The best walks and hikes around Barnstaple

There are over 50 hiking trails around Barnstaple, offering a wide variety of experiences. These include easy riverside strolls, moderate estuarine paths, and more challenging routes with significant elevation.

Barnstaple's hiking terrain is very diverse. You'll find largely flat, multi-use paths like sections of the Tarka Trail along the River Taw estuary, offering scenic views of saltmarsh and waterbirds. Other areas, such as Codden Hill, provide moderately challenging sections with steep inclines and panoramic views. Coastal paths offer dramatic cliff-top walks, while routes venturing towards Exmoor National Park feature open moorland and wooded gorges.

Yes, for those seeking a challenge, routes like the Velator Quay – Crow Point loop from Barnstaple offer a longer, more demanding experience. The coastal paths, particularly sections of the South West Coast Path, can also be strenuous with significant elevation changes and rugged terrain. Codden Hill also presents some challenging ascents.

Absolutely. Many sections of the Tarka Trail are ideal for families due to their largely flat and well-maintained surfaces. An easy option within the town is the Queen Anne's Walk – Barnstaple Castle loop from Barnstaple, which explores historical areas and the riverside. The tranquil riverside paths along the River Taw and River Yeo also provide gentle settings suitable for all ages.

Many trails around Barnstaple are dog-friendly, especially the Tarka Trail and riverside walks. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, particularly in nature reserves, near livestock, or in areas with ground-nesting birds. Always check local signage for specific restrictions, especially within Exmoor National Park or Braunton Burrows.

Hikers can enjoy a wealth of natural features and landmarks. The Tarka Trail offers views of the River Taw estuary and its wildlife. Codden Hill provides sweeping panoramic views towards Dartmoor, Exmoor, and Lundy Island. You can also explore the unique sand-dune system of Braunton Burrows, or visit the Isley Marsh Nature Reserve for birdwatching.

Yes, Barnstaple has a rich history that can be explored on foot. The Queen Anne's Walk – Barnstaple Castle loop from Barnstaple takes you through the town's historic areas. You can also visit the Velator Quay, a historic port, or see the Barnstaple Clock Tower.

For stunning panoramic views, the trails around Codden Hill are highly recommended. From its summit, you can see across to Dartmoor, Exmoor, Barnstaple Bay, and even Lundy Island on a clear day. Coastal paths, such as those near Baggy Point, also offer spectacular sea and farmland vistas.

Spring and autumn are often considered the best times for hiking in Barnstaple, with milder temperatures and beautiful seasonal colours. Summer offers longer daylight hours, but trails can be busier. Winter walks can be rewarding, especially along the Tarka Trail or coastal paths, but be prepared for potentially wet and windy conditions.

Yes, many of the popular routes around Barnstaple are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Fremington Quay Café loop from Barnstaple and the Bird Watchers' Logbook – Taw Estuary loop from Barnstaple, both offering diverse scenery.

Parking is generally available at various points along the Tarka Trail and near popular trailheads. In Barnstaple town centre, there are several car parks. For specific routes, it's advisable to check the starting point of your chosen trail for nearby parking facilities. Some rural trailheads may have smaller, informal parking areas.

Yes, Barnstaple itself offers numerous cafes, pubs, and restaurants. Along the Tarka Trail, you'll find options like the Fremington Quay Café, which is a popular stop for hikers and cyclists. Many villages and towns accessible from the trails also have local pubs and eateries where you can refuel.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, from the tranquil river estuaries to the panoramic views from hills like Codden Hill. The well-maintained Tarka Trail is frequently highlighted for its accessibility and scenic beauty, making it popular for both leisurely strolls and longer excursions.