4.5
(210)
1,565
hikers
149
hikes
Hiking around Swimbridge, Devon, offers a variety of trails through rolling hills and river valleys. The region is characterized by a mix of open countryside, woodlands, and paths along the Tarka Trail, providing diverse landscapes for outdoor activities. Elevations are generally moderate, with several viewpoints offering expansive vistas of the surrounding area.
Last updated: May 4, 2026
4.5
(15)
51
hikers
8.77km
02:29
200m
200m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(14)
50
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.7
(6)
43
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
10
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
hikers
7.57km
02:06
140m
140m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Codden Beacon is well-placed to provide amazing views south towards Dartmoor, northeast towards Exmoor and northwest across Barnstable Bay towards Lundy Island. The hill itself is one of a series of rounded hills caused by tectonic movement. There is a Bronze Age bowl barrow to the east.
2
0
What3words - bicker.pollution.hubcaps Direction - South to North. Surface - Hard packed mud and rock. Notes - Downhill from Codden Hill to Bableigh. Also suitable for a gravel bike.
1
0
Best place in North Devon for bike selection and bike service . Helped me set up my new Wahoo Bike computer - nothing too much for these people. Taw Velo Cycle groups organised from here and an annual charity ride called the 'Smugglers ' which is a grand day with BBQ on finish line.
0
1
An excellent path. Rocky, steep, uneven. lots of fun. 10/10. would walk again.
2
0
There are over 150 hiking routes around Swimbridge, offering a wide range of options for different abilities. The majority are easy or moderate, with 80 easy trails and 69 moderate trails to explore.
Yes, Swimbridge offers many easy trails suitable for families. An example is the Codden Beacon Viewpoint loop from The Park Community School, which is 5.4 km long and takes about 1 hour 40 minutes to complete, leading through local countryside.
Many of the trails around Swimbridge are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For instance, the Landkey to Venn Tarka Trail – Codden Beacon Viewpoint loop from Landkey is a popular circular option that includes views from Codden Beacon.
Hiking around Swimbridge is characterized by diverse landscapes, including rolling hills, tranquil river valleys, open countryside, and woodlands. Many routes also incorporate sections of the Tarka Trail and offer expansive views from elevated points like Codden Beacon.
Yes, the area features several interesting landmarks. You can explore sites like the Shoulsbury Castle Earthworks or discover the unique The Dripping Well in Anchor Woods. The Barnstaple Clock Tower is also a notable man-made monument in the nearby town.
The routes in Swimbridge are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 180 reviews. Hikers often praise the varied terrain, scenic viewpoints, and well-maintained paths that make for enjoyable outdoor experiences.
Absolutely. Several trails lead to excellent viewpoints. Codden Beacon is a prominent feature, offering expansive vistas. Routes like the Landkey to Venn Tarka Trail – Codden Beacon Viewpoint loop from The Park Community School specifically highlight these scenic spots.
While specific public transport links to trailheads can vary, routes starting from larger nearby towns like Barnstaple, which has bus and train connections, may offer better accessibility. For example, the Barnstaple Clock Tower – Barnstaple Long Bridge loop from Barnstaple is easily reachable within the town.
Parking availability varies by trailhead. Many routes starting from villages or specific attractions will have designated parking areas. It's advisable to check the route details on komoot for specific parking information for your chosen trail.
Yes, the region's character includes river valleys. Many trails incorporate sections along the River Taw or other local waterways, offering pleasant riverside walking. The Tarka Trail, which runs through the area, also follows river courses for parts of its route.
Swimbridge offers enjoyable hiking throughout the year. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, summer provides longer daylight hours for extended walks, and autumn showcases beautiful foliage. Even in winter, the moderate elevations and well-trodden paths can be pleasant, though conditions may vary.
Beginners will find plenty of suitable options, as 80 of the 150+ trails are rated as easy. These routes typically have gentle gradients and shorter distances, making them ideal for those new to hiking or looking for a relaxed stroll. An example is the Codden Beacon Viewpoint loop from The Park Community School, which is an easy 5.4 km walk.


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