4.6
(32)
228
hikers
24
hikes
Easy hiking trails around Dowland traverse a landscape characterized by gentle hills, river valleys, and cultivated natural beauty. The region, part of the Torridge District, offers opportunities to explore natural scenery and wildlife. While specific geological features within Dowland are limited, the surrounding area provides diverse terrain suitable for outdoor activities. These routes are generally low in elevation gain, making them accessible for various fitness levels.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
4.5
(10)
47
hikers
5.71km
01:33
80m
80m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
8
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.0
(1)
3
hikers
5.41km
01:30
100m
100m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(1)
2
hikers
7.06km
01:55
100m
100m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Free parking. Area good for mountain biking and gravel riding. Café nearby at Eggesford train station
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This tiny North Devon village was listed in the Domesday Book and if you catch it from certainly angles, it doesn't appear to have changed all that much. With delightfully old buildings, a former smithy and a weather-beaten stone cross, it's a classic ancient rural village. The Tarka Trail passes through, so it's a lovely place to stop for a picnic if you're doing the trail.
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Today, all that remains of Petrockstow station is a platform. It was originally built to serve the clay pits and quarries in the area, it then went on to be used as part of the local Light Railway. Its use as a railway station ended with the Beeching Cuts but it lives on as part of the Tarka Trail – a long-distance foot and cycle path.
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There are a few sculptures along the Tarka Trail and this one is of Tarka the Otter himself. It has a stunning mosiac and a concave body. Standing peacefully at the side of the path, it can come as quite a surprise if you're daydreaming.
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There are 14 easy hiking trails around Dowland, offering a variety of options for different preferences and fitness levels. The komoot community has explored over 200 routes in the area.
Easy hikes around Dowland typically feature gentle hills, serene river valleys, and cultivated natural beauty. You'll find paths through open countryside, small woodland sections, and areas with views towards historical sites like Eggesford Castle. The region is known for its natural scenery and wildlife.
Yes, many of the easy trails are suitable for families. For a shorter, accessible walk, consider the Heywood Forest Parking – View of Eggesford House loop from Wembworthy, which is just 2.1 km long and offers pleasant woodland views.
While specific restrictions vary by landowner, many public footpaths and trails in the Dowland area are dog-friendly, especially if dogs are kept on a lead. Always be mindful of livestock and local signage. The general landscape of gentle paths and open countryside is often suitable for walks with canine companions.
Yes, several easy routes are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A popular option is the Riverside Path – Eggesford Castle loop from Wembworthy, a 5.7 km trail that follows a riverside route.
You can discover several points of interest. The Riverside Path – Eggesford Castle loop offers views towards Eggesford Castle. Other nearby attractions include the historic Heywood Castle Motte and Bailey, Eggesford Forest, and the River Torridge Bridges.
Easy hikes in Dowland vary in length, but many are designed for shorter excursions. For example, the Heywood Forest Parking – View of Eggesford House loop is 2.1 km and takes around 35 minutes, while the Mosaic Otter Sculpture – Tarka the Otter Sculpture loop is 6.2 km and typically takes about 1 hour 39 minutes.
Yes, many trailheads for easy hikes in the Dowland area, particularly those starting from villages or specific attractions, offer parking facilities. For instance, the Heywood Forest route specifically mentions 'Heywood Forest Parking' in its name, indicating a designated starting point with parking.
The easy trails around Dowland are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 30 reviews. Hikers often praise the gentle river paths, open countryside, and the accessibility of the routes, making them enjoyable for various ability levels.
Yes, you can enjoy easy walks through forested areas. The Heywood Forest Parking – View of Eggesford House loop from Wembworthy takes you through Heywood Forest. Additionally, Eggesford Forest is a notable natural feature in the surrounding area, offering further opportunities for woodland exploration.
The Dowland area, like much of the Torridge District, is pleasant for hiking throughout the year. Spring and summer offer lush greenery and warmer weather, ideal for enjoying the cultivated natural beauty. Autumn brings vibrant colors to the woodlands, while winter can provide crisp, quiet walks, though paths might be muddier. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
Absolutely. The Riverside Path – Eggesford Castle loop from Wembworthy is a prime example, following a scenic riverside route. The River Torridge Bridges are also a notable feature in the region, suggesting other routes may offer views of the river.


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