Aylesbeare Common

Eight miles east of Exeter, this RSPB nature reserve offers many varied and interesting walks for hikers of all levels, including families with small children. There are also Exmoor ponies!

Features

Signposted trails

Free parking

Sea views

Range of wildlife to see

Friendly Exmoor ponies

3 stars for pushchair accessibility

4 stars for child friendliness

5 stars for dog friendliness

Getting there and parking

Parking is free at Joney’s Cross car park (EX10 0BL). The car park is poorly marked, so drive slowly after turning off the A3052. Access can also be tricky for larger vehicles, as wooden posts line the verge, but we managed with a T5 camper van, so it is possible. The car park is a good size, but visitors also park on the verges on the nearby roads.

The car park is spacious, but easy to pass by after turning off the A3052

Three areas are accessible from the car park: Aylesbeare Common to the north west, Harpford Common to the north east and Hawkerland to the south (favoured by dog walkers). Aylesbeare Common and Harpford Common can only be accessed by crossing the A3052.

Aylesbeare Common

The entrance to the RSPB nature reserve can be found opposite the car park, on the other side of the A3052. On your left, just past the cattle grid, you will find an information board detailing the different walking routes around the common. The blue circular trail is quite short (1km) and is therefore a great choice for families with small children, although the pebble surface makes it quite uneven and it can get muddy in wet weather. The paved 'private road' which cuts through the middle of the reserve and includes part of the red trail may be a better option for pushchairs and wheelchairs.

The heathland is home to an abundance of wildlife, including several species of birds, dragonflies and butterflies. The Exmoor ponies are a particular highlight, and can often be found grazing close to the paths.

There are stunning panoramic views of the open common and surrounding countryside towards the sea.

There are several places to rest along the blue trail

There are several places to rest along the blue walk

Harpford Common

Hawkerland

Hawkerland is easily accessed from the Joney’s Cross car park, the convenience of which explains this areas popularity with dog walkers. Unfortunately not everyone is responsible enough to clean up after their pets, and we found this area to be littered with doggy doos, making this a less desirable place to walk with a toddler.

Despite this, it is a beautiful area with incredible views, and an interesting unguided walking place to explore.

Hawkerland to the south (favoured by dog walkers)