Chelfham Mill – Shirwell Spring Celebration Walk

Saturday 21st March 2026 10am. Chelfham Mill – Shirwell Spring Celebration Walk

Celebrate Spring, a season full of growth and the hope of new beginnings, with a beautiful walk through the countryside surrounding Chelfham Mill and the villages of Shirwell and Lower Loxhore. There is a choice of two routes for this walk, a longer distance including Lower Loxhore, or a shorter version to Shirwell and back.

This walk is held in partnership with the fabulous Growforward Project who are transforming the once derelict site at Chelfham Mill, into a thriving hub for the community. The project will revitalise the old boarding school and watermill, to become a multi-functional space with three core elements: a Wellbeing Retreat and Learning Centre, Riverside Café and Events Spaces.

Their mission is to turn a site long associated locally with sadness and neglect, into a positive, vibrant destination, as a centrepiece for wellbeing, community connection, and personal growth, whilst preserving its heritage. Through involving the local community, their aim is to transform this once-abandoned site into a place of healing and opportunity.

More information about the project is here www.thegrowforwardproject.co.uk or follow their social media pages The Growforward Project | Barnstaple | Facebook or Instagram @thegrowforwardproject

Walk Details

Starting at Chelfham Mill and following a footpath to climb to Shirwell. Those choosing the shorter route will loop back here and return to Chelfham.

Those choosing the longer route will continue along countryside lanes and footpaths to descend to Shirwell Mill and then reach Lower Loxhore. Next following footpaths to Loxhore Mill Bridge and then ascending to Bratton Cross, returning to Chelfham Mill along a countryside lane.

Option to stop for drinks and refreshments at The Growforward Project’s Crafty Café , before or after the walk.

Meet at Chelfham Mill at 10am.

Start/ Finish: Chelfham Mill EX32 7LA
Distance: Shorter route 3.8 miles (6.2km). Longer route 6.4 miles (10.3km).
Route type: Circular
Grade: Moderate
Terrain: Public footpaths, tarmac roads and bridleways. Footpaths can be muddy in places and rocky/ uneven. Several stretches of ascent/ descent. Stiles. Steep climb out of Chelfham at the beginning of the walk.
Toilets: Chelfham Mill Reception
Parking: Chelfham Mill car park (no charge by kind permission of the Growforward Project).

Please wear weather/ ground conditions appropriate clothing/ footwear and bring a drink.

Anyone attending this informal event does so as a solo identity and has full responsibility for their own wellbeing, which includes health wellbeing and personal welfare.