Tuckenhay Circular Walk: A Beautiful 3.5-Mile Devon Walk Around Bow Creek

Looking for one of the prettiest short walks in South Devon? This 3.5-mile circular walk around Tuckenhay follows the tranquil shores of Bow Creek before climbing to the hidden village of Cornworthy and returning via Corkscrew Hill. Expect waterside scenery, abundant birdlife, ancient lanes and one of Devon's finest pub finishes.

The Dart Valley cuts a slice of countryside so deep and secluded that it feels a world away—and this short, sensational loop from the creek-side hamlet of Tuckenhay is proof. This 3.5-mile circular walk is utterly crammed with waterside views, the haunting call of wildfowl, ancient trackways, and picturesque, time-forgotten villages. It scores at least nine-out-of-ten on the 'Hesp-patent-Hikometer'.

If you like these posts take a look at our Devon page here

Starting from The Maltster's Arms

The journey begins right outside the legendary Maltster’s Arms pub, perfectly positioned for a post-hike reward.

1. Leave the pub and proceed east to the little side creek which plays host to Tuckenhay Bridge.

2. Cross the stile at the end of the creek and follow the footpath along the water’s edge.

3. The path immediately wends and weaves along the lower contours of the Bow Wood nature reserve. This wonderful 30-acre corner of paradise—owned by the Tuppen family—is a haven of peace and quiet, delighting local wildlife thanks to the 13,000 native trees that have been planted.

Bow Creek: A Hidden Haven of Haunted Mystery

Eventually, the path opens onto the main expanse of Bow Creek. This hidden haven has an atmosphere of haunted mystery about it—it is Devon’s beautiful, secluded answer to Cornwall’s Frenchman's Creek. Keep an eye out for the resident shelduck, egrets, and piping oyster-catchers.

(Note: The path follows the creek east, but a sign on a gate unfortunately prevents wandering all the way to Dittisham Mill Creek. It's inland for us now!)

Climbing to the Mysterious Cornworthy

Leave the water’s edge for a beautiful ancient track that heads inland, leading you up to the lovely old village of Cornworthy.

Jane Fitzgerald, in her book Off The Map, describes how "The village of Cornworthy is almost lost between the hills that surround it. The dark stone buildings give it a rather serious air." With the history of the old Priory (now just a series of mounds) lying nearby, this place certainly feels deep and mysterious, carrying the genuine 'feel of ages'.

The Grand Finale: Panoramic Views from Corkscrew Hill

The final leg of the hike offers the ultimate reward: the return over Corkscrew Hill.

This part of the walk offers fabulous, sweeping views—not only of Bow Creek far below, but across a whole swathe of this eastern corner of the South Hams. As the track begins its sharp descent to Tuckenhay Bridge, you can opt for the footpath that offers a shortcut across a steep field. If you do, you'll get a spectacular, helicopter view of the waterside homes—maybe one day!

An evening view of Bow Creek at Tuckenhay

Floyd Flashback: The Maltsters and the TV Chef

For those who love a dash of celebrity history with their hike, the start of this walk is famous for its former owner: the legendary, bolshie, wine-swilling TV presenter, Keith Floyd.

A West Country boy born and bred, Floyd ran The Maltster's Arms for a while. Though he is long gone, tales and legends of his time remain by the notebook load. It’s hard to imagine finding anywhere deeper and more secluded in the Devon countryside than Tuckenhay, and yet it was home to one of TV’s most irreverent stars.

Raise a pint in the snug bar in honour of the region's most famous—perhaps only—TV chef.

Fact File

• Basic Hike: Circular route from Tuckenhay along Bow Creek, up to Cornworthy, and return over Corkscrew Hill.

• Recommended Map: Ordnance Survey Outdoor Leisure 20 - South Devon.

• Distance and Going: Approximately 3.5–4 miles, good going, but be prepared for a steep climb/descent (Corkscrew Hill) and a few muddy spots. The landlord wisely recommends going clockwise to descend the steepest part.

Beautiful Bow Creek near Tuckenhay

Is the Tuckenhay circular walk difficult?

The route is around 3.5 miles with generally good paths, although there is one steep climb and descent around Corkscrew Hill.

How long does the walk take?

Most walkers should allow between 1½ and 2 hours, longer if stopping for photographs or birdwatching.

Where do you park for the Tuckenhay walk?

Parking is available near Tuckenhay and around The Maltsters Arms, although spaces can be limited during busy periods.

Is the walk dog friendly?

Yes, but dogs should be kept under control around livestock and wildlife.

Can you eat after the walk?

The Maltsters Arms is one of South Devon's best-known riverside pubs and makes an excellent place to finish the walk.