The best walks and hikes in North Devon

Explore the dramatic coastal landscape of the Valley of the Rocks on this easy 3.3-mile (5.3 km) hike. You'll gain 748 feet (228 metres) over about 1 hour and 42 minutes, winding through a unique "dry valley" with towering sea cliffs and distinctive rock formations like Castle Rock. The route offers a mix of paths and tracks, including sections of the South West Coast Path, with expansive views across the Bristol Channel. Expect varied terrain, from rocky ridges to enchanting woodlands, giving it an "other-worldly feel."

The Valley of the Rocks is easily accessible from the twin towns of Lynton and Lynmouth, which are connected by the historic Cliff Railway. This proximity allows for flexible starting points and makes it simple to combine your hike with exploring these charming towns. Some paths, especially those leading from Lynton to the valley, are relatively flat and suitable for all skill levels, making it a great option for a relaxed outing. Be aware that some areas have steep drops without barriers, so always exercise care while hiking.

The valley's striking geology features "giants" rock formations, like Castle Rock, shaped by thousands of years of erosion and over 6,000 years old. Keep an eye out for the herd of feral goats that have inhabited the valley for centuries, often seen clambering on the precipitous rocks. The area has also inspired writers like Samuel Taylor Coleridge and William Wordsworth, with the historic North Walk, carved into the cliff face in 1817, offering a dramatic approach to the valley.

Embark on the Heddon Valley to Woody Bay Walk, a moderate hiking route that guides you along the dramatic North Devon coast within Exmoor National Park. This trail covers 7.8 miles (12.5 km) and involves a significant elevation gain of 1366 feet (416 metres), typically taking around 3 hours and 47 minutes to complete. As you hike, you will experience varied terrain, from ancient sessile oak woodlands to exposed coastal paths, offering expansive views across the Bristol Channel towards Wales and showcasing landmarks like Woody Bay and the Valley of the Rocks.

Before you set out, be aware that the path can become very muddy, especially during winter or after heavy rain, particularly around the Hollow Brook waterfall area. The coastal sections are exposed, so prepare for changing weather conditions. Parking is generally available near the Hunter's Inn, which serves as a convenient starting point for this circular route. Plan your visit to allow ample time to enjoy the scenery and navigate any challenging sections.

This route is notable for its rich natural environment, where you might spot various seabirds nesting on the cliffs or even catch a glimpse of red deer within the woodlands. The trail also features a dramatic waterfall and a distinctive sea arch, adding unique visual interest to your hike. It offers a compelling blend of coastal grandeur and woodland tranquility, making it a standout experience in the region.

Embark on the Baggy Point & Croyde loop from Woolacombe, a moderate hike spanning 11.1 miles (17.9 km) with an elevation gain of 793 feet (242 metres), typically taking around 4 hours and 50 minutes to complete. This route offers a diverse landscape, from long stretches of sandy beach and extensive sand dunes to rugged coastal paths and sections through farmland. You will experience breathtaking coastal views, pass by the two Blue Flag beaches of Woolacombe and Croyde Bay, and encounter spectacular rock formations around Baggy Point where climbers are often seen.

While parts of the path, especially around Baggy Point, are fairly gentle, the overall loop requires a good level of fitness due to varied terrain, including potentially wet and muddy sections after rain. The trail incorporates undulating paths with moderate climbs and descents. On clear days, you can see Lundy Island and even Hartland Point in the distance, with cliff slopes adorned by wildflowers, gorse, and heather, particularly vibrant in late spring and summer.

This trail is notable for following sections of the renowned South West Coast Path and Tarka Trail. Baggy Point itself is a Site of Special Scientific Interest due to its impressive geological formations, including Devonian sandstone and wave-cut platforms. You can also find historical remnants of World War II training activities by American troops and preserved whale bones from a 1915 stranding. The area is excellent for birdwatching, and you might spot grey seals along the shoreline or North Devon Ruby Red Cattle in the dunes.

Embark on the Croyde & Putsborough loop via Baggy Point for a moderate hike that showcases North Devon's stunning coastline. This 5.0 miles (8.0 km) route, which takes around 2 hours and 11 minutes to complete, offers varied terrain and an elevation gain of 408 feet (124 metres). As you hike, you will experience dramatic cliffs, windswept headlands, and expansive sandy beaches like Croyde Bay and Putsborough Sands. The trail, part of the South West Coast Path, provides spectacular views and, in late spring and summer, you can see slopes adorned with wildflowers, gorse, and heather. You will also enjoy vistas towards Bideford Bay and, on clear days, Lundy Island. This route promises a rewarding experience with diverse natural beauty.

To begin your hike, you can typically access the trail from the National Trust car park, with the initial section towards Baggy Point being gently sloping. However, be aware that the path narrows further along, presenting rugged coastal terrain with undulating sections and several steep inclines. Some parts of the path can be slippery, especially when wet, so make sure you wear suitable footwear for your journey. You will also find portions of the coastal path running close to the cliff edge, with significant drops, so stay alert. Putsborough Beach offers a lovely spot for a break, complete with a cafe and clean public toilets.

This loop is rich in both natural and historical significance, making it a highly regarded hiking destination. Baggy Point itself is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest due to its unique geological formations, including Devonian sandstone and wave-cut platforms. Along the path, you can discover preserved whale bones and a well-preserved

Embark on the Lynmouth Circular via Watersmeet and Countisbury, a moderate hiking route that offers a diverse experience through Exmoor National Park. This trail spans 9.9 miles (16.0 km) and involves a significant elevation gain of 1893 feet (577 metres), typically taking around 4 hours and 54 minutes to complete. You will journey through lush woodlands, follow a shady river valley, and emerge onto an exposed coastal path. Expect spectacular vistas across the Bristol Channel and the beautiful confluence of rivers at Watersmeet Valley. The varied terrain includes well-trodden footpaths, mud tracks, and steep sections with zigzagging descents and numerous steps.

Your hike begins and ends in the charming harbour town of Lynmouth, where you can find various amenities before or after your adventure. Be prepared for uneven, muddy, or slippery terrain, especially after rain or during autumn, so make sure you wear appropriate footwear. Watersmeet House provides a convenient spot for refreshments seasonally, offering a pleasant break midway through your journey. Consider starting your hike earlier in the day to fully enjoy the scenery and avoid crowds, particularly during peak seasons.

This circular route is notable for blending the tranquil beauty of the Watersmeet Valley with the dramatic coastal scenery of Countisbury. The trail highlights the unique landscape of Exmoor National Park, where ancient woodlands meet the sea. You will experience the rich natural environment, from the shaded riverbanks to the expansive coastal views. The route's design ensures a continuous loop, bringing you back to your starting point in Lynmouth, making it a convenient option for a full day's exploration.

The Combe Martin & Great Hangman loop offers a challenging yet rewarding hike through Exmoor National Park, covering 5.3 miles (8.6 km) with a significant 994 feet (303 metres) of elevation gain. This moderate route takes about 2 hours and 37 minutes to complete, leading you along the South West Coast Path with dramatic clifftop views. You will pass Little Hangman before reaching Great Hangman, England's highest sea cliff, where you can enjoy extensive vistas across the Bristol Channel.

This circular hike begins and ends in the charming seaside village of Combe Martin. Before or after your adventure, you can find amenities like cafes and pubs in the village, making it a convenient spot for refreshments. The trail itself features varied terrain, including grassy clifftops and quiet country lanes, though some descents can be steep on concrete paths.

Beyond the stunning coastal scenery, the trail also offers a glimpse into the area's rich history. As you return, you will pass above ancient silver mines, a testament to over 600 years of mining heritage. The route is considered one of Exmoor's finest coastal walks, showcasing why this area is designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Embark on the Combe Martin loop via Little Hangman, a moderate hike that offers a rewarding coastal experience. This route spans 4.7 miles (7.6 km) and involves a climb of 953 feet (291 metres), typically taking about 2 hours and 21 minutes to complete. As you ascend Little Hangman, you will be treated to expansive views of Combe Martin Bay and the surrounding coastline, making for a memorable journey through varied terrain.

When planning your visit, consider that this popular trail is easily accessible for hikers. While specific parking details are not provided, Combe Martin generally offers options for visitors. The best time to hike is often during summer, when wildflowers are abundant and the weather is optimal for clear views across the Bristol Channel. Always check local conditions before you head out.

This trail is nestled within the North Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, offering more than just a workout. On clear days, you might even spot Wales and Lundy Island in the distance from higher points. The route also guides you through sheltered valleys and past dramatic sea cliffs, showcasing the diverse natural environment of the region.

Embark on an easy hike along Baggy Point from Moor Lane, a 2.2-mile (3.6 km) route that offers spectacular coastal and sea views. With a gentle elevation gain of 235 feet (72 metres), you can expect to complete this trail in about 1 hour. The path is generally undulating, leading you through bracken and gorse-covered hillsides that burst with wildflowers, gorse, and heather in spring and summer. As you walk, you'll enjoy expansive vistas across to Westward Ho, Clovelly, and Morte Point, and on clear days, you might even spot the hazy outline of Lundy Island in the distance. This trail provides a relaxing stroll, perfect for enjoying the diverse scenery of North Devon.

Your hike begins from the National Trust car park on Moor Lane. The initial section follows an asphalted lane before transitioning to a broad track, then gravelled footpaths or stony tracks. While much of the lower coastal path is suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs, some sections can be narrow with steep drops to the sea. The path can also be slippery when wet, so appropriate footwear is advised for your comfort and safety. There are benches strategically placed along the route, offering perfect spots to pause and take in the breathtaking scenery.

Baggy Point is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest, celebrated for its unique geology and varied plant life. Keep an eye out for the large glacial erratic boulder on the foreshore, a 50-ton rock transported from Western Scotland, though it's only accessible at low tide. The area is also excellent for birdwatching, with seabirds nesting on the cliffs and migrant birds passing through in autumn; you might even spot seals swimming around the point. Historically, the trail features a memorial to author Henry Williamson, a whale bone washed ashore in 1915, and an old concrete arrow used for RAF practice bombing during WWII.

The Baggy Point loop from Putsborough offers a varied hiking experience along North Devon's rugged coast. You will find coastal footpaths and hiking paths, with some sections of unpaved, asphalt, and gravel tracks. The route features undulating terrain, including steep inclines and descents along the cliffside, rewarding you with panoramic views across Croyde Bay, Woolacombe Bay, and the Bristol Channel. This moderate 5.0-mile (8.1 km) loop involves about 452 feet (138 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes around 2 hours and 13 minutes to complete.

For your visit, you can start from Putsborough Beach, where you will find a cafe and car park. Another option is the National Trust car park near Croyde Bay, which also has facilities like cafes and toilets. Be aware that some sections of the trail can be slippery when wet, and there are narrow paths with steep drop-offs, so careful footing and proper footwear are recommended. While the initial stretch from the National Trust car park is generally accessible, the full loop requires good physical fitness.

This trail is part of both the South West Coast Path and the Tarka Trail, connecting you to wider networks of popular walking routes. Baggy Point is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest due to its unique geological formations, including 300-400 million-year-old Devonian sandstone and slate layers, and glacial erratic boulders. The area also has historical significance, having been used as a training ground for American forces before the Normandy Landings in World War II, and it inspired author Henry Williamson's