Explore the Jurassic Coast, Exmouth to Seaton

South Devon boasts some of the best coastline in the country. This includes a portion of the Jurassic Coast which is a World Heritage Site and stretches from Exmouth to Seaton in East Devon and beyond to Swanage in Dorset. The South West Coast Path is a spectacular way to enjoy all the beauty that the Jurassic Coast has to offer. Below is a list of the main towns from Exmouth to Seaton that you would encounter along the way. The whole walk itself is around 23 miles so it is unlikely to be a day trip, however, choosing a town to explore or opting for a shorter walking route is a great way to see some of the fantastic coastline. You could even stay overnight and do the whole walk over a few days.  

Exmouth

Exmouth is the Western Gateway to the Jurassic Coast and this is marked at Orcombe Point by the five-metre-high geo-needle constructed out of various rocks which were sourced from the Jurassic Coastline. As well as the impressive geo-needle at Exmouth, along the coast path, a couple of miles away is a vast mile-long beach known as Sandy Bay which during low tide can be accessed via walking from Exmouth beach. From Sandy Bay you can then continue on the South West Coast Path down toward Budleigh Salterton.  

Budleigh Salterton

Not only situated on the Jurassic Coast, Budleigh Salterton is also located within the East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The quaint town rests at the mouth of the River Otter and this part is a popular spot for bird watching. It’s also home to some great independent businesses and eateries, so is a fantastic place to base yourself if you’re visiting. Walking the South West Coast Path from Budleigh Salterton to Sidmouth is varied, with woodland, fields, and of course the dramatic cliffs. 

Sidmouth

Sidmouth is a charming seaside resort nestled amongst glorious countryside and boasts some wonderful food outlets, cafés and hotels making it the ideal stop off for a snack, drink or even an overnight stay. Before reaching the town and main beach, you will discover Jacob's Ladder Beach which takes its name from the wooden staircase that leads down to it from Connaught Gardens. At the east end of the town the South West Coast Path directs you toward Branscombe oonce again offering more striking views of the sensational sandstone cliffs.

Branscombe

The chocolate box village of Branscombe is sprinkled with gorgeous thatched cottages, and streets that meander down to the coast and beaches, if walking from Sidmouth then it is certainly worth walking inland slightly to take a look around, it’s perhaps one of the most picturesque villages along South Devon’s coastline. Continuing on from Branscombe the coast path leads you onto Beer.

Beer

The red Triassic cliffs that can be found all the way along the coast from Exmouth change drastically to striking white chalk around the village of Beer. With its beautiful beaches and attractive streets, Beer is a lovely place to carry on exploring. If you’re interested in history, you might be intrigued to know that Beer was once a smuggling base and home of the notorious Devon smuggler, Jack Rattenbury. There’s a large underground complex beneath the Hooken Cliffs which was used to quarry Beer stone and can be explored if you’re feeling adventurous. The South West Coast Path offers breathtaking views of the stark white cliffs and will then lead you on to Seaton.  

Seaton

When arriving in Seaton, you will be greeted once again by the vivid red cliff faces and rugged landscape. Seaton is a bustling coastal town with plenty of activities for the whole family to enjoy, including the town’s iconic Seaton Tramway. Seaton Wetlands Nature Reserve is a beautiful area for wildlife lovers if that’s your sort of thing too. 

Whether you are an avid rambler who wishes to complete the whole route or a family looking to do some fossil hunting and enjoy an educational day out, the Jurassic Coast has many superb locations to enjoy. Stay up to date with the latest Visit South Devon blog posts, competitions and more by signing up to our e-newsletter, or follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. 

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