Walking and Hiking Trails
Explore the Best Trails & Outdoor Activities Near Newton Abbot
Newton Abbot and the surrounding TQ12 area offer a variety of scenic walking and cycling routes, from peaceful riverside strolls to more challenging moorland treks. Whether you prefer woodland walks, historical trails, or open countryside, there’s a path to suit all abilities.
Here’s a guide to the best walking, hiking, and cycling routes, along with additional outdoor activities for those looking to explore more of South Devon’s natural beauty.
- Walking and Hiking Trails
Decoy Country Park
Location: Southern edge of Newton Abbot (TQ12 1EB)
A family-friendly nature park with well-marked trails through woodland, around a lake, and alongside open green spaces. Routes range from short, easy walks (1–2 km) to slightly longer woodland paths.
Why Visit?
· Wildlife spotting, especially waterfowl on the lake.
· Accessible trails, making it ideal for families and casual walkers.
· Children’s play area, picnic spots, and an outdoor gym.
Find out more HERE
Bradley Woods & Bradley Manor
Location: North of Newton Abbot town centre (TQ12 6BN)
Bradley Woods is a tranquil woodland retreat surrounding the 15th-century Bradley Manor, a National Trust property. The paths here are relatively short and undulating, making them ideal for a gentle family walk.
Why Visit?
· Historic Bradley Manor (check National Trust opening times).
· A peaceful woodland setting with riverside meadows and wildlife.
· A short walk from the town centre, yet completely secluded.
Find out more HERE
Bakers Park and River Lemon Walk
Location: Totnes Road, Newton Abbot (TQ12 2JU)
A relaxing riverside walk along the River Lemon, starting from Bakers Park and continuing along scenic footpaths leading out of town.
Why Visit?
· Mostly level ground, making it suitable for all fitness levels.
· Riverside views, play areas, tennis courts, and open fields.
· The route can be extended for a longer countryside walk.
Find out more HERE
Bakers Park and River Lemon Walk
Location: Totnes Road, Newton Abbot (TQ12 2JU)
A relaxing riverside walk along the River Lemon, starting from Bakers Park and continuing along scenic footpaths leading out of town.
Why Visit?
· Mostly level ground, making it suitable for all fitness levels.
· Riverside views, play areas, tennis courts, and open fields.
· The route can be extended for a longer countryside walk.
Find out more HERE
Templer Way
Location: An 18-mile route running from Haytor on Dartmoor through Newton Abbot to Teignmouth on the coast.
A long-distance walking trail following the historic granite tramway and Stover Canal. The Newton Abbot sections include canal towpaths, scenic farmland, and woodland trails.
Why Visit?
· Industrial heritage sites, including Stover Canal remnants.
· Beautiful views from Dartmoor to the Teign Estuary.
· Walk as much or as little as you like—great for short or long walks.
Find out more HERE
Dartmoor National Park
Location: Approximately 15–20 minutes’ drive from Newton Abbot.
A world-class walking destination, Dartmoor National Park offers trails ranging from gentle rambles to challenging hikes up tors (granite outcrops).
Why Visit?
· Stunning moorland landscapes and historic ruins.
· Trails for all fitness levels, from easy circular walks to rugged hikes.
· Famous landmarks like Haytor, Hound Tor, and Widecombe-in-the-Moor.
Find out more HERE
Dartmoor National Park
Location: Approximately 15–20 minutes’ drive from Newton Abbot.
A world-class walking destination, Dartmoor National Park offers trails ranging from gentle rambles to challenging hikes up tors (granite outcrops).
Why Visit?
· Stunning moorland landscapes and historic ruins.
· Trails for all fitness levels, from easy circular walks to rugged hikes.
· Famous landmarks like Haytor, Hound Tor, and Widecombe-in-the-Moor.
Find out more HERE
- Cycling Routes
Stover Trail
Location: Connecting Newton Abbot to Bovey Tracey, passing through Stover Country Park.
A traffic-free cycle path, perfect for families and leisure cyclists, following old railway track beds and quiet lanes.
Why Ride Here?
· Flat and gentle gradients, making it suitable for all ages.
· Passes through Stover Country Park, a beautiful nature reserve.
· Interpretive boards along the route highlighting local wildlife and history.
Find out more HERE
Templer Way (Cycling Sections)
Location: Parts of the Templer Way are cycle-friendly.
While not all sections are bike-accessible, the stretch between Newton Abbot and Jetty Marsh/Teigngrace is ideal for a scenic ride.
Why Ride Here?
· Ride beside remnants of the Stover Canal.
· Enjoy flat or gently undulating terrain.
· A peaceful alternative to road cycling.
Find out more HERE
Templer Way (Cycling Sections)
Location: Parts of the Templer Way are cycle-friendly.
While not all sections are bike-accessible, the stretch between Newton Abbot and Jetty Marsh/Teigngrace is ideal for a scenic ride.
Why Ride Here?
· Ride beside remnants of the Stover Canal.
· Enjoy flat or gently undulating terrain.
· A peaceful alternative to road cycling.
Find out more HERE
Other Outdoor Activities
Water Sports
· Teign Estuary and Decoy Lake offer opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
· Local clubs and rental options are available for those looking to get on the water.
Horse Riding
· Several riding schools in the Newton Abbot area offer hacks and lessons, particularly near Dartmoor’s bridleways.
Wildlife & Birdwatching
· Stover Country Park has a dedicated bird hide overlooking the lake, making it a great spot for birdwatching.
· Jetty Marsh Local Nature Reserve is another prime location for spotting wetland birds and wildlife.
Practical Tips for Exploring the Outdoors
Maps & Navigation
· For detailed walking and cycling routes, consider an Ordnance Survey map (OL28 Dartmoor or OS Explorer 110).
Weather Considerations
· Always check local forecasts, especially if heading onto Dartmoor, where conditions can change quickly.
Parking & Facilities
· Most parks and trailheads have free or low-cost parking, though it can be limited during peak times. Arriving early is recommended.
· Decoy Country Park and other town parks have cafés or kiosks, while some routes (e.g. Templer Way) rely on nearby villages for refreshments.
Practical Tips for Exploring the Outdoors
Maps & Navigation
· For detailed walking and cycling routes, consider an Ordnance Survey map (OL28 Dartmoor or OS Explorer 110).
Weather Considerations
· Always check local forecasts, especially if heading onto Dartmoor, where conditions can change quickly.
Parking & Facilities
· Most parks and trailheads have free or low-cost parking, though it can be limited during peak times. Arriving early is recommended.
· Decoy Country Park and other town parks have cafés or kiosks, while some routes (e.g. Templer Way) rely on nearby villages for refreshments.
Start Exploring Newton Abbot’s Walking & Cycling Routes
Whether you’re looking for a gentle riverside stroll, a family-friendly woodland walk, a long-distance trail, or a scenic cycling route, the Newton Abbot area has something for everyone.
Ready to get outdoors? Choose your trail and start exploring today.
