Best Walking Tours Around Coastal Devon

Sarah Parker
Authored by Sarah Parker
Posted: Thursday, July 9, 2020 - 19:10

With summer in full swing and lockdown measures easing across the UK, you might be thinking about taking your family on holiday to Devon. If temperatures remain high as they were in May and June, then taking the kids for a walking tour around the many beaches, cliffs and coastal terrain of the Southwest of England is a refreshing way to relax and unwind this summer.

Whether you’re new to Devon or have been there before, below are some of the best walking tours to be had in this beautiful picturesque region.

Budleigh

At 4.7 miles, this moderate walk takes you from Lime Kiln Car Park to Otterton and offers magnificent views of the coastline with plenty of opportunities for bird watching. The first half of the walk is paved and accessible for pushchairs and wheelchairs with little elevation. With superb views of the Jurassic coast and the Otter estuary, this is a Devon walk you won’t want to miss.

Beer

If you’re looking for something more demanding, a walk around Beer offers unique geology and fantastic views of the coast. At around 3 miles, you’ll be able to see the Hooken Undercliffs as well as a unique micro-climate featuring an array of insects, plants, and birds. This walk involves some steep climbing, so be sure to buy proper footwear or clothing using Cyber Monday Vouchers if you decide to head out for a visit.

Salcombe

Located in South Devon, Salcombe is a picturesque town that sits on the banks of the Kingsbridge Estuary. There are multiple circular walks around this area which range from 2.75 - 4.5 miles, so depending on what you’re looking for, you may want to do one or all of these journeys. Similar to Beer and Budleigh, Salcombe boasts magnificent views of the Jurassic Coast and unique geology.

Bishop’s Walk

Bishop’s Walk forms part of the South West path and was created by Henry Phillpotts, the Bishop of Exeter, in the mid-1800s. With a landscape primarily made up of limestone, this beautiful walk offers a variety of landscapes ranging from grassland, health, rock, and scrub. Walkers can expect to do a trip of around 3 miles along plenty of inland footpaths. During the journey, be sure to stop and admire Ansteys Cove and Redgate beach, two coves that rest beneath some spectacular cliffs.

Woolacombe

For those looking for a longer walk, Woolacombe to Saunton is an 8 or 9-mile journey, providing a mix of coast and inland views of the surrounding area. Keep an eye out for Braunton Burrows, the largest sand dune system in England. While you’re exploring, why not check out Santon Sands beach? A great place for surfers and beach-goers, you could allow extra time to relax after a long day’s journey. This beautiful walk is not to be missed.

If you’re planning a family holiday this summer and have Devon in your sights, be sure to check out the walks above as they will surely not disappoint!