You would be really missing out if you decide to visit Devon and not walk its stunning coastline. In this blog, we explore what makes the Devonshire coast so appealing and how best to explore it, as well as revealing our top 5 Devon coastal walks. 

1. Hope Cove Circular

4.8 miles – download the route

Why walk here?

Hope Cove is a small seaside village in the South Hams, found just west of Salcombe. Boasting a sandy beach and a nearby headland to traverse, this typical Devonshire landscape makes the perfect setting for a casual amble or a more organised circular walk. Dogs are allowed on leads in Hope Cove walks. In the summer this coastal walk is particularly stunning, with wildflowers blanketing the headland. If you’re lucky, you may even see kestrels and peregrines swooping above the grassland. 

The route

This walk is a great combination of headland, beach and quiet country lanes. Start your walk at Outer Hope car park and make your way down to Hope Cove. From here, you will pick up the South West Coast Path. This coastal path takes you all the way across the headland. Make sure you make a detour off the coastal path to visit the scenic site of Bolt Tail. 

Continue on the South West Coastal Path past Bolberry Down until you reach Bolberry. From here you will follow a footpath across several fields all the way back to Hope village. 

2. Exploring Dartmouth

4.2 miles – download the route

Why walk here?

Dartmouth is a place drenched in history. This little circular route explores the whole area, from Little Dartmouth to Dartmouth Castle. As far as Devon coastal walks go, this one is really varied, covering an interesting range of landscapes and character-full places. 

The route

This coastal walk starts at the National Trust Redlap Car Park at Little Dartmouth and follows the South West Coast Path around Warren Point and past numerous coves (you should pass Willow Cove, Ladies Cove, Deadmans Cove, among others). 

You should follow the coast path to Dartmouth Castle. The 15th-century castle was built to protect the River Dart, a significant port. The castle is now an English Heritage site and you can visit for under £10 for non-members (free for members) if you wish to take a short break from walking. The neighbouring tea rooms offer great views over the estuary. 

After leaving the castle, carry on along the river past Warfleet Cove to reach Gallants Bower. From here you can essentially follow the footpath back right to the car park where you started the walk. 

3. Salcombe to Torcross

12.6 miles – download the route

Why walk here?

Salcombe is a beautiful estuary town located in the South Hams. It makes the perfect starting point for a walk. Salcombe to Torcross is a more challenging Devon coastal walk, as it covers miles of coast path. Make the most of parking options at either end of the route and explore public transport options as this is not a circular route. 

The route

The coastal path from Salcombe to Torcross is pretty straightforward to navigate. Take advantage of the great views from Gammon Head and Prawle Point. Perhaps stray onto the beaches of Lannacombe or Great Mattiscombe for a picnic or swim in the summer!

Particularly special about this Devon coastal walk is the wildlife you may encounter. Cirl buntings, once threatened, now frequent Prawle Point and there have been over 180 species of birds recorded at the freshwater lake at Widdicombe Ley. See how many you can spot!

4. Prawle Point

4.1 miles – download the route

Why walk here?

This route around East Prawle and Prawle Point is perfect if you want to explore Devon’s most southerly point. Prawle Point offers spectacular views over the English Channel. The challenging circular covers a combination of rocky terrain and green lanes.

The route

Starting at East Prawle you will walk through the village, onto a bridle path, and eventually onto the South West Coast Path. Follow this coast path as it meanders around Prawle Point and above Willow Cove. From here, the path should drop down the cliffs and head past a couple of different coves. 

This Devon coastal walk is especially popular with wildlife lovers. In the summer, migrating species of butterflies can be found. If you are lucky and eagle-eyed enough, you may also see seals, dolphins and even basking sharks out at sea. To complete this circular route, follow the road up from Prawle Point to East Prawle. 

5. Paignton to Brixham

5.4 miles – download the route

Why walk here?

If you want to experience the English Riviera, this Devon coastal walk will cover two great destinations in South Devon: Paignton and Brixham. Both harbour towns are surrounded by beautiful stretches of countryside and coastline to explore. 

The route

You can reach Paignton either by taking the train to the station or by driving and parking. This walk begins at Paignton station. Walk through Torbay Park and down onto the seafront. From here you will join the South West Coast Path and head towards the harbour. Follow the coastal path as it crosses under the Broadsands railway viaduct, around Broadsands beach, and eventually climbs away from the beach. 

The path will descend at Churston Cove, the entrance to Brixham harbour. Follow it around the headland until you reach Brixham. In Brixham, there are plenty of public transport options with regular buses back to Paignton station. 

Where to stay?

If you are looking to visit south Devon and explore these great Devon coastal walks, get in touch with us at Salcombe Finest. Whether you wish to be in the heart of Salcombe or somewhere right on the sea such as the picturesque coastal village of Hope Cove, we have properties to suit you.