The best family-friendly hikes and walks in East Devon

East Devon offers a vast network of family-friendly hiking trails. Our guide features over 700 routes, with nearly 400 categorized as easy and over 300 as moderate, ensuring there's a suitable option for every family.

East Devon's family-friendly trails offer diverse terrain. You'll find everything from the dramatic coastal paths along the Jurassic Coast with its striking red cliffs, to gentle riverside strolls along the Otter Valley, and peaceful woodland walks. Many routes are well-maintained, but some coastal sections can be uneven or involve moderate ascents.

Yes, East Devon has many excellent circular routes perfect for families. For a coastal and riverside experience, consider the Otterton Coast & the River Otter loop from Budleigh Salterton. Another option is the Exmouth Seafront loop, which is particularly easy and offers lovely views.

East Devon is rich in natural beauty and landmarks. Along the coast, you can marvel at the Ladram Bay Sea Stacks, the iconic Orcombe Point and the Geoneedle, or explore the Otter Estuary Nature Reserve. Inland, you'll find varied landscapes including heathland and wooded valleys within the East Devon National Landscape.

While many trails are family-friendly, suitability for toddlers and strollers varies. Coastal paths can be rugged, but routes like the Exmouth Seafront loop offer flatter, paved sections ideal for strollers. For inland walks, look for paths described as 'easy' with minimal elevation gain, such as those found in Haldon Forest Park.

East Devon is wonderful for hiking year-round. Spring brings wildflowers and milder temperatures, while summer offers longer daylight hours for coastal adventures and beach visits. Autumn showcases beautiful foliage in the woodlands, and even winter can be enjoyable with crisp air and fewer crowds, though some paths may be muddy. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.

Many trails in East Devon are dog-friendly, allowing your furry family members to join. However, always keep dogs under control, especially near livestock or on nature reserves. Some beaches may have seasonal restrictions for dogs, so it's best to check local signage. The Otterton Ledge, South West Coast Path & River Otter loop is a great option for a walk with your dog.

The komoot community highly rates the family-friendly trails in East Devon, with an average score of 4.55 stars. Hikers frequently praise the stunning coastal views, the variety of landscapes from beaches to woodlands, and the well-maintained paths that make exploring with children enjoyable. The opportunity to spot wildlife and discover hidden coves is also a common highlight.

Yes, East Devon's charming towns and villages often have pubs, cafes, and restaurants conveniently located near popular trailheads or along routes. Coastal towns like Sidmouth, Exmouth, and Beer offer numerous options for refreshments and meals. Many inland villages also feature traditional pubs that welcome families.

Given the varied terrain and coastal weather, layers are key. Comfortable walking shoes or boots with good grip are essential. A waterproof jacket is advisable year-round, even on sunny days, as coastal weather can change quickly. Sun protection, including hats and sunscreen, is also important, especially on exposed coastal paths.

Absolutely. For a gentle and relatively short walk, the Exmouth Seafront loop is an excellent choice, offering flat terrain and seaside views. Many sections of the East Devon Way or paths within Haldon Forest Park also provide shorter, easier loops perfect for families with young children.