The best walks and hikes around Kentisbury

Kentisbury offers a wide variety of hiking experiences, with over 150 routes available. These range from easy strolls to more challenging treks, catering to all fitness levels.

The terrain around Kentisbury is incredibly diverse. You'll find dramatic coastlines along the South West Coast Path, expansive heather-covered moorlands within Exmoor National Park, ancient oak woodlands, and picturesque river gorges like those at Watersmeet. There are also more accessible, flatter paths around places such as Wistlandpound Reservoir.

Yes, Kentisbury has plenty of easy hiking options, with over 70 routes classified as easy. A great choice for beginners or families is the Wistlandpound Reservoir loop, which is a gentle 1.6-mile (2.5 km) trail offering opportunities to spot wildlife in a tranquil setting.

For more challenging hikes, consider routes that explore the dramatic coastal cliffs or the higher points of Exmoor National Park. The area around Combe Martin, for instance, offers climbs for superb views along the coast and Bristol Channel, including the vicinity of the Great Hangman, England's tallest sea cliff. The Combe Martin Beach – Great Hangman loop from Holdstone Hill is a moderate route with significant elevation gain.

Absolutely. Kentisbury is rich in natural landmarks and stunning viewpoints. You can visit the spectacular Valley of Rocks near Lynton, known for its impressive geology and feral goats. Other highlights include Holdstone Hill Summit View, offering panoramic vistas, and the beautiful river gorge at Watersmeet Valley where the Hoar Oak Water meets the East Lyn River.

Yes, many of the trails around Kentisbury are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Churches of Parracombe and Barton Town loop offers a moderate circular route through Exmoor National Park, while the Arlington Court loop from Arlington is an easy circular option through parkland.

The hiking routes in Kentisbury are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 1,500 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse scenery, from dramatic coastlines to tranquil woodlands, and the variety of trails that cater to different abilities. The accessibility to Exmoor National Park and the stunning viewpoints are frequently highlighted.

Yes, the area around Watersmeet is particularly known for its beautiful river gorge where the Hoar Oak Water meets the East Lyn River. Walks in this area often feature steep ascents and descents, revealing lovely waterfalls and scenic viewpoints over the valley.

Absolutely. The Wistlandpound Reservoir loop is an excellent spot for wildlife observation, offering opportunities to see various bird species and other local fauna. Within Exmoor National Park, you might also spot iconic Exmoor ponies and diverse woodland creatures.

Kentisbury offers great hiking opportunities year-round, but spring and autumn are particularly pleasant. In spring, the woodlands burst with new growth and wildflowers, while autumn brings vibrant colours to the moorlands and forests. Summer is ideal for coastal walks, though trails can be busier. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out, especially for moorland and coastal routes.

Yes, the region has a rich history. Within Exmoor National Park, the Doone Valley offers walks through fields and moorland leading to the deserted medieval village of Badgeworthy, famously associated with the 'Lorna Doone' novels. Additionally, the iconic Tarr Steps, an ancient clapper bridge across the River Barle, is a well-known beauty spot within Exmoor, offering walks through rich oak woodlands.