The best walks and hikes around Tavistock

Yes, the area is excellent for circular hikes. You can find routes that loop back to town, exploring the surrounding countryside and moorland. A great example is the Tavistock Town Hall – Pannier Market loop, which offers a moderately challenging walk through the nearby fields and woods.

Many trails around Tavistock are dog-friendly, especially in the open moorland of Dartmoor. However, always be mindful of livestock and keep your dog on a lead where required, particularly during ground-nesting bird season (March 1st to July 31st). The riverside paths and woodland trails are also great for walks with dogs.

For a gentle and accessible family walk, the Tavistock Town Hall – Abbey Bridge and Weir loop is an excellent choice. It's a relatively flat path that follows the River Tavy, making it suitable for all ages and a pleasant stroll through the town's scenic meadows.

Yes, the most notable is at Lydford Gorge, a highly-regarded National Trust site. It features a deep gorge with a spectacular 30-meter waterfall called the 'White Lady'. The trails here wind through ancient woodland, but be aware that some paths can be steep and slippery.

Many walks in and around Tavistock can be planned to include a stop for refreshments. The Tamar Trails Centre, which is a starting point for several woodland hikes, has a popular on-site cafe. Alternatively, many routes that finish in Tavistock itself will leave you with a wide choice of traditional pubs and cafes near the town centre.

The weather on Dartmoor can change very quickly. It's essential to wear sturdy, waterproof hiking boots and dress in layers. Always carry a waterproof jacket and trousers, even if the day starts sunny. A map, compass, and a fully charged phone are also crucial for safety on the moors.

Yes, Drake's Trail is a popular route for both walkers and cyclists that utilizes former railway lines. It connects Tavistock with Plymouth and features impressive viaducts and tunnels. A good section to hike is the Grenofen Tunnel – Gem Bridge loop, which gives you a great taste of the trail's unique character.

Tavistock is well-served by bus routes connecting it to Plymouth, Okehampton, and other surrounding villages. Many trailheads, especially for walks starting in the town itself or along main roads, are accessible by bus. For routes deeper into Dartmoor, services may be less frequent, so it's best to check timetables in advance.

In Tavistock town, there are several pay-and-display car parks which are convenient for walks starting from the centre. For hikes into Dartmoor, you'll find designated free car parks at popular spots like Pork Hill, which provides access to tors such as Pew Tor. Arrive early on weekends as these can fill up quickly.

For those seeking a longer challenge, the moorlands of Dartmoor offer endless possibilities for full-day treks. You can plan routes linking multiple tors or follow sections of long-distance paths. The Hannah's Shrine loop is a moderate hike of over 8 km that gives a good sense of the open moorland terrain.

The Tavistock Canal walk is a tranquil and mostly flat route that follows the historic waterway through meadows and woods. It's a peaceful option for a gentle stroll, rich in local history and wildlife. The path is well-maintained and offers a different perspective on the landscape compared to the rugged Dartmoor trails.

The hiking routes around Tavistock are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars. Hikers often praise the variety of scenery, from the wild, open vistas of Dartmoor to the serene riverside paths of the Tamar Valley. The mix of natural beauty and historical features like old mines and railways is a frequently mentioned highlight.