Discover the spectacular coastline and rolling countryside of South Devon, from the sailing haven of Salcombe to the colourful fishing port of Brixham and the sweeping cliffs of the South West Coast Path. With golden beaches, hidden coves, tidal estuaries and flower-rich headlands, this corner of southwest England offers some of the most rewarding short coastal walks in England.

This collection of 15 short walks explores the very best of South Devon, with circular routes of under three hours that are perfect for families, holidaymakers and walkers looking for half-day adventures. Clear Ordnance Survey mapping, step-by-step route descriptions and practical local information make it easy to discover beaches, headlands and harbour towns with confidence.

• 15 walks across Salcombe, Brixham and the wider South Hams, each with clear OS maps and easy-to-follow directions for stress-free exploring
• Short routes of under three hours along the South West Coast Path, so you can experience this iconic coastal landscape on family-friendly walks that have manageable terrain 
• Explore coastal highlights such as Start Point and Berry Head with ease, knowing practical details like parking and public transport from the off 
• Discover wildlife-rich scenery around Slapton Ley and the Dart estuary near Dartmouth, with background information that brings South Devon’s landscapes and heritage to life
• Combine the seaside charm of Hope Cove and Bigbury-on-Sea, beach walks and clifftop paths with a lunch at local refreshment stops to create the perfect family day out 

Stroll above turquoise coves, wander through flower-filled headlands and explore characterful harbours shaped by Devon’s maritime past. These 15 short walks capture the very best of South Devon’s coastline in manageable, inspiring adventures, perfect for half-day explorations, weekend breaks, or family holidays. 

15 Short Walks in South Devon - Salcombe, Brixham and the Coast - Quick Facts

Area name: South Devon (Salcombe, Brixham, South Hams)
Location: Southwest England, Devon
Total number of walks: 15 short routes
Typical duration: Under 3 hours each
Trail types: Coastal paths, estuary walks, clifftop routes, village strolls
Difficulty: Easy to moderate; suitable for families and most abilities
Terrain: Beaches, tidal estuaries, rolling farmland, clifftops, woodland paths
Navigation: Some waymarked routes; Clear OS mapping and step-by-step route descriptions
Best season: Spring to early autumn (April–October)
Wildlife highlights: Curlew, waders, seabirds, wildflowers, saltmarsh flora
Local highlights: Salcombe, Brixham, Start Point, Berry Head, Slapton Ley, Dartmouth, Hope Cove, Bigbury-on-Sea

Author Highlight

“South Devon’s unspoilt coast and countryside make it the perfect place to relax and unwind or experience adventure. As a National Landscape, and with Dartmoor National Park, two lively cities, miles of stunning coastline and busy market towns like Dartmouth, Salcombe and Totnes, there truly is something for everyone.”

- Holly Scrivener, author of 15 Short Walks in South Devon - Salcombe, Brixham and the coast 

The Walks

Walk 1 Noss Mayo and The Warren

Walk 2 Bigbury-on-Sea

Walk 3 Loddiswell

Walk 4 Hope Cove and Bolberry Down

Walk 5 Bolt Head

Walk 6 Mill Bay and Gara Rock

Walk 7 East Prawle and Prawle Point

Walk 8 Start Point

Walk 9 Slapton Ley

Walk 10 Dartmouth Castle

Walk 11 Galmpton and Greenway

Walk 12 Froward Point

Walk 13 Brixham and Berry Head

Walk 14 Brixham to Paignton

Walk 15 Tuckenhay and Cornworthy 
 

Seasons

The walks in this book can be enjoyed year-round: the spring and autumn months offer the best time for walking, bringing quieter routes that still benefit from good public services. Escape the summer crowds on secluded beaches and in shaded woodland. Coastal footpaths can become particularly muddy and exposed in winter, so care ought to be taken in inclement weather.

Centres

Brixham, Dartmouth, Totnes, Salcombe and Kingsbridge

Difficulty

Many of these routes make use of the South West Coast Path, a well-marked and popular National Trail, therefore do not require any special map-reading skills. However, comfortable walking shoes are recommended as coastal footpaths are rugged and will often require some ascent.

Must See

Scenic creek views on the River Avon and River Yealm; rugged coastlines and stunning vistas; sailing culture in Dartmouth and Salcombe; peaceful woodland and open countryside; the UNESCO Global Geopark of the English Riviera; charming villages with wild views, historic sites, and panoramic landscapes; sandy coves, secret beaches, lighthouses, steam trains and wildlife.

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