Anna Reid’s Down Thomas Coastal Route

You’ll find plentiful National Trust parking at Wembury beach. If you need to fuel up, enjoy the independent beach cafe housed in a historic old mill, serving pasties, cakes, bacon rolls and delicious coffee. The magical thing about Wembury beach is it dramatically changes daily – from fine sand to rugged stones – with the river meandering on a different path daily. The low tide reveals soft sand and a perfect swimming stop between the rocks.

Take the coast path and continue until you reach the village of Heybrook bay, which is home to a pub overlooking the ocean. Enjoy views of the uninhabited island, The Mewstone, jolting out of the sea. Then, rejoin the coast path and let the app direct you inland and up the hill. Once you join the road, you’ll continue along this quiet lane until you reach the sleepy village of Down Thomas.

As you enter the village, look for the village hall on your right – behind you’ll find a glorious play park with a zip wire. If you manage to pull yourself away, I highly recommend The Mussel Inn, a dog friendly pub with glorious food, outdoor seating and children’s play equipment.

From here, it’s important to follow the app, as there are many footpaths – although with a little instinct most will take you back to the village of Wembury and down to the coast to your starting point.

This route generously allows you to wander through fields, woods, across a stream and through farmland.

Whilst this walk requires a good level of fitness, those who require accessible routes can still enjoy Wembury beach. A new accessible car park set back from Wembury beach, and a leveled path towards the beach itself, provides wheelchair friendly access and an enjoyable path through a meadow.

Enjoy!