Haldon Forest Park
Haldon Forest Park, Kennford, Exeter, Devon EX6 7XR
Whether you’re after a peaceful woodland walk or an adrenaline-fuelled bike ride, Haldon Forest Park in Devon is packed with outdoor activities for every age, pace and interest. Open 364 days a year, it’s a fantastic place to stretch your legs, reconnect with nature, and make the most of the great outdoors, all in a setting that’s beautifully dog friendly.
Set in over 3,500 acres of woodland with views across the surrounding countryside, Haldon Forest Park is ideal for families, walkers, runners and cyclists alike. You’ll find gentle trails, play areas, and picnic spots, as well as more challenging terrain for those after a bigger adventure.
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Little explorers can follow the Discovery Trail, where play equipment is dotted through the trees, or take on the Gruffalo Orienteering Trail, solving clues as they go. There are bikes to hire on site, with options for all ages and abilities, and those with a head for heights can test their nerves at Go Ape, with treetop rope crossings, wobbly bridges, and zip wires that leave everyone grinning.
From beginner-friendly loops to more immersive routes, Haldon Forest’s walking trails are well signposted and easy to follow. Choose the accessible Discovery Trail, or head off on the Raptor Trail or Butterfly Trail to spot local wildlife with a more advanced walk. Off-road mobility scooters are available to hire for visitors with reduced mobility, and many trails are suitable for these all-terrain vehicles, come rain or shine.
Haldon Forest is a favourite with families with dogs too. Dogs are welcome on all walking trails, and the shaded woodland paths are perfect for summer walks. Dog water bowls are always available near the visitor hub, and some picnic benches include tie-up rings so everyone can sit together. For something a bit different, try Forest Walkies with Wallace & Gromit, a fun, dog-friendly trail with challenges and a chance to win a prize.
Whether you’re just starting out or a confident rider, Haldon Forest also offers brilliant cycling. Hone your skills in the skills area, practise on the pump loop, and tackle one of the graded forest trails. There’s a bike hire centre on site with everything from mountain bikes and e-bikes to tag-a-longs, trikes, and child seats. Over 55s even enjoy discounted hire prices.
Trail running at Haldon is also extremely popular. Choose from clearly marked 1–5km routes, or plot your own path and enjoy the shifting forest light, birdsong and fresh air as you go. You can also give Nordic walking a go with pole hire available from the Info Pod.
For those who like a challenge, try your hand at orienteering. Haldon Forest has graded courses for every ability, from beginner to advanced, with maps available to buy on site. Younger visitors can get involved too, with the Gruffalo Orienteering course designed specially for kids. Many of the routes are accessible for mobility scooters, so nobody misses out on the fun.
After all that activity, the Ridge Café is the perfect place to stop. Expect tasty homemade bites, freshly baked cakes, and hot or cold drinks made with local ingredients. Or bring a picnic and find your favourite quiet corner of the forest. Free water bottle refills are available near the toilet block, and in the interest of safety, please remember that fires and BBQs are not permitted anywhere in the park.
Haldon Forest Park is one of Devon’s top dog-friendly outdoor destinations, offering space to roam, and activities to enjoy all year round.