The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Wembworthy
4.6
(52)
256
hikers
10
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Wembworthy are characterized by peaceful riverside paths, ancient woodlands, and gently rolling agricultural hills in the Mid-Devon countryside. The region offers diverse landscapes, with routes often following the River Taw Valley and exploring the expansive Eggesford Forest. Hikers can expect a mix of tranquil strolls and paths through farmland, providing varied scenic experiences. The terrain generally features gentle riverside sections and low rolling hills.
Best family friendly hiking trails around Wembworthy
- The most popular family…
Last updated: May 19, 2026
4.5
(10)
47
hikers
5.71km
01:33
80m
80m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
10
hikers
13.7km
03:54
300m
300m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(3)
9
hikers
10.5km
02:55
200m
200m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
7
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
5
hikers
14.5km
04:07
320m
320m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Free parking. Area good for mountain biking and gravel riding. Café nearby at Eggesford train station
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Overlooking the TawValley, at the northern end of Heywood Wood, stand the remains of an early medieval motte and bailey castle. Motte and bailey castles are medieval fortifications introduced into Britain by the Normans. This type of castle was made up of an artificial mound, or motte, on which was built a wooden or stone structure known as a keep. Next to this at least one bailey, a fortified embanked enclosure containing additional buildings, would be built. Although many were occupied for only a short period of time, motte and bailey castles continued to be built and occupied from the 11th to the 13th centuries, after which they were superseded by other types of castle. Heywood CastleAt Heywood the circular motte is about 8 metres high and almost 50 metres in diameter, surrounded by a rock-cut ditch 4 metres wide and 2 metres deep. Around the top of the motte is a bank, up to 4 metres high in places. The crescent shaped bailey which lies to the north-east of the motte is 60 metres long and 40 metres wide and bounded on all sides by a bank 2 metres rising to about 4 metres on the eastern side, where there is an entrance with a causeway across the ditch which extends to the outer bank, which surrounds both the motte and bailey. From the bailey to the motte on the north east side there is the possibility of a bridgeway. On the north side of the bailey a more modern entrance has been formed. https://www.devon.gov.uk/historicenvironment/explore-devons-heritage/heywood-castle-eggesford/
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This place is well worth a visit, it is a huge Norman castle mound. No structures are visible (Probably only a wooden keep now long gone) but really worth seeing, it is still quite imposing 1000 years on. "At Heywood the circular motte is about 8 metres high and almost 50 metres in diameter, surrounded by a rock-cut ditch 4 metres wide and 2 metres deep. Around the top of the motte is a bank, up to 4 metres high in places. The crescent shaped bailey which lies to the north-east of the motte is 60 metres long and 40 metres wide and bounded on all sides by a bank 2 metres rising to about 4 metres on the eastern side, where there is an entrance with a causeway across the ditch which extends to the outer bank, which surrounds both the motte and bailey. From the bailey to the motte on the north east side there is the possibility of a bridgeway. On the north side of the bailey a more modern entrance has been formed. The castle at Heywood possibly took the place of an earlier castle some 500 metres to the south in the grounds of Heywood House, on the steep valley side above the River Taw. An alternative theory is that both date to the 1130s and 1140s, and were built during the civil war between Matilda, daughter of Henry I, and his nephew Stephen." https://www.devon.gov.uk/historicenvironment/explore-devons-heritage/heywood-castle-eggesford/
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With a network of paths, this diverse woodland is a lovely place to explore. Keep a look-out for wildlife, wildflowers, and interesting fungi. Visit throughout the year; it's different in every season.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available around Wembworthy?
There are 10 family-friendly hiking trails around Wembworthy featured in this guide, with 6 of them rated as easy, making them suitable for various ages and fitness levels.
What kind of terrain can we expect on family hikes in Wembworthy?
The trails around Wembworthy offer a mix of peaceful riverside paths along the River Taw and River Yeo, ancient woodlands like Eggesford Forest, and gently rolling agricultural hills. You'll find diverse scenery suitable for family exploration.
Are there any easy, short walks suitable for families with young children or toddlers?
Yes, for an easy and shorter option, consider the Riverside Path – Eggesford Castle loop from Wembworthy, which is about 5.6 km long. Another great choice is the All Saints Church, Eggesford – View of the stately home loop from Eggesford, at just under 5 km.
What interesting landmarks or natural features can we see along the trails?
Many trails offer glimpses of historical sites and natural beauty. You can explore near Heywood Castle Motte and Bailey, walk through Eggesford Forest, or admire the tranquil Tuckingmill Bridge over the River Yeo. The Riverside Path – Eggesford Castle loop specifically offers views of Eggesford Castle.
Are there any circular routes for family hikes in Wembworthy?
Absolutely! Most of the trails in this guide are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Eggesford Forest – All Saints Church, Eggesford loop from Wembworthy and the Eggesford Castle – Riverside Path loop from Wembworthy.
What is the best time of year to go hiking with family in Wembworthy?
Wembworthy is lovely throughout the seasons. Spring brings wildflowers to the woodlands, summer offers pleasant riverside strolls, and autumn showcases beautiful foliage. Even in winter, the paths can be enjoyed, though some routes might be muddier. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Wembworthy?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful countryside, the variety of landscapes from riversides to woodlands, and the well-maintained public footpaths that make it enjoyable for families.
Are the trails around Wembworthy suitable for pushchairs or strollers?
While many paths are generally accessible, some sections, especially in woodlands or over rolling hills, might be uneven or muddy, making them less suitable for standard pushchairs. For the most up-to-date information on specific trail conditions and accessibility, it's always best to check the individual route details on komoot.
Where can we find parking for family hikes in Wembworthy?
Parking availability varies by trailhead. Many routes start from villages or designated parking areas. For example, routes like the Riverside Path – Eggesford Castle loop often have starting points with nearby parking options. Always check the specific route details on komoot for recommended parking locations.
Are there any family-friendly places to eat or relax near the hiking trails?
While not directly on the trails, the charming North Tawton Town Square is a nearby point of interest that offers a place to explore after your hike, and you can often find local pubs or cafes in the surrounding villages for a family-friendly meal or refreshment.
Are dogs allowed on the family-friendly hiking trails?
Generally, dogs are welcome on public footpaths in the Wembworthy area. However, always keep dogs under control, especially when passing through farmland with livestock, and be mindful of local signage regarding dog access. It's good practice to keep them on a lead in sensitive areas.
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