South Hams Ramblers overlooking River Dart

Step out for a Walk About with the Ramblers and discover local hidden gems

People in Devon are being invited to step out with the Ramblers for their Walk About festival this summer and uncover the hidden gems on their doorstep.

The nationwide festival, supported by players of People’s Postcode Lottery, takes place from 26 May to 3 June with hundreds of free group walks on offer across the Britain. This year, many of the festival walks highlight hidden gems that can be found along the way – from unexpected views and peaceful picnic spots to atmospheric ancient ruins – that can often only be spotted when you head out on foot.

Andrew Chadwick, chair of Devon Ramblers said: “Anyone who loves walking will know it’s the best way to discover the world around you – it could be an amazing secret view, or simply a fantastic new walking route. We know lots of great spots and want to share them with others.”

All walks during Walk About are free to attend and there’s something for everyone, whether you’re after a short summer stroll or you’re a seasoned walker looking for more of a challenge. And if you’re bitten by the walking bug, why not join the Ramblers? The 12 Ramblers groups in Devon are open to anyone of any age and new walkers are always welcome.

During the festival there will be more than 30 walks on offer across Devon, including moorland treks, cliff-top excursions and strolls along delightful river valleys. There will be footpath walks that explore our wonderful woodlands and meadows, as well as historical features found en route.

The Devon Ramblers website www.ramblers.org.uk/devon gives contact details for any enquiries about each walk and what it’s advisable to take.

Here are a few of the walks on offer during the festival. For the full list visit our Devon Ramblers website: www.ramblers.org.uk/devon. Click on the Walk About logo for a link to an interactive list of all the walks.

South Devon Group
Meet Haytor Upper Car Park at 13:00 on Tuesday 29th May
6.5 miles, easy pace
A walk on the open moor visiting Holwell Lawn, the Granite Tramway, Haytor Quarry and the new Becka Brook clapper bridge.

Moorland Group
Meet Meldon Reservoir Car Park at 10:00 on Sunday 27th May
10 miles, strenuous pace
Open moorland, including the highest points on Dartmoor – High Willhays and Yes Tor – plus Black Tor Copse ancient woodland.

Tavistock Group
Meet Pork Hill Car Park at 19:00 on Thursday 31st May
3.5 miles, easy pace – a leisurely evening walk
Open moor with gentle gradients around Cox Tor and Middle Staple Tor. Optional pub visit afterwards.
Car share available.

North Devon Group
Meet at Umberleigh Village Hall at 10:30 on Saturday 2nd June
4 miles, very easy pace
Paths and lanes to Pitt Wood, Eastacott and Brightly Barton. One pull up then all downhill.
Car share available.