Devon - 40 Coast and Country Walks

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miles/4.5km | 1.5 hours | easy-moderate Sun falls through the canopy of Wistman's ancient oaks/Credit: Getty Head inland through ancient woodland and coastal farmland to a medieval barton. Passing prehistoric standing stones in the fields high above the coast, the path drops to another small wooded valley and then emerges on a large exposed heath with views across the Bristol Channel, where Bull Point Lighthouse was built to warn ships of the lethal reefs below. Starting in Appledore's "little white fishing village", named by Charles Kingsley who wrote the novel Westward Ho!, the route passes Europe's largest covered shipyard, where nearly 200 vessels have been built, and an ancient battleground where 1,000 Vikings are said to have been slaughtered. 46) Lee Bay and Bull Point lighthouse Looking for somewhere to stay in Devon? Then why not visit our range of self-catering coastal cottages to find inspiration for your next holiday stay?

There are plenty of trails to explore around the bay too; whether you’re looking for an easy amble or a challenging hike, there’s something for everyone here.There are so many green spaces in Plymouth to enjoy. One of the most picturesque is the Plym Valley Trail. Plymbridge Woods is a giant swathe of lush woodland to the east of the city, perfect for cycling and walking. This quirky 16-sided house in Exmouth was built for two spinster cousins, Jane and Mary Parminter, on their return from a grand tour of Europe in the late 18th century. It contains many objects and mementos of their travels.

The hills, moorlands and coastlines of Devon’s landscape have long provided inspiration for Britain’s authors, poets and playwrights, from Agatha Christie and Arthur Conan Doyle to Thomas Hardy and Jane Austen. Discover the landscape that inspired Michael Morpurgo's War Horse with this four-mile walk from Gutter Tor to Higher Hartor Tor in Dartmoor National Park. Whether it’s for exercise or just peaceful contemplation, this circular walk provides an unforgettable experience and is sure to leave you feeling invigorated after your journey. 13. Exmouth To Woodbury Castle Most of the route is level with good footpaths along the way leading to a Napoleonic Fort, a visitors' centre and the Guardhouse Cafe. 13) The John Musgrave Heritage Trail The best thing about Mutters Moor is that it offers a variety of different walking routes to suit all abilities. By joining one of the great heritage trails or guided walks available you can ensure you see the best of what we have to offer as well as learning about the history and landscape you see all around you. Walking is more popular with visitors to South Devon than ever, but don’t worry about crowds. With more miles of footpaths and roads than almost any other county in England there’s plenty of room for everyone. South West Coast Path

The City Centre Wildlife Trail is one of the easiest ways to walk round Plymouth and discover nature right on your doorstep. The two-mile trail is perfect for small families and will take you around the city centre and up to the waterfront on a gentle, flat path. Make your way to Plymouth Hoe on a leisurely circular route. The 18th-century Killerton House is set in 6,400 acres of working farmland, woods, parkland, cottages and orchards. Feel free to explore the grassy paths which take you up to the garden's lofty heights and into hidden areas between the gravel paths. Take a stroll around the chapel and house gardens, see the colourful barks and admire the flowers. 25) Castle Drogo Teign Gorge classic circuit At the top of the steps you can see an old wartime Mine Watcher's post where mines used to be detonated and there is also an old pill box which now hosts a local colony of horseshoe bats. As you ascend the path you'll have a breathtaking view of London Bridge Arch, a limestone natural sea arch. Through the woodland area you'll find Daddyhole Plain – one of only three limestone plateaux on the English Riviera.

Explore the stunning landscapes of the moorland and the lush green valleys, with their abundance of wildlife and stunning views. Enjoy the beautiful scenery and get a taste of North Devon’s history during this unique journey. Two Moors Way Discover a stunning journey through North Devon’s wild, untamed lands by taking the Two Moors Way. This scenic trail stretches for 103 miles through the counties of Devon and Somerset, connecting Exmoor and Dartmoor National Parks. The tour starts in Castle Street and takes in Exeter Cathedral, Wynard's Almshouses and the Carfax public water system. There are quizzes and puzzles for children to do, so bring paper and pencils. 22) Exeter City Wall Trail The walk is the perfect way to enjoy the beauty of North Devon, and it’s sure to be an unforgettable experience. Baggy Point

9. Gutter Tor and Higher Hartor Tor

If you fancy something more challenging, walk the 22 miles around the Bay, following the South West Coast Path and passing through Babbacombe, Torquay, Paignton and Brixham.

With some of the highest points in East Devon, it’s an exhilarating experience that will leave you feeling rewarded.One of the best things about going on a countryside or coastal walk is the chance to stop off at a traditional pub or restaurant for a drink or two and an all important hearty meal. There are few things better than stomping through the countryside and then pausing for a homemade roast at countryside pub. Here are a couple of popular walking routes, all are circular routes, and graded as easy, so suitable for most abilities. There are a series of walks that have been adapted to make them suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs and there are routes across Dartmoor that are part of the Miles without Stiles campaign. From the Coypool Park and Ride you'll head up to Plym Bridge via the Route 27 cycle path. Watch out for cyclists as this is a shared path. Wandering through the woods at your own pace you can see traces of mines and railways, long since abandoned, that nature has reclaimed.