The best walks and hikes around Ashreigney
4.7
(45)
317
hikers
41
hikes
Hikes around Ashreigney explore the rural North Devon countryside, situated between the River Taw and the River Torridge. The landscape is characterized by rolling farmland, ancient woodlands, and steep, heavily wooded river valleys. Many routes follow public footpaths through areas like Eggesford Forest, offering a mix of riverside and woodland walking.
Best hiking trails around Ashreigney
- The most popular hiking route is Riverside Path – Eggesford Castle loop from Wembworthy, a 3.5 mile (5.7 km) trail that takes about 1 hour 30 minutes to complete. This easy route follows the river with minimal elevation gain.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Eggesford Forest – All Saints Church, Eggesford loop from Eggesford, a moderate 8.0 mile (12.9 km) path. This route involves more varied terrain and elevation as it passes through the forest.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Eggesford Castle – Riverside Path loop from Wembworthy, a 6.5 mile (10.5 km) trail leading through woodland and along the river, often completed in about 3 hours.
- Hiking around Ashreigney is defined by riverside paths, ancient woodlands, and rolling agricultural fields. The network of trails offers options for different ability levels, from short, easy walks to more moderate routes.
- The routes in Ashreigney are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from more than 30 reviews. More than 300 hikers have used komoot to explore Ashreigney's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 14, 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)
8
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. 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.
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Popular around Ashreigney
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
Are there many hiking trails to choose from around Ashreigney?
Yes, there are over 40 marked hiking routes to explore in the Ashreigney area. The trails range from easy riverside strolls to more challenging woodland treks, offering plenty of options for all fitness levels.
What do other hikers enjoy about the trails in Ashreigney?
The trails around Ashreigney are highly regarded by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the peaceful atmosphere of the ancient woodlands, the scenic paths along the River Torridge and River Taw, and the beautiful rolling farmland characteristic of North Devon.
Are there any easy, short walks suitable for beginners or a quick outing?
Absolutely. For a very short and gentle walk, the View of Eggesford House loop from Chulmleigh is a great choice. It's just over 2 km and offers lovely views with very little climbing.
Can I find any good circular walks in the area?
Yes, circular walks are very common. A great option is the All Saints Church, Eggesford – View of the stately home loop from Eggesford. This 5 km loop takes you through varied scenery including woodland and past historical points of interest.
Are the hiking trails around Ashreigney dog-friendly?
Many trails in the area are suitable for walking with dogs, but it's always best to keep them on a lead, especially near farmland with livestock. The paths through Heywood Wood are a popular choice for dog walkers.
Where can I find trails that go through Eggesford Forest?
Eggesford Forest offers several fantastic routes. For a comprehensive exploration of the area, consider the Eggesford Forest – All Saints Church, Eggesford loop from Eggesford. This moderate 12.9 km trail provides a true forest hiking experience.
Are there any family-friendly hikes near Ashreigney?
The Riverside Path – Eggesford Castle loop from Wembworthy is an excellent choice for families. It's a relatively flat 5.7 km walk along the river, making it manageable for younger children.
What is the Tarka Trail and can I access it from Ashreigney?
The Tarka Trail is a famous 180-mile walking and cycling path that follows the journey of an otter from a classic novel. Sections of this long-distance trail are easily accessible from the Ashreigney area and offer wonderful walks through river valleys and quiet countryside.
Where can I find good parking for the walks?
Parking availability varies by trailhead. For walks in Heywood Wood, there is a small, free car park. For routes starting in villages like Eggesford or Chulmleigh, you will typically find on-street parking, but be sure to park considerately.
Are there any trails with historical interest?
Yes, you can combine hiking with history. Several routes pass near the remains of medieval fortifications. The Eggesford Castle – Riverside Path loop from Wembworthy takes you near the site of Eggesford Castle, and you can also explore the area around Heywood Castle, a former motte and bailey fort.
What kind of scenery can I expect on a hike around Ashreigney?
The landscape is classic rural Devon. Expect a beautiful mix of rolling green hills, ancient woodlands with well-trodden paths, quiet country lanes, and scenic trails that follow the meandering banks of the River Taw and River Torridge.
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