The best pub walks in Devon

A wonderful walk followed by an excellent pub lunch – there aren’t many better ways to spend a day in Devon! Luckily in this county of rugged cliffs, rolling hills and pretty fishing villages, we’re spoilt for choice with a huge selection of delightful walks, whether strolling along the coast or hiking across miles of spectacular countryside. With handfuls of welcoming pubs serving local ales and warming pub grub dotted along the most popular walking routes, days out in Devon are great for both the soul and the stomach!

We’ve picked out some of the best pub walks in Devon - just grab your walking boots and go!

Skip to:
👉North Devon
👉Mid/East Devon
👉South Devon

Discover the unspoilt coastal landscape of North Devon

Start with this walk:

Westward Ho! to Cornborough Cliffs

Starting in Westward Ho!, the Westward Ho! to Cornborough walk heads out along the South West Coast Path, where you will be treated to spectacular panoramic views across Bideford Bay as well as Clovelly, Hartland Point, and Saunton in the distance. The walk can be as short or long as you want with a 1-mile section of old railway line accessible for pushchairs and wheelchairs. Spring is a particularly delightful time to visit, when sea birds are nesting on the cliff ledges and the pretty coastal flowers are starting to bloom. Brisk winter walks with the Atlantic sea whipping up a frenzy below however, should not be missed. Whatever the season, this walk is one for those that like a view.

Rest your weary limbs at:

The Pig on the Hill, Westward Ho!

This award-winning gastro pub is popular with visitors and locals alike. Voted ‘Best Newcomer’ during the 2014 Great British Pub Awards, The Pig on the Hill has continued its success by winning the 2015 ‘Best Gastro Pub in Devon’. Be sure to stop here for an ale from the Country Life Brewery and a tasty bite to eat.

Don't miss this walk along the River Heddon towards the sea:

The National Trust offer some fantastic walks around Heddon Valley, from short trails for all the family to long hikes along the coast. Take the gentle riverside walk to Heddon's Mouth along the banks of the River Heddon and explore the area as it flows out to meet the Atlantic sea. Wind your way through ancient woodland while spotting the local wildlife including otters and the rare high brown fritillary butterfly. 

Then make your way back for some excellent food at the Hunter's Inn, Heddon's Mouth:

Also try:

The National Trust's Countisbury to Watersmeet circular walk followed by a pint at the charming Blue Ball Inn in Lynmouth is a popular route. This 3.5 mile walk is challenging, taking approximately 2 hours at a steady pace and is also dog-friendly.

Explore the Jurassic Coastline in picturesque Mid/East Devon

Start with this walk:

Uplyme Circular

Starting in this quaint East Devon village, the Lyme Regis & Uplyme circular walk has some of the most spectacular views in all of the region. The route passes under the stunning Cannington Viaduct, as well as through wonderful countryside with some beautiful coastal views. This magnificent feat of engineering opened in 1903 but was sadly closed in the 1960s. If you want a longer walk, there is a sign for a footpath after passing under the viaduct or you can take the extension to the lovely Prescott Pinetum, managed by the Woodland Trust.

Rest your weary limbs at:

The Talbot Arms, Uplyme

A great starting or finishing point for your walk, The Talbot Arms in Uplyme has an impressive wine list and an extensive list of beers, bitters, and ciders from top independent breweries. If you’re feeling peckish, the kitchen at The Talbot Arms can prepare a delicious meal, with the traditional Sunday carvery proving ever popular.

Take a hike along the Sidbury, Harcombe and Sweetcombe circular route:

A 6.3-mile moderate off-road route, this delightful Sidbury circular walk will treat you to views either side of Buckton Hill, as you pass through a rich mix of habitats and farmland, hills and valleys, partly situated on the East Devon Way. Start in the picturesque village of Sidbury and come back to treat yourself to a well-deserved rest and pint at the local pub set in the heart of the village below.

The Red Lion Inn in Sidbury is a traditional Devon inn:

Also try:

The walks in the Exmouth area are pretty and take in lots of local history. Try the National Trust 3.9-mile A La Ronde and Lympstone walk. This short walk skirts around the gardens of Lympstone Manor and passes A La Ronde where you can stop for tea as well as the charming village of Lympstone, where you can stop at the Redwing Inn or the Swann Inn for a swift pint before heading home.

Make your way through the moorland and pretty coastline of South Devon

Start with this walk:

Lydford circular

This walk begins a short drive away from Lydford and passes through some of the most picturesque areas of Dartmoor. Head south-west onto the moors and follow the footpath which gently meanders downwards before reaching the banks of River Lyd. Follow the river and you’ll soon start your climb back up toward Lydford. Don't miss a trip to the magnificent Lydford Gorge, the deepest river gorge in the South West, with its magnificent 30-metre high waterfall. 

Rest your weary limbs at:

The Dartmoor Inn, Lydford

Located within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and conveniently just off the A386, The Dartmoor Inn is a regular stopping point when commuting from North to South Devon. Much more than just a pub, it features stylish dining rooms each with its own unique identity.

Or take the circular walk from the pretty fishing village of Brixham to Berry Head:

The 3-mile circuit from Brixham Harbour north to Berry Head has some breathtaking vistas of the South Devon coastline. Nature lovers will adore this walk as Berry Head Nature Reserve is home to colonies of sea birds, including the largest breeding colony of guillemots on the Channel coast. You can also spot fulmars, a small colony of kittiwakes as well as sea-faring dolphins and porpoises.

Head back and order a fresh crab sandwich at the Crown and Anchor in Brixham Harbour:

Also try:

Head along the South West Coast Path and take the 3.5-mile walk from Beesands to the atmospheric ruins of old Hallsands, known as the 'village that fell into the sea'. This enchanting route does have a long flight of steps and various tracks and footpaths through fields, so it's not suitable for all. Finish with a pint at the Cricket Inn back in Beesands.

Stay in Devon!

You’re never far from a delightful pub walk in Devon, so find your perfect cottage and start planning your next stroll in the county today. We have a great selection of cosy country cottages where you can base yourself as well as coastal retreats perfect for those summer strolls. Many welcome four-legged family members too, just have a look at our dog-friendly cottages in Devon and find the perfect space for you and your furry friend.