The best walks and hikes around Challacombe
4.7
(1676)
10,654
hikers
217
hikes
Hiking around Challacombe, situated on the edge of Exmoor National Park, offers diverse terrain ranging from sheltered valleys to expansive open moorland. The region is characterized by an open plateau dissected by streams, featuring unimproved grassland and wetlands. Hikers can explore ancient woodlands, rolling hills, and the dramatic scenery of The Chains, the highest point in North Devon. This varied landscape provides a wide array of hiking experiences for different abilities.
Best hiking trails around Challacombe
- The most popular hiking route is Wistlandpound Reservoir loop, an easy 1.6 mile (2.5 km) trail that takes 40 minutes to complete, offering a gentle stroll around the reservoir.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is The Chains loop — Exmoor National Park, a moderate 5.9 mile (9.5 km) path. This route explores the high moorland and watershed area, providing expansive views.
- Local hikers also love the Barton Town loop from Challacombe — Exmoor National Park, a 2.4 mile (3.9 km) trail leading through varied local landscapes, often completed in about 1 hour 3 minutes.
- Hiking around Challacombe is defined by open moorland, serene river valleys, and ancient woodlands. The extensive network of trails offers options for different ability levels, from easy walks to more challenging routes across varied terrain.
- The routes in Challacombe are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 1,600 reviews. More than 10,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Challacombe's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 17, 2026
4.1
(7)
62
hikers
2.54km
00:40
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(11)
40
hikers
9.51km
02:39
180m
180m
The Chains loop in Exmoor National Park offers a moderate hiking experience, taking you through wild upland moorland. This 5.9-mile (9.5 km) route, with an elevation gain of 586 feet (178 metres), typically takes around 2 hours and 38 minutes to complete. You will traverse tussock-ridden plateaux, often wet underfoot, and enjoy ever-changing views across the remote landscape. From the Chains Barrow Trig Point, you can see distant views of Hartland Point and Lundy, and you might even spot semi-wild Exmoor ponies.
This trail is considered moderate, requiring good fitness and sure-footedness. The terrain includes footpaths, mountain hiking paths, grass tracks, and some shorter road sections, with potentially boggy areas. Route finding can be challenging, especially if visibility is limited or there is snow, so make sure you have good navigational skills before you set out. Prepare for a true sense of wilderness and seclusion on this route.
Explore the historical and natural features that make this loop unique. You will pass Pinkery Pond, a mysterious freshwater pond created in the 1830s, and the ancient tumulus mound of Chains Barrow Trig Point, standing at 487 meters high. The route also takes you by Wood Barrow, a Bronze Age barrow marking the boundary between Devon and Somerset, and the site of the 19th-century Acland Arms inn at Moles Chamber, once used for distributing smuggled goods. This area is known as one of Exmoor's loneliest and wildest parts.
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5.0
(1)
17
hikers
12.6km
03:41
360m
360m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1.0
(1)
3
hikers
3.88km
01:03
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.9
(7)
29
hikers
17.2km
04:48
340m
340m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Other adventures around Challacombe
Tips from the Community
A mysterious standing stone just off to the side of the bridleway.
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Lovely little hike. Several benches inviting for a little rest and snack - just make sure to not leave your waste around. There is also small bird watch stand available.
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A beautiful and tranquil lake, high on Exmoor. It's around a mile's walk from the YHA layby on the B3358, but well worth it. The pond is a great spot for wild swimming, amongst the lillies in the beautiful deep red peat-infused water.
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This is a Bronze Age bowl barrow in private ownership that used to serve as a boundary marker for Exmoor Forest.
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Right between Chains Barrow and Wood Barrow, you'll find this artificial lake from 1830, formed by the headwaters of the River Barle. An ideal spot to stop for lunch or even dip your feet in to cool off.
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Chains Barrow is only 32 meters lower in elevation than Dunkery Beacon, the highest point on Exmoor. The trig point is surrounded by a fence and is located just above a Bronze Age bowl barrow.
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This is one of the two churches in the village of Parracombe. Of the two, this one is the more modern, being a Neo-Gothic construction from 1878, designed by the architect William Oliver. The beauty of its tower is noteworthy.
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This medieval church has a nave, a south aisle, a south porch, a three-story west tower, and a chancel. The latter two were built in the 12th century. Although it was on the brink of being pulled down in the 19th century due to its stability issues, it was ultimately repaired and preserved.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available 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.
Are there easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or families in Challacombe?
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.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see while hiking in Challacombe?
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.
Are there any circular walks in Challacombe?
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.
What historical sites or landmarks can I discover on hikes around Challacombe?
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.
Are there any trails that offer great views or lead to scenic viewpoints?
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.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Challacombe?
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.
Are there any natural monuments or unique geological features to see?
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.
Can I find trails that pass through ancient woodlands?
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.
Are there any longer, more challenging hikes for experienced trekkers?
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.
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