The most scenic coastal walks in Devon

A walking holiday in Devon is a must for everybody. Simply because much of the coastline in North Devon and South Devon remains unspoiled with few developments or large towns on the waterfront. Follow the South West Coast Path at the edge of the land and discover with us some unrivalled scenic stretches of coastline that can only be reached on foot, and other parts that are easily accessible to those in need of a less challenging outing. We reveal some of the most outstanding coastal walks in Devon, with views to remember, endless blue seas, dramatic cliffs and immaculate beaches.

Stay in a Devon cottage; we have self-catering accommodation on both coasts. Perfect for wayfarers, our holiday cottages in North Devon and South Devon offer comfortable living spaces to recharge after a long day of touring. 

Skip to:

• Coastal walks in North Devon
• Coastal walks in South Devon

North Devon’s most scenic walks

Mortehoe to Bull Point Lighthouse

Mortehoe is a small coastal village close to a large rocky peninsula that juts out into the Bristol Channel and Bideford Bay, 1.5 miles from Woolacombe. As the path winds its way along the coast, you will be able to enjoy views of Lundy, which is an island 10 miles out to sea. Secret beaches, coves and old groundworks for WW2 fortifications are beautiful points of interest along the way. 

Rockham Beach is featured in Henry Williamson’s adorable novel Tarka the Otter where it mentions the wreck of an old steamer and other ships, long buried by the sands over the decades. The lighthouse sits to the east, and after some steady climbs and descents, you can turn back inland to Mortehoe for a well-deserved pint in the pub.

Croyde Bay and Baggy Point

Croyde is one of the world’s most famous surfing beaches, and with lots of beautiful spots to stop and watch the waves roll in, we thoroughly recommend this section of the South West Coast Path. There are several routes over Baggy Point, but we like the long way around the edge. There are wonderful views across Bideford Bay to the lighthouse at Hartland Point. 

The path on the north side of Baggy Point offers even more grand views of the long, wide stretch of Putsborough Beach that merges with Woolacombe Beach to the north. There’s a pleasant café at Putsborough where you could enjoy a light lunch after some time playing on the beach. Head back over the hill and towards the centre of Croyde village where you'll find even more places to eat and drink with a relaxed vibe.

Westward Ho! and Kipling Tors

It is a little-known fact that the famous author Rudyard Kipling went to boarding school in Westward Ho! The school has gone, having been turned into apartments, yet the hillsides that roll down to the sea just west of the village bear his name. It’s said that he used to spend his time walking the hills by himself. 

If you follow the South West Coast Path out of the village past the Pier House, you will see a path that rises up the side of the hill taking you up and over Kipling Tors. It’s quite a climb but the views are terrific. Eventually, the trail leads back down the hill to meet the South West Coast Path where new vistas of the lesser-populated end of Bideford Bay await. The only settlements before reaching the Cornish border are Buck’s Mills, Clovelly and Hartland Quay. Kipling Tors positions you at the eastern end of one of the longest, unspoiled stretches of woodland cliffs in England.

The Hobby Drive, Clovelly

This woodland carriage driveway is especially scenic as it winds its way along the North Devon coast above the painterly village of Clovelly. No longer open to traffic, this private road is wide and level offering wayfarers excellent views through the trees of the coast. As you get down to Clovelly, you will see the rooftops far below as they cascade down to the beautiful harbour. 

There are benches along the trail and lots of photo opportunities. If you have an active dog, this is a great prospect for a long, yet unchallenging walk. The gradients are so gentle, you won’t know how you got so high above Bideford Bay! This is a lesser-known spectacle enjoyed by locals and residents of Clovelly, but it’s open to everybody and is worth seeking out.

Brownsham Woods

Brownsham Woods is a National Trust-managed area next to the Clovelly estate where you can walk for miles along the North Devon coast, unhindered by traffic or housing. This part of North Devon has remained virtually unchanged for years. 

Walk down to the sea through unspoiled woodland to Millsmouth, where you’ll find the small remnants of a lime kiln and a fisherman’s cottage at the wild and rocky beach. Take provisions and dress well as there are no facilities for miles. Head to Hartland for a late lunch to refuel.

Coastal walks in South Devon

River Exe Estuary

The dramatic sight of railway tracks running through the tunnels in the red sandstone cliffs along the scenic Dawlish coastline defines this beautiful area of South Devon. However, as most people encounter this stretch through a train window, the best experiences are reserved for those who can take the sea views in at a more measured pace. 

The sandstone rock stacks in the sea and up and down the few miles of coast make this an eye-catching English setting. Further back east, by the River Exe Estuary, you become embedded in fantastic wild swathes where the lowlands meet the ramparts of the land now far inland. This is the domain of sea birds and sad boat wrecks out on the long mudflats and in the reeds. It’s a very atmospheric walk, and a big hit with birdwatchers who can extend the hike to the reserves upstream.

Plymouth Sound

This meandering trail beside the swell of Plymouth Sound is a wonderful pick for those planning a trip to the maritime city of Plymouth. Begin your walk from the National Aquarium and your steps will wend their way past the historic and culturally important Mayflower Steps, the architectural wonderments of Tinside Lido, Plymouth Hoe Lighthouse (aka Smeaton’s Tower), The Hoe, and the faded promenades below the boardwalk where you can watch the sea; a ringside seat to nature’s show. 

Stop for lunch at one of the eateries in the curious quarter of Plymouth called the Barbican, where many good pubs and restaurants have opened. The city is great for shopping too, so return home via Drake’s Circus and the city centre to pick up some fancy goods.

Slapton Sands to Torcross

The striking strip of land separating a freshwater lake from the saline sea makes this scenic coastal walk in South Devon one to treasure. Beginning at Torcross, fortify yourself with a coffee at one of the cafes along the shore, then head north along the beach to Slapton. With its enduring historical links to WW2, it was here that the allied forces staged drills for the D-Day landings.

The lake is called The Ley and is a nature reserve which is home to many interesting wild birds and animals. It’s a special place of note for its rare plants and unusual location. It’s a delightfully beautiful spot for an amble at any time of year. Part of this walk forms a section of the National Trail, the South West Coast Path.

Stay in Devon

Be sure to also check out our great range of self-catering cottages that we have in coastal North Devon and South Devon. From large homes big enough for all your family and friends to cosy cottages perfect for a romantic trip away, we have the perfect accommodation along the coast for you.