4.7
(967)
11,894
hikers
47
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Wembury are characterized by a rugged coastline, dramatic cliffs, and the scenic River Yealm estuary. The region, part of the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, offers diverse landscapes ranging from extensive rock pools at Wembury Beach to tranquil woodlands. Hikers can explore coastal paths with views of the Mewstone, a distinctive island, and follow trails along the estuary. This varied terrain provides a range of experiences for families seeking outdoor activity.
Last updated: May 4, 2026
4.7
(7)
76
hikers
4.91km
01:23
100m
110m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
(8)
43
hikers
12.6km
03:27
200m
200m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.0
(4)
26
hikers
4.62km
01:14
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
5
hikers
3.57km
01:01
80m
80m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(9)
147
hikers
9.25km
02:26
80m
70m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Depart Raneleigh Barns hamlet, passing views of manor houses and thatched farms, and arriving at the church on the clifftop of Wemberry Beach. And with luck, pass by when the bell ringer is playing.
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The River Yealm flows from south Dartmoor to the sea. There is a seasonal ferry across the mouth which connects the South west coast path and avoids a fairly long inland detour.
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Bovisand Beach is a large sandy beach flanked on either side by cliffs.
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Wembury is a nice beach with great rockpools, a small surf break and a Marine Centre run by the Devon Wildlife Trust. There is a large car park and a cafe. The South West Coast Path runs through here and the walking is good in both directions.
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In the 1920s this was a thriving holiday destination filled with 200 chalets, beach huts and a lido dug into the rockpools. It was an early example of an endless pool, its tagline was 'Where Sea and Sky are Lido Blue'. The Lido was requisitioned by the War Office during World War Two and now all that remains is the tidal swimming pool.
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Despite its small size, this island was once home to two different families in the 18th and 19th centuries. Most recently, Samuel Wakeham bargained to live in exile on the island after he was sentenced to transportation in the early1800s. Before that a man was sentenced to live on Great Mew Stone for seven years in 1744, but decided to live there for the rest of his life, never again coming to the mainland. Their home, much extended by Wakeham, still stands on the island today. Public access to Great Mew Stone was barred by the War Office during World War Two. It is now an important haven for bird and sea life.
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Wembury offers a wide selection of routes suitable for families, with over 45 hiking trails in the area. Most of these, around 30, are rated as easy, making them perfect for outings with children.
Wembury is nestled within the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), offering a diverse landscape from rugged coastlines and sandy beaches with rock pools to tranquil river estuaries and charming woodlands. The trails often feature stunning sea views, opportunities for wildlife spotting, and relatively gentle terrain, making them ideal for families.
Yes, Wembury has several easy circular routes. A great option is the Wembury Point loop with views of Great Mew Stone. This easy 3.6 km trail offers coastal grassland paths and fantastic views of the distinctive Mewstone island, which is a significant bird sanctuary.
Wembury is a fantastic spot for wildlife. Along the coast, especially at Wembury Beach, you can explore extensive rock pools at low tide, teeming with marine life like limpets, anemones, and crabs. Wembury Point is excellent for birdwatching, home to the rare cirl bunting. In the woodlands, you might spot deer, and in spring, bluebells create a beautiful display.
Absolutely! The Wembury beach & the River Yealm loop from Wembury is an easy 4.9 km trail that perfectly blends dramatic coastal vistas with peaceful paths along the scenic River Yealm estuary. It's a wonderful way to experience both aspects of Wembury's natural beauty.
Wembury is enjoyable year-round, but spring and summer offer the best weather for coastal walks and rock-pooling. Spring brings blooming wildflowers and active wildlife, while autumn provides beautiful colors in the woodlands. Always check local weather forecasts, especially for coastal conditions, before heading out.
Yes, Wembury offers several interesting sights. The iconic Mewstone island is visible from many coastal paths. You can also visit Wembury Beach itself, known for its rock pools and the Wembury Marine Centre. Further afield, you might encounter viewpoints like Plymouth Hoe or the Penlee Point natural monument.
Given the coastal and sometimes varied terrain, it's advisable to bring sturdy footwear, layers of clothing for changing weather, water, snacks, and sun protection. If you plan on exploring rock pools, consider bringing a small net and a bucket. A map or a navigation app like komoot is also recommended.
While many coastal paths can be uneven, some sections and woodland trails might be suitable for robust all-terrain strollers. For the most pram-friendly experience, look for routes described as 'easy' and check the terrain details on komoot before you go. Generally, paths along the River Yealm or wider coastal tracks might be more accessible.
Wembury has several parking areas, particularly near Wembury Beach and Wembury Point, which serve as popular starting points for many trails. Specific parking information for each route can often be found in the tour details on komoot.
The komoot community highly rates the trails in Wembury, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning coastal scenery, the opportunities for rock-pooling and wildlife spotting, and the well-maintained paths that make for enjoyable family outings. The variety of landscapes, from sea cliffs to tranquil estuaries, is also frequently highlighted.
For families seeking a bit more of a challenge, the Heybrook Bay & Bovisand Beach loop from Wembury is a moderate 12.6 km path. This route follows the South West Coast Path, offering dramatic coastal views and varied terrain that older children will enjoy exploring.


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