Welcome to the wonderful Walking in and around South Devon that can be accessed from the new luxury accommodation at Hillfield Cottages & Country House. The area boast a diverse selection of walks within easy travelling distance of Hillfields, the following are a selected few. For more information click to link web site where available. Travelling time from Hillfields to the start of the walks, taken from the “AA” route planner is shown in brackets.
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Hillfield to Blackpool Sands
Turn right out of Hillfields main gate and proceed until you reach the Bugford finger sign approx. 200 yards. Turn right towards “Fast Rabbit Farm”. At the crossroads proceed straight over and follow the finger sign to Bowden past “Fast Rabbit Farm”. At the Bowden “T” junction turn left and proceeds downhill for approx. ¾ mile until you reach a finger sign to “Blackpool Sands” and a no through road. It’s the first right hand sign ahead of you. Follow this for approx ¾ miles and you will see Blackpool Sands ahead of you. Turn left and first right.
Fast Rabbit Farm (6 min) 01803 712437
Each year we open at least once in February for visitors to enjoy the drifts of daffodils and the early flowering camellias. Early May is when the garden is at its peak with the rhododendrons in full flower and everything set off by the wonderful backdrop of the carpet of bluebells through the woods. Because of the mild climate in this part of the country we are also fortunate in being able to grow many Mediterranean and Southern Hemisphere plants not normally hardy in the rest of the country. The garden itself covers about 12 acres with further areas in the woods partly planted.
Dartmouth to Torcross (7 min)
This walk starts in the popular maritime town of Dartmouth on the banks of the river dart. The coast path follows the river through to Dartmouth Castle (which is worth a visit). Once past Dartmouth Castle there is a choice of paths - the coast path which sticks to a low level around the coast, or a bridleway which stays at a high level.
Dart Valley Trail BBC Article Dartmouth (7 min)
The Dart Valley Trail is some 16 miles long and takes in both sides of the River Dart in South Devon. The Greenway to Kinsgwear section is 4.5 miles long and goes through ancient woodland alongside the river. It's a lovely walk, with some stunning views...and lots of wildlife.
Kingswear to Froward Point (12 min)
Castles and cliffs, seals and skylarks, on a coastal circular walk rich in views, history and natural abundance. Start from the Marina car park, Kingswear. 5 miles
Little Dartmouth (8 min)
Small but perfectly formed, this satisfying circuit is full of character and interest, offering glorious views from the cliffs, the tang of the sea close up on the rocky shore, the rich history of the castle and the beautiful River Dart. Start from the National trust car park, Redlap, Little Dartmouth. 3.5 miles
Dartmouth Town Trail
A 2 hour walk gentle walk around the town of Dartmouth taking in historic features of interest and a chance to view the wonderful assortment of shops.
Dartmouth Castle and Little Dartmouth (14 min)
A fine circular walk at the mouth of the Dart estuary, taking in Dartmouth Castle, views of the estuary, and the open coast.
Dittisham to Totnes – The Dart Valley Trail (14 min)
One of the area's truly great circular walks, this day-long ramble follows the wooded banks of the broad and beautiful river Dart, on a route crammed with gems and jewels of human and natural history. Start this 9 mile walk from Mayor's Avenue Car Park, Dartmouth.
Strete to Stoke Fleming (16 min)
This stunning new section of Coast Path opened in Easter 2005 and gives access to a spectacular section of coastline with great views over Start Bay, Slapton Ley, Blackpool Sands and across to the Daymark near Froward Point.
Slapton Ley Field Centre and Nature Reserve (20 min) 01548 580466
Close to the southern tip of Devon, this Centre is surrounded by the 200 hectare Slapton Ley National Nature Reserve. Owned by the Whitley Wildlife Trust and managed by the Centre, the Ley is the largest freshwater lake in the south west and is extensively used in the courses at Slapton. Habitats range from rocky and sheltered shorelines and maritime shingle ridges to wetland including the open water of the Ley itself and deciduous woodland.
Slapton Ley – BBC Article on a wildlife wonder (20 min)
The wildlife haven at Slapton Ley is a unique place and home to hundreds of important species - but it's under threat from the advancing sea.
Slapton (20 min)
Like a satisfying meal, this circular walk has the shingle sweep of the beach to start, a main course of all the wildlife you could wish for on a National Nature Reserve, and the sweet and characterful village of Slapton for dessert. Perfect! Start from the Memorial Car Park, Slapton Sands 2.75 miles (+0.5 miles for alternative return route)
Torcross (20 min)
A gentle circular walk through a sumptuous landscape: the graceful form of Start Bay curling away to the north and south, freshwater lagoons, meadows, woodland, and peaceful Devon lanes meandering between blossoming banks. Starting from Torcross Car Park 2.5 miles
Greenway walk (22 min)
Experience breathtaking views of the spectacular Tor Bay, discover ruins, follow in ancient footsteps along historic trackways, through rural villages and outstanding countryside to the beautiful River Dart estuary and visit the National Trust's Greenway. The circular walk starts at Broadsands Beach 6.5 miles
Totnes to dartington (24 min)
On this circular walk of fabulous country scenery, the river Dart is the lovely thread which connects Totnes and the Dartington Estate, both places with a fascinating past and vibrant present. Start from the Steamer Quay Car Park, Totnes 6 miles
Totnes Town Trail (24 min)
A circular walk through Totnes' narrow streets to discover a town crammed full of history. This walk can be extended by following the River Dart to nearby Dartington along the riverside path. Start from the Totnes Wills Memorial Monument on the Plains. 1 mile. Approximately 1 hour's walk.
Loddiswell & Middle Avon (26 min)
A beautiful leafy circular walk following the amber waters of the River Avon through classic English woodland, starting and finishing in the tranquil village of Loddiswell at Loddiswell car park 3.5 miles
Kingsbridge to Bowcombe Creek (26 min)
A delightful circular route following creeks and green lanes steeped in the trade and travel of past times. Melting views of the boat-bobbing estuary and charming South Hams countryside, and a host of waterfowl and wading birds into the bargain. Starting from Quay Street car park, Kingsbridge 2.75 miles (Extended walk to Bowcombe Bridge 1 mile).
Kingsbridge to West Alvington Woods (26 min)
Stroll out of Kingsbridge for a tranquil dawdle through parkland meadow and dappled woodland, just a hop, skip and a jump from the town - an unexpected delightful circular walk starting from Quay St Car Park, Kingsbridge 2 miles.
Kingsbridge Town Trail (26 min)
A one and a half hour easy circular walk around the town of Kingsbridge. Leave at least an extra hour if you wish to explore the museum, churches and pubs. Start from the Kingsbridge Tourist Information Centre 1 mile
Aveton Gifford (28 min)
A circular 5.75 mile inland walk along paths and green lanes, taking in hills and combes, gentle pasture, woodland and stream, with views across to the moor for good measure. Start at Memorial Hall car park, Aveton Gifford
Charleton & Frogmore Creek (29 min)
The Salcombe- Kingsbridge Estuary is a glittering jewel in South Devon’s crown. This Circular Walk explores one of its loveliest creeks, teeming with wildlife, along with some of the areas ancient green lanes. Starts from Frogmore Bridge 4.5 miles
Blackdown Rings and the Upper Avon Valley (30 min)
The wooded Avon Valley, rich in wildlife and wildflowers, is a blissful spot. Explore the vale on this walk, with the river for company, taking in the superb Iron Age Hill fort and sweeping views of Blackdown Rings. Circular Walk Start from Blackdown Rings car park
6.25 miles
Brixham to Kingswear (31 min)
This walk is a long walk between Brixham at the south of Torbay, to the village of Kingswear on the banks of the river Dart, a short ferry ride from the ancient port of Dartmouth.
Beesands & Hallsands (32 min)
Starting at the seafront car park at Beesand’s the walk takes in Start Bay's great sweep of sea and land and the mysterious and tragic lost village of Hallsands and wends it way along green lanes and footpaths. Circular walk.
Paignton to Brixham (33 min)
This walk starts in the popular resort of Paignton with it's long sandy beach. The coast path pases the pier and harbour then climbs to Roundham Head where it then descends through gardens into Goodrington Sands, another good (and often busy) beach which is backed by the steam railway.
Modbury (36 min)
The handsome and friendly market town of Modbury hosts a great little circular walk offering wide open views across South Devon, the rich life of Devon hedgerows, and echoes through history from the English Civil War. Start from Poundwell Meadow Car Park, Modbury
2.75 miles
Avon Estuary Walk (36 min)
A Circular walk starting from Bantham Sands Car Park following , the river Avon as it winds through its beautiful and secluded valley to the sea. This fine walk traces its course, and you are rarely out of sight of the river, or its rich birdlife.
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Bantham to Thurlestone (36 min)
A circular 3.5 mile walk to explore the old haunts of Saxons and smugglers, lush coastline and glittering sea, then amble back through the green fields of South Devon. Start at Bantham beach car park.
Berry Head to Sharkham Point (36 min)
A walk with spectacular views taking in the Berry Head National Nature Reserve.
Bolt Tail and Burleigh Dolts (39 min)
A Circular walk that takes in the spectacular sites of two enclosures, dating back to the Iron Age, and the pathways and ancient green lanes in between, including a glorious stretch of coast. Starts at the Village Hall car park, Malborough 8.75 miles
Agatha Christie Walk BBC Article (39 min)
Torquay is set at the north end of Tor Bay and forms part of the English Riviera. It's also the place where Agatha Christie was born, and, to mark the resort's link with Dame Agatha, a special walk has been devised - complete with a mystery to solve.
The Dartmoor Way Ashburton (39 min)
The Dartmoor Way is a circular walking and cycling route that sweeps for almost 140 km./90 miles around Dartmoor National Park, which is located in the south west of England amidst some of the best landscapes and scenery in Great Britain.
East Prawle and Prawle Point (42 min)
A wonderful circular walk taking in spectacular coastal scenery and ancient green lanes, in one of the richest spots in Devon for plants and wildlife. Start from East Prawle Village Green 3.5 miles
Salcombe and Gara Rock (44 min)
A fine circular walk at the mouth of the Salcombe estuary, taking in the Salcombe ferry, views of the estuary, and the Gara Rock Hotel.
The Thatched Village of Cockington BBC Article (41 min)
The thatched village of Cockington is the perfect setting for a walk - no matter what time of year it is. It has a historic forge, picture-postcard cottages, horse and carriage rides, a court and church, tea rooms, thatched pub and, of course the lakes and woods.
Prawle to Lannacombe (43 min)
Blessed with sandy coves, rocky shores, craggy cliffs, a blue sea, lush vegetation and tremendous wildlife, this circular walk takes you as close to paradise as makes no difference. Starts from East Prawle Village Green 5 Miles
Ringmore & Bigbury (43 min)
A circular walk that’s relaxing and bracing. Beaches with a lovely lazy feel, refreshing open clifftops, the timelessly delightful village of Ringmore tucked away, and enough ‘up-and-down’ to get the circulation going. Start from Bigbury-on-Sea Car Park 3.75 miles
The Coral Coast BBC Article (44 min)
Take a walk along the Coral Coast and discover how arid deserts, tropical seas and ferocious floods have helped shape the coastline of Torbay. The circular walk is packed with geological gems and ends at Kents Cavern - where the oldest known human home in the UK can be found.
Salcombe to Soar Mill Cove (44 min)
This is a circular walk from Salcombe, along the coast to Soar Mill Cove and back again. This is because of the very limited transport in the area. It is possible to take a short cut in either of the directions, by using the ferry between South Sands beach and the town centre.
Salcombe to Aveton Gifford (44 min)
This is a lovely and very scenic walk along the cliffs to Bantham, which was followed by a short walk along footpaths beside the River Avon.
Kingston
(45 min)
A hugely rewarding coast and estuary circular walk with peerless views from some of the most dramatic cliffs in the area. It ends with a huge vista of South Devon, and the welcoming sight of Kingston village snuggled amongst the fields. Start from Parish Church of St James, Kingston 6 miles
The River Erme – Ivybridge to Ermington (45 min)
A lovely wander following the valley of the River Erme, in an area where the wild beauty of the moor and the mellow delights of rolling South Devon meet and merge. A part circular walk starting from Glanvilles Mill / Leonards Road Car Park, Ivybridge 7.5 miles
Salcombe to Bolt Head (46 min)
Passing through an enchanted landscape of rocky spires and jumbled pinnacles, with inspiring views in all directions, this is a circular coastal walk guaranteed to lift the spirits. Start from South Sands, Salcombe 2.75 miles (3.25 miles extended route)
Salcombe to Snapes Point (46 min)
This lovely tranquil mosey winds around sleepy creeks and fingers of land nosing out into the lapping waters, with brilliant and surprising views to keep your senses sharp. Circular walk starting from Shadycombe Car Park, Salcombe 4.5 miles (Shorter route 2.75 miles)
East Portlemouth to Gara Rock (46 min)
A Circular walk along the coast path, from the Salcombe Estuary and out to meet the wide open sea. Exhilarating scenery, and a wonderful way to get the wind in your sails. Start at the Ferry Pier, Salcombe 3.75 miles
Hope Cove to Bolberry Down (46 min)
A circular walk of towering cliffs, endless coastal views, scenes and stories of shipwrecks, and the charm of Devon lanes winding between abundant hedge banks - with the beautiful, nestled fishing village of Hope Cove to start from and return to Outer Hope car park 5 miles
Hope Cove Circular Walk BBC Article (47 min)
This is a six mile walk taking in a stretch of the South West Coast Path northwards from Hope Cove, and back again via the South Hams countryside.
Great Plantation Bovey Tracy (47 min)
Great Plantation is a favourite with local people. Its flat profile makes it a great place to take the dog for a quick run and is within easy reach of the picturesque Dartmoor National Park. If you only have an hour to spare Great Plantation is ideally situated for a quick visit.
Two Moors Way BBC Article (47 min)
Fancy taking a walk on Dartmoor AND Exmoor...well, with the Two Moors Way, you can fit them both in on the same walk. The 103-mile route takes you from South Devon all the way to Lynmouth on the north coast - and the bits in between are quite spectacular.
Puffing Billy Tramway Track BBC Article (47 min)
The old Puffing Billy tramway track across the south of Dartmoor provides a fantastic path for walkers, cyclists, and horse riders. Climbing to 1,500ft, it affords panoramic views down to the South Devon coast. And, what's more...it's an easy walk to do!
Overbeck Museum & Garden (48 min) 01548 842893
Elegant Edwardian house with diverse collections and luxuriant garden. Weird and wonderful collections of scientist and inventor, Otto Overbeck. Lovely sub-tropical garden, an exotic haven. Spectacular views over sea and estuary. Lots for children to explore, with fun quiz and trail. Search for Fred, the friendly ghost.
From East Prawle to Salcombe BBC Article (49 min)
The walk along the South West Coast path from East Prawle to Salcombe is testing - but very rewarding. It's about six miles long and takes a good three hours.
Canonteign Falls (60 min)
Wilderness walks/nature trails and quizzes. The Falls descend almost vertically for 220ft (67m) and run on through rock formations and ancient woodlands before cascading into the tranquil lakes below. Canonteign Falls offers a spectacular day out for all the family.
Woodhuish & Mansands (62 min)
Beautiful beaches, the silvery sea, and the curves, cliffs and coves of a superb stretch of the coast A circular walk starting from Scabbacombe Car Park, Scabbacombe Lane 3.5 miles
Noss Mayo and Revelstoke Drive (64 min)
The many faces of maritime South Devon in one cicular walk; wild open sea and rugged coast, sheltered estuary, wooded riverbanks, and the waterfront village of Noss Mayo with its chocolate box charm. Start from the Warren Car Park 4.5 miles
Wembury & Bovisand (64 min)
An atmospheric circular walk full of marine life and maritime history. The long reaches of blue sea give way to green fields and dells on the pleasant inland roll home. Start from the Wembury Beach car park 8 miles
Becky Falls (65 min)
High on Dartmoor Becky Falls Woodland Park, with its huge oak canopy, rugged landscape, massive granite boulders and waterfalls, provides some of the most scenic and enjoyable walks in the south west as well as loads of fun for all the family throughout the seasons.
Riverside and Coastal Walk in South Devon BBC Article (66 min)
This four mile circular walk takes you alongside the River Yealm and onto one of the most stunning stretches of the South West Coast Path - at Wembury Bay in the South Hams. It's not a strenuous walk, but you need to be reasonably fit.
Plymouth Waterfront Walkway (71 min)
A unique section of the South West Coast Path, the Waterfront Walkway is an entertaining and enlightening walk where art is used to highlight the city's history and heritage.
Reservoir Walk on Dartmoor BBC Article (74 min)
Burrator Reservoir on Dartmoor is a great place for a walk. It's also perfect for the whole family, as the circuit is nice and flat. At the time of this walk, the reservoir levels were way down - so we could actually walk through a section of it.
Butterfly Walk Forestry Commission (74 min)
As its name implies, butterflies and their food source are the main attraction along the Butterfly Walk, a specially managed three quarter of a mile section of the longer 2-3 mile Green way marked walk
Bowling Green Marsh RSPB Nature Reserve (75 min)
Exminster Marshes is east of Exminster village; Bowling Green Marsh is on the outskirts of Topsham. Both 5 miles/8 km south of Exeter on either side of the river. Exminster Marshes is accessible from the A379 Dawlish road. Bowling Green Marsh signposted from the Holman Way car park in Topsham. A hide and viewing platform at Bowling Green Marsh. Roadside viewing, suitable for wheelchair users, 10-15 minutes away from the car park at Topsham.
Stone Lane Gardens, Birch & Alder Arboretum (79 min ) 01647 231311
Take a walk in the woods at Stone Lane Gardens and you may find more than you bargained for. Not only is it home to a national collection of wild origin birch and alder, it also houses a stunning outdoor sculpture exhibition. Wander through the trees and you may stumble across a striking carved sleeping beauty or an amazingly-realistic painter, complete with easel.
Castle Drogo Riverside Walk (81 min)
The dream house of Julius Drewe, this granite castle built between 1910 and 1930 is one of the most remarkable works of Sir Edwin Lutyens. It combines the grandeur of a medieval castle with the comfort of 20th century fittings.
The Trafalgar Way BBC Article Whiddon Down (82 min)
The route taken by the messenger bringing home the news of Lord Nelson's death in victory in the Battle of Trafalgar has been named Trafalgar Way as part of the 200th anniversary celebrations.
A Moorland Walk To Ted Hughes' Memorial BBC Article (98 min)
This walk starts from Belstone and is about eight miles in total. Some of the going is rough and stout boots should be worn and waterproofs carried. The Ordnance Survey map and a compass should be taken.
Bicton Park Botanical Gardens (100 min) 01395 568465
Spanning nearly 300 years of horticultural history, these magnificent gardens are set in East Devon's picturesque Otter Valley, between the ancient city of Exeter and southwest England's Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site. The superbly landscaped park combines 18th century tranquillity with modern amenities to provide enjoyment for everyone, of all ages, through the four seasons. Registered in the Grade 1 conservation category by English Heritage, the privately owned historic gardens possess a timeless beauty, which has been preserved for the pleasure and interest of our visitors.
Butterflies and Buttercups BBC Article (101 min)
This six mile walk in East Devon takes in the World Heritage coastline, valleys and woodland - as well as the Sidmouth Donkey Sanctuary. One to walk in midsummer, when the wildlife is at its most colourful.
Get Your Toes Wet at Lydford Gorge BBC Article (103 min)
The walk around Lydford Gorge is three miles long and includes some treacherous sections. But if you're prepared to get your feet a bit mucky, you'll be rewarded with some breathtaking views...and then there's the fresh air too!
South Devon Area Of Natural Beauty
South Devon AONB Unit publishes a wide range of easy to follow walks leaflets which are available to buy from local Tourist Information Centres. The South West Coast Path is Britain’s longest national trail. It is well waymarked and there is a wide range of circular and longer distance walks. Estuary and valley trails are longer waymarked walks supported by leaflets: The Dart Valley Trail, The Erme-Plym Trail, The Avon Estuary Walk, The Salcombe-Kingsbridge estuary Town and Country Trails provide a collection of circular walk guides for the historic towns: Dartmouth, Totnes, Modbury, Salcombe, Kingsbridge. Green Lanes are a distinctive feature of the AONB and a great way to explore on foot the peace and quiet of the countryside.
New Horizons for Walkers
Vast stretches of South West countryside previously off-limits to walkers are being opened up to the public from the end of August 2005 as part of new open access arrangements brought in by the Government.
Moor Care Guided Walks
This site describes the various types of walks on Dartmoor that are on offer; choose one from a selection of exciting walks. Some types of walks may not be available all year.
South Hams Green Lanes BBC Article
Tales of smugglers hauling their contrabond along South Devon's ancient Green Lanes has added a touch of romance to a project to restore 191 of the lanes which have been neglected for decades. The lanes are a wildlife haven, and are now being made spick and span for walkers.
Discover Devon Walking
The Discover Devon Walking brochure features a stunning collection of walking trails across the county, and is available free of charge, order on the web site.. Go to “Discover Devon” web site and click on “Walking” then “Walking Database” to get a selection of Short Circular Walks in the South Hams.
Defra Country Walks in Devon
You can search the Conservation Walks and Rides Register for a site name by entering a search term. To further refine your search, you can select any of many criteria if it is important for the walk.
South West Coast Path
The South West Coast Path National Trail - 630 miles of superb coastal walking. From Minehead on the edge of the Exmoor National Park to the shores of Poole Harbour in Dorset it is the best way to enjoy the wonderful coastal scenery, wildlife and heritage.
South West Coastal Path Association
The South West Coast Path starts at Minehead in Somerset and runs along the part of the Somerset Bristol Channel coast, across North Devon, right round Cornwall, then along the South Devon and Dorset coasts to Poole Harbour. This is a distance of 630 miles which is over twice the distance of the Pennine Way and makes it by far the longest National Trail in Britain.
Dartmoor Walks.
Dartmoor National park is situated in Devon. It is an area of over 250 sq. miles of open moorland with a sprinkling of small villages, farms and river valleys. The Moor is bisected by two main roads into the Northern and Southern Moors. The Northern Moor is more isolated and austere and parts of it are used by the Army as troop training grounds. Dartmoor is one of the few real wildernesses left in England. Although it is not mountainous, the exposed moorland is primeval, bleak and remarkably free from human interference - although many have tried to tame it. The elements can be strong over Dartmoor, with mist, rain and bitingly cold keen winds being all too common. Dartmoor is a mound of granite which doesn't drain very well. It is a wet place, with blanket bogs on the higher points and boggy mires where drainage is impeded in the valleys. Prehistoric remains abound.
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Coastal Carriage Drive
The River Yealm reaches the sea at a beautiful estuary a little way to the east of Plymouth. It is a popular boat trip from Plymouth, referred to by the boatmen's advertising as the "Fjord of the West".
Dart Estuary Walk
This walk has a bit of everything. It skirts the magnificent estuary of the River Dart and also explores part of Dartmouth, one of Devon's most attractive towns as well as one of its most historic and interesting.
Southern Railway Dartmoor Walk
Everyone is familiar with the scenic railway line between Exeter and Plymouth. This is the old Great Western Railway route, pioneered by Brunel, which skirts the southern side of Dartmoor.
Victorian Landscape Walk
Meldon Viaduct, to the west of Okehampton, is a superb example of Victorian engineering. Now a significant landscape feature, it was built to carry the old LSWR main line to Plymouth in the 1870s. Closed to trains in the 1960s, it is now available to walkers and cyclists and offers superb views over the edge of Dartmoor.
Walk across the Walkham (Yelverton - Tavistock)
The West Devon Way walking route links Plymouth and Okehampton, much of the route following the western edge of Dartmoor. This walk follows a length of the West Devon Way between Yelverton and Tavistock.
Walk In Hope
Hope Cove, in the far south of the County, is one of most attractive settlements on the whole of the South West Coast Path in Devon. It actually consists of two coves, Inner Hope and Outer Hope, the latter being the larger of the two and the location of most of the settlement's facilities.
WALK 1. HOPE COVE TO BANTHAM.
This relatively short walk of four miles runs from the pretty fishing village of Hope Cove to the mouth of the river Avon. Along the route approximately one mile from Hope Cove is Thurlestone Sands and South Milton Ley - The second largest reed bed in Devon and an RSPB nature reserve. Across the small wooden bridge is Thurlestone village with its famous Golf course, and traditional local pub called 'The Village Inn'. The coastal path runs along the edge of the golf course so beware of errant golf balls! As you round the headland Bantham beach comes into full view - this is a popular beach with surfers and windsurfers, who provide good entertainment with their daredevil activities. As you cross the beach and wander a short way up the riverside there is a small ferry waiting to take you across to the other side where you can continue your walk to Bigbury Bay and beyond. The ferry runs only infrequently during the summer and not at all in the winter, so be careful not to get stuck, as it is a very long trek to the next crossing at Aveton Gifford. The village of Bantham is a five-minute walk from the beach where The Sloop Inn offers refreshments to weary walkers.
WALK 2. HOPE COVE TO SALCOMBE.
Leaving the village of Hope Cove in the opposite direction offers a longer coastal journey of 7 ½ miles to Salcombe. Starting in Inner Hope, the path wends its way to the top of Bolt Tail providing impressive views all the way to Cornwall in the east (on a clear day). The path continues onwards to Bolberry Down which, during the Second World War, was used as a Royal Air Force base. The old concrete buildings can still be seen near the disused runway. The path then brings you down into Soar Mill Cove, a small sandy beach suitable for bathing. A steep path then leads you up to splendid views to the west towards Bolt Head. As you head towards Bolt Head keep an eye out for Grey Seals basking on the rocks below. As you round Bolt Head, Devon's most southerly point, Prawle Point, can be seen in the distance before you descend into the valley behind Starehole Bay. The path then joins Courtenay Way that marks the final part of your journey into Salcombe. As the coastal path finishes you pass Overbecks, a National Trust museum with impressive gardens containing many tropical plants. For those feeling the strain of the miles already walked, the South Sands Ferry is waiting to complete your trip into Salcombe town. Otherwise, the road winds its way around the edge of the Kingsbridge estuary for approximately 2 miles to take you into the town where a bus or taxi can return you to Hope Cove via Malborough in about 20 minutes.
WALK 3. CIRCULAR WALK STARTING AND FINISHING IN OUTER HOPE
Follow the coastal path towards Thurlestone up the steep hill and on through the gate to a dip, which overlooks Beacon Point. Follow the right fork of the path, as the left is impassable due to erosion. As you reach the bottom of the next hill the path bends to the right and goes through a gate down to the road. Follow the road away from the beach, up the valley towards South Huish Farm. Opposite the road to the farm is a narrow lane, follow this up the hill until you come into a field. Keep forward, with the hedge on your left, to a gate on to the road. Turn left, and after 40 metres cross a stile in the hedge on your right and go straight across the field to a short track into the road. Turn right along the road then left down a lane on the far side of the first house. Turn left at the road, and then right into Benns Close, at the bottom of which climb the post and rail barrier and continue down the field to the footbridge. Cross the field to a stile in the hedge, which leads to a well-defined track. Go along the track and up the field to a stile in the wall beside a gate. Turn right over the stile and on to the ridgeway path, keeping the hedge on your left. Follow the hedge through several fields to come out at a gate and down to the road. Cross the road and go down the steps to the left of the chapel, and take the first turn to the right back along the path to Outer Hope Cove.
WALK 4. CIRCULAR WALK STARTING AND FINISHING IN INNER HOPE.
Follow the coastal path towards Salcombe as in walk 2. When you arrive at Bolberry Down instead of continuing along the Coast path turn left towards the radio masts and cross the cattle grid. Follow the road to a T-junction, continue forward and at the next junction turn down steeply to the right. At the top of a short hill, continue down a green lane to North Bolberry. Turn left, go along the drive almost to the gate where you will see a narrow footpath. This leads to a stile, cross the field to another stile. Continue with the hedge on your right. Turn left and go over a wall stile by a gate and continue along the ridgeway with the hedge on your left, through several fields, to come out at a gate, and down by houses to the road. Cross the road and go down the steps to the left of the chapel. Turn left and follow the path back to Inner Hope.
