Walks in North Devon

North Devon is one of the most stunning parts of the country with miles of golden sand, rolling hills and quaint towns and villages to make up its charm. Not only does heading out on a walk give you a boost of fresh air, but it’s also one of the best ways to take in the gorgeous local scenery. From easy strolls for families to longer, more challenging walks for those who crave adventure, there’s no shortage of walking routes to try. 

 

Kinever Valley to Bennett’s Mouth: 

Length & Duration: 4.8km, approximately 2 hours

Difficulty: Moderate

Highlights: Hidden wooded valley, beautiful flora and a secret cove by the sea. 

Access: Not suitable for wheelchairs or those unsteady on their feet 

Dog friendly: Yes

Parking: Car park in centre of Mortehow village, EX34 7ET 

Route description: Starting at Mortehow village car park, following tarmacked lanes and wooded footpaths to the cove by the sea and returning via the same route. 

 

Enjoy this amazing secret woodland walk that leads you to a stunning beach cove! Starting in the village of Mortehoe, follow the road as it leads you out into the countryside down a hidden wooded valley filled with snowdrops in the winter and ending up at a secret little cove by the sea. Who doesn't love a good hidden gem!

 

Woolacombe Beach: 

Length & Duration: 1.6km, approximately 1 hour

Difficulty: Easy

Highlights: Sand dunes, coastal views, wildflowers and birdlife. 

Access: Sand dunes, steep in places

Dog friendly: Yes

Parking: Various car parks in Woolacombe, EX34 7ZZ

Route description: Starting from the car park at Marine Drive, walking through the sand dunes to a large waymark post, looping round towards Mill Rock and returning to the starting point. 

 

This award-winning beach is one of the best in the UK. Spanning three sandy miles, it’s ideal for walking, surfing, swimming and playing. There are plenty of wonderful walks to embark on from the beach, but this simple loop is perfect for families and those wanting an easy stroll. 

 

Short walks (under 5km) for fresh air, families, children, etc.

 

Heddon’s Mouth circular walk: 

Length & Duration: 3.2km, approximately 1 hour 

Difficulty: Easy

Highlights: River valley, coastal views and a historic lime kiln. 

Access: Designated accessible parking spaces, and accessible toilet however some of the trails have a loose and rough surface.

Dog friendly: Yes

Parking: Heddon Valley car park, EX31 4PY. Designated accessible parking spaces available. 

Route description: Starting at Heddon Valley car park, following the river to the sea at Heddon’s Mouth and returning the same way. 

 

This beautiful walk takes you alongside the River Heddon through ancient woodland until you meet the sea between some of the country’s highest cliffs. The Heddon Valley is a designated Site of Special Interest and is home to a variety of wildlife, making it the perfect place to enjoy a wander. 

Baggy Point: 

Length & Duration: 3.2km, approximately 1 hour

Difficulty: Easy

Highlights: Coastal views, birdwatching opportunities and historical sites from WWII. 

Access: Gently undulating walk that can be slippery when wet, may not be suitable for everyone. 

Dog friendly: Yes

Parking: Baggy Point National Trust Car Park, EX33 1FF

Route description: Starting at the National Trust car park in Croyde, following the coast path around Baggy Point and returning via the same route. 

 

A short, circular walk along the west side of Baggy Point that’s perfect for coastal, sea and farmland views. The area is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest for its geological features and is also a great place to see wildflowers and many different species of birds. 

Valley of Rocks: 

Length & Duration: 3.5km, approximately 1.5 hours

Difficulty: Easy

Highlights: Dramatic coastal scenery, wild goats and geological formations.

Access: Relatively flat and mostly tarmac, accessible. 

Dog friendly: Yes, on leads

Parking: Lynton car park, 

Route description: Starting at the car park near Lynton, following the coast path through the valley and returning via the same route. 

 

The Valley of Rocks is over 6,000 years old and has been home to wild goats for centuries. Perched near the cliff-top village of Lynton, this walk offers fabulous views of the coastline and the opportunity to spot the goats grazing along the way. There is also a cafe based close to the valley so you can enjoy a break halfway through the route. 

Watersmeet to Ash Bridge circular walk: 

Length & Duration: 3.5km, approximately 1 hour

Difficulty: Moderate 

Highlights: Riverside scenery, ancient woodlands and the confluence of East Lyn and Hoar Oak Water

Access: The trail includes steps, uneven paths and steep inclines and therefore may not be suitable for all

Dog friendly: Yes, on leads

Parking: Watersmeet car park, EX35 6LF

Route description: Starting at Watersmeet car park, following the river to Ash Bridge and looping back. 

 

This trail meanders along the East Lyn River, taking you past Watersmeet House and through some lovely woodland. There’s so much to see and explore on this route so it’s perfect for the whole family. You may even spot one of the elusive otters or a heron in the river! 

Wistlandpound Reservoir: 

Length & Duration: 3.5km, approximately 1.5 hours

Difficulty: Easy

Highlights: Lakeside views, mixed woodlands and tranquil environment. 

Access: Wheelchair accessible paths around the reservoir

Dog friendly: Yes, on leads

Parking: Wistlandpound Reservoir car park, EX31 4SJ

Route description: Starting at the reservoir car park, following the circular trail around the lake and returning to the car park. 

 

Situated among beautiful, rolling hills, Wistlandpound Reservoir is the ideal place to enjoy a family walk. Through the peaceful woodlands, you can enjoy an easy and relaxing stroll as you keep an eye out for the wonderful wildlife the reservoir has to offer. Be sure to take a moment to stop in the bird hide and watch a variety of birds on the lake. 

Arlington Court Woods: 

Length & Duration: 4km, approximately 1.5 hours

Difficulty: Easy

Highlights: Historic estate woodlands, diverse wildlife and seasonal blooms. 

Access: Some routes include steep climbs, but many are gentle with accessible paths

Dog friendly: Yes in most areas

Parking: Car park on site, EX31 4LP

Route description: Starting at Arlington Court car park, following marked trails. 

 

With over 2,700 acres to explore, there is no shortage of walking routes in these glorious woods. Each trail gives you the chance to explore the beautiful nature within the area, from ancient woodlands and wildflowers to the stunning lake. There is also a tea room on site for you to sit back and enjoy a tasty treat once your walk is complete. 

 

Codden Hill: 

Length & Duration: 4.7km, approximately 1.5 hours

Difficulty: Moderate

Highlights: Panoramic views of Devon’s countryside, particularly at sunset. 

Access: The route includes steep inclines, which may make the route unsuitable for some 

Dog friendly: Yes

Parking: Small car park towards eastern end of Codden Beacon, EX32 0DY

Route description: Starting at Bishop’s Tawton, ascending the hill, looping around the peak and descending back. 

 

If you’re up for a lot of uphill walking, this route is perfect for spectacular views of North Devon. Spanning valleys and Bishop’s Tawton, you can see as far as Barnstaple on clear days, making it a wonderful place to sit for a while and enjoy the views with a picnic. 

Morte Point Circular: 

Length & Duration: 4.8km, approximately 2 hours

Difficulty: Moderate

Highlights: Rugged coastline, wildlife sightings (including seals) and panoramic sea views. 

Access: This route includes rocky, steep and uneven paths so may not be suitable for everyone. 

Dog friendly: Yes

Parking: Parking available at Mortehoe Museum, EX34 7DT

Route description: Starting at Mortehoe village, the trail loops around Morte Point, offering dramatic coastal scenery. 

 

With impressive views towards Woolacombe beach and Baggy Point, this route offers stunning views of the rugged coastline and plenty of wildlife spotting opportunities. The fearsome rocks on the coastline are the cause of many shipwrecks over the years and the village was once a popular hub for smuggling. Make sure to keep an eye out on this route as there’s a good chance of spotting a seal or two! 

Medium-length walks (between 5-10km) for longer routes

 

Beaford and River Torridge Circular:

Length & Duration: 5.5km, approximately 2 hours

Difficulty: Easy to moderate 

Highlights: Riverside meadows, woodlands and potential wildlife sightings (such as otters and kingfishers). 

Access: This route includes steep inclines and uneven terrain, so may not be suitable for everyone.

Dog friendly: Yes

Parking: Roadside parking at the trailhead

Route description: Starting at Green Lane in Beaford, following the River Torridge through diverse landscapes, and returning via Halsdon Nature Reserve. 

 

Taking you through farmland, woodland and waterside trails, this walk is a wonderful way to experience some of the area’s natural beauty. It’s popular with hikers and runners, but still generally quiet so it’s perfect for those wanting to enjoy the outdoors in peace. 

Croyde to Saunton Down: 

Length & Duration: 6km, approximately 2.5 hours 

Difficulty: Moderate

Highlights: Sweeping views over Croyde Bay and Saunton Sands, diverse flora and historical sights. 

Access: The route includes some steep climbs so may not be suitable for everyone 

Dog friendly: Yes

Parking: Parking is available in the centre of Croyde

Route description: Beginning at the Billy Budds pub, the path ascends to Saunton Down, providing coastal views before descending back to the village. 

 

Boasting stunning views of the bay and Braunton Burrows, this walk is perfect for a blast of coastal breeze and a glimpse of some beautiful wildlife. You’ll explore Croyde beach before looping through woods and charming country lanes to find yourself back in Croyde. Be sure to pop into the Billy Budds pub for a refreshing drink once you’ve got your steps in! 

Tarka Trail: 

Length & Duration: the most popular section from Barnstaple to Instow is 11km, approximately 2.5 hours 

Difficulty: Easy

Highlights: Scenic estuary views, wildlife spotting and flat, accessible paths. 

Access: The trail is fully accessible 

Dog friendly: Yes

Parking: Multiple car parks available in Barnstaple 

Route description: Starting in Barnstaple, following the trail along the River Taw to Instow and returning via the same route or public transport. 

 

The Tarka Trail, named after Tarka the Otter, is a wonderful loop exploring all the diversity and beauty North Devon has to offer. The full trail is 180 miles, but many visitors start from Barnstaple and walk to Instow,which gives them breathtaking views of the sea and beaches while passing through quaint villages. It’s a great family walk if you’re looking for some adventure! 

 

Long walks (over 15km) for real adventurers 

 

Braunton Burrows: 

Length & Duration: Up to 10km, approximately 3-4 hours. 

Difficulty: Moderate

Highlights: Extensive sand dune system, diverse flora and fauna and proximity to Saunton Sands. 

Access: Level ground but paths may be muddy, sandy or stony

Dog friendly: Yes

Parking: Sandy Lane car park, EX33 2NX 

Route description: Starting at the Sandy Lane car park, exploring various trails through the dunes and returning via the same route. 

 

A long walk for those interested in exploring Braunton Burrows, one of the UK’s largest sand dune systems, and the variety of nature that can be found there. The burrows are a National Nature Reserve and at the core of the UNESCO-designated North Devon Biosphere Reserve, so this is definitely a route to consider for nature-lovers. 

 

Tarr Steps Circular: 

Length & Duration: 11.5km, approximately 4 hours

Difficulty: Moderate

Highlights: Ancient clapper bridge, River Barle and wildlife spotting opportunities. 

Access: The route includes uneven terrain which may not be suitable for everyone. 

Dog friendly: Yes

Parking: Tarr Steps car park, TA22 9PY

Route description: Starting at Tarr Steps car park, following the river through woodlands and returning via the bridge. 

 

Considered one of Exmoor’s greatest treasures, Tarr Steps is a favourite among visitors. The steps are an ancient clapper bridge dating back to around 1000 BC and local legend says the five-tonne slabs were placed by the Devil to win a bet with a local giant. The route is a gentle meander alongside the river and loops through Withypool, offering breathtaking views over Exmoor.  

Woody Bay and Hunter’s Inn: 

Length & Duration: 8.8km, approximately 3 hours. 

Difficulty: Moderate to challenging 

Highlights: Coastal scenery, ancient woodlands and the historic Hunter’s Inn. 

Access: This route contains some steep sections that may not be suitable for everyone 

Dog friendly: Yes

Parking: Heddon Valley car park, EX31 4PY

Route description: Starting at Heddon Valley car park, traversing woodlands to Woody Bay, following the coast path to Heddon’s Mouth and returning along the river. 

 

This walk follows a 19th century carriageway and a section of the South West Coast Path, boasting views across the coast to Wales. Along the trail, you’ll also pass a Roman Fortlet, walk through ancient sessile oak woodlands and spot a variety of different sea birds on the cliffs. 

Saunton Sands to Woolacombe: 

Length & Duration: 17km, approximately 5 hours

Difficulty: Moderate to challenging 

Highlights: Expansive sandy beaches, coastal views and dog-friendly pubs in Croyde. 

Access: This walk includes sections of uneven terrain which may not be suitable for everyone. 

Dog friendly: Yes

Parking: Saunton Sands car park, EX33 2NU

Route description: Starting at Saunton Sands car park, passing though Croyde and reaching Woolacombe. 

This circular trail is great for hikers and mountain bikers, and it’s generally quiet so it’s ideal for those wanting a more peaceful walk. The route offers everything from magnificent coastal views to farmland and the quaint village of Georgeham, so be sure to have your camera ready to capture some of North Devon’s most stunning sights. 

 

Book your getaway: 

Ready to set out on a wonderful walk? Golden Coast is the ideal base to explore the fantastic scenery North Devon has to offer, with fantastic facilities, incredible entertainment and a variety of accommodation by the coastline. 

 

Book your holiday here.