Hatherleigh: Moorland Walks, History and Culture

Hatherleigh brings together landscape and local history: the ancient common of Hatherleigh Moor lies right next to the town, and public paths lead through a variety of landscapes. If you’re looking for a hotel in Hatherleigh, you can plan your stay around whether you want to focus on walks, historic sites or a cultural event.

Moorland, Paths and Natural Areas

Hatherleigh is just off the Tarka Trail and close to the Two Moors Way. Many miles of public footpaths and ancient rights of way cross moorland, farmland, woodland and winding country lanes. The landscapes described range from open moorland to woodland and rural paths.

Several named walks are each about two miles long. The Passaford & Lover’s Walk starts in Hatherleigh; the Part War Horse Walk and the Haywooda/Strawbridge Walk start at Hatherleigh’s Square. The Hatherleigh Moor Walk runs across the moor. At a similar approximate length, the walks differ mainly in their starting points and their connection to the moor.

Ash Moor Nature Reserve lies two miles north of the town on the Tarka Trail, a cycling and walking route. The area, managed by Devon Wildlife Trust, has been transformed into a network of meadows, ponds and wetlands. You can visit Ash Moor on foot or by bike; check the path conditions before setting out. Roadford Lake is also in the Hatherleigh area and offers opportunities for sailing, kayaking and wildlife watching. Check current activities and facilities before your visit.

History and Culture

St John’s Holy Well is a Scheduled Monument on Hatherleigh Moor, east of the town. In the Middle Ages, the well served as a baptismal font. Its location on the moor connects a specific historic site with the landscape right next to Hatherleigh.

St John’s Church in Hatherleigh also offers digital insights into local history. An audio-guided tour with accompanying images explores history, heritage, architecture and local stories. There is also an interactive 3D tour with information points: the two formats present these subjects in different ways.

The Salar Gallery is on the ground floor in the centre of Hatherleigh. It showcases works by local painters, photographers and writers about the landscape, wildlife and heritage of rural Devon and Dartmoor. The specific exhibition offering may change.

Markets, Festivals and Community

Hatherleigh Community Market offers level access and accessible toilets. The historic Old Schools building provides space for community events, classes, club and group meetings, and small celebrations. Availability is subject to booking conditions.

The Hatherleigh Carnival has been held since 1903. Its features include burning tar barrels, tractor-pulled floats, a torchlight procession and bands. The programme may change, so check event dates and the latest details before your trip.

The Hatherleigh Arts Festival is a summer event featuring contributions from local artists, live music, arts and crafts workshops, and performances. Programme details may also change. If you want to plan your trip around a festival, check the latest dates and programme.

Plan Your Journey

The nearest railway station to Hatherleigh is Okehampton; regular trains run from there to Exeter St Davids. Timetables may change, so check them before travelling.

Discover more destinations: Bampton, Tiverton, Tipton Saint John, Hollacombe, Alston, Moreleigh, Modbury, South Molton

For the main travel guide: Devon.