Bickleigh Mill Footpath Route Guide

Route Description for Bickleigh Mill Footpath

Bickleigh Mill Footpath at Bickleigh Mill
The Bickleigh Mill Footpath is a short and easy riverside walk centred around the historic Bickleigh Mill in Devon. This gentle route follows fairly level terrain and is ideal for families, casual walkers, and visitors exploring Bickleigh Mill for the first time. Because Bickleigh Mill is a popular tourist destination, parking can fill quickly during weekends, school holidays, and summer months. Arriving early will give you a quieter experience and better access to the car park.

Although the Bickleigh Mill Footpath is brief, it offers plenty to see and do. Starting near Bickleigh Mill at the Devonshire Centre, you can explore the historic buildings, browse the craft centre, enjoy lunch at the on-site bistro, and visit animals at the small working farm. The setting along the River Exe provides a peaceful backdrop that makes Bickleigh Mill feel both lively and tranquil at the same time.

Walking the Bickleigh Mill Footpath

Setting out from the main car park at Bickleigh Mill, make your way northeast and carefully cross the road, turning right onto the lane that leads into the Devonshire Centre. After approximately 91 m, turn left along the footpath through the buildings of Bickleigh Mill, where you can see the restored 18th Century corn mill and surrounding attractions.

Continue northeast for roughly 0.7 km, as the trail transitions into a peaceful woodland stretch along the banks of the River Exe. This section of the Bickleigh Mill Footpath offers lovely views across the water and shaded areas that are especially pleasant on warm days. Once you reach the end of the woodland stretch, retrace your steps back to Bickleigh Mill and the car park.

Planning Your Visit to Bickleigh Mill

Parking at Bickleigh Mill

Parking is available near Bickleigh Mill, but spaces can be limited during peak visitor periods. It is advisable to check local parking information before travelling, particularly during summer or special events at Bickleigh Mill.

Is the Bickleigh Mill Footpath Suitable for Families?

Yes, the Bickleigh Mill Footpath is family-friendly. The terrain is mostly level and manageable for children, making Bickleigh Mill a good option for a relaxed half-day outing. The nearby farm animals and riverside setting add to the appeal for younger visitors.

Are Dogs Allowed on the Bickleigh Mill Footpath?

Dogs are generally welcome on the footpath, though they should be kept under control, especially near livestock and other visitors at Bickleigh Mill. Always check local guidelines before visiting.

Best Time to Visit Bickleigh Mill

The Bickleigh Mill Footpath can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and summer offer greener landscapes along the River Exe, while autumn provides colourful woodland scenery. Winter visits are quieter, though paths may be damp after heavy rain.

Trail Highlights

Bickleigh Mill

Located on the banks of the River Exe in Devon, Bickleigh Mill is an 18th Century corn mill that was significantly damaged by flooding in the 1960s. It was later restored and redeveloped into what is now known as the Devonshire Centre. Today, Bickleigh Mill includes a working mill display, craft shops, a bistro, and small farm animals. Visiting Bickleigh Mill is often the main highlight of walking the Bickleigh Mill Footpath.

Extending Your Walk from Bickleigh Mill

While the standard Bickleigh Mill Footpath is short and out-and-back, visitors can explore additional riverside paths nearby for a longer walk. Always ensure you are following public footpaths and respect private property boundaries around Bickleigh Mill and the surrounding countryside.

What’s New at Bickleigh Mill Footpath in 2026

As of 2026, there are no major changes affecting access to the Bickleigh Mill Footpath or the riverside trail along the River Exe. Bickleigh Mill remains open as a visitor attraction, though operating hours and parking arrangements may vary seasonally. Visitors should check local sources before travelling for the most up-to-date information.

If you would like to explore more of the English countryside, consider our self-guided walking tours in England, which showcase some of the most scenic landscapes in the South West and beyond.