The best walks and hikes around Northcott
4.1
(12)
90
hikers
8
hikes
Hiking around Northcott offers access to a network of trails in a rural setting. The region features routes that explore areas around towns and water bodies. Terrain includes gentle ascents and descents, characteristic of the local countryside. The landscape is primarily defined by its agricultural and reservoir surroundings.
Best hiking trails around Northcott
- The most popular hiking route is Launceston Castle loop from Launceston, a 3.2 miles (5.2 km) trail that takes 1 hour 27 minutes to complete. This…
Last updated: October 2, 2026
4.3
(4)
18
hikers
5.22km
01:27
90m
90m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
14.9km
04:00
180m
180m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
28
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
7
hikers
7.96km
02:11
120m
120m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(1)
6
hikers
7.56km
02:08
160m
160m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Roadford Lake is a reservoir fed by the river Wolf. It's the largest area of water in the south-west and is used to supply drinking water for north and South Devon. As a runner there isn't a trail that allows you to circumnavigate the lake, but you can run along the northeastern shore.
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Once the ancient capital of Cornwall, Launceston is a market town with steep sided hills. It is often thought of as the gateway to Cornwall.
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Launceston Castle was built shortly after the Norman Conquest in 1068. It's towering position high above the town means it can be seen from miles around. Launceston was once the capital of Cornwall but when this was changed to Bodmin, the castle fell into disrepair. It was used as a jail and then to host assizes, courts held in county towns presided over by a visiting judge.
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Roadford Lake is set just outside Dartmoor National Park so is the perfect place for a rolling ride with a backdrop of dramatic tors and hills. You can tur your hand at plenty of watersports here including sailing, kayaking, fishing and paddleboarding. For further details please see the website https://www.swlakestrust.org.uk/pages/site/activities/category/roadford-lake
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Picturesque freshwater lake. The largest freshwater lake in the Southwest. The lake has a large activity centre. Canoeing, fishing, archery and windsurfing amongst others. The centre also has a fantastic cafe serving quality freshly prepared food and drink.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Northcott?
There are 8 hiking routes documented around Northcott, offering a range of experiences from easy walks to more moderate hikes. These trails explore the rural setting, including areas around towns and water bodies like Roadford Lake.
Are there easy hiking trails suitable for beginners near Northcott?
Yes, Northcott offers 3 easy hiking routes. A great option for beginners is the Great Hall loop from Launceston, which is 2.8 miles (4.6 km) long with minimal elevation gain, typically taking just over an hour to complete.
What kind of terrain can I expect on hikes around Northcott?
The terrain around Northcott is primarily characterized by rural paths, agricultural landscapes, and reservoir surroundings. You'll encounter gentle ascents and descents, with some routes leading through local woodlands. The trails are generally well-maintained, offering a pleasant walking experience.
Are there any circular walks available near Northcott?
Yes, many of the routes around Northcott are circular. For example, the Landlake Wood loop from Launceston is a moderate 4.8-mile (7.8 km) circular trail that takes you through woodland and rural paths. Another option is the Roadford Lake loop from Germansweek, offering a scenic 5-mile (8 km) circular route around the lake.
What natural features or landmarks can I see while hiking around Northcott?
Hikers around Northcott can explore several notable features. You can visit Roadford Lake, a significant water body, or discover historical sites like Launceston Castle and the Launceston Town Square Monument. There are also natural woodlands such as Witherdon Wood to explore.
Are the hiking trails around Northcott suitable for families?
Many of the trails around Northcott are suitable for families, especially the easier routes. The Roadford Reservoir – Upper Tamar Lake Café loop from Lakeside Cafe is an easy 2.5-mile (4 km) walk that is relatively flat and offers pleasant views, perfect for a family outing.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Northcott?
The hiking routes around Northcott are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars from 5 reviews. Hikers often praise the quiet rural paths, the scenic reservoir surroundings, and the varied local woodlands that define the area's charm.
Are there any places to eat or drink near the hiking routes?
Yes, you can find amenities near some of the trails. For instance, the Roadford Reservoir – Upper Tamar Lake Café loop starts and ends near the Upper Tamar Lake Café, providing a convenient spot for refreshments before or after your hike.
What is the longest hiking trail available in the Northcott area?
The longest trail documented in the Northcott area is the Launceston Castle loop from Launceston. This moderate route spans 9.3 miles (14.9 km) and offers varied terrain around the historic town of Launceston, typically taking around 4 hours to complete.
Is Northcott a well-known hiking destination?
While 'Northcott' itself is not widely recognized as a prominent outdoor recreation destination, the surrounding areas, particularly around Launceston and Roadford Lake, offer a network of trails that are popular with local hikers. The region provides a rural setting for exploring the countryside.
Can I find trails that combine historical sites with natural scenery?
Absolutely. The Launceston Castle loop from Launceston is an excellent example, allowing you to explore the historic town and its castle while enjoying the surrounding natural landscapes. You can also find the Launceston Town Square Monument along some routes.
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