The best walks and hikes around Challacombe

There are over 200 hiking routes around Challacombe, offering a wide range of experiences from easy strolls to more challenging treks across Exmoor National Park. The komoot community has explored more than 10,000 of these routes.

Yes, Challacombe offers nearly 100 easy hiking routes. A great option for a gentle walk is the Wistlandpound Reservoir loop, which is an easy 1.6-mile (2.5 km) trail perfect for a relaxed outing. Another accessible choice is the Barton Town loop from Challacombe, an easy 2.4-mile (3.9 km) path through varied local landscapes.

Challacombe's landscape is incredibly diverse, ranging from lush, sheltered valleys and ancient woodlands to expansive open moorland. You'll encounter unimproved grasslands, wetlands, and rolling hills, often dissected by streams. The area also features dramatic scenery around 'The Chains,' which is the highest point in North Devon.

Many of the trails in Challacombe are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For a moderate circular route exploring high moorland, consider The Chains loop — Exmoor National Park, which covers 5.9 miles (9.5 km) and offers expansive views.

The region is rich in history. You can find evidence of ancient human activity, including old tin mines, medieval strip fields, and a rare triple stone row on Challacombe Down. Nearby, you might explore the ruins of the Challacombe Medieval Hamlet or the significant Bronze Age settlement of Grimspound. The Pinkery Pond – Hoar Oak Cottage Ruins loop from Goat Hill Bridge is a moderate 10.7-mile (17.2 km) hike that takes you past the ruins of Hoar Oak Cottage, a notable point of interest.

Absolutely. The open moorland and higher elevations in Challacombe provide spectacular views. For panoramic vistas, consider routes that ascend to points like Butter Hill Summit, Holdstone Hill Summit View, or the Chains Barrow Trig Point. The region's varied topography ensures many opportunities for scenic overlooks.

The hiking routes around Challacombe are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.7 stars from over 1,600 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse terrain, from serene river valleys to dramatic moorland, and the extensive network of trails suitable for various abilities.

Yes, Challacombe is close to several impressive natural features. You can explore the dramatic rock formations of the Valley of Rocks, the lush Glen Lyn Gorge, or the scenic Watersmeet Valley. The coastline also features highlights like Heddon's Mouth Cove and the imposing Little Hangman.

Yes, Challacombe's landscape includes ancient woodlands and areas with veteran trees, particularly in the sheltered valleys and combe areas. These offer a different hiking experience, providing shade and a rich biodiversity, including beech forests and ancient meadows.

For those seeking a more strenuous challenge, Challacombe offers 16 difficult routes. Additionally, there are over 100 moderate trails, such as The Churches of Parracombe and Barton Town loop, a 7.8-mile (12.6 km) route with significant elevation changes, providing a good workout and extensive exploration of the Exmoor National Park landscape.