A phenomenal view of Exeter, with benches to sit and enjoy a picnic. Or wander through the kissing gate and let the kids run up and down the hill and enjoy building dens in the little woodland.
Much less known than the other Valley parks managed by Devon Wildlife Trust that we love – see Mincinglake Valley Park and Ludwell Valley Park, and very different as there is no great network of paths to enjoy a walk, BUT the views are phenomenal and well worth coming for those alone.
Photo: @max.daus.pics
The following, is a walk that is possible from Duryard Valley Park, however, I felt there are other more enjoyable walks to do with children. Have a look here for inspiration: littledevon.co.uk/walks. This walk relies on walking for a short time on busy Pennsylvania Road (a road with no pavement) and then it takes you down one (albeit quiet) road of houses and up another. My children (although great walkers) much preferred being in the Duryard Valley park itself, enjoying the nature and the mini woodland at the bottom of the valley in the second field.
Location: Duryard Valley Park
Interactive Walk Map: Duryard Valley Park Walk
Map produced using Outdoor Active: a free mapping app. Click this link to be taken through and be able to follow the interactive route https://out.ac/zZcEe
Duryard Valley Park: Walk
Walk type: Quiet roads, but a short part on the busier Pennsylvania Road with no pavement.
Length: 2.9km down and up a decent hill.
Little Ones’ mode of transport: Sling or feet. Buggy provided that you miss the fields of Duryard Valley park.
Footwear: Sturdy suitable shoes for walking up and down hills.
Dog friendly: Yes. Although no poo bins in the car park or along the walk.
Duryard Valley Park: Need to know
Opening times: All day every day.
How to get there: A car park tucked off Pennsylvania Road
What 3 words: w3w.co/poster.stress.spray
Prices: Free
Loos & Baby Changing: No
https://www.devonwildlifetrust.org/nature-reserves/duryard-and-belvidere-valley-park
Closest Cafes
Just down the road (need to drive) is Barton Place Farm shop. A lovely little farm shop selling local produce (including delicious cakes!) – you could pick one up on your way to Duryard Valley viewpoint and enjoy on one of the benches!
Why not take an empty bottle and fill up your milk with ‘Proper Milk‘ from a very exciting milk dispenser (takes contactless and can buy glass bottles there too)! The milk is from the cows just across the valley and is deliciously thick and creamy. Mmmmmm!
