Devon on Foot – 5 Walks to Try This Summer

Summer is the perfect time to get outdoors and explore everything Devon has to offer. From rolling countryside and peaceful woodland trails to Dartmoor adventures and dramatic coastal scenery, there are endless opportunities to discover somewhere new. We’ve picked five of our favourite walks to tick off this summer, all within easy reach of High Moor View.

Meldon Reservoir – Dartmoor Scenery

Distance from High Moor View: 14 miles | Approx. 25 minutes | Distance of walk: 4.5 miles

Located on the northern edge of Dartmoor, this walk combines tranquil reservoir views with dramatic moorland scenery. Follow the route across the impressive Meldon Viaduct and enjoy panoramic views stretching across Dartmoor National Park.

What to Expect

A moderate circular walk with a mix of waterside paths, open moorland and elevated viewpoints. The highlight is crossing the viaduct, offering wide-reaching views across the valley and surrounding landscape. Stop by the small café trailer located in the car park, perfect for a post-walk coffee or light refreshment.

Haldon Forest Park – Woodland Adventure

Distance from High Moor View: 30 miles | Approx. 45 minutes | Distance of walk: 2–5 miles (various trails)

A vast woodland escape just outside Exeter, Haldon Forest Park offers a network of shaded trails through towering pine forest, open clearings and scenic viewpoints. Ideal for relaxed walks, cycling routes and family-friendly outdoor adventures.

What to Expect

Easy-to-follow forest trails suitable for all abilities, with well-marked routes, gentle gradients and plenty of shaded areas. Great for a relaxed day outdoors with cafés, picnic spots and optional activity trails, including the popular Gruffalo-themed family trail, which is a favourite with younger visitors.

Royal North Devon Golf Club & Northam Burrows – Coastal Links

Distance from High Moor View: 25 miles | Approx. 40 minutes | Distance of walk: 3 miles

A unique coastal walk around England’s oldest golf course, where sandy dunes meet open beach and salt marsh. This striking landscape offers wide Atlantic views, wildlife-rich habitats and ever-changing scenery along the North Devon coast.

What to Expect

A flat, easy walk across open dunes and coastal paths with uninterrupted sea views. Expect wide landscapes, grazing ponies and changing tides that shape the scenery throughout the day. A stop at Pebble Ridge Kitchen, located nearby, is the perfect way to conclude your walk with a coffee or light bite after exploring Northam Burrows.

Dartmouth Castle & Coast Path – South Devon Escape

Distance from High Moor View: 45 miles | Approx. 1 hour 15 minutes | Distance of walk: 3–4 miles (coastal sections)

A dramatic South Devon walk combining historic Dartmouth Castle with sweeping views over the River Dart. Follow sections of the South West Coast Path for cliff-top scenery, harbour views and a real sense of coastal heritage.

What to Expect

A scenic coastal route with some uneven terrain, rewarding viewpoints and a mix of history and coastline. Expect steep sections in places, balanced by panoramic estuary views and picturesque harbour scenery. To round off your walk, you can take the ferry from just below the castle back into Dartmouth for a relaxed and scenic return across the water.

East Soar & Soar Mill Cove, Salcombe – Coastal Adventure

Distance from High Moor View: 42 miles | Approx. 1 hour 10 minutes | Distance of walk: 4.5 miles

This stunning circular walk near Salcombe offers a mix of rolling countryside, rugged coastline and hidden coves. The route descends to Soar Mill Cove, a secluded beach surrounded by cliffs, with breathtaking views across the South Devon coastline.

What to Expect

A moderately challenging coastal walk with varied terrain including field paths, clifftop sections and a steep descent to the cove. Expect dramatic sea views, quiet beaches and one of South Devon’s most picturesque hidden spots. Dogs should be kept on leads throughout the walk due to livestock in surrounding fields and cliffedge sections near the coast path.

One of the many benefits of living at High Moor View is having some of Devon’s most beautiful landscapes right on your doorstep. Whether you’re looking for a gentle woodland stroll, a coastal adventure or a day exploring Dartmoor, there’s always somewhere new to discover across the changing seasons. Which walk will you tick off first this summer? Discover High Moor View – perfectly placed to explore the very best of Devon, all year round!

Allison Homes Web Article: 16th June 2026