Exe Filing - Walk

Distance: 6 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Start/End point: Bickleigh.

Take a lap of mid Devon by the rivers Exe and Dart, with a railway and waterwheel for company.

This loop is the perfect way to get views of the rolling hills which make up the heart of Devon and the Exe Valley. It also takes you to the multi-faceted Bickleigh, with its mill, railway centre and castle. The mill features a working waterwheel, while the old railway station has been preserved for narrow-gauge rides, with two GWR carriages filled to the brim with model railways.

Cadeleigh, later in the walk, is lined with handsome cottages and has an intriguing church. Inside you can admire the Georgian box pews, while outside there's a 17th-century monument to Sir Symon Leach, former High Sheriff of Devon, as well as fine arcades and a handsome tower. A visit to Bickleigh Castle adds an extra 2km (1 1/4 miles) to your journey, but it's recommended.

Theme: Country, Heritage,
Special Interest: Nature, Historical, Wildlife,
Area: Mid Devon.

Relevant maps/guides: Ordnance Survey - Landranger 192, Explorer 114.
Facilities along route: Public toilets in Trout Inn (during opening hours). Refreshments can be bought from Bickleigh Mill (snacks and meals), Fisherman's Cot, Trout Inn and Cadeleigh Arms.
Other information: This route is suitable for anyone fairly fit and used to reading maps. The route is on footpaths, bridlepaths and country lanes. Please note that the bridlepaths and footpaths can get muddy after rain.