Planning a North Devon Hiking Adventure? Look no further than our definitive guide to the best of North Devon Coastal Walks and create the ultimate coastal itinerary to make the most of your getaway.
North Devon is known for its outstanding natural beauty with a gorgeous coastline, country gems, wildlife and a variety of fascinating towns and villages to explore. What better way to explore this beautiful part of the UK than on foot – you will not be disappointed!
1. Croyde to Putsborough
Circular Route | 8.5km | Dog Friendly (Please keep on a lead around clifftops) | Coastal Walk
The circular walk from Croyde to Putsborough Beach is a popular walk among guests who stay with us here at the resort! Follow the scenic route along Baggy Point around the headland, where you will be faced with spectacular views, and on clear days, you can even see Lundy Island. The trail is steep in some areas but mostly steady, leading you on top of the headland with an easy route down to Putsborough sands. This walk is mostly used by hikers and sightseers’, and you may even bump into some paragliders over the headland! Don’t forget to check out Putsborough Beach Café when you are there for a well-deserved hot drink and a spot of lunch before you head back.
2. Southwest Coastal Path: Ilfracombe to Woolacombe
13.4km | Dog Friendly (Please keep on a lead around clifftops) | Coastal Walk
If you are looking for the ultimate day trip, then get your walking boots on and pack your picnic. Start in the picturesque harbour village of Ilfracombe, where you will find many amazing restaurants and shops along the harbour side to explore. The path leads out of Ilfracombe to the small village of Lee Bay along the path to Bull Point and Morte Point. Here you can find some beautiful coastal views and even spot for wildlife, as this is extremely popular for seal spotting. This path rejoins along to Woolacombe, where you can head down directly to the beach and enjoy an ice cream.
3. Baggy Point
Short Circular Route | 3.2km | Dog Friendly (Keep on lead around clifftops) | Coastal Walk
Our most recommended walk here in Croyde is the short and sweet (but by no means less spectacular) circular route around Baggy Point. Starting at the National Trust car park, follow the path around the headland with gorgeous coastal scenes that will not disappoint! Once you have reached the top of the headland, take in the view of Croyde looking back at you, along with the sights of Hartland in the distance. Don’t forget your camera (or phone) as this is definitely worth a snap. Follow the path over the headland back towards Croyde, where this rejoins onto the same path that you followed out on.
4. Heddons Mouth
Circular Route | 3.5km | Dog Friendly | Woodland Walk
This Exmoor gem is a popular national trust walk here in North Devon, which is booming with wildlife such as birds, butterflies, and even otters. Starting at the Hunters Inn Hotel, follow clear signs towards Heddons Mouth, leading you through stunning woodlands right down to the coast. At the end, you are greeted with Heddons Mouth Beach, where you can take in the views and fresh sea air. Follow the same path back, which will take you back to where you started. This walk is great for all abilities and is also dog-friendly too.
5. The Tarka Trail: Braunton to Barnstaple
9.7km | Dog Friendly (Dogs must be kept on a lead) | Direct Trail Walk
Did you know the Tarka Trail is 180 miles long and was inspired by Tarka the Otter from the famous novel by Henry Williams in 1927. Being well-favoured by walkers and cyclists, the Braunton to Barnstaple route is an easy trail with lots to look at along the way. Starting at Velator in Braunton, you will pass the exciting Chivenor Marine Base, where you may even get to see a helicopter take off! The trail then takes you through a wooded path where you can get some amazing views over the Taw Estuary towards Fremington as you head into Barnstaple. The best thing about this walk is that there is parking in both areas of Braunton and Barnstaple, so you can start your walk from both locations. Keep an eye out for food and drink spots along the way, such as the waterside café in Chivenor or Heanton Court Pub looking over the estuary.
6. Valley of the Rocks
Circular Walk | 6km | Dog Friendly (Please keep on lead around clifftops) | Coastal Walk
One of the most delightful walks that we love to recommend is the Valley of the Rocks, located on the coast of Exmoor National Park. Start at the car park and head upwards from here; this will take you directly onto the Southwest coastal path! Turn left and follow the route, keeping the sea to your right-hand side, you will then face a rocky turn, which locals like to call “rugged jack.” Take extra care here, especially by the cliffside, but here you have some of the best views of the ocean below and some dramatic rock formations! The path will descend back down towards the roundabout on the valley floor, where you will follow this until you come to a stone arch to Lee Abbey, in which you will turn left. The path takes you through a beautiful, wooded area, where you will see a sharp left turn. Take this left turn, and you will find yourself back out into the open. Follow the zigzag path up the hill, and as you come over, take a left, where you will find yourself back at the car park! Picnics are a must for this walk, and you may even see some wild goats along the way, so keep your eyes peeled!
7. Crow Point & Braunton Burrows
4.4km | Dog Friendly | Beach Walk
If you are looking for a peaceful and relaxing stroll, then this one could be for you. Crow Point sits south of Braunton Burrows, which is the centre of the North Devon Biosphere. One of the best things about this walk is that it is usually quieter than some of the larger beaches, which makes it ideal for dog walkers and visitors. Start at Crow Point car park and head along the estuary side, where you will find small sailing boats and plenty of shells and driftwood to keep as a souvenir! Follow the beach all the way along until you head around a sand dune past the Crow Point lighthouse, where you will find yourself on the beach bordering the burrows! This beach is great for rock pooling, and if you are feeling adventurous, you can carry on walking and find yourself on the far end of Saunton Sands! To get back to the car park, you can follow your steps back towards Crow point and you will find yourself back at your car!
