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Woodlands walks in South Devon - Avon Valley in Loddiswell

When it comes to scenery, most of us associate South Devon with its unspoilt farmland and varied coastline incorporating sweeping bays, secluded coves and craggy cliffs. Whilst these make perfect coastal and countryside walks, for a whimsical amble, nothing beats a forest or woodland walk.

Fortunately, South Devon’s varied scenery offers plenty of forest and woodland walks to choose from. So, depending on your fitness level and the scenery you’d like to find, there’s an option out there. Plus, there’s plenty of strolls where you can bring your four-legged friend along too. 


10 forest and woodland walks in South Devon:

Looking for somewhere specific? Use our quick links below, or read on for our favourite forest and woodland walks in South Devon:

  1. Bellever Forest
  2. Plymbridge Woods
  3. Long Timber Woods
  4. Haldon Forest
  5. Cann Woods
  6. West Alvington Woods
  7. Avon Valley, Loddiswell Woods
  8. Holne Woods
  9. Andrew’s Wood
  10. Berry Head Woods

Bellever Forest

Woodlands walks in South Devon - Bellever Forest

Bellever Forest is located in the expanses of Dartmoor and provides a perfect woodland walk in South Devon. Whether you’re looking for a gentle meander through the forest or fancy something a little more strenuous, Bellever Forest has it all. 

Follow the waymarked walking trails, or the historic bridleway, and discover a wealth of fascinating wildlife including wild Dartmoor Ponies. This beautiful and peaceful walk will take you along the East Dart River or Bellever Tor – perfect for your four-legged companions. 

On a warm day, bring a picnic and take a seat in the designated picnic area. Let your dogs run free with plenty of space to burn off some energy and take a refreshing dip in the river.


Plymbridge Woods

Woodlands walks in South Devon - Plymbridge Woods

Located just outside of Plymouth in the Plym Valley is Plymbridge woods. A stunning wooded valley that offers a varied habitat from riverside meadows to ancient woodlands, and the wilderness of Dartmoor. Owned by the National Trust, Plymbridge woods is well looked after and provides several walking trails. 

Along your walk, you’ll spot a mix of flora and fauna, as well as a variety of bird species from kingfishers and dippers to Peregrine falcons and mandarin ducks. There’s even a viewing platform at Cann Viaduct, where telescopes are set up from March to early summer, and volunteers will help you spot the peregrine falcons. 

The trail runs along the River, as well as along the old railway, which takes you all the way to Tavistock and beyond. The terrain is mixed between uneven woodland paths and tarmacked trails.


Long Timber Woods

Situated along the River Erme in the village of Ivybridge, Long Timber Woods is a 53-acre site of ancient natural woodlands. The trails take you alongside the River Erme up onto Dartmoor and the Two Moors Way. This woodland walk in South Devon can be accessed from two points along Station Road. 

The lower entrance provides a slightly more challenging walk, whereas the entrance near the viaduct is more accessible. The whole walk through Long Timber Woods is relatively easy, although the path can be a little uneven in places. 

Your four-legged friends will love splashing in the water and exploring the range of trails on offer. You can make this walk as long or as short as you wish, and it’s the perfect trail all year round.


Haldon Forest

Woodlands walks in South Devon - Haldon Forest

Made up of 3,500 acres of Woodland, Haldon Forest is the perfect place to immerse yourself in nature. Whether you’re looking for a gentle stroll or a long hiking trail, there’s plenty here for everyone. Haldon Forest isn’t just perfect for walking, it also offers a variety of cycling trails to suit all abilities. 

Enjoy expansive views, and tree-top adventures at GoApe, and test your map reading skills with orienteering courses. This expansive woodland walk in South Devon has several easy-going trails. Those with limited mobility can enjoy some woodland adventures with off-road mobility scooters available through the Countryside Mobility Scheme

Looking to refuel after your walk? The onsite café serves a range of refreshments and light bites for the whole family. Dogs are also welcome along all trails throughout the woods and the café.


Cann Woods

Located in Plymouth, Cann Woods is a local nature reserve that offers the perfect place to walk, relax and explore nature. The site provides a valuable habitat for a range of flora and fauna so be on the lookout for birds, deer, and more. 

Cann woods covers an area of around 230 hectares and provides several trails worth exploring. Walk, cycle, or bring a picnic and enjoy stunning woodland views. Dogs are also welcome and must be kept under control at all times.


West Alvington Woods

About a mile west of Kingsbridge across roads, fields and paths, West Alvington Woods is a common destination for walkers looking for a pleasant trail from this pretty market town. These woods are fairly small but old and rich in variety with oak, beech, sweet chestnut, hazel and other species. 

Whether you’re looking for a gentle stroll or want to add these woods to a longer walk from the surrounding villages, there’s a trail for everyone.


Avon Valley, Loddiswell Woods

Woodlands walks in South Devon - Avon Valley Loddiswell Woods

Avon Valley and Loddiswell Woods is a sizeable forest in the beautiful Aune Valley. The walking trail runs along the old railway line and parking can be found at Avon Mill Garden Centre in Loddiswell. The woods are great for wildlife lovers and are home to over 30 species of birds, as well as a variety of butterflies and mammals. 

The sparkling shallow water on this stretch of the river is hypnotic at times, and also provides a refreshing place for dogs to cool off on a hot sunny day. Bring a picnic blanket and flask with you, so you can settle down and while away the time. There are plenty of walks through this wood, but why not check out our Loddiswell Woods circular walk as a starting point?


Holne Woods

Part of the National Trust, Holne woods is an ancient western oak woodland just off the A38 near Buckfastleigh. At the southern edge of Dartmoor, these woods provide stunning views over the national park and the path runs from one end of the woods to the other, along the River Dart. 

Whatever time of year you visit, there’s always something to see, whether it’s the trees dripping with lichens and mosses, the wildlife and birds, or the sounds of the river’s many rapids and cascades. This is a truly pleasant and peaceful walk for those looking for a hideaway. Just like many of these woodland walks in South Devon, it’s dog-friendly too.


Andrew’s Wood

Woodlands walks in South Devon - Andrew's Woods

Popular with locals, Andrew’s Wood is a hidden gem within the South Hams landscape. From the top of the reserve, you’ll find far-reaching views over the undulating hills and on a really clear day, you may even get a glimpse of the sea. 

Andrew’s Wood is a haven for flora and fauna and offers plenty of trails throughout that vary in length. Look out for the four semi-wild Dartmoor ponies that call this reserve their home, and be sure to keep all gates closed so they don’t escape.


Berry Head Woods

Berry Head Nature Reserve is an internationally acclaimed heritage site and is home to a variety of coastal wildlife, history, restored Napoleonic War fortifications and geological formations. Located in Brixham, Berry Head offers everything from coastal walks to woodland walks. 

You may be surprised to know that Berry Head Woods stretches almost 20 acres and has plenty of large footpaths for you to explore along. The terrain is fairly flat, making this an easy walk if you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or you have little ones in tow. 

Dogs will love this walk too. The large open field next to the woods will also give your four-legged friends a chance to burn off even more energy before you go back home.


If you are looking for additional walks in South Devon, check out our other blogs listed below:


Holiday Cottages in South Devon

Woodlands walks in South Devon - holiday cottage

We have over 500 self-catering holiday cottages located across South Devon. Whether you’re looking for quaint romantic boltholes, stunning large properties fit for the whole family,  or even dog-friendly cottages, we have a range of humble abodes to suit your every need.