Woolacombe to Croyde
Begin your journey on the Woolacombe to Croyde stretch of the South West Coast Path and you will be greeted by stunning sandy beaches, a vibrant surfing culture and picturesque coastal villages. This relatively short walk is a perfect introduction to the North Devon coast, offering a mix of rolling dunes, steep cliffs and breathtaking views over the Atlantic Ocean.
Distance:
5.6 miles (9 km)
5.6 miles (9 km)
Difficulty:
Moderate
Moderate
Starting Point: Woolacombe
Your adventure begins in Woolacombe, a beloved seaside resort known for its three-mile long sandy beach. Take some time to soak up the vibrant atmosphere, perhaps visit the local surf shops, or just enjoy a relaxing walk along the beachfront. Once you're ready to hit the trail, head north towards the towering sand dunes that mark the start of the coastal path.
Your adventure begins in Woolacombe, a beloved seaside resort known for its three-mile long sandy beach. Take some time to soak up the vibrant atmosphere, perhaps visit the local surf shops, or just enjoy a relaxing walk along the beachfront. Once you're ready to hit the trail, head north towards the towering sand dunes that mark the start of the coastal path.
Milestone I - Putsborough Sands (2 miles from Woolacombe)
Leaving Woolacombe behind, the path twists and turns through undulating sand dunes before descending to Putsborough Sands, a quieter beach popular with surfers. Here you can take a break and watch the surfers ride the waves, or simply enjoy the stunning views out to sea. It's worth noting that the climb out of Putsborough is fairly steep, but the views from the top are worth the effort.
Leaving Woolacombe behind, the path twists and turns through undulating sand dunes before descending to Putsborough Sands, a quieter beach popular with surfers. Here you can take a break and watch the surfers ride the waves, or simply enjoy the stunning views out to sea. It's worth noting that the climb out of Putsborough is fairly steep, but the views from the top are worth the effort.
Facilities: Toilets and a café are available at Putsborough Sands.
Milestone II - Baggy Point (3.5 miles from Woolacombe)
After the ascent from Putsborough, the path continues along the clifftop towards Baggy Point, the dramatic headland that marks the halfway point of your journey. This is a great spot to take a breather and enjoy the panoramic views over the coastline. If you're interested in geology, look out for the exposed rock layers on the cliffs, which tell a fascinating story of the area’s ancient past.
After the ascent from Putsborough, the path continues along the clifftop towards Baggy Point, the dramatic headland that marks the halfway point of your journey. This is a great spot to take a breather and enjoy the panoramic views over the coastline. If you're interested in geology, look out for the exposed rock layers on the cliffs, which tell a fascinating story of the area’s ancient past.
Facilities: None available at Baggy Point – make sure you have everything you need.
Final Stretch: Croyde Bay (5.6 miles)
From Baggy Point, the path gently descends towards the seaside village of Croyde, famed for its excellent surf, thatched cottages and lively atmosphere. The sandy beach here is a great place to relax after your walk, or if you're feeling adventurous, you can hire a surfboard and join the locals in the waves. Croyde also has a range of cafes and pubs, making it the perfect place to refuel before your journey back.
From Baggy Point, the path gently descends towards the seaside village of Croyde, famed for its excellent surf, thatched cottages and lively atmosphere. The sandy beach here is a great place to relax after your walk, or if you're feeling adventurous, you can hire a surfboard and join the locals in the waves. Croyde also has a range of cafes and pubs, making it the perfect place to refuel before your journey back.
Facilities: Croyde has a number of amenities, including public toilets, cafes, pubs and shops.
Points to Remember
Terrain: This section includes a mix of sandy beach, dune paths and cliff-top trails, with a steep ascent and descent around Putsborough Sands. Good walking shoes are recommended.
Facilities: Facilities are available in Woolacombe, Putsborough Sands and Croyde, but are limited in between, so carry water and snacks.
Weather: Coastal weather can change quickly – bring layers and a waterproof jacket.
Seasonal Refreshments: Available in Woolacombe, Putsborough Sands and Croyde, particularly in the summer months.
Terrain: This section includes a mix of sandy beach, dune paths and cliff-top trails, with a steep ascent and descent around Putsborough Sands. Good walking shoes are recommended.
Facilities: Facilities are available in Woolacombe, Putsborough Sands and Croyde, but are limited in between, so carry water and snacks.
Weather: Coastal weather can change quickly – bring layers and a waterproof jacket.
Seasonal Refreshments: Available in Woolacombe, Putsborough Sands and Croyde, particularly in the summer months.