Honiton is a haven for those who love a walking holiday. Not only do you have the Jurassic Coast a stone’s throw away with its array of coastal walks, but there are also the Blackdown Hills and the Pebblebed Heaths on the doorstep, as well as a host of other wonderful routes, perfect for a winter walk.
Here are some of our favourite walking routes around Honiton and East Devon for you to enjoy this winter.
Woodbury Castle to Aylesbeare Common
This walk starts out at the Woodbury Castle car park, where you can still pick out traces of the Iron Age hill fort that once dominated the area. On a clear day, you can see beautiful views of the Exe Estuary and Lyme Bay. Sometimes, you can even see as far afield as Dartmoor, Exmoor and the Quantock Hills in Somerset. From here, follow the trail across Woodbury Common and then through to the Pebblebed Heaths, which occupies a large area of East Devon. Eventually you will find yourself at Aylesbeare Common, parts of which are managed by the RSPB and is home to a wide range of bird life – even in the winter months.
Offwell Woods & Nature Reserve
On the outskirts of Honiton, you’ll find Offwell Woods, where there is a lovely 5 mile circular route back towards farmland around the town. The Nature Reserve includes a variety of footpaths, bridleways and country lanes, so there are bits that are more accessible than others. The area is mostly wooded, with streams, bridges and a lovely little pond, giving you plenty of different views.
Pebblebed Heaths National Nature Reserve
The route towards Aylesbeare Common will take you through the Pebblebed Heaths National Nature Reserve, but it is a great place to explore in its own right. It is the largest area of lowland heath in the whole of Devon and is a stone’s throw from Honiton. There are over 80km of tracks and walks to explore here, so you can easily find one that suits you.
Dumpdon Hill Fort
About 10 minutes’ drive from Honiton, is Dumpdon Hill Fort – like Woodbury Castle, this is another Iron Age settlement, which has some lovely walking routes. There is parking available, just look out for the National Trust signs, but be aware that there aren’t set trails like at other local National Trust sites. There are sections that are uneven and at this time of the year, it is recommended to wear wellies or suitable hiking shoes.
Fancy some refreshments after your stroll around the countryside? Check out places to eat and drink around East Devon here.