Here are 5 of my favourite walks in Croyde, showing what the surrounding area has to offer. All of these walks are suitable for your furry friends!
Baggy point
Baggy Point offers one of the most iconic walks in Croyde, starting from the National Trust car park. This picturesque route takes you along the coastal path, winding its way to the dramatic end of Baggy Point, a mile long journey filled with stunning ocean views and the rugged beauty of the North Devon coastline. At the tip, you can choose to retrace your steps or take an alternative route back via the hilltop path, which rewards you with sweeping vistas of Putsborough, Woolacombe, and Bideford Bay.
For those seeking a longer adventure, the trail extends another two miles to Putsborough, providing even more breathtaking scenery. Along the way, watch for signposted coast paths that allow you to switch sides and explore new perspectives of this incredible landscape. Here’s a link to a video from the Putsborough side of this walk https://www.instagram.com/p/C-axC3hJ6lv/
Over the top
The “Over the top” walk is a blend of countryside charm and coastal beauty. The route starts you on Stentaway lane shortly walking past Cherry Tree Farm campsite and up a quiet farm track, offering a gentle climb with lovely rural views. At the top of the track, a footpath sign presents two inviting options. You can turn left to stay within Croyde, following a scenic loop that brings you back near the beach entrance. Alternatively, turning right leads you over Baggy Point, where you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of Putsborough and Woolacombe. From this point, you can either continue to the dramatic tip of Baggy Point or take the path down to Putsborough Beach. This stunning beach, with its golden sands, excellent facilities, and welcoming café, is an ideal spot to pause, relax, and soak up the beauty of the North Devon coast.
Croyde Beach
The walk along Croyde Beach is a perfect way to enjoy its stunning scenery and vibrant atmosphere. Famously known for its beautiful landscape, easy accessibility, and world-class surf, this beach is a favourite for locals and visitors alike. Starting from the main beach entrance, the walk takes you along the golden sands, with the dramatic backdrop of the dunes and the surrounding hills of Down End and Baggy Point. At low tide, the vast expanse of beach opens up, offering plenty of space to explore the shoreline and watch surfers tackling the waves. The walk is an easy, leisurely stroll, ideal for soaking in the views, feeling the sea breeze, and taking in the unique charm of one of the UK’s most iconic beaches.
Down end
The walk to Down End is a fantastic way to explore the natural beauty of the Croyde area, offering stunning views at every turn. Starting from the Down End entrance to Croyde Beach, you’ll follow the South West Coast Path towards the end of the point. Along the way, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Croyde Beach and Baggy Point to your right. As you reach the tip of Down End, the landscape opens up to reveal the expanse of Bideford Bay, including Saunton Beach and the rugged coastline stretching to Hartland. From here, you can choose to retrace your steps or continue the walk towards Saunton Sands.
dOWN END TO saunton beach
To extend the walk, follow the South West Coast Path until it meets the road above. Turn left here, but exercise caution as there’s a 90-metre stretch without a pavement. Soon, you’ll spot the coastal path continuing on the right, elevated above the road. This leads you to the iconic Saunton Sands Hotel. Once there, cross the road, pass the hotel, and step onto the expansive sands of Saunton Beach, a fitting end to this beautiful coastal adventure.
Croyde to saunton
The walk from Croyde to Saunton is a must-do for anyone wanting to soak up some of North Devon’s best views. Starting on Cloutmans Lane, you’ll follow the South West Coast Path to the top of Down End Hill. The climb is rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views. Looking back, you’ll see the entirety of Croyde, while just peeking over Baggy Point, the beach and village of Woolacombe come into sight. From the top, the stunning vistas continue, stretching across Bideford Bay to Saunton Beach and beyond. As you descend the path, the walk gently leads you toward Saunton Sands, where the golden beach awaits. This route offers a mix of dramatic coastal landscapes and serene beach views, making it a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.
