21st Jan 2020

Walking in Mid Devon

The rolling landscapes and diverse countryside of Mid Devon lends itself perfectly to walking and exploring. You can follow a structured trail around one of the towns, aim for a place of historic interest or head to the nearby Exmoor and just wander, either way, we can assure you you’ll be greeted with incredible views and spectacular scenery. Have a look below at a few of our favourite spots to enjoy walking in Mid Devon.

Tiverton Merchants’ Trail

From 1500 to 1750, Tiverton was renowned for its production of woollen cloth providing many with work and merchants thrived. The Tiverton Merchants’ Trail is a selection of five panes which describe this story along with pavement medallions which mark the route around the town. You can pick up a free leaflet from the Tiverton Tourist Information Centre. Find out more about the Tiverton Merchants’ Trail here.

Culm Valley Cloth Trail

The Culm Valley Cloth Trail is a great way to explore Cullompton and the surrounding area. One part of the trail is discovering the different towns and villages within the Culm Valley and the other is focused around Cullompton town centre which makes it perfect for walking. During the 18^th century, Cullompton was among the top four cloth towns in Devon and this trail points out landmarks around the town that are related to the industry. Further information about the Culm Valley Cloth Trail is available here.

West Exe Trail

Another route within Mid Devon that celebrates its diverse product history is the West Exe Trail. Walkers can look forward to discovering Tiverton’s lace making history and architecture as they venture around the town. The trail, put together by the Tiverton Civic Society, also links to an early trail they conceived which covers the town centre and the eastern side of the River Exe. Please click here if you wish to learn more about the West Exe Trail.

Exe Valley Way

The Exe Valley Way is almost 50 miles in length and stretches from the village of Exford in Exmoor National Park, all the way down to the South West Coast Path on the Exe Estuary. Much of the route follows the River Exe and the Mid Devon section of the way marked trail offers superb vistas and plenty to see. Additional details about the Exe Valley Way can be found by clicking here.

Grand Western Canal

The Grand Western Canal is a recreational waterway which traverses around 11 miles through gorgeous Devon countryside from Tiverton to Lowdswells. The area is also a country park and local nature reserve which makes it the perfect destination if you’re looking for somewhere to enjoy some wildlife watching. The serene setting means it’s popular too with walkers and cyclists. Be sure to keep an eye out for a horse drawn barge on your visit as well! Find out more about the Grand Western Canal here.

Shobrooke Park

Shobrooke Park is located just on the outskirts of Crediton and is a stunning setting to enjoy a peaceful walk. Permissive access is available to visitors at the south of the park so walkers can meander through the gorgeous surroundings and appreciate the magical lake where you may even spot some local wildlife. It’s an ideal location to relax and there’s plenty of space to roam and explore the grounds.

Blackdown Hills AONB

Mid Devon is lucky enough to boast part of the Blackdown Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty within its boundaries and this AONB has plenty of magnificent walks for visitors to enjoy. Sprinkled throughout the landscape of the Blackdown Hills AONB are various points of interest which can be included on a refreshing walk, such as Culmstock Beacon and Hemyock Castle. Explore more about the Blackdown Hills AONB here.

Exmoor

The region of Mid Devon is perfectly base for exploring the wider county. You’re never too far from either of the coasts and just a car ride away from Exmoor National Park. Exmoor is spread across North Devon and the north west of Somerset and provides ample stunning walking routes for ramblers to try. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a thrilling hike, or fancy a more relaxed wander through this magical place, there’ll be a walk that will suit your wants and needs.

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