The best walks and hikes around Stoke Canon

Stoke Canon offers a wide selection of hiking routes, with over 320 trails to explore. These range from easy strolls to more challenging hikes, ensuring options for all fitness levels.

The terrain around Stoke Canon is diverse, featuring picturesque riverside paths along the meandering River Exe, open footpaths through fields, and varied wooded sections. You'll also find sections of the disused Exe Valley Railway Path, which offers accessible, flatter routes. Be prepared for a mix of gravel paths and potentially muddy field footpaths, especially after rain.

Yes, Stoke Canon is an excellent area for family walks. Many routes are relatively flat and easy, such as the Exe Valley Railway Path – Old Cross loop from Stoke Canon, which is 4.3 km and follows a historic railway line. The area's open fields and riverside paths provide a pleasant environment for children and adults alike.

Many of the trails around Stoke Canon are dog-friendly, offering open spaces and riverside paths for your canine companion. However, as routes often pass through fields with grazing cattle and sheep, it's advisable to keep dogs on a lead in these areas. Always be mindful of local signage and livestock.

Yes, Stoke Canon features several enjoyable circular routes. A popular option is the River Exe at Brampford Speke – Exe Valley Railway Path loop from Brampford Speke, an easy 5.2 km trail offering serene riverside views. Another is the Exe Valley Railway Path – River Exe at Brampford Speke loop from Stoke Canon, a longer 10.6 km route through the Exe Valley.

While hiking around Stoke Canon, you can discover several points of interest. The picturesque village of Brampford Speke, with its 1400s church tower, is accessible via walks. You might also encounter the unique Nether Exe Chapel, which can only be reached by walking across a field. The Bickleigh Mill & The Bridge Inn is another historical site worth exploring nearby.

Stoke Canon offers pleasant hiking experiences throughout the year. Spring and summer provide lush green landscapes and opportunities for picnics by the River Exe. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, while winter walks can be crisp and quiet, though some field paths may become muddy. Always check weather conditions before heading out.

Absolutely. Stoke Canon is well-suited for beginners, with 199 easy trails available. The Exe Valley Railway Path – Old Cross loop from Stoke Canon is an excellent choice, offering a gentle 4.3 km path along the historic railway line, ideal for those new to hiking.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 350 reviews. Reviewers often praise the serene riverside paths, the varied scenery of open fields and wooded sections, and the accessibility of the Exe Valley Railway Path. The peaceful rural charm and opportunities to spot wildlife like kingfishers are also frequently highlighted.

Yes, for those seeking a longer challenge, there are 116 moderate trails. The View of Railway Tracks – Columbjohn Chapel loop from Nether Exe is a moderate 10.7 km route that takes you through varied landscapes, offering a more extended exploration of the Exe Valley.

Yes, the region offers opportunities to combine hiking with other activities. The Grand Western Canal, now a Country Park and Nature Reserve, provides additional walking and cycling options. The National Trust property of Killerton, with its gardens and countryside walks, is also within easy reach, offering another dimension to your outdoor experience.