Withypool and Hawkridge
Withypool and Hawkridge
4.6
(776)
5,455
hikers
216
hikes
Easy hiking trails around Withypool and Hawkridge are situated within Exmoor National Park, offering a diverse landscape for outdoor activities. The region is characterized by expansive open moorland, ancient wooded valleys, and rolling hills, all shaped by the meandering River Barle. Hikers can explore tranquil riverside paths, ascend hills like Withypool Hill for far-reaching views, and discover historic bridges. This area provides a variety of natural features for accessible walks.
Last updated: May 3, 2026
4.5
(24)
411
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(7)
17
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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7
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(4)
7
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
hikers
5.72km
01:36
110m
110m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Make sure to select the Tarr Inn when getting directions to the Tarr-Steps. You cannot reach the parking from the other side of the river, unless you have a suitable Jeep or similar which can manage driving through the little river. Otherwise it will cost you 30 minutes to go all the way back and around to the right side.
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If walking the route I've suggested I would wear good waterproof boots and if your unsteady on your feet take poles to help balance great walk to suit all abilities
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There is a couple of these money stumps alot this route I had never seen them before until today
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great place to stop for a coffee or food lots of sitting and views
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After the track along Hawkridge Ridge, the route starts to descent over the bedrock through a broadleaf woodland. This turns into a dirt single track, and ends up on the valley floor, following the stream to Castle Bridge, and the climb up out of the valley. I was riding my rigid steel 29er, so picking my way, but it would be a flyer with suspension.
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I'm surprised no one has plundered the trees yet.
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There are over 70 easy hiking trails around Withypool and Hawkridge. The region offers a wide variety of routes suitable for different preferences, all within the beautiful Exmoor National Park.
Easy hikes in Withypool and Hawkridge feature a diverse landscape, including tranquil riverside paths along the River Barle, ancient wooded valleys, and stretches of open moorland. You'll encounter rolling hills and historic bridges, all within the scenic Exmoor National Park.
The easy trails in Withypool and Hawkridge are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.5 stars from over 300 reviews. Hikers often praise the varied terrain, the beauty of the River Barle, and the well-maintained paths that make for enjoyable outings.
Yes, many easy hikes feature notable landmarks. You can explore the ancient Tarr Steps clapper bridge, a Grade II listed monument. Other points of interest include the Dunkery Beacon Summit and the Haddon Hill Trig Point, offering expansive views. The Withypool Stone Bridge – River Barle Stepping Stones loop from Withypool also passes by a historic stone bridge.
Absolutely. The River Barle is a central feature of the region, and many easy trails follow its banks. For example, the Tarr Steps clapper bridge – Tarr Steps riverside walk loop from Tarr Steps and the Tarr Steps riverside walk – Tarr Steps clapper bridge loop from Tarr Steps both offer tranquil riverside walking experiences.
Yes, several easy trails offer rewarding viewpoints. Withypool Hill provides spectacular vistas across the surrounding countryside. Additionally, the St Giles' Church, Hawkridge – Hawkridge Ridge loop from Hawkridge offers tremendous views from Hawkridge Ridge.
Many of the easy hiking routes in Withypool and Hawkridge are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the River in Exmoor National Park – Tarr Steps clapper bridge loop from Tarr Steps and the St Giles' Church, Hawkridge – Hawkridge Ridge loop from Hawkridge.
Yes, there are several short and easy walks perfect for a quick outing. The Withypool Stone Bridge – River Barle Stepping Stones loop from Withypool is a 1.5-mile (2.4 km) trail that can be completed in under an hour, offering pleasant riverside scenery.
Many easy hiking trails in Withypool and Hawkridge are suitable for families, offering gentle gradients and engaging natural features. The paths along the River Barle, especially around Tarr Steps, are popular choices for family outings.
Yes, the Exmoor National Park area, including Withypool and Hawkridge, is generally dog-friendly. Many trails welcome dogs, but it's always recommended to keep them on a lead, especially near livestock or wildlife, and to follow the Countryside Code.
Parking is available at key starting points for many trails. For routes around Tarr Steps, there is often dedicated parking. In Withypool village, you can usually find parking options. Always check local signage for specific parking regulations and fees.
The best time for hiking in Withypool and Hawkridge is generally from spring through autumn (April to October) when the weather is milder and the days are longer. However, the diverse landscape offers beautiful walks year-round, with winter providing a different, often quieter, experience of the moorland and valleys.
Yes, both Withypool and Hawkridge have local establishments where you can find refreshments. Withypool village, in particular, offers options for food and drink, perfect for a break before or after your hike.


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