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Best backpacking hikes in Devon
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Best backpacking hikes in Devon

Ready for some outdoor fun? These hikes offer everything you could want for an unforgettable adventure!

Here are some great hikes to explore in Devon.

Most popular hikes

1

Medium

Exmouth to Seaton Coastal Walk

Devon, England · star 4.7 (3) · 37.7 km · Est. 1 day 4 hrs

2

Easy

Down Thomas, Wembury and Heybrook Bay Loop

Devon, England · star 4.0 (1) · 10.0 km · Est. 2 hrs 31 min

3

Medium

Blackchurch Rock, Speke's Mill Mouth Waterfall, Marsland Cliff and Hawker's Hut Walk

Devon, England · star 4.0 (2) · 31.0 km · Est. 1 day 3 hrs

4

Medium

Kingswear to Paignton Walk

Devon, England · star 4.2 (6) · 26.2 km · Est. 1 day 1 hrs

5

Medium

Lannacombe Beach, Strete Gate Beach and Blackpool Sands

Devon, England · star 4.5 (4) · 36.9 km · Est. 1 day 4 hrs

6

Easy

Ryder's Hill, Pupers Hill and Horne Ridge Loop

Devon, England · star 4.2 (5) · 13.2 km · Est. 3 hrs 17 min

7

Medium

Bucks Valley Wood and Sloo Wood via End to End Trail

Devon, England · star 5.0 (2) · 18.4 km · Est. 1 day 0 hrs

8

Easy

Instow Beach, Greysands Beach and Northam Burrows Country Park via Tarka Trail

Devon, England · star 5.0 (1) · 35.4 km · Est. 1 day 2 hrs

9

Medium

Ilfracombe to Woolacombe Walk

Devon, England · star 4.7 (3) · 13.2 km · Est. 3 hrs 35 min

10

Easy

Woolacombe Beach and Crow point

Devon, England · star 4.8 (6) · 31.6 km · Est. 1 day 1 hrs

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Reviews for backpacking hikes in Devon

Peter Fearn avatar

Exmouth to Seaton Coastal Walk

Pete · reviewed 7 months ago

star star star star star

Lino Feeney avatar

Down Thomas, Wembury and Heybrook Bay Loop

SierraWoodsman87 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Janita Gleichner DVM avatar

Blackchurch Rock, Speke's Mill Mouth Waterfall, Marsland Cliff and Hawker's Hut Walk

TrailmarkerTraveler53 · reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Amb. Georgeann Schuster avatar

Kingswear to Paignton Walk

MeadowTracer90 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Ron Hills avatar

Lannacombe Beach, Strete Gate Beach and Blackpool Sands

GraniteHollowtrekker12 · reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hikes in Devon

What is the climate like for hiking in England?

In England, hiking in the spring (March to May) sees milder temperatures and flourishing wildlife, however trails may be muddy due to showers. Summer (June to August) offers the most stable weather with longer daylight hours but trails can be crowded, especially in national parks. Autumn (September to November) can be wetter but displays vibrant fall colours.

Winter hiking (December to February) is more challenging due to short days and colder, often unpredictable weather. Snowfall can make some trails inaccessible. Always check the weather forecast and equip accordingly. Experienced hikers may enjoy the tranquility and stark beauty of the winter landscape. 

Ultimately, the best time to hike in England depends on personal preferences and preparedness. England's official tourist site (https://www.visitengland.com/) provides in-depth information about various hiking trails and their seasonal characteristics. Be sure to research specific areas as climate can vary across the country.

Do I need a permit to hike in England?

In England, the "Right to Roam" allows hikers access to certain public lands without a permit. Some areas like national parks or Sites of Special Scientific Interest may have specific rules. Before hiking, check with the landowner, National Trust, or local council. Information on access rights can be found on the Natural England website (https://www.gov.uk/guidance/open-access-land-management-rights-and-responsibilities).

Is wild camping allowed in England?

Wild camping in England is generally not allowed without landowner permission, except in some parts of Dartmoor National Park. Breaching this can result in fines. It's advised to use official campsites or seek landowner consent for a more immersive experience. For more, visit the Dartmoor National Park's website (https://www.dartmoor.gov.uk/visiting/planning-your-visit/camping).

Are there mountain rescue services in England?

In emergencies while hiking in England, dial 999 and ask for the police, then request Mountain Rescue. The Mountain Rescue England and Wales (MREW) is a volunteer-run organization that provides assistance in upland and lowland areas. More information can be found on their website (https://www.mountain.rescue.org.uk/).

Are there dangerous plants in England?

England's diverse hiking trails present a range of flora. Expect bluebells in ancient woodlands, gorse on coastal paths, and heather on moorlands. In protected areas, refrain from picking or damaging plants. The Woodland Trust provides more details on the UK's native species (https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/trees-woods-and-wildlife/plants/).

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in England?

While hiking in England, you may encounter a variety of wildlife including deer, foxes, badgers, and numerous bird species. Beware of ticks in tall grass and midges in damp, shaded areas. The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (https://www.rspb.org.uk/) offers useful information on encountering wildlife responsibly.

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