4.6
(205)
1,213
hikers
135
hikes
Hiking around Cheriton Fitzpaine offers access to a quiet Mid Devon valley characterized by a rolling, pastoral landscape. The area features winding lanes, ancient footpaths, and green pastures, providing views over surrounding hills. Woodlands, such as Columbjohn Wood and Killerton Park Wood, are common along routes, and the Holly Water River flows through parts of the region. The village is also positioned within reach of the Exmoor and Dartmoor National Parks, offering varied terrain.
Last updated: May 14, 2026
4.3
(12)
28
hikers
9.48km
02:39
190m
190m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(2)
18
hikers
5.54km
01:30
80m
80m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.3
(3)
18
hikers
11.4km
03:15
260m
260m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
17
hikers
8.38km
02:17
120m
120m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(3)
14
hikers
6.89km
01:59
160m
160m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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A lovely old castle but be aware of the steep hill ahead... 'Alpe d'heuz' style!
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be careful on the road crossing, bring a towel and be prepared to wait for service, it's busy here in the wknds in summer.
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The duo also visited the site of Bickleigh Bridge, a picturesque spot in East Devon. However, on a promotional tour in 2003, Garfunkel confirmed the song was inspired by sources closer to their home
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Scooped some water out, filtered it and a made a coffee.
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B&B & holiday cottages available. Good centre for exploring Devon from an attractive and historic setting.
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The inspiration for Paul Simon to write the song (according to local legend). Beware of traffic when crossing - it's single carriageway and a fairly busy road.
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The Trout Inn at Bickleigh closed down in 2018. Other options for refreshment in Bickleigh are the Fisherman's Cot or Bickleigh Mill - both do meals and both are licenced.
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Bickleigh Castle is a lovely manor house on the banks of the River Exe. Although the main building was destroyed during the Civil War, the central courtyard and other historic buildings still stand today. The original Norman motte castle was built in the late 11th century. Nowadays, the castle is used to host weddings, but it's still an interesting place to stop and take a look.
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There are over 130 hiking routes in the Cheriton Fitzpaine area, offering a wide variety of options for different skill levels and preferences. These include easy strolls, moderate treks, and a few more challenging paths.
The rolling, pastoral landscape of Cheriton Fitzpaine is enjoyable year-round. While some tracks, like those near Killerton National Trust, can be muddy in winter, many routes are accessible. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, summer offers lush green scenery, and autumn provides beautiful colors. The Bluebell Wood Path – Bickleigh Bridge loop from Bickleigh is particularly lovely in spring.
Yes, Cheriton Fitzpaine offers over 70 easy hiking routes, perfect for beginners or families. These trails often feature gentle gradients and well-maintained paths. An example is the Hiking loop from Crediton, which is an easy 3.4-mile path offering a gentle exploration of the countryside.
While most routes directly around Cheriton Fitzpaine are easy to moderate, the village is within easy reach of the National Parks of Exmoor and Dartmoor, as well as the Blackdown Hills. These areas offer a wider array of more challenging terrain for experienced hikers seeking longer distances and greater elevation gains.
Yes, many of the hiking routes around Cheriton Fitzpaine are circular, allowing you to start and end your journey in the same location. For instance, the Bickleigh Castle – Bickleigh Castle loop from Bickleigh is a popular moderate circular trail.
Many of the public footpaths and quiet lanes around Cheriton Fitzpaine are suitable for dogs, allowing you to enjoy the scenic countryside with your canine companion. However, always ensure dogs are kept under control, especially near livestock, and check local signage for any specific restrictions.
Hikes around Cheriton Fitzpaine are characterized by a rolling, pastoral landscape with winding lanes, ancient footpaths, and green pastures. You'll often find routes passing through woodlands like Columbjohn Wood and Killerton Park Wood, and alongside water features such as the Holly Water River and Shobrooke Park Lake and Stone Bridge.
While specific parking information varies by trailhead, many routes start from or pass through villages like Bickleigh or Crediton, where public parking options may be available. It's advisable to check the starting point of your chosen route for the most convenient parking facilities.
Yes, the area offers options for refreshments. For example, Bickleigh Mill & The Bridge Inn is a historic 18th-century water mill in a riverside location, making it a lovely spot to start, finish, or take a break during a walk.
Beyond the trails, you can visit the historic Bickleigh Mill & The Bridge Inn, explore the grounds around Killerton National Trust, or enjoy the peaceful environment of Shobrooke Park Lake and Stone Bridge. The village also has Jacks Acre, a large field for public leisure activities.
Information on specific public transport links directly to trailheads can vary. However, Cheriton Fitzpaine is a village in Mid Devon, and local bus services connect it to larger towns like Crediton, which may serve as a starting point for some routes, such as the Wooden Bridge Over the Stream loop from Crediton.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 190 reviews. Hikers often praise the quiet, unspoiled landscapes, the variety of accessible routes, and the charming rural atmosphere. Many appreciate the well-maintained footpaths and the opportunity to explore ancient woodlands and river valleys.


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