Hatherleigh – Moorland, Trails and Local Culture

Hatherleigh brings together landscapes, trails and vibrant local culture within a compact thematic area. Hatherleigh Moor, an ancient common, lies immediately next to the town. There are also public footpaths and historic rights of way through moorland, farmland, woodland and winding country lanes. Those looking for holiday accommodation in Hatherleigh will find a starting point for very different days: short walks, historical discoveries, nature watching or events with strong local connections.

Walking trails between moorland and countryside

Several described routes make the surrounding area tangible. The Passaford & Lover’s Walk is an approximately 2-mile walking route starting from Hatherleigh. Also approximately 2 miles long are the Part War Horse Walk from Hatherleigh’s Square and the Haywooda/Strawbridge Walk from Hatherleigh’s Square. The Hatherleigh Moor Walk is an approximately 2-mile route across Hatherleigh Moor. These four options can be selected when planning your day according to the starting point and the landscape you want to focus on, without having to commit to just one type of outing.

Hatherleigh lies immediately off the Tarka Trail and close to the Two Moors Way. In the wider region, Ruby Country offers footpaths and bridleways for walks through the countryside and rural exploration. This variety can be appealing for families, as active sections and cultural destinations can be combined into a varied day of travel. The specific choice of route remains up to you.

Nature experiences around Hatherleigh

Ash Moor lies 2 miles north of Hatherleigh on the Tarka Trail cycling and walking route. The nature reserve has been transformed into a network of meadows, ponds and wetlands managed by Devon Wildlife Trust. Ash Moor can be visited by bicycle and on foot. This gives the moorland trails an additional landscape featuring meadows, bodies of water and wetlands.

Roadford Lake is another option in the area around Hatherleigh. Sailing, kayaking and nature watching are available there. Those who want to consider different types of outings when choosing holiday accommodation can therefore combine Hatherleigh with walks, cycling routes, nature watching and activities on the water. The landscape of rural Devon remains the common setting, while the individual days can look very different.

Church, gallery and local traditions

St John’s Holy Well is a Scheduled Monument on Hatherleigh Moor east of Hatherleigh. In the Middle Ages, the spring was used as a baptismal well. St John’s Church in Hatherleigh also has an audio-guided tour with accompanying images covering history, heritage, architecture and local stories. An interactive 3D tour with information points provides another way to explore the church.

The Salar Gallery showcases the landscape, wildlife and heritage of rural Devon and Dartmoor through works by local painters, photographers and writers. It is located on the ground floor in the centre of Hatherleigh. Hatherleigh Community Market offers level access and accessible toilets. The historic Old Schools building provides rooms for community events, courses, clubs or groups, as well as small celebrations.

Local events also shape the character of the town. Hatherleigh Carnival has been held since 1903 and includes burning tar barrels, floats pulled by tractors, a torchlight procession and bands. The Hatherleigh Arts Festival is a summer event featuring contributions from local artists, live music, arts and crafts workshops and performances. Depending on when you travel, you can combine nature and trails with historical or cultural impressions.

Getting there and choosing your holiday location

If travelling by train, Okehampton is the nearest railway station to Hatherleigh. From there, trains run regularly to Exeter St Davids. Hatherleigh itself brings these themes together, while destinations in the wider area open up additional directions for outings. A holiday apartment or holiday cottage in Hatherleigh can therefore suit a travel plan that includes not just a single point of interest, but a range of experiences in rural Devon.

More places for planning your trip

If you would like to compare destinations beyond Hatherleigh, you can also visit Otterton, Combe Martin, Bradworthy, Georgeham, Beaworthy, Abbotsham, Dunkeswell and Uplyme.

For the overarching travel overview: Devon.