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Routes
Hiking trails & Routes
United Kingdom
England
South West England
Plymouth

Hoe Trail

Easy

5.0

(1)

26

hikers

Hoe Trail

01:05

4.06km

40m

Hiking

Hike the easy 2.5-mile (4.1 km) Hoe Trail in Plymouth, gaining 128 feet (39 metres) while exploring historical sites and coastal views.

Last updated: February 26, 2026

Waypoints

A

Start point

Parking

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1

334 m

Mayflower Steps

Highlight • Monument

A plaque beside these steps commemorates Provincetown as the first landing spot for the Pilgrims in the New World.

Tip by

2

451 m

Elizabethan House

Highlight • Historical Site

A rare example of its time, the Elizabethan House is a historic property laid out in the style of a merchant or sea captain’s home from the 1600s.

Tip by

3

2.61 km

West Hoe Pier

Highlight • Structure

Walk down on to the pier for great views across the Hoe.

Tip by

4

3.20 km

Smeaton's Tower Lighthouse

Highlight • Monument

Smeaton's Tower is a memorial to the civil engineer John Smeaton, the designer of the third and most notable Eddystone lighthouse. A major advance in lighthouse design, Smeaton's structure was …

Translated by Google •

Tip by

5

3.82 km

View of Plymouth Sound

Highlight • Monument

Lovely views over Plymouth Sound close to The Citadel and a few yards away from Elphinstone car park this is a great place to start a waterfront walk passing The …

Tip by

B

4.06 km

End point

Parking

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Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

2.10 km

876 m

827 m

200 m

< 100 m

Surfaces

2.36 km

838 m

807 m

< 100 m

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Elevation

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

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Weather

Powered by Foreca

Sunday 17 May

13°C

8°C

98 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 24.0 km/h

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This route was planned by komoot.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I park to start the Hoe Trail?

The Hoe Trail is located in Plymouth, a city with various parking options. You can find paid parking lots and street parking available around the Plymouth Hoe area. It's advisable to check local parking regulations and availability, especially during peak times.

Is the Hoe Trail dog-friendly?

Yes, the Hoe Trail is generally dog-friendly, as it's an urban and coastal walk. However, please ensure your dog is kept on a leash, especially in busy areas and near attractions. Always clean up after your pet to help keep the area enjoyable for everyone.

What is the best time of year to hike this trail?

The Hoe Trail can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for coastal walks, with longer daylight hours. Autumn provides beautiful scenery, and even winter can be enjoyable on a clear day, though it might be windier. Check the local weather forecast before you go.

Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee for the Hoe Trail?

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to walk the Hoe Trail. It's a publicly accessible route along the Plymouth Hoe and surrounding areas.

What can I see along the route?

The route offers a rich historical and scenic experience. You'll pass by significant landmarks such as the Mayflower Steps, the historic Elizabethan House, and the iconic Smeaton's Tower Lighthouse. You'll also enjoy stunning View of Plymouth Sound and pass West Hoe Pier.

What is the terrain like on the Hoe Trail?

The Hoe Trail is an easy urban and coastal walk. The terrain is mostly paved paths and promenades, making it suitable for all ages and fitness levels. There are minimal elevation changes, making it a comfortable stroll.

Does the trail intersect other well-known paths?

Yes, the Hoe Trail is part of a network of paths in Plymouth. The route fully covers the 'Hoe Trail' itself and also overlaps significantly with sections of the 'EuroVelo 1 - Atlantic Coast Route - part United Kingdom 2', the 'South West Coast Path (Section 36: Plymouth to Wembury Point)', and the 'Plymouth City Trail'.

Is the route suitable for beginners or families with children?

Absolutely! With its easy difficulty, minimal elevation gain, and paved surfaces, this route is ideal for beginners, families with children, and anyone looking for a relaxed walk with scenic views and historical points of interest.

Are there cafes, pubs, or restrooms available along the way?

Yes, being in an urban area like Plymouth, you'll find numerous cafes, pubs, and restaurants conveniently located along or very close to the Hoe Trail, especially around the Plymouth Hoe and Barbican areas. Public restrooms are also available at various points.

What should I bring for a walk on the Hoe Trail?

For this easy urban walk, comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Depending on the weather, bring layers of clothing, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), and a waterproof jacket. A camera for the scenic views and historical landmarks, and water for hydration, are also good ideas.

Are there any specific viewpoints or landmarks to look out for?

The entire route offers fantastic views of Plymouth Sound. Key viewpoints include the area around Smeaton's Tower Lighthouse and the promenade along Plymouth Hoe. The Mayflower Steps and the historic Barbican area are also significant landmarks to explore.

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