Top 10 Scenic Walks Near Twelve Oaks Farm, Devon
Are you looking for the perfect holiday destination in Devon that offers not just a tranquil escape but also fantastic walking routes? Twelve Oaks Farm provides an excellent base for walkers of all levels, offering a blend of coastal, countryside, and Dartmoor adventures. Whether you’re visiting Devon from elsewhere in the UK or abroad, this guide will showcase some of the most stunning walks within a short distance from the farm.
Here’s a rundown of the top scenic walks near Twelve Oaks Farm, ideal for families, dog owners, and walking enthusiasts alike.
1. Haytor to Hound Tor
Distance: 4-5 miles | Difficulty: Moderate | OS Maps Route
This is one of Dartmoor’s most iconic walks. Starting from Haytor, which offers panoramic views across the moors, you’ll make your way to Hound Tor, an ancient site steeped in history. This walk is suitable for families and dog owners, with plenty of space for children and pets to explore safely.
Why it’s perfect for walkers: This walk is a great introduction to Dartmoor’s wild beauty. You’ll see Dartmoor ponies, granite tors, and wide expanses of moorland. Perfect for those seeking to experience Devon’s rugged terrain.
2. Stover Country Park
Distance: 1-2 miles | Difficulty: Easy | OS Maps Route
Stover Country Park is a short drive from Twelve Oaks Farm and provides a relaxing, nature-filled walk around a scenic lake. This trail is family-friendly and wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for visitors of all ages and abilities. It’s particularly popular with birdwatchers, thanks to the park’s rich wildlife.
Why it’s perfect for walkers: Ideal for families and nature enthusiasts who want a leisurely stroll through peaceful woodlands and around lakes.
3. Burrator Reservoir Circular Walk
Distance: 3.5 miles | Difficulty: Easy to Moderate | OS Maps Route
A favourite among locals and visitors alike, the Burrator Reservoir walk offers flat, well-maintained paths that circle the tranquil reservoir. It’s a gentle walk, perfect for families with small children or those who prefer a leisurely pace. The views over the water, with Dartmoor’s rugged hills in the background, are simply breathtaking.
Why it’s perfect for walkers: Burrator provides a peaceful and accessible route for those new to walking holidays, with stunning scenery and plenty of picnic spots.
Discover more about Burrator Reservoir.
4. Fernworthy Reservoir
Distance: 4.5 miles | Difficulty: Easy to Moderate | OS Maps Routes
For those who love a blend of forest and water, the Fernworthy Reservoir walk offers the best of both. This route takes you through dense woodlands, along the reservoir’s edge, and past ancient stone circles. It’s an ideal choice for families and history buffs alike, with the bonus of spotting some local wildlife along the way.
Why it’s perfect for walkers: This peaceful trail is great for those looking to combine Dartmoor’s natural beauty with a touch of ancient history.
5. South West Coast Path – Teignmouth to Dawlish
Distance: 4 miles | Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
If you’re seeking a coastal walk with stunning sea views, the Teignmouth to Dawlish route along the South West Coast Path is an excellent option. This trail takes you along the cliffs, offering dramatic views over the English Channel. The walk is perfect for a sunny day, with plenty of stops for refreshments in both towns.
Why it’s perfect for walkers: Ideal for combining a day at the beach with a scenic walk, offering a mix of sea air and Devon’s rolling countryside.
6. Bellever Forest Walk
Distance: 3 miles | Difficulty: Easy
The Bellever Forest Walk offers a refreshing escape into Dartmoor’s woodlands, providing shade on warmer days and plenty of places for children and pets to explore. This walk is ideal for a family day out, with trails that are suitable for all levels of fitness. The highlight is the ancient Clapper Bridge, perfect for a picnic stop.
Why it’s perfect for walkers: A serene forest walk, ideal for those who want to escape the moorland and enjoy the tranquillity of Dartmoor’s woodlands.
7. Wistman’s Wood and River Dart Walk
Distance: 4 miles | Difficulty: Moderate
For a mystical Dartmoor experience, Wistman’s Wood offers a unique landscape of gnarled, moss-covered trees that are said to be haunted. This walk is a must for those who love a bit of folklore and adventure. Combine it with a gentle riverside walk along the Dart for a memorable day out.
Why it’s perfect for walkers: A magical walk with a blend of eerie woodlands and tranquil river paths, great for seasoned walkers looking for something unique.
8. Okehampton to Meldon Reservoir
Distance: 5 miles | Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
This lovely circular walk begins in the historic market town of Okehampton and takes you to Meldon Reservoir, one of the most scenic spots in Dartmoor. The route is well-marked and provides stunning views of the surrounding hills and viaduct. It’s suitable for families, with gentle slopes and a few rest stops along the way.
Why it’s perfect for walkers: Perfect for history lovers and nature enthusiasts alike, with a mix of town and rural scenery.
9. Lydford Gorge
Distance: 3 miles | Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Lydford Gorge, the deepest river gorge in the South West, offers a stunning walk along winding trails, dramatic waterfalls, and beautiful woodlands. The circular route takes you past the famous White Lady Waterfall and the Devil’s Cauldron, a naturally carved whirlpool. This walk is a perfect mix of adventure and tranquillity, ideal for those who enjoy being surrounded by nature’s raw beauty.
Why it’s perfect for walkers: Lydford Gorge offers a combination of waterfalls, woodland, and gorge scenery, making it one of Dartmoor’s most captivating walks. It’s ideal for those looking to explore Devon’s natural features, and it’s dog-friendly too.
10. Meldon Viaduct Circular Walk
Distance: 4.5 km | Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Terrain: Countryside, Viaduct
A circular walk near Okehampton, offering views of Meldon Reservoir and the impressive Meldon Viaduct.
Why it’s perfect for walkers: A great walk combining beautiful countryside with a historical railway viaduct.
Why Twelve Oaks Farm is the Ideal Walking Holiday Destination
If you’re planning a walking holiday in Devon, Twelve Oaks Farm is ideally situated to explore a variety of trails, from coastal paths to rugged moorland. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just looking for a leisurely stroll with the family, there’s a route for everyone. Plus, with dog-friendly accommodation and easy access to family-friendly walks, it’s the perfect base for walkers looking to experience the best of Devon.
Key Reasons to Stay at Twelve Oaks Farm:
- Central Location: Close to Dartmoor and the Devon coast, offering a diverse range of walking experiences.
- Dog-Friendly: Many local walks are perfect for dogs, with open spaces and dog-friendly cafés along the way.
- Family-Friendly: Safe and engaging trails suitable for all ages, from toddlers to grandparents.
- Varied Scenery: Experience the best of Devon’s landscapes, from ancient woodlands and tranquil reservoirs to dramatic cliffs and rolling hills.
For more information and to book your stay, visit Twelve Oaks Farm’s website and start planning your ultimate walking holiday in Devon today!