 meters.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Hawkridge Ridge loop from Hawkridge, a 3.6 mile (5.8 km) trail leading through the local landscape, often completed in about 1 hour 44 minutes.
- Hiking around Knowstone is defined by rolling hills, open moorland, and paths along river valleys. The network of trails offers a range of options suitable for different fitness levels.
- The routes in Knowstone are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 300 reviews. More than 2,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Knowstone's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 26, 2026
5.0
(1)
11
hikers
8.99km
02:38
240m
240m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
11
hikers
7.85km
02:20
240m
240m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
11
hikers
9.71km
02:46
220m
220m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
hikers
5.81km
01:44
180m
180m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
hikers
12.0km
03:22
250m
250m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Other adventures around Knowstone
Tips from the Community
After the track along Hawkridge Ridge, the route starts to descent over the bedrock through a broadleaf woodland. This turns into a dirt single track, and ends up on the valley floor, following the stream to Castle Bridge, and the climb up out of the valley. I was riding my rigid steel 29er, so picking my way, but it would be a flyer with suspension.
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Hard work on a rigid 29er, muddy in parts, with a deceptively deep and rocky ford. Note to self:The footbridge is there for a reason, you last did this sort of thing 35 years ago 🤔. It's a steep and twisty climb out after the bridge, up to the road.
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This beautiful landscape is shared with cattle and calves, sheep, and lambs every summer, whilst the year-round inhabitants include the unique Exmoor pony, the large red deer, the brown hare, buzzards and kestrels This country is for those who love walking, riding, cycling amongst hills and visiting tiny villages, churches, and the breath-taking cliffs along one of the most striking coasts in the U.K
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The Anglican Church of St Giles in Hawkridge, Somerset, England, was built in the 14th century. It is a Grade II* listed building
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This Norman-origin church is situated amidst beautiful moorlands. While it features elements from the 14th century, such as the base of the tower and the chancel, there are even older parts, like the Norman-origin north door. The church underwent a Victorian restoration in the 19th century, much like many others in the area.
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This stone is dedicated to the English rugby player and Exmoor huntsman Philip Froude Hancock, who passed away in 1933.
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The construction of this church dates back to the 14th century, as does the chancel and the base of the tower. Like many other churches in the area, it underwent a Victorian restoration in the 19th century. Following this restoration, they added Queen Victoria's coat of arms to the chancel wall.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there many circular walks starting near Knowstone?
Yes, the area around Knowstone is excellent for circular hikes. Many trails are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same place without retracing your steps. A great example is the London Inn loop from Molland, which offers a satisfying circuit through the rolling Devon countryside.
What is the terrain like on the Knowstone and Rackenford Moors?
The Knowstone and Rackenford Moors offer a wild, backcountry hiking experience. This nature reserve is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and features a rare Culm grassland habitat. Expect the terrain to be wet, rough, and uneven underfoot, with a mix of wet grassland, heath, and bog. It's a fantastic area for spotting wildlife like red deer.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes in the area?
Absolutely. While the moors can be challenging, there are plenty of gentler options suitable for families. You can find over 30 easy-rated walks around Knowstone. For a shorter, manageable outing, consider the Hawkridge Ridge loop from Hawkridge, which is under 4 miles (6 km) and provides a lovely introduction to the local landscape.
Can I hike a section of the Two Moors Way near Knowstone?
Yes, Knowstone is located directly on the Two Moors Way, a famous coast-to-coast route connecting Dartmoor and Exmoor. You can easily join the trail for a day hike, experiencing the section that runs through Mid Devon's rolling hills and quiet lanes before heading towards the dramatic scenery of Exmoor National Park.
Are dogs allowed on the hiking trails around Knowstone?
Most trails in the countryside around Knowstone are suitable for hiking with dogs. However, when crossing farmland, always keep your dog on a lead, especially near livestock. On the Knowstone & Rackenford Moors, it's crucial to keep dogs under close control to protect ground-nesting birds and other wildlife.
What are some longer, more challenging hikes I can do?
For those seeking a challenge, the proximity to Exmoor National Park provides ample opportunity for strenuous hikes. You can tackle a significant portion of the Two Moors Way or explore demanding routes within the park itself. A good local option is the Froude Hancock Memorial Stone – Hawkridge Ridge loop from Hawkridge, a moderate trail of about 7.5 miles (12 km).
Where can I find hikes with good views or river scenery?
For expansive views, the View of Brimblecombe Valley – London Inn loop from Hawkridge is a popular choice. If you prefer river scenery, head into nearby Exmoor National Park to explore the paths along the River Barle, which winds through beautiful ancient woodlands. The area around the historic Tarr Steps is particularly scenic.
How many hiking trails are available around Knowstone?
There are over 75 hiking routes to explore in the immediate vicinity of Knowstone. The trails range from easy strolls of just a few miles to more demanding sections of long-distance paths, offering something for every fitness level.
What do other hikers think of the trails near Knowstone?
The trails are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.5 stars from over 300 reviews. Hikers often praise the peacefulness of the quiet country lanes and the beautiful, unspoiled scenery of the rolling hills and open moorland.
Is it possible to get to the trailheads using public transport?
Public transport options in this rural part of Devon are very limited. To make the most of the hiking opportunities around Knowstone and to reach the various trailheads, travelling by car is strongly recommended.
What are some popular places for hiking in the wider region?
While Knowstone offers fantastic local trails, the broader area is rich with well-loved hiking spots. A short drive can take you to
National Trust - Watersmeet: A highly-rated spot where you can walk through a river gorge with waterfalls and ancient woodland.
National Trust - Heddon Valley: Offers a beautiful and scenic walk down a valley to the dramatic pebble beach at Heddon's Mouth.
Valley of Rocks: Famous for its prehistoric rock formations and herds of wild goats, providing stunning coastal views.
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