The best walks and hikes around Bratton Fleming

Yes, the Wistlandpound Reservoir loop is an excellent choice for families. The path is mostly level and well-maintained, making it suitable for pushchairs and small children. It offers a peaceful walk through woodlands with views of the water.

Many trails around Bratton Fleming are dog-friendly, but it's important to be mindful of the environment. In areas like Exmoor National Park, dogs must be kept on a lead to protect wildlife and livestock. On enclosed trails like those at Wistlandpound Reservoir, they are generally welcome but should be kept under control.

The region offers numerous circular routes. For a moderate challenge with varied scenery, the Handcrafted Wooden Gates loop from Barton Town is a great option, taking you through 8 km of rolling countryside. Many trails in the area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same place without retracing your steps.

Parking is available at the start of many popular routes. Wistlandpound Reservoir has a dedicated car park, as does the National Trust's Arlington Court. For hikes starting in villages like Challacombe or Bratton Fleming itself, on-street parking may be available, but please park considerately.

The main trail around Wistlandpound Reservoir is well-suited for wheelchairs and prams due to its wide, level surface. Additionally, sections of the Tarka Trail, particularly the part following the old railway line between Braunton and Meeth, are tarmacked and flat, providing another excellent accessible option for exploring the North Devon countryside.

The landscape is diverse. You'll find gentle walks through the serene woodlands surrounding Wistlandpound Reservoir, hikes across the rolling green hills and agricultural fields typical of North Devon, and more rugged, open moorland trails within the nearby Exmoor National Park, which is known for its heather-clad scenery.

There are nearly 200 marked hiking routes to explore around Bratton Fleming, ranging from short, easy strolls to more challenging full-day hikes. This includes 98 easy trails, 94 moderate ones, and 7 difficult routes, offering something for every ability level.

The trails around Bratton Fleming are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.5 stars from over 1,100 reviews. Hikers often praise the tranquility of the routes, the beautiful woodland sections, and the stunning views across Exmoor.

While there are no specific 'pub walk' routes listed, many trails pass through or near villages with traditional pubs. You could plan a route that starts or ends in a village like Challacombe or Bratton Fleming to enjoy refreshments after your hike. Always check pub opening times in advance.

For dramatic coastal scenery and unique geology, a trip to the Valley of Rocks near Lynton is highly recommended. It's a popular spot known for its prehistoric rock formations and herds of wild goats. Within Exmoor, you'll find expansive views from the high moorland, offering a sense of true wilderness.

Accessing trailheads directly via public transport can be challenging in this rural area. The best approach is often to take a bus to a larger hub like Barnstaple and then use a local taxi service to reach your starting point. Some bus services may run to villages on the edge of Exmoor, but schedules can be infrequent.

Trails within Exmoor National Park, such as the Barton Town loop from Challacombe, feature open, heather-clad moorland with some gentle slopes. Paths can be uneven and exposed to the elements, so sturdy footwear and appropriate clothing are essential. You may also encounter wild Exmoor ponies and red deer.