By Parkdean Resorts on 22/07/2021
Walking has always been a popular activity in Devon, which isn’t a surprise given its stunning landscapes, golden sands and crystal clear waters. Whether you’re a keen hiker or just a fan of taking a stroll, there’s no better place to walk than in Devon.
With contrasting coastlands between the north and south and 365 square miles of Dartmoor National Park, Devon offers a wide variety of walking terrain. The phrase “spoilt for choice” comes to mind when you’re planning a walking holiday in Devon.
Join us in our quest to unearth the region’s finest walks by exploring some of our favourite routes below. The best part is, they’re all within reach from one of our four holiday parks in Devon.
1. Lundy Island Wildlife Walk
- Length: 4 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
On your next holiday in Devon, be sure to try out this unique circular walk around Lundy Island - capturing some of the region’s most loved wildlife including seals and puffins. After catching the boat across to the island, you’ll be taken on a fascinating walk around Lundy, beginning on the sheltered eastern side and finishing on the windswept, rugged western side.
Venture across the old quarry, cut across to Jenny’s Cove and wind up at the Old Light, where there are plenty of opportunities to witness some of the amazing views the island is renowned for.
Top tip: Although this walk can be completed in around 2 hours, it’s worth making the extra time to spend most of the day on the island as there is plenty to keep you occupied!
2. Tarka Trail
- Length: 2.9 miles
- Difficulty: Easy
If you’re new to walking and are looking for a short walk to get you started, Devon’s Tarka Trail provides the perfect blend of some of the region’s best coastal and countryside scenery. Traversing the outskirts of the River Taw and dotted with colourful wildflowers, you’ll experience wonderful views of the salt marshes and estuary. Reward yourself at the end of the route with a visit to the Fremington Quay café, popular with locals and serving up a delicious and varied menu.
This free route from the Ramblers should take around 2 hours to complete and you can find the full details here, along with many more of the best walks in Devon.
Did you know? The name Tarka is taken from Henry Williamson’s 1927 novel about Tarka the otter and his life in Devon.
3. Bennett's Cross, Dartmoor
- Length: Varies depending on route
- Difficulty: Moderate
This particular walk is a figure of eight, so it can cater for people wanting to walk no more than 5 miles, or those who are happy to walk twice that distance. The starting point is at Bennett’s Cross on the B3212, a few hundred yards from the legendary Warren House Inn.
The walk provides evidence of the area’s industrial past, with sites of former tin mines at various points and the ancient settlement at Grimspound containing the remains of 24 small round houses. As with so many Dartmoor walks, it comprises the “3 Ws” – woods, water and wilderness, as well as a couple of tors.
Did you know? The fire at the Warren House Inn is said to have been burning continuously since 1845.
4. Ilfracombe to Croyde
- Length: 14.57 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
If you’re looking for something slightly more challenging and longer in distance, this linear route from Ilfracombe to Croyde is one of our favourite walks in Devon. Following the magnificent views you’d expect to find along the South West Coast Path, the walk takes you via Woolacombe Beach’s golden sands and turquoise waters.
Discover several points of interest along the way from hidden coves to impressive headlands and wind up by the world-famous Croyde Bay Beach – the surfers’ paradise on the doorstep of Ruda Holiday Park.
Top tip: You can find the full details of this Ramblers members’ route via their website – and if you book a holiday with Parkdean Resorts, you’ll also get exclusive discount on membership!
5. Wistman's Wood, Dartmoor
- Length: 3 miles
- Difficulty: Easy
Positioned right in the middle of Dartmoor National Park, step into Wistman’s Wood and you’ll find yourself in unique and rather eerie surroundings, just waiting to be explored. Park in the car park opposite the Two Bridges Hotel and follow the waymarked path through gnarled, lichen-covered oak trees, mossy boulders and unspoilt woodland.
It’s easy to see why this unusually atmospheric route is regarded as one of the best walks in Devon – as well as its distinctive setting, it offers glorious views across Dartmoor and beyond.
“Just amazing, never seen anything like this place. Stunning and not too far from the parking area. Beautiful indeed.” – biizylizzy via TripAdvisor
6. Teign Gorge, Dartmoor
- Length: 4.1 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
Considered to be the most famous walk on Dartmoor, this circular walk around Teign Gorge commences at Castle Drogo and follows the Hunters Path, high along the edge of a gorge which overlooks the River Teign. As you’d expect, the views are spectacular and there are multiple opportunities for spotting wildlife, particularly as you approach Fingle Wood.
The walk includes some unfenced drops and steep terrain in places, so we recommend caution, particularly if you’re walking with younger children or dogs.
Did you know? Castle Drogo was the last castle to be built in England. It’s now owned by the National Trust and is well worth a visit while you’re in the area.
7. Bantham
- Length: 10.6 miles
- Difficulty: Easy
Heading back towards the coast, this there-and-back route from the Ramblers is a long but leisurely walk from Bantham to Bolt Tail. Navigating across the scenic coastline, you’ll witness the sandy Bantham Beach and iconic Burgh Island, one of Devon’s most recognised landmarks and famed for its art-deco hotel and links to Agatha Christie.
The walk passes via Hope Cove, an old fishing village located in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. With several cafés, pubs and shops to frequent, it’s the perfect place to stop off for refreshments en route.
Top tip: You can find the full details of this Ramblers members’ route via their website – and if you book a holiday with Parkdean Resorts, you’ll also get exclusive discount on membership!
8. Hound Tor, Dartmoor
- Length: 5 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
If you’re keen to tread the landscapes famous for giving Dartmoor its spooky reputation, look no further than this five mile walk to Hound Tor, full to the brim with history and mystery. Thought to be the inspiration behind The Hound of the Baskerville, you’ll come across the remains of a deserted medieval village and the atmosphere can only be described as unnerving but strangely beautiful.
The walk begins and ends at the Haytor Vale visitor centre, taking you towards Haytor Rocks and along a tramway to Holwell Tor. Scramble to the top of the rock formation and soak up panoramic views of stunning Dartmoor.
“Well worth a visit if you are in the area. Thigh burning walk to the top with a huge rock formation to climb when you get there. Spectacular views across the moors. We spent about an hour, but I imagine if the weather is good you could walk for miles and spend the morning here.” – wattie50 via TripAdvisor
If you don’t want the walking adventures to end there, explore more of the best walks in Devon by heading to our local attractions page and filtering by ‘walks.’ Then head to our Facebook page to share your favourites!
Please note, these walk summaries are intended as guidance only and it is recommended that you always plan your full route in advance, ensure you are prepared with suitable clothing and equipment before you set off and even let someone know which route you’re planning on walking. Do not attempt difficult walking routes in adverse weather conditions or if you do not feel you have appropriate experience or the fitness level required to complete it safely.