The Tarka Trail

The Tarka Trail runs for 180 miles through North and Mid Devon, with the North Devon section following the South West Coast Path along the area’s rugged coast.

The route between Braunton and Barnstaple follows a disused railway track and is great for a flat walk or cycle ride. The route starts in Braunton Car Park and is a great way to reach Barnstaple, as the historic town is unfortunately associated with traffic congestion. There are now Tarka Trail audio trails available too, so walkers can look out for the signposts as they go and pop on the appropriate download to make sure they get the most from the walk.

Saunton Up, Saunton Down

Another beautiful Saunton site, Saunton Down juts out in the background of the North Devon coastline, a dominant ridge in the skyline.

At 4.5 miles in length, this walk is not too long. However is does include a lengthy yet gentle climb to the Down’s summit – so it’s best tacked on a cool bright day. The walk heads to Croyde Bay, passing the gorgeous Saunton Sands and follows the South West Coast Path. The highlight of this walk is the views, notable all the way to the majestic Isle of Lundy and Exmoor National Park, so don’t forget your camera for this one!

Croyde to Saunton

Why see just one stunning beach in a day when a Saunton walk can take in two? The 3-mile walk between Croyde and Saunton offers fantastic views, especially over Croyde Bay.

The walk starts in the centre of Croyde Village and finishes in Saunton, passing Saunton Court. For the most part the walk is easygoing, but there is a fairly steep climb at the start as you leave Croyde – however the views are well worth it!

From the centre of Croyde, cross a stream to reach Watery Lane and turn left just past Chugs Farm. From here continue along the lane and follow the signs.

Braunton Burrows

With Braunton Burrows, the UK’s largest network of sand dunes to its name, the list of Braunton walks is topped by this stunning National Nature Reserve and UNESCO biosphere reserve.

Braunton Burrows are not only impressive to look at and walk, but they are also famed for their extraordinary plant life, with over 400 recorded species in the area. Named after the many rabbit burrows throughout the area, Braunton Burrows keeps its neat appearance and well-kept herbs as a result of continual rabbit grazing. Over time, this has stunted many of the plants, so they grow in smaller forms!

Braunton Great Field

What better Braunton walk than one which takes in the village’s most significant historical area? Braunton Great Field walk is 7 miles long and manages to include the Braunton Great Field, the Marsh and Braunton Burrows.

The Great Field is found beside the marsh of Braunton Burrows, and is one of just 2 remaining medieval open strip field systems in the whole of the UK. The field is still farmed today and is a famous archaeological site. The walk is relatively easy and covers flat land, but there are 5 stiles to climb along the way. The Braunton Great Field walk starts at the Museum and Tourist Information Centre, Braunton.