Wembury to Bigbury-on-Sea

This stretch of the South West Coast Path offers a showcase of Devon’s stunning coastline from the tranquil beach of Wembury, through the bustling harbour town of Newton and Noss, and finally to the golden sands of Bigbury-on-Sea.

Distance:

14 miles (22.5 km)

Difficulty:

Moderate to Challenging

Starting Point: Wembury

Begin your journey at Wembury, a village renowned for its beautiful beach and marine conservation area. Before setting off on the trail, take a moment to soak in the beauty of Wembury Beach with its rocky shoreline and stunning views of the Mewstone. The official start of the path is just above the beach car park.

Facilities:

Public toilets are available at Wembury Beach, and refreshments can be purchased from the beach café.

Newton and Noss (7 miles from Wembury)

Leaving Wembury, the path follows the coastline, offering splendid views of the Yealm Estuary and the open sea. You will eventually come to the vibrant harbour towns of Newton and Noss. Here, you can take a break and explore the charming narrow streets lined with shops and eateries.

Facilities:

Public toilets, cafes, pubs, and shops are available in Newton and Noss.

Bigbury-on-Sea (14 miles from Wembury)

Continuing on, the path takes you through more dramatic coastline, with breathtaking views at every step. The trail concludes at Bigbury-on-Sea, a popular seaside resort with a large sandy beach. Here, you can unwind while taking in the stunning views of Burgh Island, made famous by Agatha Christie.

Facilities:

Bigbury-on-Sea is well-equipped with facilities including public toilets, cafes, a pub, and a shop.

Points to Remember

Terrain: This section offers a mix of cliff-top paths and beach trails, with several steep ascents and descents. Good walking boots are essential.

Facilities: Facilities are available at Wembury, Newton and Noss, and Bigbury-on-Sea. There are few facilities in between, so carry water and snacks.

Weather: Coastal weather can change quickly – bring layers and a waterproof jacket.

Seasonal Refreshments: Available in Wembury, Newton and Noss, and Bigbury-on-Sea during the summer months.