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Two visitors walk along Fisherman's walk on the Castle Drogo estate, Devon
Fisherman's walk on the Castle Drogo estate | © National Trust Images / James Dobson
Devon

Piddledown Common walk

This short but memorable walk on Piddledown Common overlooks the dramatic Teign Gorge. Take in some impressive views over Dartmoor whilst walking amongst gorse, oak trees and wildflowers.

Total steps: 6

Total steps: 6

Start point

Castle Drogo car park, grid ref: SX721900

Step 1

From Castle Drogo's main car park, follow the signs, heading out of the car park, for Teign Valley walks.

Step 2

At the noticeboard turn right and keep following signs for Teign Valley walks. Walk down through the trees and through the gate, then turn left over the open common. Follow the tramper waymarks.

Step 3

Continue over the common following the top path, then pass through a gate and along a path with tall gorse either side, known as Gorse Blossom Walk.

Light brown pony munching bracken
Dartmoor pony on the trail from Castle Drogo to Fingle Bridge | © Annapurna Mellor

Step 4

At Dolly's Seat turn right and go down a short, steep slope. Continue down some steps onto Hunter's Path and then turn right, following the path back towards Castle Drogo.

Step 5

Stop and admire the view from the crags of Sharp Tor, looking out over Chagford towards Dartmoor. Continue around the hill following Hunter's Path and take the flight of steps signposted Castle Drogo (don't take the steps directly opposite you at Sharp Tor). Please note that there are no handrails on the steps.

Step 6

At the top of the steps, go through a small gate and bear left up another flight of steps (no handrail). There is a bench at the top for a quick rest if needed. Continue ahead until you arrive at the castle drive. Turn left and walk up the drive back to the car park.

End point

Castle Drogo car park, grid ref: SX721900

Trail map

Map of Piddletown Common walk, Devon
Map of Piddletown Common walk | © National Trust

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More near here

A view of the outside of Castle Drogo through the nearby fir trees, in Devon
Place
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Castle Drogo 

Where dramatic architecture meets innovative family home. A 20th century castle overlooking the Teign Gorge.

near Exeter, Devon

Partially open today
A view up the River Teign seen from the gorge walk at Castle Drogo, Devon in autumn
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Teign Gorge classic circuit 

Follow the breathtaking Hunters Path high above the river Teign for chances to spot wildlife and stunning views. The path then drops down into the beautiful woodland as you follow the river back to Castle Drogo.

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DistanceMiles: 4.1 (km: 6.56)
The hydro turbine on the river Teign.
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A walk to the Hydro Turbine at Castle Drogo 

Take a gentle walk down to Castle Drogo's Hydro Turbine, built over 100 years ago to supply electricity to the castle, and find out more about how it works.

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DistanceMiles: 3 (km: 4.8)

Get in touch

Drewsteignton, near Exeter, Devon, EX6 6PB

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Cotswold Outdoor

We’ve partnered with Cotswold Outdoor to help everyone make the most of their time outdoors in the places we care for.

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