Devon

<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1500" height="844" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/devon/wp-content/uploads/sites/14/2026/04/Julia-devon-slide-9.jpg" alt="Julia Bradbury " class="wp-image-84654" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/devon/wp-content/uploads/sites/14/2026/04/Julia-devon-slide-9.jpg 1500w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/devon/wp-content/uploads/sites/14/2026/04/Julia-devon-slide-9-800x450.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/devon/wp-content/uploads/sites/14/2026/04/Julia-devon-slide-9-1000x563.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/devon/wp-content/uploads/sites/14/2026/04/Julia-devon-slide-9-768x432.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Outdoor Guide</figcaption></figure>



Writer, broadcaster and undisputed queen of the Great British walk,&nbsp;Julia Bradbury&nbsp;is here to sort your next stomp with her go-to Devon spots. Consider this your sign to lace up.



With more than a&nbsp;two decades&nbsp;of walking series under her bumbag, including ITV’s Cornwall &amp; Devon Walks, she knows a thing or two about a good hike. Julia is also the Sunday Times bestselling author of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.waterstones.com/book/walk-yourself-happy/julia-bradbury/9780349436241" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Walk Yourself Happy</a>, written after her breast cancer diagnosis in 2021, when she reset her lifestyle and put wellbeing front and centre.



Not one to sit still, she followed it up with her second book,&nbsp;<a href="https://geni.us/HackYourselfHealthy?utm_source=ig&amp;utm_medium=social&amp;utm_content=link_in_bio&amp;fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQMMjU2MjgxMDQwNTU4AAGnGdBig_SS4-_G1_hxLH7m61TXh9wCgsOdIzYh0lyAiPb9RGQg7CIKrtadhg8_aem_JchPLAwhYj-QR11MQ8gDsQ" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hack Yourself Happy</a> going straight into the best sellers at number One,&nbsp;and her latest TV series, <a href="https://www.itv.com/watch/julia-bradburys-wonders-of-the-frozen-south/10a7367" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Julia Bradbury&#8217;s Wonders of the Frozen South</a> following her epic journey to uncover the wildlife and landscapes of The Falklands, South Georgia and Antartica (think penguins by the thousands, humpback whales and colossal icebergs) is now streaming on ITVX.



Despite her global travels Julia has always extolled the beauty of the UK&#8217;s landscapes and coastlines, and is no stranger to our county. She&#8217;s holidayed here countless times, and filmed in Devon for Countryfile and her own series. She&#8217;s also co-founder of <a href="https://theoutdoorguide.co.uk/?s=devon+walks&amp;id=60417" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Outdoor Guide</a>; a free online resource for everyone that is passionate about the outdoors and in particular walking and features over 700 Bradbury approved walks across Devon and beyond. Making her more than qualified to spill her tried and tested favourite hikes, Muddy caught up with the doyenne of a good stomp for her recommended walks in Devon. You’re welcome.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-north-devon-coast-woolacombe-amp-lee-bay-loop">North Devon coast: Woolacombe &amp; Lee Bay loop</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1500" height="841" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/devon/wp-content/uploads/sites/14/2026/04/Lee-Bay-and-Woolacombe-Slide-1.jpg" alt="Woolacombe &amp; Lee Bay loop" class="wp-image-84645" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/devon/wp-content/uploads/sites/14/2026/04/Lee-Bay-and-Woolacombe-Slide-1.jpg 1500w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/devon/wp-content/uploads/sites/14/2026/04/Lee-Bay-and-Woolacombe-Slide-1-800x449.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/devon/wp-content/uploads/sites/14/2026/04/Lee-Bay-and-Woolacombe-Slide-1-1000x561.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/devon/wp-content/uploads/sites/14/2026/04/Lee-Bay-and-Woolacombe-Slide-1-768x431.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /></figure>



Big skies, dramatic cliffs and proper wild Atlantic energy, what&#8217;s not to love? &nbsp;



This is a beautifully wild coastal loop in North Devon, this walk begins at the secluded Lee Bay before joining the South West Coast Path. Expect rolling cliffs, big sea views and a sense of peaceful solitude as you make your way towards the sweeping sands of Woolacombe. The return inland brings a softer contrast; wildflowers, woodland and gentle streams, before looping back to the coast, leaving you refreshed, grounded and quietly exhilarated.&nbsp;You get such dramatic views of the coastline on this hike and I love watching the surfers catch the waves.&nbsp; When I retire it&#8217;s one of the many things I want to learn how to do&#8230;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-south-devon-coast-salcombe-coastal-walk">South Devon coast: Salcombe coastal walk</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1500" height="844" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/devon/wp-content/uploads/sites/14/2026/04/Salcombe-Walk-Slide-1-1024x576-1.jpg" alt="Julia Bradbury in Salcombe" class="wp-image-84644" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/devon/wp-content/uploads/sites/14/2026/04/Salcombe-Walk-Slide-1-1024x576-1.jpg 1500w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/devon/wp-content/uploads/sites/14/2026/04/Salcombe-Walk-Slide-1-1024x576-1-800x450.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/devon/wp-content/uploads/sites/14/2026/04/Salcombe-Walk-Slide-1-1024x576-1-1000x563.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/devon/wp-content/uploads/sites/14/2026/04/Salcombe-Walk-Slide-1-1024x576-1-768x432.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">ITV / Julia Bradbury / Two Four</figcaption></figure>



From my ITV series, this one brings in posh seaside charm. Think estuary views, sandy coves and foodie pitstops.&nbsp;



Beginning in the sailing haven of Salcombe&nbsp;(after a bit of craft and clothes shopping), this walk starts with a gentle ferry crossing, offering beautiful views across the Kingsbridge Estuary. On the far shore, the path leads you past sunlit coves and sandy bays before joining the South West Coast Path.



From here, the landscape becomes wilder and more dramatic, guiding you along rugged headlands to Prawle Point and the southernmost tip of Devon. It’s a walk of sea air, big skies and shifting horizons; but one to plan carefully, as the return journey retraces your steps.&nbsp;Great for&nbsp; bird watching&#8230;&nbsp;&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-south-hams-south-milton-sands-to-hope-cove">South Hams: South Milton Sands to Hope Cove</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1500" height="841" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/devon/wp-content/uploads/sites/14/2026/04/South-Milton-Sands-Slide-1.jpg" alt="South Hams signpost" class="wp-image-84646" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/devon/wp-content/uploads/sites/14/2026/04/South-Milton-Sands-Slide-1.jpg 1500w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/devon/wp-content/uploads/sites/14/2026/04/South-Milton-Sands-Slide-1-800x449.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/devon/wp-content/uploads/sites/14/2026/04/South-Milton-Sands-Slide-1-1000x561.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/devon/wp-content/uploads/sites/14/2026/04/South-Milton-Sands-Slide-1-768x431.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /></figure>



A softer, more relaxed coastal walk taking in pretty villages and turquoise water on a good day.&nbsp;



This short but rewarding coastal walk in South Devon runs from South Milton Sands to the charming village of Hope Cove. Following the South West Coast Path, it offers open skies, sea air and ever-changing views, with the iconic Thurlestone Rock and distant Burgh Island adding to the drama.



With gentle climbs and plenty of places to pause, it’s an easy, uplifting walk that ends in one of Devon’s most picturesque seaside spots; perfect for a well-earned rest by the water&nbsp;at one of the excellent seafood restaurants. I do love a bit of Devonshire crab.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dartmoor-haytor-to-saddle-tor">Dartmoor: Haytor to Saddle Tor</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1500" height="844" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/devon/wp-content/uploads/sites/14/2026/04/Dartmoor-the-Moorland-Walk-Slide-2-1024x576_Fotor.jpg" alt="Julia Bradbury Dartmoor" class="wp-image-84642" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/devon/wp-content/uploads/sites/14/2026/04/Dartmoor-the-Moorland-Walk-Slide-2-1024x576_Fotor.jpg 1500w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/devon/wp-content/uploads/sites/14/2026/04/Dartmoor-the-Moorland-Walk-Slide-2-1024x576_Fotor-800x450.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/devon/wp-content/uploads/sites/14/2026/04/Dartmoor-the-Moorland-Walk-Slide-2-1024x576_Fotor-1000x563.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/devon/wp-content/uploads/sites/14/2026/04/Dartmoor-the-Moorland-Walk-Slide-2-1024x576_Fotor-768x432.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">ITV / Julia Bradbury / Two Four </figcaption></figure>



Another walk from my Devon series that gives you rugged, cinematic Dartmoor; tors, open skies and slightly eerie quarry landscapes.&nbsp;



This circular Dartmoor walk begins at the iconic Haytor, leading you through a landscape shaped by both nature and history. Following the old Granite Tramway, the route weaves past a reclaimed quarry, windswept tors and the haunting remains of a deserted medieval village. With sweeping moorland views, rich wildlife and a touch of folklore at every turn, it’s a walk that feels both ancient and alive; a journey through one of Devon’s most atmospheric and storied landscapes. The free-roaming ponies maintain the landscape but watch also out for the butterflies and birds of prey including buzzards, circling the big skies. You can often see them perched on fence posts too.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-east-devon-river-sid-amp-sidmouth-walk">East Devon: River Sid &amp; Sidmouth walk</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1500" height="844" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/devon/wp-content/uploads/sites/14/2026/04/05-hbp-lower-knapp-River-Sid-and-Soldiers-Hill-slide.jpg" alt="Sidmouth countryside " class="wp-image-84647" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/devon/wp-content/uploads/sites/14/2026/04/05-hbp-lower-knapp-River-Sid-and-Soldiers-Hill-slide.jpg 1500w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/devon/wp-content/uploads/sites/14/2026/04/05-hbp-lower-knapp-River-Sid-and-Soldiers-Hill-slide-800x450.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/devon/wp-content/uploads/sites/14/2026/04/05-hbp-lower-knapp-River-Sid-and-Soldiers-Hill-slide-1000x563.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/devon/wp-content/uploads/sites/14/2026/04/05-hbp-lower-knapp-River-Sid-and-Soldiers-Hill-slide-768x432.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Outdoor Guide</figcaption></figure>



I enjoy a river walk,&nbsp;it&#8217;s such a gentle way to wander. This walk has a&nbsp; greener feel taking in riverside, woodland, and that Jurassic Coast edge.



A gentle yet varied four-mile walk that winds its way down into the seaside charm of Sidmouth before climbing back through peaceful countryside. Beginning with a steady descent, the route follows the tranquil River Sid through parkland and meadows, offering a calm, almost pastoral feel. The return brings a change of pace; a steeper climb through woodland, where bluebells carpet the ground in spring, before opening out to wide views above the coast. It’s a walk of contrasts, blending river, valley and hillside into one quietly rewarding journey.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dart-valley-totnes-to-dartmouth-river-walk">Dart Valley: Totnes to Dartmouth river walk</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1500" height="844" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/devon/wp-content/uploads/sites/14/2026/04/Dart-Valley-Walk-Slide-3-1024x576-1.jpg" alt="Julia Bradbury Dart Valley" class="wp-image-84652" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/devon/wp-content/uploads/sites/14/2026/04/Dart-Valley-Walk-Slide-3-1024x576-1.jpg 1500w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/devon/wp-content/uploads/sites/14/2026/04/Dart-Valley-Walk-Slide-3-1024x576-1-800x450.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/devon/wp-content/uploads/sites/14/2026/04/Dart-Valley-Walk-Slide-3-1024x576-1-1000x563.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/devon/wp-content/uploads/sites/14/2026/04/Dart-Valley-Walk-Slide-3-1024x576-1-768x432.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">ITV / Julia Bradbury / Two Four </figcaption></figure>



A slower, more soulful riverside route that is all about water, wildlife and timeless Devon villages.



Following the gentle flow of the River Dart, this beautiful walk links Totnes to Dartmouth through some of Devon’s most enchanting countryside. Beginning in bohemian Totnes&nbsp;(where I can pickup my organic nuts and seeds for the walk ahead)&nbsp;, the trail meanders along quiet riverbanks, through peaceful villages and past the rolling vineyards of Sharpham Estate. With ferries crossing the estuary and ancient oak woodlands alive with wildlife, the journey unfolds towards the sea, finishing in the bustling harbour town of Dartmouth. It’s a walk rich in history, nature and timeless riverside charm; best savoured at a slow, unhurried pace.&nbsp;I&#8217;m fortunate to have many a tranquil stay at <a href="https://www.sharphamtrust.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sharpham</a>, and I remember enjoying the &#8216;silent breakfasts&#8217; on one occasion.&nbsp; No phones, no chatter. Bliss.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-north-devon-lynmouth-amp-watersmeet">North Devon: Lynmouth &amp; Watersmeet </h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1500" height="844" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/devon/wp-content/uploads/sites/14/2026/04/bbw-devon-slide-4.jpg" alt="Julia Bradbury " class="wp-image-84655" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/devon/wp-content/uploads/sites/14/2026/04/bbw-devon-slide-4.jpg 1500w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/devon/wp-content/uploads/sites/14/2026/04/bbw-devon-slide-4-800x450.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/devon/wp-content/uploads/sites/14/2026/04/bbw-devon-slide-4-1000x563.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/devon/wp-content/uploads/sites/14/2026/04/bbw-devon-slide-4-768x432.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Outdoor Guide</figcaption></figure>



I filmed an episode of Britain&#8217;s Best Walks here and it&#8217;s a magical mix of river, woodland and coast that feels straight out of a storybook.



Beginning in the harbour town of Lynmouth, this walk follows the East Lyn River beneath a lush green canopy, offering a peaceful, almost enchanting start. At Watersmeet, where rivers converge, it’s the perfect place to pause before climbing gently through woodland towards open moorland.



Joining the South West Coast Path at Countisbury, the route then reveals dramatic views as you trace the cliffs back to Lynmouth; blending wild coast with tranquil woodland in true North Devon style.



For more beautiful walks across Devon and beyond, check out <a href="https://theoutdoorguide.co.uk/?s=devon+walks&amp;id=60417" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Outdoor Guide</a>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-need-more-inspiration">NEED MORE INSPIRATION? </h2>



<a href="https://devon.muddystilettos.co.uk/life-2/people/interview-emma-cunis-of-dartmoors-daughter/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Local legend! Muddy meets Dartmoor’s Daughter</a>



<a href="https://devon.muddystilettos.co.uk/home/where-is-beyond-paradise-filmed-in-devon-and-cornw/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Where is Beyond Paradise filmed in Devon?</a>



<a href="https://devon.muddystilettos.co.uk/life-2/people/interview-emma-cunis-of-dartmoors-daughter/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Welcome to Salcombe! Ultimate insider guide</a>

Julia Bradbury: My fave Devon Walks

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