Greenway & Old Mill Creek loop from Dittisham

This loop is rated as moderate. It requires good fitness due to several steep ascents and descents. While many paths are easily accessible, some sections can be loose, uneven, or muddy after rain, so sure-footedness and appropriate footwear are recommended.

The trail features varied terrain, including quiet country lanes, paths through woodlands and fields, and some rocky sections. You'll encounter a mix of paved roads, footpaths, and hiking paths. Sections along the river and through wooded valleys can be particularly scenic.

The loop offers several notable features. You'll experience a unique Dittisham–Greenway Ferry crossing. The trail also leads to Greenway House, Agatha Christie's former holiday home, now a National Trust property with beautiful gardens. Along Old Mill Creek, you can spot The Mayfly Shipwreck, an old bridge, and a tumbledown limekiln. The route also passes through areas with historical elements like Bozomzeal and Hamblyn's Coombe.

Yes, the trail is generally dog-friendly. However, please be mindful of livestock in fields and keep dogs on a lead where necessary, especially near farm animals or sensitive wildlife areas. Always clean up after your dog.

Parking is available in Dittisham, which serves as the starting point for this loop. Specific parking areas may vary, so it's advisable to check local signage upon arrival for the most current information and any potential fees.

The trail is beautiful year-round. Spring offers hedges full of blossoms and wildflowers, while summer brings vibrant flora. Autumn is lovely with late bees and butterflies, and creatures rummaging in fallen leaves. Be prepared for potentially muddy paths after rain, especially in wetter seasons.

No specific permits are required to hike the trail itself. The South Devon National Landscape (formerly AONB) is a protected area, but there are no general entrance fees. However, if you choose to visit specific attractions like Greenway House, there will be an admission fee.

Yes, sections of the loop follow parts of the Dart Valley Trail and are also integrated into the broader South West Coast Path. You'll also encounter smaller local paths like Dittisham Jetty, Lapthorne Lane, and The Quay.

You can expect breathtaking scenery showcasing the natural beauty of South Devon. The trail offers spectacular views over the River Dart and its estuary, rolling hills, and across to Tor Bay. The landscape includes ancient woodlands and picturesque riverside paths.

Dittisham, the starting point, offers some local amenities. Along the route, particularly near Greenway, you may find facilities associated with the National Trust property. It's always a good idea to carry water and snacks, as services might be limited in certain sections.

Yes, a distinctive part of the loop involves a ferry crossing, typically the Dittisham–Greenway Ferry. This short crossing usually takes about 5 minutes and connects different sections of the trail, offering unique river views. It's advisable to check the ferry's operating schedule and any associated costs beforehand.