Coastal Walks in North Devon

The North Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty  features a number of coastal paths and walks that give you ample opportunity to explore the stunning scenery and to travel between the towns and villages while surrounded by beautiful sights.

The South West Coast Path

One of the most well known of all the coast paths in the region, the South West Coast Path covers several counties and is easily accessible from a variety of points along the route meaning that wherever you are in North Devon, you can easily join the path and enjoy as long or short a walk as you like. 

Originally created to help catch smugglers, the South West Coast Path takes in every cliff top and inlet along the coastline. Because of its original purpose, a walk along the path will give you a real insight into the region’s history as well as the views that make this part of the world so famous. You can find the original stone stiles and coastguard cottages still standing at various points. The entire path stretches across 630 miles and is the longest National Trail in the country, it starts in Exmoor and then follows the coast through North Devon into Cornwall and then into South Devon and towards Dorset before ending in Poole. 

Whether you’re looking for a short stroll with beautiful views or something a little more challenging, there are a whole host of trails and paths you can take along the South West Coast Path, it is suitable for all ages and abilities. Why not set out one morning and stop off for lunch at one of the many village pubs along the way?

Baggy Point and the walks of Croyde

As well as being a haven for watersports enthusiasts, Croyde is a great destination for anyone wanting to indulge in a coastal walk. From the village you can follow the trail towards Baggy Point and choose between the easier route or the steep path. This is the walk for keen photographers as the views include panoramas towards Bideford and Hartland as well as some amazing rocks and cliffs. 

Many of the trails in this region are managed by the National Trust and there are often trails for the treasure hunts for the children to enjoy – make sure to look out for them! 

The Tarka Trail and more

Keep your eyes peeled for the other trails around the town’s coastline, such as the Tarka Trail route at the top of Station Road that exits Ilfracombe, passes through Slade Valley passing two reservoirs before ending at Woolacombe. Here you pass Cairn Woodland and fantastic views of the town.

Wherever you are in North Devon you are never too far from an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the chance to get off the beaten track and explore further. Many of the trails are dog friendly and have several routes for those that want something a little less challenging. 

Find more things to do in North Devon