The best walks and hikes around Monkleigh

Yes, many trails in the North Devon countryside are great for walking with dogs. The area features numerous public footpaths through fields and woodlands. However, you will likely cross fields with livestock, so it's essential to keep your dog on a lead in these areas. Always check for local signage regarding dog access.

For a shorter, accessible walk that's great for families, consider the Pathway to Kinsale loop from Taddiport. It's a relatively flat 3.5-mile (5.7 km) route with minimal elevation, making it manageable for little legs. The paths are generally easy to follow.

Yes, for those seeking a more strenuous day out, the Instow Beach – Isley Marsh Nature Reserve loop from East The Water offers a significant challenge. This 13.9-mile (22.4 km) route is one of the longest in the area and requires a good level of fitness to complete.

The terrain is quite varied. You can expect a mix of quiet country lanes, unpaved public footpaths across rolling hills, and woodland trails. Many routes follow the River Torridge valley, offering gentle gradients, but some climbs can be moderately steep. Footing can be muddy, especially after rain, so waterproof hiking boots are recommended.

Several local walks incorporate sections of the Tarka Trail. A popular way to access it is from the nearby town of Great Torrington, where you can join the trail as it follows the path of the old railway line along the River Torridge. Parking is available in the town, providing a convenient starting point.

The trails around Monkleigh are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of over 4.5 stars. Hikers often praise the peaceful countryside, the scenic views of the Torridge valley, and the mix of riverside and woodland paths. The blend of easy-to-follow sections on the Tarka Trail with more rustic footpaths is a frequently mentioned highlight.

Yes, there are several circular routes that allow you to experience the Tarka Trail as part of a longer walk. For example, a popular 5.5-mile loop starting from Monkleigh itself takes you through the countryside and joins the Tarka Trail for over a mile, offering lovely views of the Torridge valley before looping back.

For dramatic coastal scenery, the cliffside paths near Abbotsham Cliffs are a popular choice, offering fantastic views along the South West Coast Path. For a different kind of scenery, the trails within Exmoor National Park, a short drive away, provide expansive moorland vistas and a sense of wildness.

The Tarka Trail sections near Monkleigh are generally flat, often paved or on well-maintained gravel paths following the river, making them very accessible. In contrast, the South West Coast Path offers a much more rugged and challenging experience with steep climbs and descents along dramatic cliffs, rewarding hikers with spectacular sea views.

Late spring and summer are ideal for hiking around Monkleigh, as the weather is generally warmer and the days are longer. The paths are also at their driest during this period. Autumn is also beautiful, with rich colours in the woodlands, though you should be prepared for more mud on the trails.

Yes, the Kenwith Valley Nature Reserve near Bideford offers flat, easy paths around a large marsh area, ideal for a gentle stroll and birdwatching. For a quieter experience, the Seven Oaks Local Nature Reserve is another good option for spotting local wildlife in a tranquil setting.

The area is rich in history. While walking, you can discover the remains of the 13th-century Frithelstock Priory and see the historic Annery kilns along the River Torridge. The village of Monkleigh itself has the 15th-century St. George's Church, adding a historical dimension to your walk.