The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Skipwith

There are over 15 family-friendly hiking trails around Skipwith, ranging from easy strolls to slightly more moderate walks, perfect for families looking to explore the unique landscape of Skipwith Common.

Yes, many of the trails are designed to be accessible for various ages and fitness levels. The majority of the routes are classified as easy, with gentle terrain and well-marked paths. For example, the Danes Hills, Skipwith Common – Log Pile by the Path loop from Riccall is a shorter, easy option.

Skipwith Common is a rare lowland heath, offering a diverse mix of wet and dry heath environments, woodlands, ponds, and reed-beds. You'll encounter wildflowers, grasses, and purple heather, especially beautiful in season. The landscape is actively managed by grazing Longhorn cattle, wild Hebridean sheep, and Exmoor ponies, adding to the unique natural experience.

Yes, Skipwith Common has a rich history. You can find evidence of Bronze and Iron Age features, including ancient burial sites. The 'Danes Hills' area is believed to be a Viking burial site. Additionally, remnants of RAF Riccall, a Second World War training airfield, are visible, with concrete patches from taxiways. You can visit the RAF Riccall Bomber Memorial at Skipwith Common.

Skipwith Common is generally dog-friendly, but it's crucial to keep dogs under close control, especially due to the presence of grazing animals like Longhorn cattle and Exmoor ponies, as well as ground-nesting birds. Always check local signage for specific rules and restrictions.

Many of the family-friendly routes in Skipwith are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example is the Optical Society – Longhorn Cattle loop from Skipwith Common, which offers a pleasant loop through the reserve.

There are designated parking areas around Skipwith Common, often near the main entrances to the nature reserve. These are typically well-signposted. It's advisable to arrive early during peak times to secure a spot.

The diverse habitats of Skipwith Common support a wide array of wildlife. Keep an eye out for numerous insect and bird species, including woodlark and nightjar. Dragonflies are common around the ponds, and you might even spot wild fallow and roe deer. The grazing Longhorn cattle and Exmoor ponies are also a unique sight.

Skipwith Common offers beauty year-round. Spring brings new growth and bird activity, while summer showcases vibrant wildflowers and heather. Autumn provides stunning colors, and even winter walks can be magical, especially on crisp, clear days. The lowland heath means trails are generally accessible, though some areas might be wetter after heavy rain.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful atmosphere, the unique heathland landscape, the well-marked trails, and the opportunities for wildlife spotting, making it a fantastic destination for a family day out.

Beyond the natural beauty, you can look for the RAF Riccall Bomber Memorial at Skipwith Common, which commemorates the area's wartime history. The various ponds and distinct heathland sections also serve as natural landmarks to explore.