The best walks and hikes around Instow

Instow offers a diverse selection of over 18 hiking trails. These routes cater to various fitness levels, with 10 easy trails perfect for a relaxed stroll, 7 moderate paths for a more engaging walk, and 1 difficult route for experienced hikers seeking a challenge.

Yes, Instow is an excellent destination for family-friendly hikes. Many of the easy routes, particularly sections of the Tarka Trail, are flat and traffic-free, making them suitable for all ages. The Instow Beach – Instow Signal Box loop from Instow is a popular easy option, offering estuary views and a chance to see the historic signal box.

Many trails around Instow are dog-friendly, especially the Tarka Trail which runs directly through the village. It's always best to keep dogs on a lead, particularly around livestock, nature reserves like Isley Marsh, and during bird nesting seasons. Please remember to clean up after your pet to help keep the trails enjoyable for everyone.

Hiking in Instow offers a rich variety of landscapes. You'll experience stunning estuary views where the Rivers Taw and Torridge meet the sea, golden sand beaches, and coastal paths. Trails often follow the Tarka Trail along riverbanks, providing opportunities to observe wildlife. Across the estuary, you can see the unique dune system of Braunton Burrows, part of a UNESCO Biosphere.

Yes, Instow features several enjoyable circular hiking routes. For example, the Instow Beach – Bideford Long Bridge loop from Instow offers a moderate 6-mile path along the Tarka Trail, providing scenic river views. Another option is the Fremington Quay Café – Isley Marsh Nature Reserve loop from Instow, which takes you through coastal marshland.

While hiking near Instow, you can explore several notable landmarks and natural features. The Tarka Trail itself is a major attraction, offering a traffic-free path. You might also encounter the historic Instow signal box. Natural highlights include the River Torridge and the Coddon Hill Climb viewpoint, offering expansive views of the surrounding area.

The komoot community highly rates hiking in Instow, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 240 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the diverse terrain, from coastal paths to estuary views, and the accessibility of routes like the Tarka Trail. The opportunities for wildlife observation and the charming village atmosphere are also often highlighted.

Instow is accessible by public transport, with bus services connecting it to nearby towns like Bideford and Barnstaple. The Tarka Trail also provides a direct, traffic-free link for walkers and cyclists from these towns, allowing you to start your hike directly from a public transport hub.

Instow offers several parking options for hikers. There are public car parks within the village, often near the beach or main amenities. Specific trailheads, especially along the Tarka Trail, may also have designated parking areas. It's advisable to check local signage for parking restrictions and fees.

Yes, for those seeking a longer and more challenging experience, the Bideford Bridge – Appledore Village loop from Instow is a difficult 13.2-mile (21.2 km) route. This trail offers a substantial hike, exploring more of the estuary and connecting to the charming village of Appledore.

Instow is a great hiking destination year-round. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for coastal walks and enjoying the beach. Autumn brings beautiful colours to the landscape, while winter can provide crisp, clear days for invigorating estuary walks. Birdwatching is particularly rewarding during migration seasons in spring and autumn at places like Isley Marsh Nature Reserve.

Absolutely! You can easily combine a hike with a visit to the charming fishing village of Appledore. The Instow Beach – Appledore Village loop from Instow is a moderate 7.2-mile (11.6 km) route that takes you there. During warmer months, a short ferry ride across the estuary from Instow also provides access to Appledore's quaint streets and maritime history.