The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Okehampton

There are 34 family-friendly hiking trails around Okehampton, with 13 of these specifically rated as easy, making them ideal for families with younger children or those new to hiking.

Absolutely. Many of the trails are designed for easier access. For instance, the Meldon Viaduct – Meldon Viaduct and Valley View loop from Okehampton is an easy option, offering gentle terrain and scenic views of the viaduct and valley.

The area around Okehampton, bordering Dartmoor National Park, is rich in natural beauty and historical sites. You can encounter dramatic granite tors, ancient woodlands, and picturesque river valleys. Notable landmarks include the impressive Meldon Viaduct and the tranquil Meldon Reservoir. Higher up, you might spot Yes Tor summit and High Willhays summit in the distance.

Most trails in and around Okehampton are dog-friendly, especially those within Dartmoor National Park. However, it's crucial to keep dogs on a lead, particularly around livestock and ground-nesting birds, to protect both your pet and the local wildlife. Always carry bags to clean up after your dog.

Yes, many of the family-friendly routes are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. An excellent example is the Okehampton & Belstone Tor loop, which offers a varied landscape and a satisfying circular journey.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, from gentle riverside paths to more open moorland, and the sense of tranquility found on the trails. The accessibility to Dartmoor's wild beauty directly from Okehampton is also frequently highlighted.

Yes, the West Okement and East Okement Rivers carve out scenic valleys around Okehampton. The East Okement River Trail – Fitz's Well Cross loop from Okehampton is a great option that follows the river, offering pleasant waterside views and a chance to enjoy the sound of flowing water.

Okehampton offers several convenient parking options. For trails heading towards Dartmoor, parking is often available near the edge of the National Park or at specific trailheads like those near Meldon Reservoir. Within the town, there are also public car parks that provide good starting points for local walks.

Absolutely. Many trails offer fantastic viewpoints. The higher ground around Okehampton, including the tors on Dartmoor, provides extensive panoramic views of the surrounding moorland and countryside. Even on easier routes, you'll find elevated sections that offer great photo opportunities, such as those overlooking Meldon Reservoir.

Spring and summer are generally ideal for family hikes in Okehampton, with milder weather and longer daylight hours. The moorland comes alive with colour, and the trails are typically drier. Autumn also offers beautiful scenery with changing foliage. Always check the weather forecast before heading out, as conditions on Dartmoor can change rapidly.

Okehampton town itself has a good selection of pubs and cafes that welcome families, perfect for a post-hike meal or refreshment. Some establishments on the outskirts of town or in nearby villages like Belstone are also conveniently located near trailheads and offer a warm welcome to hikers.

Okehampton is served by public transport, including bus routes that connect to surrounding villages and areas. While some trailheads might require a short walk from a bus stop, many routes are accessible from the town centre, making it possible to reach them without a car. Check local bus schedules for specific route planning.