Walk Details
Join me for a rugged, unspoiled Devon coastal hike: Lee Bay and Woolacombe loop
I’m Anna, a south-west based proud TOG-er – and having spent many happy holidays in the north of my home county of Devon, this is a route that brings back many happy memories for me.
As you meander down the lanes towards Lee Bay and the view opens up, it’s a breathtaking moment. It’s rare to find a quiet, unspoiled little bay that is beautiful in a well-trodden area of the world.
You’ll see the beach in front of you, and this is your starting point – but don’t rush. Don’t take short cuts – paddle, rest, look, and then head west onto the clearly marked South West Coast Path. The full path stretches some 1000 kilometres, and has been the backdrop for the 2025 film, The Salt Path. The village of Lee claimed its piece well before any book or film – and it will be here for many, many moons to come.
You’ll follow the coast path, hugging the coast for around 5 miles – rolling up and down the hills, taking time to pause at the view points, and perhaps even seeing a grey or common seal if you are lucky. As I walked this rugged, deep blue and rich green piece of earth, I noticed an extraordinary amount of fellow solo walkers. It’s easy to see why – the landscape is so dramatic you need a little solitude to soak it in properly.
Along the way, you’ll find a lovely spot to bathe in, if you’re a sea swimmer, or open your flask of tea if you’re not.
Keep going until you reach the well known, vast sandy beach of Woolacombe. Out of season, you may have most of the beach to yourself, and in high summer, there’s a British seaside buzz. I headed into the beachside Tourist Information Centre to receive a warm welcome and buy a chilled, locally made drink.
I headed up Sandy Lane, sad I’d left the coast, until I reached the top, and couldn’t grab my camera quickly enough when a little jewel was ahead of me at the very top: a carefully sown wildflower patch. Absolutely beautiful and alive with pollinators.
I headed off into Six Acre wood – this is a stunning and dramatic patch of woodland with a steep hill that takes you down to the stream. Whilst dry underfoot when I walked this path, the wet weather may make it precarious so care should be taken. You may wish to take the road back to Lee instead if you’re walking after heavy rainfall to be on the safe side.
I walked along the stream as the trees dappled the afternoon sunlight. I’d say there could possibly be fairies in this wood…
I ended the walk along the well-kept footpaths back into Lee, and enjoyed the view one last time before heading off, inspired and with adrenaline high.
If you’re looking for a tranquil rural home that immerses you in nature and sea air, then check out the beautiful new Lee Bay development by Acorn Property Group here. Perhaps even dip your toes in the ocean while you consider your coastal retreat.
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