Outdoor activities at Arlington Court

A group of people walking along a path with Arlington house visible through the trees in the background — Walking on the Arlington Estate in winter | © NTI/Katy Anderson

Enjoy the great outdoors at Arlington with 2,600 acres of countryside and over 25 miles of trails to wander, cycle or ride. Take in the views, spot wildlife and see how Arlington is becoming a wilder, wetter, woodier and more resilient estate to benefit both nature and people.

Walking at Arlington Court

With over 25 miles of trails winding through the Arlington estate, there is plenty to discover. From gentle strolls to more challenging stomps, enjoy the Old Lake walk and pause at the bird hide, or take on the steep Centenary Walk for stunning views across the estate.

Look out for our work to restore the land for nature as you wander. The Vole Walk and North Woolley loop give you the chance to get you close to examples of our nature restoration work. Download the routes below or stop by visitor reception to pick up a map and enjoy the estate.

While this may be a steep climb, it’s worth it for the stunning views. The parkland is particularly magnificent in winter when there are no leaves on the trees. Created in our centenary year, 1995, this walk is designed to show you the views of the house and parkland that you would have enjoyed had you entered the estate in your carriage at Woolley Lodge.

Find out more and download the route here

Difficulty: Challenging

Length: 2.8 miles
While this may be a steep climb, it’s worth it for the stunning views. The parkland is particularly magnificent in winter when there are no leaves on the trees. Created in our centenary year, 1995, this walk is designed to show you the views of the house and parkland that you would have enjoyed had you entered the estate in your carriage at Woolley Lodge.

Find out more and download the route here

Difficulty: Challenging

Length: 2.8 miles
This walk starting in Loxhore takes you through woodlands and fields with rewarding views across the wider estate at the top of Coombeshead. The woodland really comes alive in spring, with the forest floor carpeted in bluebells and wildflowers. Look out for the original deer fence, installed by Rosalie Chichester to prevent the hunt taking place on her land.

Find out more and download the route here

Difficulty: Moderate

Length: 2 miles

Free monthly guided estate walks

Join our experienced walking volunteers for free guided seasonal walks throughout the year showcasing some of the best areas of the estate and learn about the work being carried out for nature, beauty and history.

The walks range from 1.5 - 3 miles and take place on the first Tuesday and Saturday of the month between 11am – 12:30pm. This event is free but booking is essential, click here to find out more.

North Woolley Loop in spring | © Katy Anderson

Trampers at Arlington Court

If you find walking difficult you can still enjoy the Arlington estate, thanks to the Trampers (all-terrain mobility scooter). There are two Trampers available to pre-book located at Visitor Reception, which can be taken out on the estate via the popular old lake circular walk which heads down into the bird hide, perfect to sit and watch the birds and wildlife on the estate.

To book Trampers in advance or to find out more, please call 01271 850296.

Running at Arlington Court

Whether you're training or just enjoying a scenic jog, Arlington Court offers a variety of excellent trails suitable for off road running.

With over 25 miles of footpaths across the estate, you’ll find everything from shorter loops to longer, more challenging routes. Check out our walking routes to help plan your perfect run.

Cycling at Arlington

Bring your bike and explore 14 miles of bridleways that wind through the estate's woodlands.

Planning to visit the house or gardens? You can lock your bike outside Visitor Reception. Or, if you're stopping for a coffee break, use the bike rack at the tea-room while you refuel.

Download the estate map here showing all available bridleways in orange here (please note bridleways are not suitable for road bikes). Bikes are welcome on all bridleways (but not footpaths).

National Cycle Network Route 3

Coming from further afield on two wheels? National Cycle Network (NCN) Route 3 passes around 2.5 miles east of Loxhore Church or Loxhore Cott on the Arlington Estate, where you are welcome to pick up the hilly bridleways and enjoy Arlington by bike (not suitable for road bikes).

Looking down on a group of walkers walking across the middle of the field with trees on the right hand side — Walking in the Winford Valley, Arlington Court, Devon | © NTI/Katy Anderson

Horse riding at Arlington Court

Horses are welcome to explore the bridleways around the estate. When arriving with horse boxes please park at the bottom left of the Visitor Car Park (follow signage), normal parking charges apply. There are mounting blocks in the main car park and on the North Woolley Loop to help riders. We advise riders to visit before 10am while the paths around the estate are quieter.

Horse riders are asked to be aware of other users on the paths, including children on bicycles, runners, dog walkers and livestock.

Download the estate map showing bridleways in orange here.

Bringing your dog to Arlington

Discover fantastic walks with your four-legged friend at Arlington. There’s ancient parkland, woodlands and riverside paths to stretch your legs. Find out where your dog can go and the facilities available here.

Conservation Grazing

When out exploring the estate you will likely come across some of the livestock helping to manage the estate for conservation and to create the best conditions for wildlife to thrive. We use the ‘no fence’ collars with cattle simplifying our conservation grazing across the Parkland and Home Farm fields. We also have Exmoor ponies grazing woodland areas. Please view our dogs page above to find out more about walking around livestock.