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Devon

Walks in Devon

Walking in Devon is a delight for nature enthusiasts, history buffs, and casual strollers alike. This picturesque county in southwest England offers a vast array of landscapes, from the dramatic cliffs of the Jurassic Coast to the rugged beauty of Dartmoor National Park. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely walk along a sandy beach or a challenging hike across wild moorlands, Devon provides endless opportunities for exploration and enjoyment.

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Popular Walking Routes in Devon

1. South West Coast Path

  • Location: Extending along the Devon coastline
  • Highlights: This path offers some of the most breathtaking coastal scenery in the UK, including parts of the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Notable sections include the rugged cliffs around Lynton and Lynmouth and the sandy stretches near Woolacombe.

2. Dartmoor National Park

  • Location: Central Devon
  • Highlights: Dartmoor is famous for its tors, wild ponies, and vast open landscapes. Popular walks include the ascent to Haytor Rocks for panoramic views and exploring the ancient Wistman’s Wood, a mystical forest of dwarf oak trees.

3. Exmoor National Park

  • Location: North Devon, extending into Somerset
  • Highlights: Exmoor’s diverse landscapes include moorland, woodland, cliffs, and river valleys. The Valley of Rocks walk offers stunning geological formations, while the Tarka Trail follows the routes through the serene countryside described in Henry Williamson’s novel.

4. The Tarka Trail

  • Location: North Devon
  • Highlights: This is one of the longest traffic-free walking and cycling paths in the country. It traces the journey of Tarka the Otter in the classic novel, winding through the scenic landscapes of the North Devon Biosphere Reserve.

5. The Two Moors Way

  • Location: From Ivybridge on the southern edge of Dartmoor to Lynmouth on the north coast of Exmoor
  • Highlights: This route covers some of the best upland walking in England and crosses both Dartmoor and Exmoor national parks. It offers a mix of wild moorland, rolling hills, and deep wooded valleys.

Tips for Walking in Devon

  • Preparation: Always check the weather forecast before setting out, as conditions can change rapidly, especially on the moors.
  • Gear: Suitable walking boots and waterproof clothing are essential. The terrain can be rugged and wet underfoot.
  • Navigation: While many of the popular routes are well marked, carrying a map and compass is advisable, particularly on less-traveled paths or in foggy conditions.
  • Safety: Let someone know your planned route and expected return time, especially when venturing into remote areas.
  • Respect the environment: Stick to marked paths to protect the natural habitat and minimize erosion. Leave no trace of your visit to keep Devon beautiful for everyone.

Devon’s trails not only offer physical exercise but also provide a chance to relax, unwind, and connect with nature. With each path offering a new perspective of Devon’s breathtaking landscapes and rich history, walking in Devon is truly an experience not to be missed. Whether you’re seeking solace in solitude or fun with family and friends, Devon’s walks cater to all.

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Waymarked Trails
Walking Trail Distance
Avon Estuary Walk14 km / 9 miles
Brit Valley Way 18 km / 11 miles
Coleridge Way 80 km / 50 miles
Dart Valley Trail 27 km / 17 miles
Dartmoor Way 172 km / 107 miles
Dartmoor Way – High Moor Link 37 km / 23 miles
Devonshire Heartland Way69 km / 43 miles
Drake’s Trail34 km / 21 miles
Drake’s Trail – Walking Spur 2 – Meavy to Burrator8 km / 5 miles
Drake’s Trail – Walking Spur 3 – Yelverton to Buckland Abbey14 km / 9 miles
East Devon Way61 km / 38 miles
Erme Valley Trail5 km / 3 miles
Erme-Plym Trail27 km / 17 miles
Exe Valley Way84 km / 52 miles
John Musgrave Heritage Trail56 km / 35 miles
King Arthur Way249 km / 155 miles
Land’s End Trail488 km / 303 miles
Liberty Trail45 km / 28 miles
Macmillan Way West – Castle Cary to Barnstaple164 km / 102 miles
Mary Michael Pilgrims Way563 km / 350 miles
Monarch’s Way946 km / 588 miles
Samaritans Way South West: Bristol to Lynton166 km / 103 miles
South West Coast Path National Trail1014 km / 630 miles
Tamar Valley Discovery Trail50 km / 31 miles
Tamar Valley Discovery Trail – Bere Peninsula Loop11 km / 7 miles
Tamar Valley Discovery Trail – Kit Hill Link5 km / 3 miles
Tamar Valley Discovery Trail – Lifton Link6 km / 4 miles
Tamar Valley Discovery Trail – Seasonal Loop2 km / 1 miles
Tarka Trail127 km / 79 miles
Templer Way29 km / 18 miles
Two Castles Trail38 km / 24 miles
Two Counties Way90 km / 56 miles
Two Moors Way (Devon Coast to Coast)172 km / 107 miles
Wessex Ridgeway221 km / 137 miles
West Devon Way57 km / 35 miles

Latest walking trails in Devon

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