The best walks and hikes around East Down
4.6
(1196)
8,277
hikers
285
hikes
Hikes around East Down offer routes through a landscape of rolling hills, woodlands, and quiet country lanes. The area is characterized by its agricultural scenery and the grounds of historic estates like Arlington Court. The terrain consists mainly of gentle ascents and descents, making it suitable for a range of walking abilities.
Best hiking trails around East Down
- The most popular hiking route is Arlington Court loop from Loxhore, a 4.6 mile (7.4 km) trail that takes about 2…
Last updated: October 13, 2026
4.7
(23)
115
hikers
7.55km
02:06
140m
150m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(5)
87
hikers
3.25km
00:57
90m
80m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(7)
59
hikers
8.86km
02:32
210m
210m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(12)
40
hikers
6.38km
01:47
130m
130m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(7)
37
hikers
8.18km
02:23
220m
220m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
This is a fantastic stretch of singletrack through Deerpark Wood, especially if taken south to north to fully enjoy the downhill. Deerpark Wood is beautiful in the spring, when bluebells create a dazzling display.
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Smallacombe Bridge is a prominent crossing of the River Yeo, used by many of Arlington Court's walking routes. It connects Woolley with the trail through the delightful Wilderness, which takes you back to the heart of the estate.
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This Grade 2-listed building is the parish church of Arlington and is situated next to the impressive Arlington Court. While there are some 14th-century features, much of the building owes itself to a 19th century restoration by architect RD Gould. It's a lovely sight on the estate, especially when reflected in the waters of the nearby Wilderness Pond.
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The Carriage Museum in Arlington Court's stables has everything from elegant coaches to humble carts that would have carried servants. The collection boasts over 40 vehicles for every occasion, from cradle to grave. Entry is free for National Trust members.
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The Wilderness is a lovely wooded stream valley near the heart of the Arlington Estate. The trail through here connects Arlington Court, its gardens and museum to Smallacombe Bridge on the River Yeo and the delightful Old Lake, where a natural restoration project is underway.
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A classic single-arch stone bridge, Tucker's Bridge is a fine sight in the Arlington Estate. It features on various walking, running and cycling routes in this beautiful part of North Devon, connecting the trails through Deerpark Wood with those through Woolley Wood.
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These beautiful, tall gates are a real feature of the Cott Down hiking and running route from Arlington Court. Heading north, they lead onto a fantastic stretch of singletrack on the Cott Down Plantation, high above the River Yeo.
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The ornate Memorial Urn marks one of Miss Rosalie Chichester's favourite spots on the Arlington Estate. The estate was the home of the Chichester family from the 1820s until 1949, when it was donated to the National Trust by Miss Rosalie. Today, there's an impressive 2,600 acres of woodland, parkland and pretty valleys to explore.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there many hiking trails to choose from in East Down?
Yes, there are nearly 300 marked hiking routes in the East Down area. They range from easy strolls to more challenging treks, so there's something for every ability level.
What do other hikers say about the trails in East Down?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the quiet country lanes, beautiful woodlands, and the well-maintained paths through historic estates like Arlington Court.
Are there any good circular walks in the area?
Most of the popular trails in East Down are circular. A great example is the Arlington Court loop from Loxhore, which takes you through a pleasant mix of woodland and open fields on a 7.4 km loop.
Can I bring my dog on the hikes around East Down?
Many trails in the region are suitable for dogs, but they should be kept on a lead, especially when crossing farmland with livestock or within the grounds of estates like Arlington Court. Always check local signage for specific restrictions.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes in East Down?
Definitely. The Arlington Court loop from Arlington is a great option for families. It's a relatively gentle 6 km walk through scenic parkland that's manageable for most ages.
What is the terrain like on the trails?
The terrain around East Down is generally characterized by rolling hills, wooded valleys, and quiet country lanes. Most routes involve gentle ascents and descents rather than steep mountain climbs, making it very accessible.
Are there any hikes with good coastal views?
While many trails are inland, you can find routes with sea views nearby. For dramatic coastal scenery, local hikers often head to the Valley of Rocks, a highly-regarded spot known for its rugged cliffs and sweeping ocean vistas.
Where can I find a good pub for after my hike?
The villages and towns surrounding the main walking areas, such as those near Arlington Court, have several traditional pubs. It's best to check a local map for the nearest one to your chosen trail's start or end point for a post-hike meal or drink.
What are some popular places for hiking in the region?
The grounds of the Arlington Court estate are central to many of the area's best hikes. For a different experience, many people travel a short distance to the Valley of Rocks, a popular area famous for its unique prehistoric rock formations and coastal paths.
What kind of wildlife might I see?
On the trails through woodlands and fields, you can expect to see common British birds and woodland animals. If you venture to the nearby coast, such as the Valley of Rocks, you might be lucky enough to spot the herds of wild goats that roam the cliffs.
Are there any more challenging hikes available?
Yes, for those seeking more of a challenge, there are moderate routes with more significant elevation gain. The Handcrafted Wooden Gates loop from Barton Town is an 8.2 km trail that includes over 200 meters of climbing, offering a more strenuous workout.
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