Walking in Devon

Walking in Devon is extremely popular, as the county is home to some of the most beautiful scenery and greatest areas to walk in Britain. Below we have listed a few of the best areas for you to explore.

The Dart Valley Trail

This lovely river walk features two of the most charming towns in the South West, Totnes and Dartmouth. You begin in Totnes, meandering your way along the length of the river. Along the way you could drop into Agatha Christies old house, Greenway, or the café at the Sharpham Estate. Once you make it to Dartmouth (or Totnes, depending on which way you go) you can catch the steamer boat back to where you started.

The Fortescue Inn, Salcombe

The South West Coast Path is full of gems, but Salcombe has to be one of the highlights. Set on Kingsbridge Estuary, home to some of the best sea food and ice cream in the area, it would be easy to spend the whole day there. Out on the path some beautiful sea views await you, including the most southerly point in Devon, Prawle Point.

The Moorland Walk, Dartmoor

Dartmoor is one of England’s last remaining wildernesses, but just a few hundred years ago it was a place of thriving industry. This walk features some of the most and least famous parts of this rugged landscape, including the Houndtor, Haytor and the disused Haytor Quarry which is now a quiet oasis. Dartmoor is notoriously tricky to navigate, thanks to its lack of land marks, so make sure you take a compass and a good map with you on your adventure.

North Devon & Exmoor

Exmoor National Park lies in North Devon and is part of West Somerset. Wild moorland covers the high ground with Dunkery Beacon being the highest point within the National Park. The coast includes some of the highest cliffs in the UK with easy access provided by the South West Coast National Trail.

The Tarka Trail

The Tarka Trail is a pedestrian and cycle way in the North Devon Biosphere Reserve. It runs in a 163 mile route through untouched landscapes. This trail is a wonderful way to explore the Biosphere Reserve from the coast, through deeply carved river valleys of ancient woodland and productive farmland. The Trail passes through the towns of Lynmouth, Barnstaple, Bideford, Torrington, Okehampton and Ilfracombe and parts of the trail coincide with the South West Coast Path, the Two Moors Way and the Dartmoor Way.

Exeter

The Heart of Devon, Exeter, is home to some of Britain’s most stunning landscapes – impressive scenic coastline, rugged moorland and undulating countryside. Whether you’re a keen hiker or prefer just a leisurely stroll, there’s no better way to admire the city than by foot.

Exeter City Wall Trail

This trail is a fascinating self-guided tour. The oldest parts of the wall are almost 2000 years old and it has been the site of many important historical events. Follow the trail to discover colourful information panels at various points along the route. There are quizzes and puzzles for children to do on the way, so bring paper and pencils along with you.

Dartmoor

Dartmoor has it all. Whether you’re looking for a challenging trek across windswept moors, or just a relaxing stroll through isolated woods, you’ve come to the right place.

Drake’s Trail

Tavistock to Plymouth; Drake’s Trail is a group of walking and cycling trails. The network has something for all ages and abilities. This important part of Devon’s recreational route network runs through the superb countryside with attractive scenery along the western edge of Dartmoor, together with much historical and heritage interest. The trail takes you through wooded river valleys and across open moorlands, up close to wonderful wildlife and history.

For more information on walking routes in Devon, we recommend visiting The Outdoor Guide for a detailed list of walks within the area.

Photo by Louis Tripp on Unsplash