The Best Coast Path Walks in East Devon
I may well be biased but I believe that some of the best coast path walks are in East Devon. Part of the beautiful Jurassic Coast, the area has such variety to offer and there’s no better place to walk with a view of the sea.
The whole South West Coast Path covers a challenging 630 miles from Minehead in Somerset to Poole in Dorset. Having walked quite a few of the routes near me in East Devon and written about them as this blog has evolved, it seemed a good time to summarise the best of these walks.
Axmouth Harbour
The estuary of the River Axe is a lovely place to walk and is perfect for a short stroll. Although not strictly part of the South West coast path you can head out along the estuary from Axmouth Village near Seaton. Keep to the left bank of the river as you walk towards the sea. Pass moored up yachts, colourful fishing boats and piles of lobster pots.
There are a few houses along here with enviable views and a small cafe. As the river flows out to the sea climb up to the little look out and then head as far as you feel like along the pebbles. 1 – 3 miles depending on where you start walking and how far along the beach you go.
You can also start here and cross into Dorset on the coast path, the route starts with a steady uphill past one of the most scenic golf courses in the country. This popular walk is known as The Undercliff and take you to Lyme Regis.
Seaton to Beer
Seaton has a lovely mile long Esplanade which is accessible and perfect for an easy walk. At the end is a great little cafe aptly named The Hideaway. It’s not too far to reach the picture postcard village of Beer if you time it right head alonf the beach from The Hideaway for a and shortcut along the beach. Then there are steps uphill out of Seaton Hole to rejoin the main South West Coast Path.
This is because the original footpath route from Seaton collapsed into the sea so the official route goes quite away inland. Alternatively there is some parking at Seaton Hole as well as a seasonal cafe Jurassic Bites. Take a look at one of my first ever blog posts, detailing the walk to Beer . This short walk which rewards you with a pretty views of Beer and the chance for a pint or a crab sandwich and a an ice cream on the beach.
Beer to Branscombe
This is a real favourite with locals and visitors to East Devon. To make life a bit easier there is a large car park at the top of the hill called Beer Head. The choice is to walk to Branscombe and back or walk about half way and then loop back round to Beer heading inland. Views from the coast path are just gorgeous.
All the details are in this Beer to Branscombe post.
Branscombe to Sidmouth
This section of the coast path is quite a challenge as the path goes up to the cliff top and back down to the beach 3 times over 6 1/2 miles. If you are not sure you want the full challenge, half way along is Weston Mouth. This small pebbly beach can be reached via a choice of footpaths around the Sidmouth Donkey Sanctuary and the villages of Salcombe Regis or Weston.
Another great way to experience this route without walking the whole way is from Salcombe Hill. There are few places to park near the Norman Lockyear Observatory and Salcombe Hill is a National Trust site.
From Salcombe Hill you can either make a short circular walk out to the coast path and back or a longer 5 mile route via the Donkey Sanctuary to the East or West down into Sidmouth. More details on the National Trust website.
Budleigh Salterton Circular
Budleigh Salterton is a pretty seaside town with a long pebble beach, plenty of cafes and ice cream shops. It’s a good place for walks and from here you can head for Exmouth which is about 6 miles on the coast path. There is a regular bus service to bring you back for your car if needed.
My go to choice in this section a pretty walk that goes inland first along the River Otter and loops back round to the coast path. You can read more about this circular route of about 5 miles and also extend it to take in Otterton and Otterton Mill or Ladram Bay.
Beautiful South West Coast Path
I think you will agree that I am very lucky to live where I do and be fit enough to make these walks. It really is a privilege it is being able to walk these routes when ever I want to.
Always remember plan you route to suit the people taking part, wear suitable clothing and even for a short walk take water. In the summer apply sunscreen as the cliff tops are very exposed. For more serious walkers there are lots of great shops selling hiking gear or you maybe looking for discount outdoor clothing.
If you already live near the coast I am sure you are appreciating it. For those that do not, then I hope that you will be able to visit this very beautiful part of the West Country in the near future.
Thank you for reading my posts – Clare
Hi! I am Clare and I live in glorious East Devon with my family.
Join me in finding new places to explore in the West Country as well as further afield.
I hope you enjoy reading and taking inspiration from this website. 
