The best hikes from bus stations around Plymouth

There are over 190 hiking trails accessible by bus from Plymouth, offering a wide range of experiences. These routes cater to various fitness levels, with 120 easy, 69 moderate, and 5 difficult options.

Yes, many routes are suitable for families. Consider trails that explore local green spaces or gentler sections of the South West Coast Path. For example, the Plym Valley Trail offers a pleasant, mostly flat experience, easily reached by bus.

Most trails around Plymouth, including sections of Dartmoor National Park and the South West Coast Path, are dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept under control, especially near livestock. Always check local signage for specific restrictions, particularly during nesting seasons or in nature reserves. Many routes starting from bus stops in areas like Yelverton or Shaugh Prior on Dartmoor are popular with dog walkers.

Yes, several circular routes are designed for convenient bus access. For a coastal experience, the Cremyll Ferry – Cawsand and Kingsand Beaches loop from Plymouth offers stunning sea views and charming villages, easily reached via the Cremyll Ferry from Plymouth, which itself is bus-accessible.

The terrain varies significantly. Coastal paths, such as those leading to Wembury Beach or Mount Batten, often feature undulating clifftops, some steep ascents and descents, and can be exposed. Dartmoor routes, accessible from bus stops in towns like Princetown or Yelverton, offer rugged moorland, granite tors, and sometimes boggy sections, while trails closer to the city like the Plym Valley Trail are generally flatter and follow old railway lines or riverbanks.

You can discover a rich mix of natural and historical landmarks. Along the coast, you might see the Great Mewstone near Wembury, or historical sites like the Mayflower Steps in Plymouth. Inland, Dartmoor offers iconic granite tors like Combestone Tor. The Cann Viaduct is another interesting feature on trails like the Plym Valley.

Absolutely. Many sections of the South West Coast Path provide spectacular views of Plymouth Sound. The View of Plymouth Sound – Bovisand Beach loop from Smeaton's Tower is a moderate route that specifically highlights these panoramic vistas, starting from an easily accessible point in the city.

Spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant hiking conditions, with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer is also popular, especially for coastal walks, but can be busy. Winter hikes are possible, particularly on lower-level routes, but Dartmoor can be challenging with adverse weather conditions, requiring appropriate gear and caution.

Yes, many bus-accessible trailheads or villages along the routes have amenities. Coastal villages like Cawsand and Kingsand (accessible via Cremyll Ferry) offer charming pubs and cafes. On Dartmoor, towns like Princetown and Yelverton, which are bus hubs, also provide options for refreshments. Within Plymouth itself, numerous establishments are available near city centre bus stops.

Generally, no permit is required for day hiking on public rights of way in Dartmoor National Park. However, specific activities like wild camping or large organised events may require permission. Always respect the 'Dartmoor Commons Act' and 'Countryside Code' when exploring the park.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the incredible diversity of landscapes, from the dramatic coastal scenery of the South West Coast Path to the wild, open moorlands of Dartmoor, all conveniently reachable by public transport. The well-maintained paths and the opportunity to combine urban exploration with natural beauty are also frequently highlighted.

Yes, for those seeking a challenge, there are difficult routes available. The Bovisand Beach – Wembury Bay loop from Plymstock is a demanding coastal hike covering nearly 25 km with significant elevation changes, offering a strenuous but rewarding experience. Other challenging options can be found on the higher, more remote parts of Dartmoor.