5 spectacular walks across Devon and Cornwall to enjoy this summer

Perhaps one of the best things about living in Devon and Cornwall is the amount of beautiful countryside on your doorstep.

The region is home to an impressive mix of woodland, rivers, open moorland, and dramatic stretches of coastline, meaning you’re never short of somewhere new to explore.

Perhaps one of the best things about living in Devon and Cornwall is the amount of beautiful countryside on your doorstep.

The region is home to an impressive mix of woodland, rivers, open moorland, and dramatic stretches of coastline, meaning you’re never short of somewhere new to explore.

Just remember that some paths can still become slippery or uneven even in summer, so it’s always worth checking local guidance before leaving and taking suitable footwear, sun protection, and plenty of water.

So, continue reading to discover five spectacular walks across Devon and Cornwall that could be worth trying this summer.

1. Lydford Gorge Waterfall Trail

Found close to Tavistock, where the Hansford Bell office is, Lydford Gorge is home to one of the most impressive waterfalls in the region.

The Waterfall Trail is a 1.75-mile circular route that takes around an hour to complete.

While this may sound fairly short, it is classed as a moderate walk due to its rocky paths and steep slopes, so it could still offer a decent challenge.

The trail leads through ancient woodland to Whitelady Waterfall, which drops 30 metres into the gorge below.

Once you reach the bottom, you can stand near the base of the waterfall before following the route back uphill through the trees.

As much of the walk is shaded, it could be a brilliant option on a particularly warm summer’s day.

There is also a tea room near the Waterfall entrance, where you can stop for a hot or cold drink and a snack after you finish.

2. Baggy Point

If you enjoy coastal views but don’t necessarily want to spend several hours walking, Baggy Point in North Devon could be ideal.

Starting from the National Trust car park near Croyde, this easy circular route covers around two miles and should take roughly 40 minutes.

The path follows the western side of the headland, offering views across the sea, surrounding farmland, and the North Devon coastline.

During the summer, Baggy Point is also a brilliant place to see wildflowers and various bird species.

This makes the walk particularly rewarding if you enjoy stopping to take in the scenery rather than rushing to the end.

There is one short downhill section that can become slippery when wet, but the rest of the route is relatively gentle.

And, once you return, you’ll be close to Croyde Beach, so you could easily combine the walk with a few hours by the sea.

3. Heddon’s Mouth

Heddon’s Mouth offers something slightly different from the more exposed coastal routes on this list.

Starting near the National Trust gift shop in Heddon Valley, the two-mile walk follows the River Heddon through woodland before eventually reaching the sea.

The route is classed as easy and takes around an hour, with only a gentle incline as you approach the coast.

As you walk, you’ll pass beneath the trees with the river running alongside the path, making it a particularly peaceful option.

At the end, you’ll reach Heddon’s Mouth, where the river meets a secluded stony beach surrounded by high cliffs.

You’ll also find the remains of a 19th-century lime kiln, which was once used to burn limestone and coal brought across the Bristol Channel.

While the path itself is relatively manageable, the stones on the beach can be uneven, so sturdy footwear is still a good idea.

4. Lady Vale Walk

Found in Cardinham Woods near Bodmin, the Lady Vale Walk is a relaxed 1.7-mile trail that follows Cardinham Water through the forest.

The route is fully surfaced and generally wide and flat, making it one of the more accessible options on this list.

There are also several benches along the way, giving you plenty of opportunities to stop and enjoy the surroundings.

The main route includes a moderate slope as you make your way back towards the car park. However, you can avoid this by crossing Centenary Bridge and taking a shorter loop.

The combination of shaded woodland and running water makes this a lovely place to visit during the summer, particularly if you want to escape the heat for a while.

Cardinham Woods has several other marked trails, too, so you can always choose something longer or more challenging if you still have plenty of energy.

5. Kynance Cove to Lizard Point

Kynance Cove is perhaps one of the most recognisable places in Cornwall, known for its turquoise water, white sand, and unusual rock formations.

If you want to explore more of the surrounding area, the full Lizard coastal walk covers seven miles and takes roughly three hours.

Starting at Kynance Cove, the route follows sandy beaches and stony clifftop paths towards Lizard Point, the most southerly point of mainland Britain.

Along the way, you’ll pass dramatic cliffs, rare wildflowers, and several reminders of the area’s coastal history.

The walk includes more than 700 feet of climbing, as well as several slopes and sets of steps, so it is the most demanding route on this list.

Once you reach Lizard Point, you can see the lighthouse and look out across the Atlantic before continuing around the peninsula and eventually returning to Kynance Cove.

If seven miles feels too ambitious, you could simply walk part of the coast path between Kynance and Lizard Point before turning back.

Whichever option you choose, it’s worth arriving early during summer, as Kynance Cove can become particularly busy on warm and sunny days.

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Please note

This article is for general information only and does not constitute advice. The information is aimed at individuals only.

All information is correct at the time of writing and is subject to change in the future.