The best walks and hikes around Upton Hellions

There are over 90 hiking trails around Upton Hellions, offering a wide range of options for exploring the rolling pastoral landscapes and the River Creedy valley. You'll find routes suitable for various fitness levels.

Hikers in Upton Hellions will experience a diverse landscape characterized by rolling, pastoral fields and woodlands that fringe the River Creedy valley. Many routes offer sweeping views towards Dartmoor and traverse extensive arable landscapes, providing a true sense of the 'Deepest Devon' countryside.

Yes, Upton Hellions offers plenty of easy hikes. Over 50 of the routes are classified as easy, typically lasting up to two hours with minimal elevation gain. These paths are generally accessible and suitable for most fitness levels, including families looking for a gentle stroll.

While hiking, you can discover several points of interest. The village itself is home to the historic St. Mary's Church, a Grade I listed building. Nearby, you might encounter highlights such as Bickleigh Mill & The Bridge Inn, the tranquil Shobrooke Park Lake and Stone Bridge, or the St Swithun's Church and Holy Well.

Yes, many of the trails around Upton Hellions are circular, allowing you to start and end your hike in the same location. For example, the Hiking loop from Crediton is a popular circular route that offers scenic views of the local countryside.

The trails in Upton Hellions are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars from over 100 reviews. Hikers often praise the tranquility of the area, the well-maintained footpaths, and the immersive experience of the traditional Devon countryside.

Many of the footpaths and green lanes in the Upton Hellions area are suitable for dogs. Given the pastoral nature of the landscape, it's common to encounter livestock, so keeping dogs on a lead is often recommended, especially in fields with animals. Always follow local signage.

Yes, the River Creedy is a significant natural feature of the area, and several walks take advantage of its valley. You can find routes that follow the river, sometimes crossing footbridges or even the distinctive 'Shaky Bridge', offering pleasant riverside scenery.

Hikes in Upton Hellions vary in duration and difficulty. Easy routes can be completed in about 1 to 2 hours, while moderate trails might take 2 to 3 hours. For instance, the Forest Scenery loop from Crediton is a moderate 6.1-mile trail that typically takes around 2 hours 45 minutes.

While the majority of routes are easy to moderate, there are some options that offer a greater challenge. These can extend up to five hours with more significant elevation gain, requiring good fitness. The varied terrain ensures there's something for those seeking a longer, more strenuous outing.

Yes, you can find excellent routes starting from nearby villages. For example, the Hiking loop from Shobrooke is a moderate 4.5-mile trail, and the Wooden Bridge Over the Stream loop from Shobrooke offers an easier 2.6-mile option.

Upton Hellions offers enjoyable hiking year-round. Spring and summer bring lush green landscapes and wildflowers, while autumn provides beautiful foliage. Even in winter, the 'Deepest Devon' countryside has a unique charm, though paths might be muddier. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.