Scenic Views in East Devon: Six Walks and Cafés to Lift Your Mood
If you’ve been following my blog or social media for a while, you may have noticed a subtle shift from away from child friendly days out towards walks and more grown up themed events. Life has moved on, and I although I’ve always enjoyed a good stomp, these days it’s the health benefits that I am thinking about more and more. Add in the fact that there are less sugary snacks in the house with no lunch boxes to fill, the gym is a more regular feature and a good nights sleep is a priority.
There’s something about East Devon that makes healthy living feel quite easy. Maybe it’s the rolling hills, the wide coastal skies, or the sense of space you get the moment you lace up your walking boots. Whatever the reason, getting outside for a walk, eating freshly made local food, and ending the day with proper rest can make a world of difference — and East Devon offers the perfect backdrop for all three.
I love a good view. If you are new to the area or have visitors to impress I think it’s one of the most special things to share.
Here are three scenic walks and three brilliant cafés where you can soak up the views, enjoy nourishing food, good coffee and a cake then return home feeling refreshed.
Three Scenic Walks in East Devon
Each walk has a link with a more detailed writeup.
1. Lambert’s Castle, National Trust
Perched on the edge of the Dorset–Devon border, Lambert’s Castle offers huge skies, sweeping views over the Marshwood Vale, and a real sense of history. Make sure you cross the top of the fort for the best views
The hillfort itself is a gentle wander, making it ideal for families or anyone wanting a shorter-but-rewarding walk. It’s very popular with dog walkers.
It’s easy to extend the walk across to Coney’s Castle. Also if you plan ahead with 2 cars or want a longer walks you can enjoy a network of footpaths down to the coast at Charmouth approximately 5 miles.
2. Dumpdon Hillfort, Near Honiton
If you love big 360° panoramas, Dumpdon delivers. This lesser-known East Devon hillfort rises steeply above the Otter Valley, and the climb is absolutely worth it for the view from the top. Again this walk is not about the distance but the views.
Take a picnic, fly a kite or a ball for the kids. Head home via Otter Valley Diaries in Monkton for a delicious lunch or award winning ice cream.
3. The Best Coast Path Walk: Beer to Branscombe
One of the most iconic stretches of the South West Coast Path, this route offers chalk cliffs, turquoise water, and spectacular views. It’s steep at times but rewarding.
You can make this walk longer by starting in Seaton, but the hill top car park in Beer is a popular choice for a roughly 2 1/2 hour walk. It never fails to impress as you hike along and the views open up across Seaton and Lyme Bay. There’s a steep path and steps down into Branscombe (muddy in the winter) where you can refresh at the popular Sea Shanty cafe. If you have a head for heights then try the dramatic undercliff route back up.
4. River Cottage Kitchen, Trinity Hill
Known for its seasonal, locally sourced dishes, River Cottage Kitchen is a place where the food feels genuinely connected to the countryside around it. The menu often changes to reflect what’s freshest, and there’s a real emphasis on simple, nourishing plates made well made by River Cottage trained chefs.
Large windows look out over the countryside and a surprisingly lovely view that you don’t expect when you first arrive. If you sit outside you can properly enjoy the peaceful rural setting, making it a wonderful spot to unwind after exploring Trinity Hill or nearby.
It’s the perfect spot for a lazy brunch after a walk, or even just a coffee stop if you’re passing through. Everything feels fresh, unfussy, and very “Devon countryside”.
The atmosphere is relaxed but refined — the sort of place where you can linger over coffee or enjoy a slow weekend brunch. Open Wednesday to Sunday 9am – 4pm
5. Teas & Creams, Cooks Lane near Axminster
Teas & Creams is one of those cafés that feels like a little escape. With its homemade cakes, simple lunches and friendly service, it’s the perfect stop after a ramble around Lambert’s Castle or the countryside surrounding Axminster. The interior has a welcoming, traditional tearoom feel with a cozy fireplace snug in the winter, while the garden with wonderful views catches the morning sunshine.
Their cream teas are a local favourite (book ahead for an afternoon tea), and the whole place has that calm, unhurried charm that makes you want to stay for “just one more” slice or pot of tea. Friendly, relaxed, and just a little bit tucked away — exactly my sort of café.
6. The Hideaway Café, Seaton Esplanade
Sitting right on the seafront, The Hideaway Cafe offers some of the best coastal views in Seaton. You can hear the waves while you eat, and on warm days the outdoor seating is just a few steps from the beach. With a menu that caters for both hearty appetites and lighter, fresh options, it also very accessible as a walk along Seaton Esplanade.
The café has a relaxed, beachy atmosphere — think sandy shoes, dogs welcome, and plenty of seaside charm. Whether you’re grabbing breakfast before a walk or winding down with cake and a sea breeze, it’s always a reliable favourite.
Walk, Eat and Rest
In East Devon, eating well and moving well feel like natural parts of the landscape. These walks lift your mood; the cafés offer wholesome food in beautiful surroundings; and the views linger long after you’re home.
Once home, resting well is actually the key making the benefits of exercise and fresh air really kick in. These days getting a good 7 or 8 hours sleep is well known to be a really vital part of our overall well being and health. No longer is surviving on 5 hours sleep a night something to be proud of.
Being as comfortable as possible in bed has to be part of this equation. I am delighted to have teamed up with Simba to bring you this post. With an impressive range of products using new technology including duvets and mattresses with thermoregulating fillings as well as a full range of King Size Beds including traditional frames and divans. If you are looking for great quality products then check them out.
This is a collaborative sponsored post. Images are my own.
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.
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