The best family-friendly hikes and walks around East Budleigh

There are over 15 family-friendly hiking trails around East Budleigh, ranging from easy strolls perfect for little legs to more moderate adventures. This guide features 16 routes specifically curated for families.

East Budleigh offers a diverse landscape for family hikes. You can explore the serene Otter Estuary Nature Reserve, known for its birdwatching opportunities and even beavers. Many trails also lead through the heathlands of Woodbury Common or along the River Otter, where wildflowers flourish. The area is also just two miles from the dramatic cliffs of the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Yes, East Budleigh has several easy family walks perfect for toddlers or those new to hiking. For example, the View from Woodbury Common loop from East Budleigh is an easy option, offering gentle terrain and scenic views without being too strenuous. There are 7 easy routes in total within this guide.

Many trails around East Budleigh are dog-friendly, especially those on Woodbury Common and along the River Otter. However, it's always best to keep dogs on a lead, particularly in nature reserves or areas with livestock, and to check specific route details for any restrictions. Please be mindful of wildlife, especially ground-nesting birds on the heathlands.

Absolutely! Many of the family-friendly trails around East Budleigh are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same location. A great example is the Woodbury Common & Woodbury Castle loop from East Budleigh, which offers varied terrain and historical interest. Another option is the longer Otterton, Colaton Raleigh & Woodbury Common loop from East Budleigh.

East Budleigh is rich in history. You can visit Woodbury Castle, an Iron Age hillfort on Woodbury Common, which is part of the Woodbury Common & Woodbury Castle loop from East Budleigh. The village itself is known as the birthplace of Sir Walter Raleigh, and you can see his ancestral home, East Barton, from Hayes Lane. The 12th-century church in East Budleigh also features intricately carved bench ends.

East Budleigh is beautiful year-round. Spring brings blooming wildflowers along the riverbanks, while summer offers warm weather for exploring the commons and coast. Autumn provides stunning colours in the woodlands, and even winter walks can be magical, especially on crisp, clear days. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.

Parking is generally available in and around East Budleigh village. For trails heading towards Woodbury Common, there are often small car parks or roadside parking areas near common access points. Specific parking details are usually provided within individual route descriptions on komoot.

Yes, East Budleigh village itself has local amenities. Many routes will either start or pass through the village, offering opportunities for refreshments. Nearby towns like Budleigh Salterton also provide a wider selection of cafes and pubs, perfect for a post-hike treat.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, from the peaceful river valleys to the expansive heathlands, and the well-maintained paths that make it enjoyable for all ages. The chance to spot wildlife, like beavers in the River Otter, is also a highlight for many families.

While many trails feature natural surfaces, some sections along the River Otter or within the villages might be suitable for sturdy strollers. For the most comfortable experience with a stroller, look for routes described as 'easy' and check the terrain details on komoot, focusing on paths that are wider and less rugged. Generally, trails on Woodbury Common might be too uneven for standard strollers.