The best family-friendly hikes and walks around South Brent

There are over 40 hiking routes around South Brent, with 15 specifically rated as easy, making them ideal for families. These trails offer a wonderful way to explore the edge of Dartmoor National Park and the tranquil Avon Valley.

The family-friendly trails around South Brent offer a mix of terrain. You can find well-maintained paths, including paved sections like the route from Shipley Bridge to Avon Dam, which is suitable for strollers. Other trails might feature gentle inclines, riverside paths, and some sections through wooded areas or open moorland, providing varied experiences for all ages.

Yes, absolutely! The route from Shipley Bridge to Avon Dam is an excellent choice. It's an easy 3.7-mile (5.91km) route along a paved access road, offering river views and leading to the impressive Avon Dam Reservoir. This path is also accessible for horse riders and cyclists, making it very versatile for families.

While many routes are out-and-back, you can find circular options that are suitable for families looking for a varied experience. For a longer, more challenging loop that includes the Avon Dam, consider the Avon Dam Reservoir loop from South Brent, which offers stunning views and a good workout for older children.

Many trails in the South Brent area, particularly those on Dartmoor National Park land, are dog-friendly. However, it's always important to keep dogs under control, especially around livestock and wildlife. Please check local signage for any specific restrictions, particularly during lambing season or in nature conservation areas.

South Brent is rich in natural beauty and interesting landmarks. You can hike to the impressive Lydia Bridge Waterfall, explore the tranquil Avon Valley, or visit the Dartmeet and Clapper Bridge. The Avon Dam Reservoir itself is a significant attraction, offering expansive views of the moor. For historical interest, you might encounter ancient routes like sections of the Two Moors Way or the Abbots Way.

A major and convenient access point for many trails is Shipley Bridge, which offers dedicated parking facilities. This is an ideal starting point for routes heading towards the Avon Dam and into the southern moors of Dartmoor.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.48 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, from tranquil river valleys to wild moorland, and the accessibility of trails like the paved path to Avon Dam. The stunning views and the sense of being on the edge of Dartmoor's dramatic scenery are frequently highlighted.

Yes, you can discover the beautiful Lydia Bridge Waterfall. A moderate circular route, the Lydia Bridge Waterfall – Shipley Bridge loop from South Brent, will take you past this scenic spot, offering a lovely natural highlight for your family adventure.

For rewarding vistas, consider trails that lead towards Brent Hill or Ugborough Beacon, which offer superb views across the South Hams and down to Ivybridge. The Avon Dam area also provides desolate yet beautiful spots with expansive views of the surrounding moorland, perfect for taking in the scenery.

While South Brent itself has some public transport connections, direct public transport to specific trailheads like Shipley Bridge can be limited. It's generally recommended to check local bus schedules for services to South Brent village, and then plan for a short taxi ride or a longer walk to reach the main starting points for trails into Dartmoor.