Ludwell Valley Park
2 miles from Exeter • 200 acres with circular routes
Ludwell Valley Park is a 200-acre working farm and country park in the Wonford area with complete public open access to most fields. One of Exeter's Valley Parks managed by Devon Wildlife Trust. Features fields, cherry orchards, and wooded lanes. Great for dogs with off-leash section and dedicated dog-friendly trails.
© David Smith, CC BY-SA 2.0 via Geograph
Easy
200 acres with circular routes
Yes
Free
Overview
Ludwell Valley Park is a 200-acre working farm and country park in the Wonford area with complete public open access to most fields. One of Exeter's Valley Parks managed by Devon Wildlife Trust. Features fields, cherry orchards, and wooded lanes. Great for dogs with off-leash section and dedicated dog-friendly trails.
What to Expect
Leave the city to explore fields, cherry orchards and wooded lanes. Follow trails along the Northbrook stream or climb to the top of Pynes Hill for stunning views over Exeter. Benches and picnic areas throughout. Dog waste bins available. Often cows grazing so be ready to put dogs on leads.
Best For
- ✓Off-lead running in open fields
- ✓Woodland exploration
- ✓Quieter walks away from crowds
- ✓Dogs who like paddling in streams
- ✓City escape with countryside feel
- ✓Views from Pynes Hill
Not Ideal For
- ⚠Weekday visits (parking difficult)
- ⚠Dogs reactive to livestock (cows grazing April-October)
Things to Be Aware Of
- ⚠Livestock may be grazing April-October - put dogs on leads
- ⚠Some steep slopes in woodland areas
- ⚠Can be muddy after rain
- ⚠Stream can rise after heavy rainfall
- ⚠Weekday parking difficult
Local Tips from Evie
Ideal weekend walk as weekday parking is difficult. Climb to Pynes Hill for stunning city views. The Ludwell Butterfly Trail, Cut-off Trail, and Brookside Circular are all marked routes. Several circular walks available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ludwell Valley Park good for off-lead dogs?
Yes! There's an off-leash section where dogs can run freely, plus dedicated dog-friendly trails and open fields for fetch.
Are there cows at Ludwell Valley Park?
Yes, livestock may be grazing April-October. Be ready to put dogs on leads when you see cows.
Where should I park for Ludwell Valley Park?
Parking at Wonford Sports Centre, Northbrook Golf Course (summer only), Pynes Hill, or roadside. Weekday parking can be difficult - best as a weekend walk.
Practical Information
Ludwell Lane, Exeter
EX2 5JF
Access from Ludwell Lane, Topsham Road, Parkland Drive and Pynes Hill. Parking at Wonford Sports Centre, Northbrook Golf Course (summer only), and Pynes Hill. Plenty of roadside parking. Note: weekday parking can be difficult - ideal as weekend walk.
Off-leash section where dogs can run freely. Dedicated dog-friendly trails and open field for fetch. Dogs should be under effective control. Please clean up after your dogs. Livestock may be grazing April-October.
Need a Dog Walker?
I walk dogs at Ludwell Valley Park regularly. Get in touch if you need help.
Contact Me
