South West Coast Path: Ilfracombe to Woolacombe

The South West Coast Path section from Ilfracombe to Woolacombe is a magnificently varied and physically rewarding walk that showcases the full drama of the North Devon coast at its most spectacular. The route covers around seven miles of some of the most challenging and scenic terrain on the entire national trail, climbing steeply from Ilfracombe’s harbourside and traversing a series of headlands, combes and clifftop sections before descending to the glorious sands of Woolacombe Bay.

Leaving Ilfracombe, the path climbs sharply to the clifftops above the town, passing the dramatic viewpoint above Capstone Hill with its sweeping panorama of the Bristol Channel and the Exmoor coast to the east. The path then continues along the cliff edge past Hele Bay and around the rocky headland of Rillage Point, before dropping into the wooded valley at Watermouth, where the sheltered cove and distinctive castellated building of Watermouth Castle make a picturesque halfway point.

From Watermouth, the path climbs again to the high cliff between Combe Martin Bay and Bull Point, with the lighthouse at Bull Point visible across the headland and the full expanse of Morte Bay opening up to the west as you approach the final descent into Mortehoe. The village makes an excellent place to stop for refreshments before the final short stretch down to Woolacombe’s beach.

This is a moderately challenging walk and not one to attempt in poor footwear or unsuitable weather, as the cliff paths can be steep and slippery underfoot. However, for those who are reasonably fit and well-prepared, it is an absolutely outstanding way to spend a day on the North Devon coast, with scenery that changes with every headland rounded and wildlife encounters that make every hour in the open air feel worthwhile.

Consider a bus or taxi back to Ilfracombe from Woolacombe at the end of the day, or arrange a car drop at one end of the route.