The best walks and hikes in North Devon Aonb

North Devon AONB offers a wide variety of hiking routes, with over 380 trails recorded. This includes more than 200 easy routes, 150 moderate paths, and a selection of challenging hikes for experienced adventurers.

The terrain in North Devon AONB is incredibly diverse. You'll encounter dramatic coastlines with rugged cliffs and wave-cut platforms, extensive sandy beaches, and unique sand dune systems like Braunton Burrows. Inland, the landscape transitions to lush wooded combes, river valleys, and areas of heathland and grasslands, offering varied walking experiences.

Yes, North Devon AONB has many easy and family-friendly options. The Baggy Point from Moor Lane route is an easy 3.6 km (2.2 miles) walk. The Heddon Valley also offers a 2-mile path through ancient woodlands, ideal for families, leading to Heddon's Mouth cove.

Hikers can discover several striking natural features. Don't miss Blackchurch Rock at Mouthmill Beach, a large arch stack known for its fossils. The impressive Spekes Mill Mouth Waterfall plunges 157 feet in three steps to a rocky beach. The Torrs Cliffs near Ilfracombe, also known as The Seven Hills, offer sweeping coastal views.

Yes, many routes in North Devon AONB are circular. A popular moderate option is the Baggy Point & Croyde loop from Woolacombe, which is 17.9 km (11.1 miles) long and offers stunning coastal views. Another great choice is the Combe Martin loop via Little Hangman, a moderate 7.6 km (4.7 miles) trail.

The hiking experience in North Devon AONB is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 1,400 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the dramatic coastal scenery, the variety of landscapes from sandy beaches to wooded combes, and the well-maintained paths that cater to all abilities.

Many trails in North Devon AONB are dog-friendly, allowing you to explore the stunning landscapes with your canine companion. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, especially near livestock, cliffs, and in areas with sensitive wildlife, such as the Braunton Burrows sand dunes.

North Devon AONB is beautiful year-round, but spring and autumn often offer the most pleasant hiking conditions with milder temperatures and fewer crowds. Spring brings wildflowers to the combes, while autumn showcases vibrant foliage. Summer is popular for coastal walks and beach access, though trails can be busier.

Yes, for those seeking a challenge, North Devon AONB offers routes with significant elevation gain. The Combe Martin & Great Hangman loop is a moderate 8.6 km (5.3 miles) trail known for its dramatic coastal terrain and considerable ascents, offering rewarding views.

Public transport options exist for reaching some trailheads within North Devon AONB, particularly to larger towns and villages along the coast. However, for more remote starting points, a car might be necessary. It's advisable to check local bus schedules in advance for specific routes.

Parking is generally available at or near popular trailheads and coastal villages throughout North Devon AONB. Areas like Woolacombe, Croyde, Combe Martin, and near Baggy Point typically have designated parking facilities. Some may be paid car parks, especially during peak season.