Explore the Wild Beauty of the North Devon Coastline
If you’re craving fresh sea air, breathtaking views, and encounters with nature, North Devon is the perfect destination. This stunning stretch of the South West coast is a haven for walkers and wildlife enthusiasts alike, offering dramatic cliffs, golden beaches, and an incredible variety of birds, marine life, and rare coastal species. Whether you’re an avid hiker or just enjoy a leisurely stroll with binoculars in hand, North Devon’s coast has something special to offer.
In this guide, we’ll take you through the best ways to enjoy coastal walks and wildlife watching in North Devon, helping you plan your next outdoor adventure.
Why North Devon is Perfect for Coastal Walks and Wildlife Lovers
North Devon is part of the UNESCO-designated North Devon Biosphere Reserve, a recognition of its unique natural environment and biodiversity. The coastline here is rugged and wild, yet incredibly accessible thanks to the South West Coast Path, which winds its way for miles along cliffs, through coves, and past unspoiled beaches. Walking these coastal paths offers not just stunning views but also countless opportunities to observe wildlife in its natural habitat.
From seabirds nesting on craggy cliffs to grey seals bobbing in the surf, every turn of the path reveals a new encounter with nature. The combination of marine, estuary, and moorland ecosystems makes North Devon one of the richest wildlife areas in the UK.
Best Coastal Walks for Scenery and Wildlife in North Devon
One of the most iconic walking routes is the stretch of the South West Coast Path between Woolacombe and Ilfracombe. This section showcases towering cliffs, panoramic ocean views, and sheltered coves where seals often haul out to bask on the rocks. In spring and summer, the cliffs come alive with nesting seabirds, including guillemots, razorbills, and even the occasional puffin.
Further along the coast, the walk from Baggy Point to Putsborough offers a slightly easier route with equally impressive views. This area is well-known for its wildflower meadows in the warmer months, attracting butterflies and a variety of bird species. Keep your eyes peeled for kestrels hovering overhead and stonechats flitting among the gorse bushes.
For those seeking a more dramatic and remote experience, the section from Hartland Quay to Clovelly is a must. This is one of the most rugged and less-travelled parts of the North Devon coast, with jagged rock formations and steep valleys. Peregrine falcons are often spotted here, and the rocky shorelines are prime hunting grounds for oystercatchers and curlews.
Wildlife Watching Highlights on the North Devon Coast
One of the most thrilling wildlife experiences in North Devon is spotting Atlantic grey seals. These curious creatures can often be seen swimming close to shore or lounging on secluded beaches. The best time to see seal pups is during the autumn months, when they come ashore to give birth.
Dolphin sightings are another highlight, especially during the summer when pods of common dolphins sometimes follow fishing boats or play in the surf. If you’re lucky, you might even glimpse a harbour porpoise or, on rare occasions, a basking shark gliding just beneath the surface.
For birdwatchers, North Devon offers an impressive array of coastal and migratory species. Sea cliffs provide nesting grounds for gulls, fulmars, and cormorants, while salt saltmarshes and estuaries attract wading birds like sandpipers and redshanks. The Taw and Torridge Estuary is particularly rich in birdlife, providing feeding grounds for both resident and visiting species throughout the year.
Inland, the coastal heathlands are home to adders, slow worms, and a variety of butterflies, including the rare high brown fritillary. The mix of habitats in such close proximity means every walk can reveal new wildlife surprises.
Tips for Enjoying Coastal Walks and Wildlife in North Devon
When planning a coastal walk in North Devon, it’s important to check tide times and weather forecasts. Many sections of the path are exposed and can become slippery or challenging in poor conditions. Wearing sturdy footwear and dressing in layers will ensure you stay comfortable, as the weather can change quickly along the coast.
Wildlife watching requires a bit of patience, so take your time and bring binoculars to enhance your experience. Early morning and dusk are often the best times to spot animals, as the coastline is quieter and wildlife tends to be more active.
Remember to follow the countryside code and keep a respectful distance from wildlife, especially during sensitive times like breeding and nesting seasons. Stick to marked paths to avoid disturbing habitats and always leave no trace of your visit.
Embrace the Wild Side of North Devon
Walking the coastal paths of North Devon is not just exercise — it’s an opportunity to reconnect with nature, breathe deeply, and experience the untamed beauty of the English coastline. Whether you’re marvelling at a soaring falcon, watching a seal bask in the sun, or simply enjoying the endless views of sea and sky, North Devon’s coastline offers moments of quiet wonder that will stay with you long after your boots are off.
So lace up, look around, and let North Devon’s wild side surprise you.