Walking in Devon is an absolute joy, and this is why it is such a popular destination for holidays in the UK. From a short stroll to an epic hike, a summer or a winter walk, enjoy miles of exhilarating views, rolling hills, high moorlands, river valleys, and some of the finest stretches of coastline in the country. Enjoy a whole different side to the county that can’t be reached by car or train. What more could you want? Check out our recommendations for what Your Devon Escape believes are the best walks in Devon to try.
Bolberry Down & Soar Mill Cove
4.5miles/7.2km | 2/3 hours | easy
Discover this idyllic circular walk. Take in some of the most scenic coastline in South Devon. Stop at the Soar Mill Cove for a dip or paddle. Find out more about the history of the area and enjoy far-reaching views out to sea and along the coast. Much of the area is listed as being as a Site of Special Scientific Interest for its insects, birds and plant life. So, don’t forget your binoculars to make the most out of your visit!
Brixham and Berry Head
4 miles/6.4km | 2.5 hours | moderate
This four-mile circular walk from Brixham to Berry Head National Nature Reserve offers history and stunning views. Before leaving Brixham, stop by The Golden Hind, a replica of Sir Francis Drake’s ship, to learn about his world trips. Leaving the bustling harbour, join the South West Coast Path to reach the headland. Explore the fort and gun battery, admire the wildflowers, and enjoy views out across Tor Bay. It is simply magical. Stop for a bite or a drink at the Guardhouse Café before returning the way you came. This is an ideal stomp for a bit of adventure and history combined with beautiful scenery.
5.2 miles/8.4km | 3.5 hours | moderate
Rich in history and legends, Dartmoor offers some of the most dramatic views in England, and an exhilarating challenge for walkers. To explore Burrator Reservoir, follow the circular walking route starting and finishing at Sharpitor. Take in the varied and stunning views of tors, rolling hills and, of course, the reservoir. There are some steep climbs as well as relaxed inclines, but it will all be worth it when you reach the reservoir. Stop for a picnic or just to admire the view before you continue to where you started.
Coleton Fishacre
7 miles | 4.5 hours | moderate
This circular walk offers stunning views out to sea, whilst providing local history and beautiful gardens. Take the ferry from Dartmouth across the River Dart to Kingswear. Stroll along South Devon’s stretch of South West Coast Path to the lush gardens of the 20th century estate. Home to exotic ferns, trickling water features, and woodland glades, there is such much to explore before you even get inside! After an invigorating hike, explore the grounds and stunning home. Enjoy the views down to Pudcombe Cove. After enjoying all that this National Trust site has to offer, return to Kingswear via the lane to Higher Brownstone Farm with classic rolling countryside views. We think this is one of the best walks in Devon because it offers you a bit of everything if you want to learn and explore local.
Dartmouth to Dittisham
8.8 miles/14.2km | 5 hours | moderate
Walk from the hustle and bustle of Dartmouth through ancient oak woodland and along country lanes. Be met with sailboats and the colourful cottages of Dittisham at the halfway mark of this circular walk. This 8.8-mile route includes some rough terrain, stiles, and several steep section. When you get to Dittisham, you can either opt to take the ferry over to Greenway, walking back to Kingswear along the River Dart, or hop on a ferry from Dittisham back to Dartmouth. To make the walk longer, continue to Totnes! The Dart Valley Trail continues from Dittisham all the way to Totnes, taking you through rolling hills, stunning views and country lanes. From Totnes, you can catch a river cruise back down the River Dart to Dartmouth. Whichever option you choose, you will sure enjoy a good stomp along the river. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for seals!
Elberry, Churston and Fishcombe
3.7miles/6km | 2.5 hours | moderate
If you are looking for walks in Devon that include coastline and beaches, this should be on your list. Explore South Devon on this two-hour walk along the beautiful coastline and through old woodland. Spot grey seals in the calm waters and admire the boats bobbing by. The walk takes you from Broadsands Beach, the perfect beach for a family day out, along the South West Coast Path and through some woods via Elberry, Churston, and Fishcombe Cove. Stop for some refreshments at Fishcombe Cove Café, if you are making the venture during the summer months. And, if you want to increase the length of your stomp, continue to Brixham along the coast path, where you can catch a bus back to the start. Stop for some fish and chips, an ice cream or simply a stroll around the beautiful harbour.
Prawle Point Walk
3 miles/4.8km | 1.5 hours | moderate
This walk is full of drama. Enjoy some strong heart thumping clifftop climbs. Enjoy views of rocky beaches and the expansive English Channel. Look out for sunken Demetrios below Signalhouse Point. Don’t miss the boundary stones that dot the landscape. Call in at the Coastwatch Visitor Centre to find out more about the wild and beautiful landscape. For a stomp that covers all bases, this is your perfect walk in Devon.
Wistman’s Wood
2.8 miles/4.5km | 1.5 hours | easy-moderate
Starting at Two Bridges Car Park, Dartmoor’s ancient Wistman’s Wood is reached on an easy walk along a waymarked path. Peer in beneath the trees’ lichen-covered boughs to a woodland that has remained unspoilt for hundreds of years. Its twisted and gnarled branches of stunted oak trees might be odd looking but there is a strange beauty to the woods. Enjoy an adventure and discover the legends on this exciting circular walk in Devon.
Dogs are welcome on all the above walks. However, some do ask for your furry friends to be kept on leads for all or at least some of the adventure. To discover more of our favourite Dartmoor walks, click here, or for other fabulous coastal walks, click here.
For more ideas for what to do on Your Devon Escape, why not check out our journal for recommendations. Or make us all jealous on by sharing your adventures with #yourdevonescape. Tag us on Facebook @YourDevonEscape, on Instagram @your_devon_escape or TikTok @yourdevonescapeltd.