The best walks and hikes around West Down

Yes, the area around West Down is excellent for circular hikes. You can find routes that loop back to your starting point without needing to retrace your steps. Many trails combine coastal paths with inland tracks through rolling hills, offering varied scenery. A great example is the Surfing at Woolacombe – Barricane Beach loop from Mortehoe, which provides a beautiful coastal circuit.

West Down offers superb access to the South West Coast Path, known for its dramatic cliffs and sea views. You can explore rugged sections leading to landmarks like Morte Point and Bull Point. The coastline features a mix of high cliffs, sandy beaches like Woolacombe, and secluded coves such as Lee Bay, providing a classic North Devon coastal hiking experience.

Definitely. There are numerous shorter and flatter walks suitable for families. The Lee Bridge Car Park loop from Mortehoe is a gentle 4-mile (6.4 km) walk that is great for an easy outing. Additionally, walks along the sandy beaches at Woolacombe or Saunton Sands are perfect for a relaxed family day out.

Most of the public footpaths and coastal trails around West Down are dog-friendly. However, you'll be walking through areas with livestock, so it's essential to keep your dog on a lead, especially in fields with sheep. Some beaches may have seasonal restrictions, so it's always a good idea to check local signage before letting your dog off the lead.

The trails around West Down are primarily focused on the stunning North Devon coastline, with its high cliffs, sandy beaches, and dramatic sea views. In contrast, Exmoor National Park, a short drive away, offers a different landscape of open moorland, deep wooded valleys (like the Doone Valley), and a more remote, wild feeling. Both offer fantastic but distinct hiking experiences.

The scenery is incredibly varied. You'll encounter dramatic coastal cliffs with panoramic views over the Bristol Channel, sheltered coves, and wide sandy beaches. Inland, the trails wind through rolling green hills, quiet country lanes, and picturesque villages. A route like the View of Damagehue Rock – Bull Point Lighthouse loop from Slade showcases this coastal beauty perfectly.

There is a wide variety of options to explore, with over 400 hiking routes mapped around West Down on komoot. These range from short, easy strolls of just a few miles to more challenging all-day coastal treks, ensuring there's a trail for every fitness level.

The hiking routes around West Down are highly regarded by the komoot community. With over 1,100 ratings, the area has an impressive average score. Hikers frequently praise the breathtaking coastal views, the well-maintained paths along the South West Coast Path, and the charming villages you can discover along the way.

Yes, there are plenty of short walks available. For a lovely, easy-going hike with beautiful scenery, consider the View of Lee Bay and Village – Lee Village loop from Slade. At just over 4 miles (6.7 km), it's perfect for a morning or afternoon outing that still packs in plenty of coastal charm.

Sturdy walking shoes are a must, as the coastal paths can be uneven and rocky. The weather can change quickly, so waterproof clothing is essential, even on a sunny day. Also, bring water, snacks, a fully charged phone, and sun protection. It's wise to have a map or use a navigation app like komoot, as some inland paths can be less clearly marked than the main coastal trail.

For spectacular panoramic views, head to the headlands along the South West Coast Path. Morte Point and Baggy Point are famous for their sweeping vistas of the coastline. The trail between Woolacombe and Ilfracombe, such as the Ilfracombe Seafront – Ilfracombe Harbour loop, offers continuous stunning sea views and great photo opportunities of the rugged coast.

Trail conditions vary. The South West Coast Path is generally well-maintained but can be rugged, narrow, and steep in places. After rain, some inland paths can become muddy. The area's popularity means the main routes are clear, but always be prepared for uneven terrain, especially on the more challenging coastal sections.