Five top must-see places in South Devon

Winter walks in Devon offer something truly special. With fewer crowds, crisp air and dramatic seasonal scenery, the colder months transform the county’s coastlines, moorlands and woodlands into peaceful places to explore.

We’ve selected five of the best winter walks in Devon, all close to our Haulfryn Holidays parks and resorts, perfect for embracing the season and enjoying the great outdoors.

As winter settles in with shorter days and chilly breezes, it’s tempting to stay indoors. But step outside and you’ll discover winter’s quiet magic - dew dropped trees, misty landscapes and fresh air that awakens your senses. Devon’s diverse scenery makes it a fantastic destination for soul-lifting winter walking.

Devon winter walk on the beach
Coastal winter walks in Devon

Exmouth to Budleigh Salterton (Jurassic Coast walk)

This scenic Jurassic Coast walk begins in Exmouth town centre, where you’ll enjoy a gentle 2km stroll along the beach before ascending to Orcombe Point. From here, the route follows the clifftop, offering far-reaching coastal views before passing through lush temperate rainforest and descending towards the pebbled beach at Budleigh Salterton.

This stretch is part of the oldest section of the Jurassic Coast, dating back to the Triassic era, with cliffs up to 250 million years old. Winter brings a calmer, more atmospheric feel, making it an ideal time to appreciate the landscape.

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Devon winter walk on the coast
Dartmoor winter walks

Bellever Forest and the Lich Way (Dartmoor)

Bellever Forest offers peaceful woodland walks set against Dartmoor’s open moorland, making it a great spot for winter exploring. Waymarked trails wind through the trees, providing shelter and seasonal scenery.

The 2.2-mile Bellever Trail is a gentle circuit past ancient hut circles and stone cists, with a good chance of spotting Dartmoor ponies along the way. For a longer walk, the Postbridge Trail extends the route to around three miles, climbing towards Bellever Tor with stunning panoramic moorland views.

More experienced walkers can also access the historic Lich Way, an atmospheric bridleway that crosses the moor along an ancient funeral route dating back to the 13th century.

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Devon winter walk on the moors
Dartmoor winter walks

Two Bridges to Wistman’s Wood

For an unforgettable Dartmoor winter walk, begin at the Two Bridges Hotel, where limited parking is available (arriving early is recommended).

From here, hike across open moorland towards Wistman’s Wood. After following a path initially, you’ll spot the distinctive clump of ancient oak woodland rising from the moor. Crossing open ground to reach it is part of the experience, this is Dartmoor walking at its most atmospheric.

In winter, Wistman’s Wood feels especially magical, with twisted trees, moss-covered boulders and drifting mist creating an otherworldly scene.

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Devon winter walk on the coast
Riverside and woodland walks in Devon

Abbeyford Woods

Abbeyford Woods offers some of the best accessible woodland walks in Devon. With a network of compacted paths, it’s suitable for wheelchairs, pushchairs and relaxed winter strolls.

There are multiple route options, from riverside walks and sections of the Tarka Trail to deeper woodland paths. Seasonal colour, peaceful surroundings and abundant wildlife - including roe deer, red deer and buzzards - make this a lively place to explore year-round.

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Devon winter walk on the beach
Riverside and woodland walks in Devon

Kingswear to Greenway (Dart Valley Trail)

This peaceful Dart Valley Trail walk is a must for anyone staying in Kingswear or near Dartmoor. You can take a water taxi between Kingswear and Dartmouth, making this a flexible and enjoyable route.

The walk is moderately challenging, with a few uphill sections, but it’s gentler than many coastal paths. In winter, the riverside setting feels especially tranquil.

At Greenway, take time to explore Agatha Christie’s former summer home, where she wrote several of her novels. The estate also features woodland trails and a café, perfect for warming up after your walk.

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Planning winter walks in Devon

Winter walking in Devon is bound to boost your endorphins and with a little preparation, it can be a regular activity.

Ben Davis, Park Manager at Dartmoor View Holiday Park, has some advice for making the most of winter walks:

“Dartmoor offers breathtaking views and peace in abundance. Weather conditions can change so wear waterproof clothing, extra layers and boots you can walk in comfortably. Also, bring water and food for the journey. And enjoy!”

Planning winter walks in Devon

Winter walking in Devon is bound to boost your endorphins and with a little preparation, it can be a regular activity.

Ben Davis, Park Manager at Dartmoor View Holiday Park, has some advice for making the most of winter walks:

“Dartmoor offers breathtaking views and peace in abundance. Weather conditions can change so wear waterproof clothing, extra layers and boots you can walk in comfortably. Also, bring water and food for the journey. And enjoy!”

A Haulfryn extra

Finlake Local Wine Tasting
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Finlake Local Area Totnes Farm
Calling animal lovers

Totnes Rare Breeds Farm

What was once a small group of rescue animals, has now grown into a fantastic interactive sanctuary for animals you see today. Conservation of rare breeds is at the forefront of the work they do, from Pygmy Goats to Welsh Mountain Sheep.

Totnes Rare Breed Farmis a truly special day out for the family and animal lover alike.

South Devon Steam Railway, Totnes, TQ9 5JR

Totnes Rare Breed Farm
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Devon Hills Couple Sat Opposite Each Other With View
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A place to stay

Whether you’re thinking about taking a trip or investing in a luxury holiday home, we have a number of beautiful spots with everything and anything you could want from a holiday in Devon. We have parks with every amenity you could need with something for the whole family or a place to get take a step back away from the hustle of every day life.

Take a look around our parks and discover the place that makes you smile.

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