Family Adventures on the South West Coast Path: Child Friendly Walks
North Devon’s stretch of the South West Coast Path offers some of the most spectacular coastal scenery in the UK—and it’s not just for seasoned hikers. Whether you’re travelling with toddlers or adventurous tweens, there are accessible and rewarding routes the whole family can enjoy. From short clifftop loops to longer challenges with picnic spots and beach stops, here are some of the best kid-friendly walks near Woolacombe.
1. Woolacombe to Putsborough Beach (Mixed Ages) Distance: Up to 6km return | Grade: Easy | Time: 1.5–2 hours depending on pace
Perfect for little legs, this gentle beachside walk follows the dunes and soft sands from Woolacombe to Putsborough. It’s flat, scenic, and great for paddling en route. Start from the south end of Woolacombe Beach and either follow the sand or the grassy trail behind the dunes. You can stop and turn back depending on how far little legs are happy to continue but if you need an excuse to walk the whole beach, why not reward effort with ice cream or a snack at Putsborough Sands café before looping back.
Why kids love it: Dune paths to climb, wide open space to run, and plenty of rockpools to explore at low tide.
2. Morte Point Explorer Trail (Older Kids) Distance: 6.5km loop | Grade: Moderate | Time: 2.5 – 3 hours depending on pace!
A thrilling coastal adventure, this circular route starts from the National Trust car park at Mortehoe, just a 5-minute drive from Woolacombe. Follow the signs toward Morte Point for dramatic clifftop views and a chance to spot seals basking on the rocks below. The loop circles back inland on a gentler farm path.
Why it’s great for older kids: Wildlife spotting, legend-filled smugglers’ tales, and rugged rocks to scramble (safely!) make this walk a mini-adventure.
3. Baggy Point from Croyde (Mixed Ages) Distance: 4-5 km return depending on route | Grade: Easy to Moderate | Time: 1.5- 2 hours
Just a short drive from Byron Woolacombe, this National Trust trail starts at Croyde Bay and winds up to the dramatic headland of Baggy Point. The main path is wide and well-maintained, making it pushchair-friendly up to a point, while older kids can detour onto rocky ledges for a closer look at the surf below.
Top tip: Stop for a picnic at the top and soak up views of Lundy Island and the surfer-packed waves below.
4. Lee Bay to Bull Point Lighthouse (Older Kids) Distance: 7km return | Grade: Moderate | Time: 2.5-3 hours
For a longer adventure, try this lesser-known gem starting in the wooded cove of Lee Bay, just 15 minutes from Byron. Follow the South West Coast Path through quiet woodland, open cliff paths, and wildflower meadows to reach Bull Point Lighthouse. It’s a slightly more challenging route, best suited to confident walkers with sturdy footwear.
Family highlights: Secluded coves, butterflies and wildflowers in summer, and a real working lighthouse to spot at the end.
5. Ilfracombe Torrs Walk (Younger Kids) Distance: 1.5-3.5km loop depending on route | Grade: Easy-Moderate | Time: 1 hour depending on route
This short but scenic walk begins at the National Trust Torrs car park above Ilfracombe. It offers big views over the Bristol Channel with gentle ascents and a well-maintained path originally carved out by the Victorians. Interpretive signs along the way make this a great walk-and-learn experience.
Why we love it: It combines sea views, benches for snack breaks, and easy terrain—ideal for little explorers who enjoy great views, look out for seals!
Byron Woolacombe Tip: After your walk, relax back at your luxurious apartment with on-site facilities including a pool, sauna and gym. We’re just a 4-minute stroll from Woolacombe Beach, with dog-friendly stays and secure surf storage to keep the adventure going.
Looking for more local recommendations? Drop by our reception or follow us on Instagram for weekly walk ideas, tide times and local favourites.
Book your stay direct at Byron Woolacombe to enjoy exclusive perks and plan your perfect North Devon adventure.
Stay at Byron Woolacombe: An Official SWCP Waymaker
Byron isn’t just a luxury retreat on the coast — it’s also an Official Waymaker for the South West Coast Path. That means you can collect your passport stamp here, get tips on the best walking routes, and relax in style after a day on the trail.
- Coastal apartments just off the path
- Indoor pool, gym, sauna & guest services
- Steps from Woolacombe beach
- Local partner discounts from Surfing to Segway trips!
- The Salt Path – borrow the book from our onsite team during your stay!
Whether you’re planning a short break or your own version of The Salt Path, Byron Woolacombe is your ideal North Devon base.
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Byron Woolacombe Holidays, launched in July 2019, is an independent holiday letting agency designed specifically for Byron Woolacombe Holiday Apartments.
We aim to provide the highest standard of luxury self-catering accommodation and facilities in Woolacombe.
The apartments all have access to exclusive communal leisure facilities, such as indoor pool, sauna and games room.