The best walks and hikes around Petrockstowe

There are over 40 hiking trails around Petrockstowe, offering a variety of experiences. These include 24 easy routes and 16 moderate routes, ensuring options for different skill levels.

Hiking around Petrockstowe offers a diverse range of landscapes. You'll find accessible paths along former railway lines, such as sections of the Tarka Trail, leading through peaceful woodlands and moorland. The region also features rolling farmland, quiet country lanes, and areas shaped by its industrial past, like former clay pits now integrated into the natural environment. Views of Dartmoor National Park can be enjoyed from some routes.

Yes, Petrockstowe offers many easy hiking options perfect for beginners or families. With 24 easy routes available, you can enjoy gentle strolls through the rural Devon countryside. An example is the Great Cafe – Hatherleigh loop from Hatherleigh, an easy 3.4-mile trail through village surroundings and farmland.

Many of the trails around Petrockstowe are designed as circular walks, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For instance, the Petrockstow Station Platform – Wooded Path loop from Meeth and the Wooded Path – Glebe Pit Lake loop from Petrockstowe are both popular moderate circular routes.

Many trails in the Petrockstowe area, especially those along the Tarka Trail and through rural farmland, are generally suitable for dogs. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, especially near livestock or in nature conservation areas, and to check for specific signage on individual routes. Always ensure you clean up after your pet.

While Petrockstowe itself doesn't feature large waterfalls, the wider Devon area, accessible from the village, boasts attractions like Lydford Gorge, which is known for being the deepest river gorge in the South West and features an impressive waterfall. Locally, you can enjoy water features along the Wooded Path – Glebe Pit Lake loop from Petrockstowe, which passes by Glebe Pit Lake, and the picturesque River Torridge Bridges along the Tarka Trail.

While hiking around Petrockstowe, you can encounter several interesting landmarks. The Beam Aqueduct offers a relaxing experience with the sound of rushing water. The Tarka Trail itself features historical railway platforms, and you might spot sculptures like those on the Mosaic Otter Sculpture – Tarka the Otter Sculpture loop from Peters Marland. The nearby town of Hatherleigh also provides charming village surroundings.

The hiking routes in Petrockstowe are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 50 reviews. Hikers often praise the peaceful and tranquil nature of the trails, the accessible paths along former railway lines, and the varied scenery of woodlands, farmland, and moorland. Many appreciate the options for easy to moderate excursions suitable for different abilities.

Yes, many trails around Petrockstowe offer scenic views of the rural Devon countryside. Routes that traverse moorland sections of the Tarka Trail can provide glimpses of Dartmoor National Park. The rolling farmland and wooded areas also offer picturesque vistas, especially during different seasons. The Wooded Path – Glebe Pit Lake loop from Petrockstowe, for example, offers tranquil scenery through wooded areas and past the lake.

Yes, some routes in the wider Petrockstowe area offer opportunities to stop at a pub or cafe. The Great Cafe – Hatherleigh loop from Hatherleigh, as its name suggests, starts near a cafe in Hatherleigh. Exploring routes that pass through villages like Hatherleigh or Iddesleigh, such as the Hatherleigh Village Center – Iddesleigh Village loop from Hatherleigh, often provides access to local establishments for refreshments.

Petrockstowe offers enjoyable hiking experiences throughout the year. Spring brings blooming wildflowers and mild temperatures, while summer provides longer daylight hours for extended walks. Autumn showcases beautiful foliage in the woodlands. Even in winter, the accessible former railway lines and well-maintained paths can be pleasant for a crisp walk, though some moorland sections might be more exposed to the elements.