Best attractions and places to see around Chittlehampton include a blend of historical landmarks, cultural sites, and access to natural features in North Devon. The village is situated on the River Taw, offering opportunities for exploration and connection to the Tarka Trail. This area provides a variety of experiences, from ancient churches to extensive walking and cycling routes.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
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Beautiful little station, viaduct and mill visitor hub with wonderful model of the railway.
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Along the entire course of the river, in the riverbed and on the adjacent meadows, there are an incredible number of different birds to observe, including Canada gooses, lapwings, sandpipers, herons and falcons.
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The Tarka Trail is England's longest traffic free cycling and walking route. It stretches for just over 30 miles from Braunton to Meeth via Barnstaple. The trail follows a disused railway line and you will find many pubs and cafes to refuel, rehydrate and rest weary legs. It is named after Tarka the Otter, from the 1927 book of the same name by Henry Williamson. Keep an eye out for sculptures along the route as it is also one of Sustrans Art Trails.
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Chelfham Viaduct was built during the period 1896-97. It spans the Stoke Rivers valley on the Lynton & Barnstaple Railway. Unlike other similar viaduct's which were demolished after the railway was closed, Chelfham has remained due to a school and other buildings at its base making it too expensive to dismantle. There are long term plans to reopen the railway line and the viaduct enjoyed extensive restoration in 2000 as part of this project.
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Nice route by the river with a good surface, ideal for low impact bike touring
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A flat easy ride with stunning scenery and plenty of wildlife to spot along the way
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Nice place to pause for a minute and look out on to the estuary. You can see a variety of birds on occasion.
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Chittlehampton is rich in history. The village's centerpiece is St. Hieritha's Church, a Grade I listed building known for its magnificent western tower and its history as a pilgrimage site. You can also visit St. Hieritha's Holy Well, linked to the saint's legend, and the Chittlehampton War Memorial in the churchyard. The village's central Square and traditional thatched cottages also offer a glimpse into its past.
Yes, Chittlehampton is situated on the River Taw, a beautiful river running from Dartmoor into the Atlantic. It's popular with anglers and offers scenic views. You can explore sections of the river via the River Taw itself, or by following the nearby Tarka Trail.
The area around Chittlehampton is excellent for outdoor activities. You can enjoy cycling and walking on the Tarka Trail: Instow to Fremington, England's longest traffic-free cycling and walking route. For more specific routes, you can find various cycling tours and hiking trails that explore the local landscape.
Many of the natural attractions and trails are suitable for families. The Tarka Trail is a flat, easy ride or walk with stunning scenery, making it ideal for families. Additionally, the Birdwatching on the Taw Estuary highlight is a great spot for families to observe wildlife.
There are numerous walking opportunities. The Tarka Trail offers extensive walking paths along a disused railway line. For more varied terrain, Halsdon Nature Reserve, located nearby, provides walks through woodlands to the River Torridge. You can find a selection of hiking routes around Chittlehampton, including easy and moderate options.
The region is rich in wildlife. Along the River Taw and its estuary, you can spot various birds, including Canada geese, lapwings, sandpipers, and herons. Halsdon Nature Reserve is known for kingfishers, sand martins, and otters. Keep an eye out for red deer and Exmoor ponies if you venture towards Exmoor National Park.
Beyond the historical church, you can visit the Barnstaple Clock Tower, which is part of the historic Barnstaple Long Bridge, a Grade-I listed medieval bridge. Another interesting structure is the Chelfham Viaduct, a preserved railway viaduct with a fascinating history.
The River Taw can be explored by bike or on foot, particularly along sections of the Tarka Trail that run alongside it. This path offers a low-impact way to enjoy the river's beauty and spot wildlife. Anglers also find the river appealing for its various fish species.
Yes, there are several running trails in the vicinity. You can find a variety of running routes around Chittlehampton, ranging in distance and difficulty, perfect for a scenic jog through the North Devon countryside.
The Tarka Trail is England's longest traffic-free cycling and walking route, stretching over 30 miles. It follows a disused railway line and is named after 'Tarka the Otter'. While not directly in Chittlehampton, it's easily accessible by a short drive, offering a fantastic day out for cycling or walking with pubs and cafes along the way.
Yes, much of the North Devon coastline is designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), offering stunning scenery, diverse wildlife, and numerous walking trails. While not directly in Chittlehampton, it's within accessible distance for a day trip to experience dramatic coastal landscapes.
Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of historical significance and natural beauty. The flat, scenic paths of the Tarka Trail are highly rated for cycling and walking, offering stunning views and opportunities for wildlife spotting. The historical depth of sites like St. Hieritha's Church and the charm of the village itself also leave a lasting impression.


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