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.
This free route from the Ramblers should take around 2 hours to complete and you can find the full details here.
Did you know? The name Tarka is taken from Henry Williamson’s 1927 novel about Tarka the otter.
The Tarka Trail, 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 Warren House Inn.
The walk provides evidence of the area’s industrial past, with sites of former tin mines 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. 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—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
Video courtesy of MSVRVisualTravel
5. 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 gorge, overlooking the River Teign. The views are spectacular and there are multiple opportunities for spotting wildlife.
The walk includes unfenced drops and steep terrain in places, so take care, especially with younger children or dogs.
Did you know? Castle Drogo was the last castle built in England. It’s now owned by the National Trust.
6. Bantham
- Length: 10.6 miles
- Difficulty: Easy
This long but leisurely route from Bantham to Bolt Tail navigates the coastline past sandy Bantham Beach and iconic Burgh Island. The walk passes Hope Cove, an old fishing village perfect for a café stop.
Top tip: You can find the full details of this Ramblers route on their website.
7. Hound Tor, Dartmoor
- Length: 5 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
If you’re keen to tread the landscapes famous for Dartmoor’s spooky reputation, look no further than this five-mile walk to Hound Tor. You’ll see remains of a deserted medieval village and enjoy panoramic views from the rocks.
“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.” – wattie50 via TripAdvisor
Hound Tor, Devon
If you don’t want the walking adventures to end there, explore more of the best walks in Devon on our local attractions page and share your favourites on our Facebook page!
Please note: Always plan your route in advance, take suitable clothing and equipment, and let someone know where you are going.