The South West Coast Path runs along the entire coastline of Devon, covering both the north and south coasts as well as the eastern section of the Jurassic Coast. It is one of the longest and most varied walking routes in England, following cliffs, beaches and estuaries. The Devon section includes a wide range of landscapes and is widely used for both short coastal walks and longer multi-day routes, with access points across many towns and villages.
About the South West Coast Path in Devon
The South West Coast Path extends for approximately 630 miles (1,014 km) across the south west of England. The Devon section forms a substantial part of the route, running from the Somerset border along the north coast, around the south coast and continuing into Dorset.
In North Devon, the path follows a rugged coastline with high cliffs, exposed headlands and long sandy beaches. The terrain is often steep and undulating, with frequent ascents and descents. In contrast, the South Devon coast includes more sheltered areas, estuaries and a higher concentration of towns and villages.
The eastern section between Exmouth and the Dorset border forms part of the Jurassic Coast, where the path runs along a geologically significant stretch of coastline. Throughout Devon, the route is clearly waymarked and maintained, though conditions vary depending on terrain and weather.
Landscape and Key Features
The South West Coast Path in Devon passes through a range of coastal environments, each with distinct characteristics.
Cliff-top walking – Long sections of path follow high cliffs, providing elevated views across the sea and surrounding coastline.
Sandy bays and beaches – Access to beaches such as Woolacombe, Croyde and Bantham, often connected directly to the path.
Estuaries and river crossings – Rivers such as the Dart and Exe create natural breaks in the route, requiring ferries or diversions inland.
Jurassic Coast cliffs – Eastern sections feature red sandstone cliffs and visible geological layers.
Coastal towns and villages – Frequent access points through towns such as Ilfracombe, Salcombe and Sidmouth.
Things to Do
The path supports a range of walking experiences and coastal activities.
Day walking – Many sections can be completed as individual walks, with start and end points accessible by road or public transport.
Long-distance walking – The full route can be completed over multiple days, typically divided into manageable stages.
Coastal exploration – The path provides access to viewpoints, beaches and less accessible sections of coastline.
Photography – Elevated viewpoints and varied landscapes make the route suitable for coastal photography.
Wildlife observation – Opportunities to see seabirds and coastal wildlife along quieter stretches of the path.
Key Locations and Access Points
The Devon section of the path can be accessed from numerous coastal towns and key locations.
Ilfracombe – Access point for North Devon cliffs and coastal walking routes.
Woolacombe – Starting point for walks along sandy bays and surrounding headlands.
Salcombe – Access to estuary crossings and South Devon coastal sections.
Dartmouth – Key location with ferry crossings and access to river and coastal routes.
Exmouth – Western starting point of the Jurassic Coast section.
Practical Information
The South West Coast Path is well signposted throughout Devon, with the acorn symbol marking the route. Access is available from most coastal towns, and many sections can be reached via public transport, though services are more limited in rural areas.
Parking is available in towns and designated coastal car parks. Facilities vary depending on location, with larger towns offering a full range of services.
The terrain is often uneven, with steep ascents and descents, particularly on the north coast. Distances between access points can be significant, and careful planning is recommended for longer walks. Weather conditions can change quickly, especially on exposed sections, and appropriate footwear and preparation are important.
When to Visit
The South West Coast Path in Devon can be walked throughout the year, though spring and summer provide the most favourable conditions. Longer daylight hours and generally drier weather make these seasons more suitable for longer routes.
Autumn offers quieter conditions and clear views, while winter can bring strong winds, rain and more challenging conditions on exposed coastal sections. Some ferry crossings may operate on reduced schedules outside peak months.
Summary
The South West Coast Path in Devon is one of the county’s most extensive and varied walking routes, linking cliffs, beaches, estuaries and coastal towns. Its flexibility allows both short walks and longer journeys, making it suitable for a wide range of visitors. It provides a continuous way to experience Devon’s coastline and can be explored in sections across different regions.