South Devon National Landscape – Sheltered Estuaries, Rolling Cliffs, and Coastal Farmland

A Gently Indented Coastal Landscape Shaped by Estuaries, Agriculture, and Settlement

The South Devon National Landscape stretches along the south coast of Devon in South West England, protecting a distinctive mix of cliffs, estuaries, beaches, and pastoral countryside between Plymouth and Torbay. Facing the English Channel rather than the Atlantic, this coastline feels calmer and more settled than Devon’s north coast, offering a gentler but deeply varied walking landscape shaped by water, agriculture, and long maritime history.

Walking journeys in South Devon are defined by contrast and accessibility. Clifftop paths offer wide coastal views across sheltered bays, while inland routes follow estuaries, wooded valleys, and quiet lanes through rolling farmland. The landscape unfolds gradually on foot, with frequent changes between open coast, enclosed woodland, and cultivated countryside creating a strong sense of rhythm and variety.

Much of the coastal walking follows the South West Coast Path, which threads its way around headlands, beaches, and river mouths. Here, the trail is less exposed than on the Atlantic coast but still physically engaging, with regular climbs and descents as it crosses a deeply indented shoreline. Long views, softer light, and frequent access to villages make this section well suited to multi-day walking at a steady, unhurried pace.

Estuaries play a central role in the South Devon walking experience. The Dart, Avon, Erme, and Yealm cut deep inland, creating sheltered routes with tidal creeks, boatyards, and wildlife-rich mudflats. Ferry crossings and bridges form natural links between walking stages, while estuary paths offer flatter alternatives to the surrounding clifftops.

Away from the coast, South Devon’s farmland and wooded valleys provide quieter walking through a lived-in rural landscape. Field-edge paths, green lanes, and historic tracks link farms, hamlets, and small market towns, reinforcing the sense of continuity between land and sea that defines the area.

Village-based walking is a defining feature. Settlements such as Salcombe, Dartmouth, Kingswear, and coastal villages along the estuaries sit directly on walking routes, making it easy to plan itineraries that combine clifftop stages with shorter inland or waterside walks. These places retain strong local character rooted in fishing, farming, and boatbuilding rather than large-scale tourism.

Beyond walking, the South Devon National Landscape supports a wide range of low-impact outdoor activities. Sea swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding thrive in sheltered waters, while cycling follows quiet lanes and inland valleys. Wildlife watching is rich throughout the area, from seabirds and seals along the coast to waders and otters within the estuaries.

Accommodation is widely available across the landscape, including independent inns, small hotels, guesthouses, farm stays, and coastal cottages. Many bases sit directly on the coast path or estuary routes, allowing walkers to explore on foot without relying on a car.

For walkers seeking varied coastal scenery, historic routes, and a gentler pace of exploration, the South Devon National Landscape offers one of South West England’s most rewarding and adaptable walking destinations.

Where to Walk and Explore

Clifftop Coast Path Walking

Rolling clifftop routes with open sea views, passing beaches, headlands, and sheltered bays along the South West Coast Path.

Estuaries & River Mouths

Gentle walking along tidal rivers and creeks, with ferry crossings, wildlife habitats, and historic waterfront towns.

Coastal Farmland & Valleys

Field paths, lanes, and wooded valleys linking farms, hamlets, and inland villages close to the coast.

Beach & Headland Routes

Shorter walks combining sandy beaches, rocky headlands, and easy access to coastal settlements.

Village-to-Village Coastal Walking

Linear and circular routes connecting fishing villages, estuary towns, and small harbours along the south Devon coast.

Adventure Highlights

• Rolling clifftop walking along sheltered coastline
• Estuary paths with ferries and historic crossings
• Quiet inland lanes and pastoral countryside
• Sea swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding
• Wildlife-rich coast and tidal rivers
• One of South West England’s most varied coastal landscapes