3 Walks: Bickleigh

CED RENISON takes you on three walks around Bickleigh, in mid-Devon, offering glorious Exe Valley views and a wobbly chain bridge

BICKLEIGH lies on the A396, on the 55 bus route, 10 miles north of Exeter. Park at the public carpark by Devon's Centre (Bickleigh Mill), where there is a railway feature, craft and design shops, cafe, and seasonal trout fishing.

In the area, you can also: enjoy the views from the ancient bridge; visit the Trout Inn; watch dippers and salmon from the Fisherman's Cot pub; and visit Bickleigh Castle (01884 855363).

You will pass Way Farm (near Bickleigh Castle), where there is an enjoyable and educational farm walk and riverside trail. Ring 01884 855354 for permission.

The bluebells in mid-April are a stunning sight.

Walk 1 - a 2.5 mile level stroll Cross Bickleigh Bridge and join the Crediton road. After 200 metres, turn left passing Bickleigh Castle, and at Traymill Farm on the left cross the farmyard and muddy field to the wobbly chain bridge (don't fall in), to what was previously Burn Halt. Return the same way.

Walk 2 - 4 miles, including a steep hill and mud. Allow two hours.
This saunter continues Walk 1 from the chain bridge, over the busy road and along the quiet lane directly opposite, signposted to Butterleigh. After one mile, turn left up the drive to Burnhayes Farm, walking under the barn roof to a mucky yard. Climb over the leaning metal gate ahead and walk up a short muddy track to find a footpath marker post. Turn left uphill and continue to follow the "Two-counties trail" over the hill (lovely view) until emerging at Bickleigh village. Turn right and follow the road back to the start.

Walk 3 - 6 miles, including two steep hills and mud. Allow 3 hours.
Follow Walk 1, but after passing Way Farm, and before Traymill Farm, turn right uphill on the narrow lane to the farm at Lee Cross. Immediately turn left up the ancient steep and muddy track, and at the top find a ruined chapel. Now branch left and emerge to a high lane with superb views to Killerton and beyond. Turn left downhill on the lane, and at Traymill Farm cross the field to the chain bridge. Now follow Walk 2. You will deserve a cuppa or a pint at the end!