Woodbury Common
8 miles from Exeter • 4.7 mile loop (shorter routes available)
Woodbury Common is a really popular spot for local cyclists, ramblers and dog walkers, but the area's so vast that you can quite easily find yourself alone in the countryside - yet only 15 minutes from Exeter or 5 minutes from Exmouth. Part of the Pebblebed Heaths, formed over 240 million years ago.
© Derek Harper, CC BY-SA 2.0 via Geograph
Easy to Moderate
4.7 mile loop (shorter routes available)
Yes
Free
Overview
Woodbury Common is a really popular spot for local cyclists, ramblers and dog walkers, but the area's so vast that you can quite easily find yourself alone in the countryside - yet only 15 minutes from Exeter or 5 minutes from Exmouth. Part of the Pebblebed Heaths, formed over 240 million years ago.
What to Expect
Open heathland with purple heather in summer, sandy paths through gorse, and scattered woodland. Woodbury Castle is an Iron Age hill fort with traces still visible. The 4.7 mile Woodbury Common Circular takes 2-2.5 hours.
Best For
- ✓Off-lead heathland adventures
- ✓Free parking
- ✓Vast open spaces
- ✓Iron Age history (Woodbury Castle)
- ✓Low-cost countryside adventure
Not Ideal For
- ⚠Those wanting facilities (no toilets or cafe)
- ⚠Dogs who chase livestock
- ⚠Very hot days (little shade on open heath)
Things to Be Aware Of
- ⚠Royal Marines train here - heed warning flags and signs
- ⚠Adders present in summer - keep dogs on paths
- ⚠Ground-nesting birds in spring - keep dogs close
- ⚠Ponies graze seasonally - keep dogs under control
Local Tips from Evie
Start from Four Firs car park for an easy loop. The area is so vast you can easily find yourself alone. Bring water as there are no facilities. Model Airfield car park is on the B3179 if that's easier to find.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is parking free at Woodbury Common?
Yes! All car parks on Woodbury Common are free. Options include Four Firs, Wheathill Plantation, Frying Pans, Model Airfield, and Woodbury Castle car parks.
How big is Woodbury Common?
The area is vast - you can quite easily find yourself alone despite it being popular. The main circular walk is 4.7 miles (2-2.5 hours).
Is it safe to walk on Woodbury Common with the military training?
Yes, but always check for warning flags and signs indicating active training areas. Avoid any areas with red flags flying.
Practical Information
Four Firs Car Park, Woodbury Common
EX5 1JJ
Multiple FREE car parks across the common: Four Firs car park, Wheathill Plantation car park, Frying Pans car park, Model Airfield car park (on B3179), and Woodbury Castle car park. All free parking.
Once away from car parks and roads, there are many acres of open land for off-lead walking. Miles of nice wide tracks for you and your dog to roam on.
Need a Dog Walker?
I walk dogs at Woodbury Common regularly. Get in touch if you need help.
Contact Me
