Top 10 Autumn Coastal Walks in South Devon

Autumn is a magical time to take a brisk coastal walk in South Devon and boy do we have plenty of them! With miles of coastline to be explored and lots of beautiful estuary settings, cliff tops views and hidden beaches we’re sure you’ll find something suited to you. Have a read below about some of our favourite places to enjoy an autumn coastal walk in South Devon.

Dartmouth Castle

Starting in Dartmouth, the walk up to Dartmouth Castle is a moderate journey, with the wonderful treat of the stunning artillery fort which has guarded the Dart Estuary for over 600 years. Upon arriving at the castle you will be greeted with a magnificent vista across to Kingswear. For those who wish to extend the hike, you can meander down to Sugary Cove, a quiet, hidden gem that lay around the corner from the castle gazing out to sea. 

Ladram Bay

Around a four and a half mile walk beginning in the East Devon resort of Budleigh Salterton, the route to Ladram Bay is mainly via the South West Coast Path. You can admire the red Triassic era sandstone cliffs on this part of the Jurassic Coast and look forward to viewing the impressive stacks at Ladram Bay.

Bolt Tail

Beginning at Outer Hope, walkers will enjoy this fabulous coastal route that uses the South West Coast Path to reach Bolt Tail. You’ll pass Hope Cove along the way and once you get to the headland the views back across to the village are beautiful. Bolt Tail was also the site of an Iron Age cliff fort which is believed to date back to around 600BC. For those wanting to extend their walk you can then continue on the South West Coast Path to Bolberry Down.

Maidencombe Village

Parking at Watcombe Beach car park, there is a varied, moderate walk, including steps to the charming village of Maidencombe and on to Maidencombe Beach. The walk itself passes through captivating woodland as well as offering some snippets of dramatic coastal views and is part of the South West Coast Path. Although, a little more challenging than some of the others (mostly on the way back), there is a real diverse range of scenery, including a secluded picturesque cove.

Snapes Point

Parking at Snapes Point National Trust Car Park, you can follow the track to Snapes Point. As you amble along what seems to be a more enclosed walk you’ll capture glimpses of the Salcombe/Kingsbridge Estuary as well as Salcombe itself. Further along the walk the views begin to open up and as you approach the viewpoint you’ll see just how beautiful this spot is. Once you have reached Snapes Point you’ll be greeted with 360 degree views of the estuary, Batson Creek and Southpool Creek as well as the river mouth out to sea.

Branscombe

One of our favourite walking routes on the East Devon part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Jurassic Coast, Beer to Branscombe or vice versa is a cliff top walk which will take your breath away. You can begin in either Beer village or Beer Head Car Park, once at the car park, follow the track which takes you up to the top of the cliffs and eventually you’ll see Branscombe in view. There are steep sections on this walk so it is not suitable for those with mobility issues.

Start Point

Following the path from Start Point Car Park down to Start Point and the Lighthouse, this is a short, easy walk along the South West Coast Path that beholds truly breathtaking views across Start Bay and beyond. Absorb the crisp sea air and the ragged coastline as you meander toward the towering lighthouse which stands prominent on the edge of the cliffs.

Warren Point

This short half an hour walk from Wembury Beach to Warren Point takes you along the South West Coast Path passing by Connor’s Cove and Red Cove and of course, stunning South Hams coastline. Warren Point overlooks the Yealm Estuary, Newton Creek towards Newton Ferrers and Noss Mayo as well as having ocean views. 

Dawlish Warren

Dawlish Warren is a popular seaside resort in the district of Teignbridge with a vast sandy beach and a peaceful nature reserve. If you’re looking to visit, one great way to get there is by walking along the sea wall and part of the South West Coast Path from Dawlish. It’s a nice level walk which will take around 30 minutes and you can always catch a train back if you don’t fancy a longer stroll!

The Daymark

Resting on the headland on the Kingswear side of the River Dart is The Daymark. A towering octagonal structure built in 1864, it’s a lovely place to enjoy an autumn walk near the coast. There are a couple of options to reach the day beacon, either by starting at Brownstone National Trust Car Park or for a more energetic jaunt, beginning in Kingswear itself.

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