The best walks and hikes around West Putford

There are over 40 hiking routes around West Putford, offering a wide range of experiences. These include 25 easy trails, 12 moderate routes, and 3 more challenging options, ensuring something for every fitness level.

Yes, West Putford offers several easy trails perfect for families. A popular choice is the Upper Tamar Lake – Upper Tamar Lake loop from River Tamar, an easy 6 km path with minimal elevation gain, providing a scenic circuit around the lake. Another accessible option is the Upper Tamar Lake – Upper Tamar Lake loop from Upper Tamar Dam, which is slightly shorter at 5.1 km.

Hiking around West Putford offers a diverse landscape. You can expect picturesque countryside, tranquil woodlands, and dramatic coastal views. The region is characterized by the River Torridge, historic features like Kismeldon Bridge, and stunning coastal vistas, including Blackchurch Rock. Trails often combine these elements, such as the Bucks Mill & Peppercombe loop which traverses woodlands and cliff paths along the South West Coast Path.

Yes, many of the trails around West Putford are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the easy loops around Upper Tamar Lake, such as the Upper Tamar Lake – Upper Tamar Lake loop from River Tamar. For a longer, moderate option, consider The Hobby Drive – Clovelly loop from Bucks Mills.

The area boasts several interesting landmarks. You can explore the mystical woodlands of The Hobby Drive, renowned for its ancient trees and lichen species. The picturesque fishing village of Clovelly, clinging to a 400-foot cliff, offers unique views and cobbled streets. Additionally, the historic Kismeldon Bridge over the River Torridge is a notable feature in the landscape.

The trails in West Putford are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.8 stars from over 160 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the diverse scenery, from coastal paths with incredible vistas to tranquil woodlands, and the variety of routes suitable for different abilities.

For experienced hikers seeking a challenge, the region offers more demanding routes. The Clovelly – The Hobby Drive loop from Parkham is a difficult 23.3 km hike with significant elevation gain, typically taking over 7 hours to complete. This route provides an extensive exploration of both coastal and woodland terrains.

Many trails in the West Putford area are suitable for dogs, especially those through woodlands and along coastal paths. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, particularly in areas with livestock or near cliff edges, and to check specific route details for any restrictions.

Hike durations vary significantly depending on the route and your pace. Easy loops around Upper Tamar Lake can take around 1.5 to 2 hours. Moderate trails like the Bucks Mill & Peppercombe loop typically take about 2 hours and 15 minutes. Longer, more challenging routes, such as the Clovelly – The Hobby Drive loop from Parkham, can take over 7 hours.

While specific cafes or pubs directly on every trail are not guaranteed, the region offers options. The Peppercombe Coach House serves as a stopping point for hikers. The nearby village of Clovelly also provides amenities and places to rest and eat after exploring its unique streets.

West Putford offers enjoyable hiking experiences throughout much of the year. Spring and summer bring vibrant flora and warmer weather, ideal for coastal walks. Autumn showcases beautiful woodland colors. While some sections around Upper Tamar Lake can be boggy after heavy rain, generally, the diverse terrain means there are suitable routes for most seasons, though checking local conditions is always advisable.