East Devon National Landscape – Red Cliffs, Pebble Ridges, and Rural Valleys

A Geologically Distinct Coast Shaped by Erosion, Rivers, and Farming

The East Devon National Landscape stretches along the east-facing coast of Devon in South West England, protecting a varied landscape of cliffs, beaches, river valleys, and rural countryside between Exmouth and Lyme Regis. Forming the western gateway to the Jurassic Coast, this coastline combines dramatic geology with gentler inland walking, creating a landscape shaped as much by time as by tide.

Walking adventures in East Devon are defined by contrast between coast and countryside. Exposed clifftop paths deliver wide views across the English Channel, while inland routes follow sheltered valleys, quiet lanes, and field-edge paths through a working agricultural landscape. The rhythm of walking shifts naturally between open horizons and enclosed green corridors, making East Devon particularly well suited to varied, village-based itineraries.

Much of the coastal walking follows the South West Coast Path, which traces the edge of the red sandstone cliffs and chalk headlands that define this section of coast. Here, the trail is dramatic but less physically demanding than further west, offering accessible clifftop walking with frequent links down to beaches, river mouths, and coastal towns.

Geology plays a central role in shaping the walking experience. Layers of red sandstone, limestone, and chalk are clearly visible along the cliffs, while landslips and eroding headlands reveal constantly changing coastal forms. This dynamic landscape underpins East Devon’s inclusion within the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site, adding scientific and visual interest to every coastal stage.

Away from the cliffs, East Devon’s river valleys provide quieter, more sheltered walking. The Otter, Sid, Axe, and Exe carve green corridors inland, linking estuaries with rolling hills, historic villages, and patchwork farmland. These routes are rich in wildlife and seasonal colour, offering gentler alternatives to the exposed coast.

Village-based walking is a defining feature of the landscape. Settlements such as Beer, Branscombe, Sidmouth, and Budleigh Salterton sit directly on or close to walking routes, making it easy to combine coastal stages with inland loops and shorter day walks. These places retain a strong sense of local identity, shaped by fishing, farming, and small-scale tourism.

Beyond walking, the East Devon National Landscape supports a range of low-impact outdoor activities. Sea swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding take advantage of sheltered bays, while cycling follows quiet lanes and inland valleys. Wildlife watching is rewarding across coast and countryside, from seabirds along the cliffs to otters, birds, and wildflowers in the river valleys.

Accommodation is widely available across the landscape, including independent inns, small hotels, guesthouses, farm stays, and coastal cottages. Many bases sit directly on walking routes, allowing visitors to explore East Devon on foot without relying heavily on a car.

For walkers seeking dramatic coastal scenery balanced by gentle countryside, rich geology, and accessible routes, the East Devon National Landscape offers one of South West England’s most varied and rewarding walking destinations.

Where to Walk and Explore

Clifftop Coast Path Walking

Accessible clifftop routes with expansive sea views, passing red cliffs, chalk headlands, and beaches along the South West Coast Path.

River Valleys & Estuaries

Sheltered walking along the Exe, Otter, Sid, and Axe, with tidal creeks, wildlife habitats, and historic riverside towns.

Rolling Farmland & Lanes

Quiet lanes and field-edge paths through pastoral countryside set just inland from the coast.

Beach & Headland Routes

Shorter walks combining pebble beaches, cliff descents, and easy access to coastal villages.

Village-to-Village Coastal Walking

Linear and circular routes linking fishing villages, seaside towns, and rural settlements along the East Devon coast.

Adventure Highlights

• Red sandstone cliffs and changing coastal geology
• South West Coast Path walking along the Jurassic Coast
• Sheltered river valleys and estuary routes
• Quiet countryside lanes and farmland paths
• Sea swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding
• One of South West England’s most geologically rich landscapes